The arrival of fall means that many Michiganders have started planning adventures to undertake during the spookiest season of them all. While some opt for wholesome outings to cider mills and apple orchards, others like to explore the darker and more mysterious realm when autumn rolls around. One unique tour here in the Great Lakes State will take you on an eerie yet fascinating fall excursion.
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons sits at 830 Cottageview Dr in Traverse City.
This vast complex once housed the Northern Michigan Asylum, a psychiatric hospital that was built in 1884. Today, it’s home to businesses, eateries, and so much more.
If you’re interested in immersing yourself in the sometimes-dark history of this spot, you’ll be thrilled to learn that visitors can embark on “Asylum After Dark” tours this October.
It’s important to recognize the fact that the defunct hospital housed people with mental illnesses, so the tour is centered more around true stories and history than paranormal activity.
Still, there’s a sense of eeriness throughout the grounds, particularly after dark. You’ll enjoy a 30-minute guided tour of a hospital cottage and learn about what residents experienced.
The cost for the tour is $45 per person or $80 per couple, so consider bringing along your partner. Following the tour, you’ll have the chance to unwind around a cozy bonfire.
If you’re not quite so keen on this particular tour, you’ll be happy to learn that The Village at Grand Traverse Commons offers other excursions, which are detailed at the link below.
Whether you’re a history buff, a seeker of spooky experiences, or some combination of the two, you’ll want to add this fascinating Michigan destination to your autumn bucket list.
For additional information about the Asylum After Dark tour and other offerings at the complex, click here. Have you and your loved ones explored this destination during previous family adventures? Share your favorite memories with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another must-see historical locale in the Great Lakes State by filling out our nomination form here.
If you're looking for more history, check out this unique historic mansion in Michigan.
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