Grand Traverse Resort and Casino: A Michigan Paradise

Introduction

nestled in the captivating shores of Grand Traverse Bay, Grand Traverse Resort and Casino stands as a premier destination for relaxation, entertainment, and recreation in Northern Michigan. This luxurious resort boasts a world-class casino, an award-winning spa, championship golf courses, and an array of dining and nightlife options. Embark on a journey through this opulent haven, where every moment promises to be memorable and every indulgence is within reach.

A Casino Paradise

At the heart of Grand Traverse Resort and Casino lies a gaming paradise that caters to every whim. With over 90,000 square feet of gaming space, the casino offers an exhilarating mix of slot machines, table games, and a state-of-the-art poker room.

• Slot Machines: Choose from over 1,800 slot machines, ranging from classic reels to the latest video slots. With denominations starting at just $0.01, there's a game for every budget.

• Table Games: Experience the thrill of classic table games such as blackjack, roulette, craps, and baccarat. The casino's professional dealers ensure a fair and exciting experience.

  

• Poker Room: One of the largest and most prestigious poker rooms in Michigan, the Grand Traverse Poker Room hosts daily tournaments, cash games, and special events.

  

Spa Indulgence

Escape to the serene sanctuary of The Spa at Grand Traverse Resort, where rejuvenation and tranquility await. This award-winning spa offers an extensive menu of treatments, including:

• Massages: Unwind with a Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, or couples massage.

• Facials: Revitalize your skin with a variety of facials, including deep cleansing, hydrating, and anti-aging treatments.

• Body Treatments: Pamper yourself with body scrubs, wraps, and therapeutic baths.

The spa also features a state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor swimming pool, and relaxation lounge.

Championship Golf

For golf enthusiasts, Grand Traverse Resort and Casino offers two championship golf courses: The Bear and The Wolverine. Designed by Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, respectively, these courses provide a challenging and picturesque golfing experience.

• The Bear: This par-72 course boasts stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay and the surrounding woodlands. With its rolling fairways, strategic bunkers, and undulating greens, it's a true test of skill.

• The Wolverine: This par-71 course is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Its shorter length and more forgiving layout make it an enjoyable round for golfers of all skill levels.

  

Dining and Nightlife

Grand Traverse Resort and Casino offers a diverse array of dining options, from casual to fine dining.

• Aerie Restaurant and Lounge: Perched atop the resort's highest point, Aerie offers panoramic views and a menu featuring contemporary American cuisine.

• Bayfront Bistro: Savor delicious seafood dishes and other local favorites while enjoying the waterfront ambiance.

• The Grille: Indulge in classic American comfort food, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.

For a lively nightlife experience, visit the resort's Sun Moon Lounge, where you can dance the night away to live music and DJs.

Unforgettable Stories

Grand Traverse Resort and Casino has been the backdrop for countless memorable experiences. Here are a few stories that capture the essence of this extraordinary destination:

• The Grand Wedding: A couple from Chicago chose Grand Traverse Resort and Casino for their dream wedding. With its stunning ballroom and waterfront views, the resort provided the perfect setting for their perfect day.

• The Lucky Break: A local retiree hit a jackpot on one of the resort's slot machines, winning a life-changing amount of money. The casino's friendly staff and luxurious amenities made his win even sweeter.

• The Family Getaway: A family from across the country made Grand Traverse Resort and Casino their summer vacation destination. They enjoyed the resort's kid-friendly amenities, including the game room and swimming pools.

These stories demonstrate that Grand Traverse Resort and Casino is not just a place to gamble or relax; it's a place where memories are made and dreams come true.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• World-class casino with a wide range of gaming options
• Award-winning spa offering a variety of treatments
• Two championship golf courses designed by legendary golfers
• Diverse dining options, from casual to fine dining
• Lively nightlife with live music and DJs

Cons:

• The casino can get crowded, especially during peak season
• Some spa treatments can be expensive
• Golf greens fees can be pricey
• The resort can be difficult to reach for those who do not have a car
• The area surrounding the resort is not particularly scenic

Call to Action

Plan your next unforgettable getaway at Grand Traverse Resort and Casino. Immerse yourself in the excitement of the casino, indulge in the tranquility of the spa, conquer the challenge of the golf courses, and savor the delectable dining options. With its unparalleled amenities and unwavering commitment to excellence, Grand Traverse Resort and Casino guarantees a vacation that will exceed your expectations. Book your stay today and start creating your own memorable experiences!

Additional Information

• The resort offers a variety of packages and promotions throughout the year.
• The casino is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• The spa is open daily from 9 am to 9 pm.
• The golf courses are open seasonally.
• The resort offers a free shuttle service to and from the Traverse City Airport.

Tables

| Casino Facts |
|---|---|
| Number of Slot Machines | 1,800+ |
| Number of Table Games | 40+ |
| Size of Poker Room | 10,000 square feet |

| Spa Amenities |
|---|---|
| Massage Options | Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, couples |
| Facial Options | Deep cleansing, hydrating, anti-aging |
| Body Treatments | Body scrubs, wraps, therapeutic baths |

| Golf Course Statistics |
|---|---|
| Course | Par | Length (yards) |
| The Bear | 72 | 6,902 |
| The Wolverine | 71 | 6,600 |

Grand Traverse Resort and Casino: A Comprehensive Guide

Nestled amidst the pristine shores of Grand Traverse Bay, Grand Traverse Resort and Casino stands as a premier destination in northern Michigan, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury, entertainment, and scenic beauty. This comprehensive guide delves into the resort's history, amenities, gaming options, and strategies for maximizing your experience.

