Explore Historic Buildings & Tunnels in Traverse City, MI
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels as walking is moderate with few stairs and some crouching in tunnels.
Overview
Discover Traverse City's hidden history on a private guided tour through historic buildings and underground tunnels. Learn fascinating stories while exploring off-the-beaten-path sites.
Guided Historic Building & Tunnel Tour
Ages 12 and up • 2 Hours
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Take a guided historic tour!
Duration
2 hours
About
Take a guided tour into historic unrenovated buildings and the underground tunnel system of the former Traverse City State Hospital. Learn about Dr. Munson’s “Beauty is Therapy” theory on patient care, former uses of the structures on the property, purpose of the architecture, and much more. Venture through an unrenovated historic building and walk through an amazing brick steam tunnel built in 1883
The tours will guide participants through the original unrenovated buildings of the former Traverse City State Hospital which has sat vacant since the State closed the doors almost 25 years ago. Due to changing construction schedules, the historic buildings viewed may change from tour to tour. In addition, guests will be guided through underground utility tunnels, originally used to connect and serve buildings across the original State Hospital campus. The tour ends in the restored Mercato portion of Building 50 where shops, tasting rooms and eateries are now open seven days a week.
Additional Information
- Ages 11 & under not permitted to go on tour. Tour is not handicap accessible.
- Under the age of 18 requires parent or guardian present
- Approximately 1 mile of walking - Not wheelchair accessible
What to bring
- Closed-toed shoes are recommended, and please dress for the weather as you will be spending at least an hour outside rain, snow or shine.
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy footwear
Comfortable shoes are essential as the tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and through tunnels.
Bring a flashlight
Some tunnels have low lighting, so having a small flashlight helps you see details better.
Prepare for temperature changes
Tunnels tend to be cooler than outside air; bring an extra layer just in case.
Ask questions on the tour
Guides welcome curiosity, so don’t hesitate to engage and learn more about the history.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern Gray Squirrel
- Northern Cardinal
History
Traverse City's tunnels were originally used during Prohibition to transport goods discreetly and now serve as captivating historical sites.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to preserve these historic structures through community-led restoration projects and careful maintenance.
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Adventure Hotspots in Grand Rapids
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive shoes help navigate uneven terrain and tunnels safely.
Light jacket or sweater
Useful for cooler temperatures inside tunnels and changing spring weather.
spring specific
Flashlight or headlamp
Helpful for better visibility in dimly lit tunnels.
Water bottle
Staying hydrated is important during warmer months, especially outdoors.
summer specific