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Phoenix, AZ, USA to Traverse City, MI, USA from $112: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Phoenix, United States of America
to
Traverse City, United States of America

How to Get from Phoenix to Traverse City: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$112 by busBest price
2605 kmDistance
8h 2m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Phoenix to Traverse City with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
8h  2m
Estimated price
$143-703
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
11h  39m
Estimated price
$112-484
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2605 km
Duration: 8h 2m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
48h 
Estimated price
$235-1430
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
10h 
Estimated price
$340-866
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
12h  22m
Estimated price
$392-669
Company
various
Bus
Train
Drive
Average Duration
42h  18m
Estimated price
$1431-1432
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
32h  59m
Estimated price
$1433-1434
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Traveling From Phoenix to Traverse City

Your journey from the sunny deserts of Phoenix, with its vibrant city life and arid landscapes, to the refreshing shores and lush forests of Traverse City offers a remarkable contrast in experiences.

Best Neighborhoods in Traverse City

Traverse City offers diverse neighborhoods each with its own charm.

Downtown Traverse City
• Bustling restaurants and shops along Front Street.
• Scenic views of Grand Traverse Bay.
Old Mission Peninsula
• Picturesque wineries with stunning waterfront views.
• Peaceful countryside perfect for outdoor activities.
East Bay
• Beautiful beaches ideal for summer recreation.
• Quaint local eateries and family-friendly parks.

Best Times To Visit Traverse City's Attractions

Planning your visit to Traverse City? Timing can elevate your experience at key attractions.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy peaceful hikes.
Cherry Festival
Go on weekdays instead of weekends for a more relaxed atmosphere and shorter lines.
Wine Tours on Old Mission Peninsula
Fall offers colorful scenery and fewer tourists, enhancing your tasting experience.

Traverse City Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Traverse City experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers perfect for outdoor activities and snowy winters ideal for skiing. Planning your visit around the weather can enhance your travel experience, whether you're enjoying vibrant fall colors or summer festivals.

Dining Recommendation in Traverse City

Indulge in the farm-to-table offerings at The Cooks' House, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients shine in dishes like their wild mushroom risotto. This culinary experience contrasts sharply with the Southwestern flavors of Phoenix, showcasing Traverse City's focus on seasonal ingredients and a cozy, rustic atmosphere.

Phoenix - Traverse City operators

Explore transport companies operating between Phoenix and Traverse City, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from Phoenix Airport (PHX) to Traverse City Airport (TVC)

Average Duration
6h 7m
Estimated price
$7031-7034

Plane from Phoenix Airport (PHX) to Grand Rapids Airport (GRR)

Average Duration
5h 18m
Estimated price
$7033-7034
Website
aa.com

Plane from Phoenix Airport (PHX) to Traverse City Airport (TVC)

Average Duration
6h 18m
Estimated price
$7031-7032

Plane from Phoenix Airport (PHX) to Grand Rapids Airport (GRR)

Average Duration
5h 35m
Estimated price
$7033-7034
Website
delta.com

Plane from Phoenix Airport (PHX) to Traverse City Airport (TVC)

Average Duration
9h 39m
Estimated price
$7038-1438

Plane from Phoenix Airport (PHX) to Grand Rapids Airport (GRR)

Average Duration
5h 42m
Estimated price
$1121-7039
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Phoenix Bus Station to Amarillo Bus Station

Average Duration
14h 55m
Estimated price
$3406-34000

Bus from Amarillo Bus Station to St Louis Bus Station

Average Duration
14h 30m
Estimated price
$3400-34000

Bus from St Louis Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
6h 39m
Estimated price
$3404-8660

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Kalamazoo Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$4849-48445

Bus from Kalamazoo, MI - Amtrak to Hall St Transfer Station - Traverse City

Average Duration
5h 20m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 800-292-3831
Website
indiantrails.com

Bus from Grand Rapids, MI to Traverse City, MI

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$3405-3406

Bus from Kalamazoo, MI to Traverse City, MI

Average Duration
5h 20m
Estimated price
$4849-1435
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Maricopa to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
48h 6m
Estimated price
$1125-1127

Train from Chicago Union Station to Kalamazoo

Average Duration
2h 9m
Estimated price
$4844-4845

Train from Kalamazoo, MI - Amtrak to Hall St Transfer Station - Traverse City

Average Duration
5h 20m
Estimated price
$0-0
Ferry
Contact phone
+1 866-914-1010
Website
lake-express.com

Ferry from Milwaukee to Muskegon

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
$86630-1129

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Phoenix to Traverse City.

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The distance between Phoenix and Traverse City is approximately 1400 miles. If traveling by air, a direct flight typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, although layovers can extend travel time considerably. Driving the distance usually takes about 20 to 24 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, taking a bus could take 30 to 40 hours, factoring in potential layovers and scheduled stops.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Phoenix to Traverse City is often to book a flight, especially when fares are competitive and when booked in advance. Look for budget airlines, which can help reduce costs while maintaining reasonable travel times of around 3 to 4 hours for direct flights. Alternatively, if you're open to a longer journey, carpooling or taking a bus can be economical, though these options typically require 30 to 40 hours of travel time. Ultimately, flying remains the quickest and most efficient means for this cross-country trip.
Prices for traveling from Phoenix to Traverse City can vary significantly based on the mode of transportation and timing. A round-trip flight typically ranges from $150 to $400, depending on the airline, booking time, and season. Driving can incur costs for gas and lodging, averaging around $150 to $250 for fuel alone, plus meals and accommodations if necessary. Bus tickets usually fall between $100 and $200, but travel times are longer, making flying the more convenient option despite the higher initial cost.
To get from Phoenix to Traverse City without using public transportation, consider driving your own car or renting a vehicle. The road trip will take approximately 20 to 24 hours, allowing for stops along the way for rest and meals. Alternatively, you could arrange a carpool with friends or family who are also traveling to Michigan. Another option is to fly to a nearby airport and then rent a car for the final leg of your journey.
To travel from Phoenix to Traverse City without a car, you can opt for a combination of air travel and ground transportation. First, book a flight to a nearby major airport such as Grand Rapids or Detroit, as there are limited direct flights to Traverse City itself. From there, you can rent a car, take a shuttle, or use rideshare services to reach your final destination. Additionally, consider coordinating with friends or family who might be driving to Traverse City to arrive together.
There are typically no direct flights between Phoenix and Traverse City making a layover necessary for air travel. Most passengers will connect through larger airports like Chicago O'Hare or Detroit Metropolitan. Additionally, there isn't a direct public transportation option, such as a train or long-distance bus, that links the two cities without multiple transfers. As a result, planning for connecting flights or alternative transportation options is essential for this trip.
The total flight time between Phoenix and Traverse City usually ranges from 5 to 8 hours, depending on layovers and connections. Since there are no direct flights, most routes require at least one stop, which can significantly affect travel time. Typically, the cost for a round-trip ticket can vary widely, ranging from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the season, booking time, and airline. It's advisable to compare prices and be flexible with travel dates for the best deals.
In Traverse City there are several accommodation options to choose from, ranging from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to luxury hotels. Popular options include the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa for a resort experience, or the Traverse City Marriott for comfortable amenities. For a more intimate stay, consider local charming inns like the Park Shore Resort, which offers scenic views of the waterfront. Additionally, there are numerous vacation rentals available through platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo for a home-away-from-home experience.

Trips to Traverse City