How often do you ask the question, what should we do this weekend? Sure, you can stay home and watch Family Matters reruns on Hulu like most weekends, but we think there are some more exciting opportunities here in Traverse City. Whether you’re budget conscious, or have some cash to burn, the decision isn’t always easy. The good news is, as your local community bank we have a few ideas to remedy your need for some pure northern Michigan excitement.
Enjoy a Blast from the Past at Coin Slot Classic Arcade
Nestled at the corner of Boardman Ave. and E Front St. in downtown Traverse City, is the neon clad, aptly named, Coin Slot Classic Arcade. For a modest $10 investment, you can play classic arcade games like Contra, Frogger, Donkey Kong, Tetris, Pacman, and Galaga all day. The Coin Slot boasts more than 40 classic games, not including their mondo selection of Pinball. For the hardcore Pinball posse, they even host a prestigious TC Pinball League.
Make a Wish Upon a Star
If you’re feeling a little stressed like you might need a break from this planet, you can spend some time at the J.H. Rogers Observatory perched high atop Brimley Rd. overlooking the Keystone Soccer Complex. Throughout the year, Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) hosts public viewing nights where if you’re lucky, you can see the rings on Saturn up close and personal. To enjoy this otherworldly ocular outing, it will cost you a mere $2 per person, or $5 per family.
Tour the Village at Grand Traverse Commons
For those looking for a bit of adventure with a splash of local history, look no further than the Village at Grand Traverse Commons. For $25 per person, you can take a guided historic walking tour where you learn about some intriguing Traverse City history and take in the beauty of one of the most storied architectural masterpieces in Michigan. The tour ends with a walk through a remarkable underground steam tunnel. Built in 1883, it was once used to carry steam, water, electricity, and people between the buildings of the timeworn Traverse City State Hospital.
Paddle or Peddle to the Pub
Finally, if your idea of fun includes water sports, paddles, bikes, vigorous exercise, and plenty of delicious local beer, there are two ways to get your fix. Take everything you think you know about a pub crawl, and throw it in the lake. Paddle for Pints combines your love of all things water, with your love of all things craft beer. For around $50, drift down the majestic Boardman Lake & River, and into West Bay and meet up at six local craft breweries along the way to hoist some cold, authentic Traverse City adult beverages. If water isn’t your thing, spend an afternoon on the TC Cycle Pub. You can peddle through downtown Traverse City and enjoy a cold one all while singing “Build Me Up Buttercup” at the top of your lungs with 11 of your closest friends. If that doesn’t sound like fun to you, we aren’t sure that we can be friends anymore.
Your Local Bank Knows Local Fun
As your last local community Bank, we are deeply committed to servicing all your financial needs. Whether that means accounts, loans, credit cards, mortgages, or helping you figure out what you’re doing this weekend in Traverse City; we’ve got your back. Come in and talk to your local Honor Bank Banker and find out why your friends voted us the Red Hot Best #1 Bank in Northern Michigan.
