Spring in Northern Michigan: What's New?
Locals might argue that spring is the best time of year in Northern Michigan. Okay, sure, we did just endure another Michigan winter but now it all feels worth it again. When the rain falls, we can smell the fresh start of the season. That’s our cue from mother nature to get out and explore!
What’'s Hot?
A list of new restaurants!
Old Mission Tavern: No, this is not exactly a new spot. This classic and traditional tavern, located on the Old Mission Peninsula, took a hiatus. Recently, under new ownership, they have re-opened with a refresh to the space and an updated menu. The perfect spot to check out after exploring the Old Mission lighthouse.
Colibri: We are anxiously anticipating the opening day of Calibri. Traverse City is getting a wine bar back; we are so ready! This hot spot will be in the Commongrounds space, along the Boardman River. Although this is not a food-focused space, we can’t wait to check it out. The expected opening is set for May. Did we mention this is just down the road from our Midtown Modern Condo? You can walk right over!
Frank’s 231: Just around the corner from the airport is a new farm to table sausage house style restaurant. Every dish shares a vibrant flavor while keeping alive a traditional comfort food style. This is most definitely one of a kind eatery.
Acorn Kitchen:I don’t think I’ve seen a dreamier menu than the one from Acorn Kitchen. Located inside the Atomic Marketplace Complex along side Nocturnal Bloom Brewing. This was just meant to be. We are so ready for our summer dinner and pint on this stunning patio. Which of course will include a game of bocce ball after our awesome meal.
Right Bower Kitchen and Coffee: A prime spot for a little breakfast or lunch pit spot. Right Bower Kitchen is in the Seven Hills Community Center. Enjoy a slow morning with a cup of coffee. In the morning, this space is so peaceful. Or grab a couple sandwiches before going out on the boat or enjoy the lard yard and lounge a while. No matter the occasion, make sure to check it out if you find yourself on Old Mission Peninsula.
Umbo: Traverse City is getting an oyster bar on Front Street. We never thought it would take this long to say that sentence. We can’t wait to preview their full menu. At the moment, they are deep in renovations and expect a spring 2026 date to open. If you are booking a reservation later this year, we recommend staying at our Blue Heron Condo. This perfect spot is walking distance for a fun night on the town.
Activities
New trails and a new festival.
The first signs of spring make everyone up north feel a little lighter. Hitting the trails after all the snow melts has a way of keeping a smile on your face. Right when everything starts to turn green, we know the real business is about to begin. Morel season is no joke. Everyone has their favorite spots and the best hikes to get there. Truth is, everyone will explore a little more each year to be sure they don’t stumble upon a new morel honey hole.
Something a lot of people fail to mention is natures perfect pairing. Amidst the morel hunt is often the easy forage for ramps, also know as wild leeks. Ramps have the most distinct smell; a blend of rain water, fresh dirt, and strong onion. Most of the time you find these leafy greens popping out on shaded hillsides in large quantities. Looking over the clump, pull out the larges leaf, right from the base of the dirt. Out comes a tiny onion, sort of looking like a shallot. But man, they are so good! Did we mention there are so many ways to cook them. Ramps are becoming a staple to Northern Michigan, that we have dedicated a new festival to honor this delicious gift from nature. Our first annual Ramp Fest, in Suttons Bay. We can’t wait to check out the fun stuff people do with ramps. And this makes us even more eager to get our hiking boots on and grab a paper bag and a small gardening shovel. You can find us in the woods!
