When my sister from Ann Arbor and her friends from Detroit and Chicago planned to trek to Traverse City for a girls weekend in late February—I worried the weather would dampen their visit. With temps in the 30s, gray skies, and on-an-off rain in the forecast—a day of exploring seemed daunting. Luckily, the ladies were game to suit up in rain coats and tour the area for a fun Saturday that was anything but dreary. I want to share how we spent the day in case you are looking for rainy day ideas for Traverse City.

Before you get started, you will need a place to stay. I recommend using AllTheRooms.com, they have a great guide to rentals in and near Traverse City that combine Airbnb, VRBO, and more all in one place!

Once you know where you’re staying, here’s your recipe for a bright and bubbly day—regardless of weather:

1.     Grab coffee and breakfast at Rose and Fern Café

As soon as you step in to this adorable peachy-pink café, your spirits will be lifted. Rose and Fern’s bright-green botanical wallpaper, pastel-tiled espresso bar, and shelves of homey knick-knacks add to its loveable neighborhood café charm. Serving up breakfast all day and a selection of delicious lunch-worthy sandwiches, Rose and Fern always delivers fresh ingredients, unique flavors, and seriously satisfying portions. Each menu item (from irresistible bagel sandwiches to an addicting breakfast burrito) keep you full until lunchtime and beyond—perfect for a day of adventure! Plus, the café is home to Stockist Coffee company, which serves freshly roasted coffee and superb espresso drinks. I’m telling you: Visit Rose and Fern. Leave happy.

2.     Hike and Shop at Grand Traverse Commons

Once you’ve fueled up, you’re ready to move. Since the weather’s dreary, there’s no need to go too far from town for a long adventure. Instead, bundle up (or throw on your rain gear) and take a stroll near town at the Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area. There are several trailheads to start from (all listed here) and loops to choose from. If the rain is coming down too hard for a hike, or you have some extra time, definitely browse the indoor Mercato in Building 50. It’s filled with one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques and stunning art.

3.     Head up Leelanau Peninsula for a Wine Tour

There are so many incredible places to visit on the Leelanau Peninsula, including more than 26 wineries. For an afternoon excursion, I don’t recommend trying to squeeze in more than 2 or 3. On this particular Saturday we visited two of my favorites: Mawby (specializing in sparkling wine) and French Valley Vineyard (one of the only wineries directly on the shoreline of West Grand Traverse Bay). Both of these wineries are located close to Sutton’s Bay, less than 20 miles from Traverse City.

4.     Pick up a Pick-Me-Up at Brew

After wine tasting, you might be a bit sleepy. Brew, a day-to-night coffee shop and bar, is the perfect pitstop for a snack and a jolt of caffeine. If you’re looking for a caffeine boost that packs a punch, I highly recommend their Twitchy Russian cocktail (a White Russian with espresso). If you’re looking for a break from the booze, their mocha is also delcicious.

5.     Treat yourself to dinner at Trattoria Stella

A visit to Traverse City is incomplete without visiting one of our many foodie magnets for dinner. Our evening’s finale was dinner at Trattoria Stella. Located in a dimly lit, romantic corner of Building 50 in the Grand Traverse Commons, it’s a perfect spot to hide away with a bottle of wine and good company. Stella specializes in Italian fare with a farm-to-table focus. I highly recommend the burrata, their fantastic curated wine list, excellent cocktails, homemade pasta, and the panna cotta dessert. They use many local ingredients, so their menu is always changing. It’s one of those places where each bite tastes like magic. Truly a treat. (p.s. Don’t forget to make a reservation!)