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Columbus, OH, USA to Traverse City, MI, USA from $35: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Columbus 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.

$35 - PlaneBest price
698 kmDistance
7h 29m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Columbus 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
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
14h  40m
Estimated price
$58-205
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
7h  29m
Estimated price
$35-326
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 698 km
Duration: 7h 29m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Train
Drive
Average Duration
14h  42m
Estimated price
$40-253
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  34m
Estimated price
$75-120
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
8h  23m
Estimated price
$162-580
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
7h  44m
Estimated price
$581-356
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Traveling From Columbus to Traverse City

The journey from Columbus, a bustling urban center rich in culture and history, to Traverse City, a serene lakeside retreat known for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, offers travelers a striking contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Traverse City

Traverse City boasts charming neighborhoods, each offering distinct attractions for visitors.

Downtown Traverse City
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and local shops.
• Plenty of dining options featuring regional cuisine.
Old Mission Peninsula
• Stunning views of vineyards and cherry orchards.
• Ideal for wine tasting and outdoor activities.
Village at Grand Traverse Commons
• Historic buildings transformed into shops and eateries.
• Scenic trails perfect for walking and cycling.

Best Times To Visit Traverse City's Attractions

Timing your visits to Traverse City's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
Cherry Capital Airport Area
Weekdays are best for exploring nearby wineries, avoiding weekend crowds.
Downtown Traverse City
Evenings during weekdays allow you to experience local dining without the hustle.

Traverse City Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Traverse City experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers ideal for outdoor activities and snowy winters perfect for winter sports. Understanding the climate can help you choose the best time for your visit, ensuring a tailored travel experience you’ll enjoy.

Dining Recommendation

In Traverse City, try the local cherry BBQ ribs at The Boathouse Restaurant, where the flavors of fresh Michigan cherries shine in a way that contrasts with the more diverse culinary scene in Columbus. This dining experience features stunning waterfront views and a focus on seasonal, local ingredients, creating a meal that feels distinctly tied to the area’s rich agricultural heritage.

Columbus - Traverse City operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 888-378-3823
Website
https://baronsbus.com/

Bus from Columbus, OH to South Bend, IN

Average Duration
5h 20m
Estimated price
$35-36

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

Average Duration
5h 20m
Estimated price
$352-359
Contact phone
+1 800-544-2383
Website
hoosierride.com

Bus from South Street Station - South Bend to Kalamazoo Transit Center

Average Duration
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 800-292-3831
Website
https://www.indiantrails.com/

Bus from Kalamazoo, MI to Traverse City, MI

Average Duration
Estimated price
$352-359
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Ann Arbor Amtrak Station to Kalamazoo

Average Duration
1h 58m
Estimated price
$2055-2056
Plane Show flights
Website
delta.com

Plane from Columbus (CMH) to Traverse City (TVC)

Average Duration
5h 28m
Estimated price
$586-587

Plane from Columbus (CMH) to Pellston (PLN)

Average Duration
5h 37m
Estimated price
$586-583
Website
aa.com

Plane from Columbus (CMH) to Traverse City (TVC)

Average Duration
5h 50m
Estimated price
$2051-2052
Website
united.com

Plane from Columbus (CMH) to Traverse City (TVC)

Average Duration
4h 52m
Estimated price
$2051-5840

Columbus to Traverse City: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Columbus and Traverse City offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Columbus to Traverse City covering a distance of 434 miles. Enjoy the journey as you traverse through charming towns and picturesque landscapes along the way. 💰 Explore budget-friendly options with prices ranging from $75 to $120 for a car trip from Columbus to Traverse City. Plan your stops wisely to make the most of your travel budget while experiencing the diverse attractions en route. 🌲 Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Traverse City as you arrive after approximately 7 hours and 34 minutes of driving. Discover the city's renowned wineries, scenic beaches, and vibrant cultural scene, making your road trip a memorable adventure.
Average price
$75 - $120
🛫 Traveling from Columbus to Traverse City by plane involves taking a connecting flight due to the lack of direct flights. The quickest option with one stopover will get you to your destination in approximately 3 hours and 58 minutes. ✈️ Major airlines like United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines operate flights from Columbus Airport to Traverse City Airport, providing convenient options for travelers. The total duration of the journey by air is around 7 hours and 29 minutes. 💸 Prices for flights between Traverse City and Columbus can range from $35 to $326, depending on various factors such as the time of booking, airline preferences, and availability of seats. Planning ahead can help secure better deals for your trip.
Departure Point
Columbus Airport
Arrival Point
Traverse City Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 58m and has one stopover
🚌 Starting from Columbus there is no direct bus to Traverse City. However, you can take a bus that makes transfers at South Bend and Kalamazoo before reaching your final destination. The entire journey takes about 14 hours and 40 minutes.
Departure Point
Columbus, OH station
Arrival Point
Hall St Transfer Station - Traverse City

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Columbus and Traverse City is approximately 360 miles or 433.8 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By flying to Pellston and then taking a bus, it takes around 9 hours and 15 minutes. If you choose to fly directly, the travel time is approximately 6 hours and 17 minutes. Driving by car from Traverse City to Columbus takes about 7 hours and 34 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Columbus to Traverse City is to drive. It typically costs between $75 and $120 and takes approximately 7 hours and 34 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, it is recommended to fly. The quickest way to reach Traverse City from Columbus is by plane, which takes about 6 hours and 17 minutes, but can cost anywhere between $160 and $700.
To travel from Columbus to Traverse City without using public transportation, you can drive the entire route. The driving distance is 434 miles and it takes approximately 7 hours and 34 minutes to drive. The prices for the trip can range from $75 to $120 depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls. This option allows for more flexibility and the opportunity to explore other attractions along the way.
To travel from Columbus to Traverse City without a car, the best option is to take a combination of bus and Amtrak Thruway operated by Indian Trails. The journey takes approximately 14 hours and 55 minutes. As of now, there is no direct train or flight service between the two cities. However, the bus and Thruway combination offers a convenient and affordable option for travelers.
No, there is no direct link between Columbus and Traverse City by bus. However, it is possible to travel between the two cities by bus with transfers. The journey takes approximately 14 hours and 55 minutes, including transfers at South Street Station in South Bend and Kalamazoo. The bus services are operated by Barons Bus and Amtrak.
The flight between Columbus and Traverse City usually takes around 3 hours and 39 minutes with one stopover. However, there is no direct flight available between the two cities. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $160 to $663 depending on the airline and booking time. It is recommended to check with different airlines to find the best deals and availability for the desired travel dates.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Traverse City. There are over 328 hotels available in the area, catering to various budgets and preferences. The prices for these hotels start at $42 per night. Visitors can choose from luxury resorts, budget-friendly motels, charming bed and breakfasts, and more, ensuring a comfortable stay during their time in Traverse City.

Trips from Columbus

Trips to Traverse City