The Village at Grand Traverse Commons

There aren’t any ghost stories at the former Northern Michigan Asylum. Instead, the tours that tour director Kate Angove leads through the Victorian Italianate-style building aim to honor the staff and patients of the former hospital that operated here until 1989.

After sitting vacant for the 13 years that followed its closure, the imposing yet beautiful campus was transformed into the inviting Village at Grand Traverse Commons, a mixed-use redevelopment featuring must-try restaurants, cute boutiques, apartments and more.

When it opened in 1885, the asylum was intended to be a place where patients were cared for and comforted. Now in its second life, the building and its lush, green surroundings live up to those ideals as a home for enjoyment, relaxation and entertainment. 

Walking the long, winding hallways now feels like exploring a vibrant neighborhood, with surprising little shops that pop up around corners or along corridors. There’s Sweet Asylum, a candy shop that offers bulk purchase of favorite candies as well as two coffee shops. Higher Grounds roasts its own beans, while Cuppa Joe offers pastries, breakfast sandwiches and smoothies. 

Check out Moonstruck Gardens, a delightful gift shop with stickers, pins and stationery, or Haven: A Clothing Market that stocks stylish T-shirts, maxi dresses and crocheted sweaters. 

The dozen food and drink options include Earthen Ales Taproom & Brewery, the Mexican-style restaurant Spanglish and Red Spire Brunch House. The seasonally rotating menu at Trattoria Stella, one of the first businesses here, features dishes such as ravioli with parsnip and goat cheese filling and Lake Superior walleye served with farro, scamorza cheese and wild mushrooms. Pizza, seafood and a cheese board round out the menu. 1200 W. 11th St., Traverse City, Michigan, 49684, 231/941-1900, thevillagetc.com