Shopping doesn’t need to feel superficial. Combine history with quaint boutiques at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons in Traverse City. This unique shopping experience in Michigan doesn’t just allow visitors to get up close and personal with artisanal products from the Great Lakes State. It also lets curious Michiganders connect with a fascinating— and admittedly dark— chapter of local history.

Learn more and plan your visit!

Though The Village might specialize in retail therapy today, the building was built with a much different purpose in mind. First designed in 1882, it was originally the location of the Northern Michigan Asylum. By the time it was completed in 1885, space in the asylum was already in high demand, with patients arriving every day from more than 39 counties.
The Village At Grand Traverse Commons
There's no escaping the fact that medical practices during the asylum's operation couldn't approach today's standard of care. But, Superintendent Dr. James Decker Munson was a staunch advocate of treating his patients humanely. This "moral treatment" approach was revolutionary for the period, and the staff endeavored to make the hospital a place of beauty, which doctors believed helped calm asylum residents.
Brandt Callahan/Google Reviews
You can absolutely see this philosophy reflected in The Village's gorgeous architecture. At a whopping 300,000 square feet, the main building is a quintessential example of Victorian-Italianate design.
Michael Langenright/Google Reviews

Related Stories

Crossing This 153-Year-Old Bridge In Michigan Is Like Walking Through History

Crossing This 153-Year-Old Bridge In Michigan Is Like Walking Through History

 America’s Oldest Aquarium, Located In Michigan, Was Recently Named America’s Most Beautiful

America’s Oldest Aquarium, Located In Michigan, Was Recently Named America’s Most Beautiful

 Few People Know The Real Reason Behind Traverse City, Michigan Becoming The Cherry Capital Of The World

Few People Know The Real Reason Behind Traverse City, Michigan Becoming The Cherry Capital Of The World
After the hospital complex closed in 1989, the community wasn't sure how to best use the property. Eventually, they decided to reimagine it as a shopping center, and The Village debuted in 2002.

Today, visitors can grab a delicious breakfast before perusing a collection of fantastic local shops.
Keith Koesterer/Google Reviews
I personally recommend popping into Landmark Books. Though they specialize in high-quality first-editions and autographed copies, they also have a great selection of used books, making building your home library cost-effective and attainable.
Wren Pierce/Google Reviews
The other stores are just as diverting. Before your visit, I encourage you to check out what's open on The Village website.
Naomi Perkins/Google Reviews
But whether you see it all or pour over one boutique, leave with bags of finds or ideas for the future, you'll love your visit to this one-of-a-kind shopping complex, which seamlessly blends retail therapy and local history.
The Village At Grand Traverse Commons/Google Reviews

Visit The Village at Grand Traverse Commons in Traverse City for a unique shopping experience in Michigan. Though the building’s history is steeped in complicated history, today, it’s a fantastic hub for local vendors. In a state with no shortage of great architecture, it’s worth a visit on the merits of its design alone, and the old souls among us will love the chance to walk through its reimagined but atmospheric halls. Make the most of your excursion and stay in Traverse City for a weekend getaway!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Michigan

Featured Addresses
1200 W Eleventh St, Traverse City, MI 49684, USA