The first week of the Great Lakes Equestrian Festival is underway at the Flintfields Horse Park in Traverse City, Michigan. Whether you are traveling to the picturesque city to compete in Week one or Week six, or looking forward to enjoying your days off exploring the Cherry Capital, it’s important to pack prepared for any adventure!
Check out our travel essentials for time on and off your horse during your visit to the Great Lakes Equestrian Festival.
1. GoPro 
2. Chacos
3. Backpack
4. Sperrys
5. Water Bottle
6. Hat
7. Sunglasses
Nestled on the edge of Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay, GLEF offers a picturesque oasis, abundant with stops for the avid outdoorsmen, the connoisseur of fine wines and everything in between. It is easily a favorite destination among exhibitors and their families with its backdrop of sprawling vineyards, idyllic lakes and tranquil beaches.
- National Cherry Festival: visitors enjoy the breathtaking, natural environment of thriving cherry trees in “The Cherry Capital of the World”
- Wineries, Taverns & Distilleries: relax in good company and enjoy local spirits and drafts on tap at North Peak Brewing Company and Jolly Pumpkin Restaurant, Microbrewery and Distillery; Black Star Farms is a necessity for those in pursuit of fine wine with rolling hills and spacious vineyards
- Grand Traverse Resort and Spa: enjoy golf, tennis, spa treatments, casinos, world-class dining and much more at this premier vacation destination
- The Village at Grand Traverse Commons: enjoy a relaxing stroll or picnic, gorgeous hiking and biking trails, outdoor art, an indoor marketplace, eclectic shops and unique eateries on 480 acres of preserved parkland
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: the “Most Beautiful Place in America” where you can experience the beach and the lake. Hop on a ferry and visit the two islands of Lake Michigan or visit lighthouses, museums and wineries
- Torch Lake: Michigan’s longest inland lake with vibrant blue-green waters is a popular fishing destination and also offers canoeing, paddle boarding, diving and hiking the surrounding townships
Leave your stresses behind and be transformed by the limitless wonders to be found in Traverse City!
By: Jewel Connelly and Allyson Lagiovane