Beginning at the street corner where Traverse City first laid down its roots, this tour leads you through our “boomtown” history – the good and the regrettable. From Perry Hannah’s mansion, past the Carnagie library, to the original downtown, this easy two mile walk is an enjoyable trip through our history.
For 2025 our 10:00 AM walking tours begin on Wednesday July 9th and continue through October 8th. No reservations are needed, simply arrive by 10:00 AM please.
There is no charge for the tour. We do request a gratuity of $20 per person. Gratuities are entirely up to the individual. Thank you for your support.
Our Custom Tours are available starting May 29th. Use our e-mail link below to arrange your custom walking tour.
Questions? Please use the e-mail form below to contact us. Or call 231-946-4800.
Weather:
Of course we like nice days for our tours, but Mother Nature still has the final say. A light rain or drizzle won’t stop us, but any dangerous weather (lightning, heavy rain, high winds, etc.) will mean a cancellation of our tour.
Please check these weather links:
Traverse City Area Radar:
If moderate to heavy rain is imminent, our tour is canceled.
Please check back here for updates.
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About Us
Our 10th Consecutive Season
In 2016, we began the Guided Walking History Tour of Traverse City, a weekly guided tour through the historic neighborhoods of Traverse City. Through the years we have continually grown, increasing the number of tours and guide services that we provide each season.
Our Guides
Steve Morse began conducting history tours in 2014 when he volunteered to be a docent for the Traverse City History Center’s Magical History Tour bus. When that program was discontinued, Steve filled the void by creating the Guided Walking History Tour of Traverse City. He is also a regional tour guide for many of the tour buses that visit Northwestern Michigan every summer.
Debbie Douglas is the Special Events Coordinator at the City Opera House. This will be her fifth season as a guide.
Photo Gallery
Contact Us:
Call or text 231-946-4800 for more information.
The Guided Walking History Tour is a free walking tour not affiliated with any non-profit, for-profit or municipal organization.
Guided Walking History Tours of Traverse City 