Traverse City is one of Northern Michigan’s most pet-welcoming destinations. Whether you're exploring trails, strolling downtown, or relaxing at the beach, there are plenty of activities to enjoy with your four-legged companions. For those considering a move to the area, the strong pet culture is another reason why this lakeside city offers more than just beautiful views and local flavor—it offers a lifestyle that includes the whole family, pets included.
From waterfront paths to dog-friendly patios, Traverse City gives you and your pet access to experiences that make daily living here especially enjoyable. If you’re looking for a home that complements your routine with a pet, this guide will help you identify what Traverse City has to offer.
Walkable Trails and Outdoor Recreation
Traverse City’s natural surroundings make it ideal for dog owners who want to stay active outdoors. The area offers a mix of trails, paths, and parks where leashed dogs are welcome and you’ll often find pet waste stations and water stops along the way.
The TART Trail is a popular choice, running over 10 miles through the city and connecting neighborhoods to the bayfront, parks, and downtown. It’s a paved, multi-use trail where dogs are frequently seen walking, jogging, or even running alongside bikes. Branches of this system extend out to Leelanau and Acme, offering more quiet space for extended walks.
The Boardman Lake Trail is another well-used path for locals. It loops around the lake with scenic views, shaded segments, and a smooth surface ideal for all dog sizes. Many residents use this trail daily for both exercise and routine outings.
Also worth noting is the VASA Trailhead, a year-round spot for hiking in summer and skiing in winter. In non-snow seasons, dogs are welcome on most paths, and the forested surroundings offer a peaceful retreat within easy driving distance of town.
The TART Trail is a popular choice, running over 10 miles through the city and connecting neighborhoods to the bayfront, parks, and downtown. It’s a paved, multi-use trail where dogs are frequently seen walking, jogging, or even running alongside bikes. Branches of this system extend out to Leelanau and Acme, offering more quiet space for extended walks.
The Boardman Lake Trail is another well-used path for locals. It loops around the lake with scenic views, shaded segments, and a smooth surface ideal for all dog sizes. Many residents use this trail daily for both exercise and routine outings.
Also worth noting is the VASA Trailhead, a year-round spot for hiking in summer and skiing in winter. In non-snow seasons, dogs are welcome on most paths, and the forested surroundings offer a peaceful retreat within easy driving distance of town.
Beaches and Water Access for Pets
Traverse City’s location on Grand Traverse Bay means plenty of shoreline access—and that includes a few beach spots where pets are welcome. Though not all beaches allow dogs, several offer off-leash swimming zones or relaxed leash rules during early morning and evening hours.
West End Beach, located at the base of Division Street, is a favorite among local dog owners for its access to both the bay and grassy areas. Early mornings are particularly popular, when the beach is less crowded and more dogs are out for a swim.
Another option is Arbutus Lake, located just outside town. It's quieter than the public bayfront, with calmer waters and less foot traffic, giving dogs space to splash and swim. For those considering properties near forested or lakefront areas, this spot reflects the kind of balance between outdoor living and pet-friendly access that defines the region.
West End Beach, located at the base of Division Street, is a favorite among local dog owners for its access to both the bay and grassy areas. Early mornings are particularly popular, when the beach is less crowded and more dogs are out for a swim.
Another option is Arbutus Lake, located just outside town. It's quieter than the public bayfront, with calmer waters and less foot traffic, giving dogs space to splash and swim. For those considering properties near forested or lakefront areas, this spot reflects the kind of balance between outdoor living and pet-friendly access that defines the region.
Restaurants, Breweries, and Markets That Welcome Pets
Traverse City’s hospitality extends to its patios and public spaces, many of which are set up to accommodate dogs. Local restaurants and breweries often include water bowls, shaded seating, and treats, especially in warmer months when outdoor dining is more common.
Downtown restaurants like The Little Fleet are well-known for their large patio, where food trucks and shaded tables offer plenty of space for pets to relax while you eat. Most breweries in the area also welcome dogs on their patios, including popular spots like Silver Spruce Brewing and Right Brain Brewery. These taprooms provide outdoor seating where pets are a regular part of the social scene.
The Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market, held on Saturdays and Wednesdays during the warmer seasons, is another welcoming spot. Dogs on leashes are often seen walking with owners among vendor stalls, especially early in the day. It’s a great place to combine shopping for local produce with quality time outdoors.
Downtown restaurants like The Little Fleet are well-known for their large patio, where food trucks and shaded tables offer plenty of space for pets to relax while you eat. Most breweries in the area also welcome dogs on their patios, including popular spots like Silver Spruce Brewing and Right Brain Brewery. These taprooms provide outdoor seating where pets are a regular part of the social scene.
The Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market, held on Saturdays and Wednesdays during the warmer seasons, is another welcoming spot. Dogs on leashes are often seen walking with owners among vendor stalls, especially early in the day. It’s a great place to combine shopping for local produce with quality time outdoors.
Parks and Play Areas
While Traverse City doesn’t have a dedicated dog park within city limits, there are open spaces and nearby options that provide off-leash play areas and dog-friendly gathering spots.
Wags West Dog Park, located in nearby Long Lake Township, is fully fenced and offers separate sections for small and large dogs. It’s clean, community-maintained, and less than 15 minutes from downtown Traverse City, making it an easy stop for residents west of town.
The Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area is another local treasure. Dogs are welcome on leash as you explore the wooded trails and rolling terrain behind the historic buildings. Many residents who live nearby treat this area as their backyard escape, giving dogs plenty of opportunity for safe, social outdoor activity.
Wags West Dog Park, located in nearby Long Lake Township, is fully fenced and offers separate sections for small and large dogs. It’s clean, community-maintained, and less than 15 minutes from downtown Traverse City, making it an easy stop for residents west of town.
The Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area is another local treasure. Dogs are welcome on leash as you explore the wooded trails and rolling terrain behind the historic buildings. Many residents who live nearby treat this area as their backyard escape, giving dogs plenty of opportunity for safe, social outdoor activity.
Why Pet Owners Choose to Live Here
Traverse City combines small-town friendliness with outdoor access and local conveniences. For dog owners, this creates a lifestyle that blends morning trail walks, daytime adventures, and evening brewery visits—all without leaving your pet at home. When choosing a neighborhood or property, you’ll want to consider:
- Walkability to trails or parks
- Proximity to dog-welcoming restaurants or breweries
- Availability of yard space or nearby dog-friendly open land
- Access to veterinary care and pet services
Contact Blue Lakes Real Estate Group
Blue Lakes Real Estate Group understands the unique needs of pet owners looking to relocate. Whether your priority is walkability to trails, yard space for pets, or proximity to pet-friendly venues, they will guide you toward properties that match your lifestyle. Their expertise in the Traverse City market means you’ll receive recommendations tailored to both you and your four-legged companion.
Reach out to Blue Lakes Real Estate Group to start exploring homes in areas that welcome pets as much as people. Their personalized approach, local knowledge, and commitment to your goals make them the ideal team to help you find your next home in Northern Michigan.
Reach out to Blue Lakes Real Estate Group to start exploring homes in areas that welcome pets as much as people. Their personalized approach, local knowledge, and commitment to your goals make them the ideal team to help you find your next home in Northern Michigan.