History and Overview

The Grand Traverse Resort traces its roots back to the 1960s when real estate developer Wendell Anderson envisioned a resort community on the shores of Lake Michigan. In 1972, the first phase of the project, including a golf course and lodge, was completed. Over the years, the resort has undergone multiple expansions and renovations, transforming it into a sprawling complex that now encompasses:

• 586 guest rooms and suites
• Four championship golf courses
• A full-service spa and fitness center
• Five indoor and outdoor pools
• A variety of restaurants and bars
• A world-class casino
• Conference and event facilities

Accommodations

The Grand Traverse Resort offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget, from cozy guest rooms to spacious suites and private cottages. All rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and Wi-Fi.

Guest Rooms:

• Standard guest rooms are approximately 350 square feet and feature one king-size or two double beds, a sitting area, and a bathroom with a shower/tub combination.
• Superior guest rooms offer slightly more space (400 square feet) and include a separate sitting area with a sofa bed.

Suites:

• One-bedroom suites provide ample space for families and groups, with separate sleeping and living areas.
• Two-bedroom suites offer even more room and privacy, with two full bathrooms and a kitchen.

Cottages:

• The resort's private cottages are ideal for those seeking seclusion and privacy. Each cottage offers two or three bedrooms, a full kitchen, a dining area, and a patio or balcony.

Golf

Golf enthusiasts will find paradise at the Grand Traverse Resort, home to four championship golf courses:

• The Bear: Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this challenging par-72 course features rolling fairways, undulating greens, and stunning views of the bay.
• The Wolverine: A Tom Fazio masterpiece, this par-72 course is known for its precision and challenging greens.
• The Spruce: This par-70 course offers a more relaxed and picturesque setting, with mature trees and serene water features.
• The Resort Course: A shorter, nine-hole course, perfect for beginners or those looking for a quick round.

Spa and Fitness

The Grand Traverse Resort's full-service spa offers a wide range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. The fitness center boasts state-of-the-art equipment, including cardio machines, free weights, and a heated indoor pool. Guests can also enjoy yoga, Pilates, and other fitness classes.

Dining

The resort features a diverse selection of restaurants to cater to all palates and preferences:

• Aerie Restaurant & Lounge: A fine dining experience with panoramic views of the bay.
• Sweetwater American Bistro: Casual dining with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
• Turtle Creek Casino Buffet: A vast buffet offering a variety of cuisines from around the world.
• Starbucks: The iconic coffeehouse chain provides convenient grab-and-go options.
• The League Sports Bar: A lively sports bar with a wide selection of draft beers and pub grub.

Casino

The Grand Traverse Resort Casino is one of the largest and most popular casinos in northern Michigan. It features:

• Over 1,000 slot machines
• 40 table games, including blackjack, roulette, and craps
• A high-limit gaming area
• A non-smoking gaming area
• A sportsbook for wagering on sporting events

Strategies for Maximizing Your Visit

To make the most of your stay at the Grand Traverse Resort and Casino, consider these strategies:

• Book in Advance: Especially during peak season, reservations should be made well in advance to secure desired accommodations and golf tee times.
• Take Advantage of Packages: The resort offers various packages that combine accommodations, golf, dining, and spa treatments at discounted rates.
• Become a Loyal Patron: The Resort's loyalty program offers rewards, discounts, and exclusive promotions to repeat guests.
• Explore the Surroundings: The Grand Traverse Resort is conveniently located near various attractions, including Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Traverse City, and Old Mission Peninsula.
• Consider the Time of Year: The resort offers different experiences throughout the year, with summer boasting warm weather and outdoor activities, while winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing and snowshoeing.

Tips and Tricks

• Arrive Early: Check in early to secure a preferred room and start enjoying the resort's amenities as soon as possible.
• Use the Valet Service: Parking can be limited, especially during busy times. Consider using the valet service for convenience.
• Try the Local Flavors: The resort's restaurants feature dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Ask about daily specials and recommendations.
• Take a Guided Tour: The resort offers guided tours of the golf courses, providing insights into their design and history.
• Look for Deals: Check the website and social media pages for special promotions and discounts on accommodations, golf, and spa treatments.

FAQs

1. What is the dress code for the casino?

The casino has a casual dress code.

2. Are pets allowed on the property?

Pets are not allowed on the property, except for service animals.

3. Is there a resort fee?

Yes, there is a daily resort fee that covers amenities such as Wi-Fi, fitness center access, and transportation within the property.

4. How old do I have to be to enter the casino?

You must be 21 years of age or older to enter the casino.

5. Are there smoking areas in the casino?

Yes, there is a designated non-smoking gaming area as well as outdoor smoking areas.

6. What is the average cost of a round of golf?

Prices for golf vary depending on the course and time of day, but typically range from $100-$300.

7. Does the resort have gluten-free dining options?

Yes, many of the resort's restaurants offer gluten-free options.

8. How far is the resort from Traverse City?

The Grand Traverse Resort is located approximately 10 miles north of Traverse City.

Useful Tables

Table 1: Guest Room Rates

Table 2: Golf Course Fees

Table 3: Casino Game Payouts