Ever heard of Waning Bay, Michigan? Well, spoiler alert—it’s totally fictional. But honestly, don’t sweat it! Even though it’s not real, it’s inspired by places you can actually visit, and they’re pretty awesome.
You’ll come across Waning Bay in Emily Henry’s novel Funny Story. The town might not be on any map, but it’s basically Traverse City in disguise. Cherry orchards, early morning kayakers, and that warm, small-town vibe that makes Michigan special.
Discovering Traverse City
Traverse City? Yeah, it’s not just another tiny dot on a map—it’s got its own thing going on. The views of the lake are something else, the wineries are a must, and the community is super welcoming. It’s the kind of place that sticks with you long after you’ve left, you know?
Must-See Spots in Traverse City
- Cherry Hill Winery: If you’re into Pinot, trust me, this is where you’ll wanna be.
- Watery Escapades: Whether you’re kayaking at sunrise or just chilling on a boat, the water’s always calling.
- Festivals Galore: Cherries, films—you name it, this town’s ready to celebrate. They go all out.
Exploring Bay County, Michigan
Now, Waning Bay might be made up, but Bay County? That’s a real spot with deep roots in culture and history. And honestly, it’s a pretty cool place to check out.
Why Visit Bay County
- Property Fraud Alert: Yeah, they’ve got this handy service for homeowners to stay ahead of potential fraud. (Kind of important, right?)
- Community Programs: Tons of activities for both locals and tourists alike. You’ll never be bored.
Real Estate Considerations
If you’re thinking about moving—or even investing—both Traverse City and Bay County have some serious appeal. Traverse City? It’s got that old-world charm but with all the modern stuff you’d want. Bay County’s more about community vibes, and the real estate market is as diverse as it gets.
| Place | Highlights | Real Estate Perks |
|---|---|---|
| Traverse City | Gorgeous lakefronts, wineries, lively festivals | A mix of classic older homes and modern new builds |
| Bay County | Strong community vibe, safety programs | Loads of different real estate options to fit your budget |
By the way, if you’re curious about other hidden gems, don’t miss out on articles like “Is Skowhegan, Maine a Good Place to Live?” or “How Much Does a Place in Waterman Village Cost?” (These places might surprise you!)
So sure, Waning Bay might not exist, but Traverse City and Bay County? They’ve got real adventures waiting. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or thinking about a new home, these spots are totally worth checking out.
For more ideas on where to travel or settle down, dive into some of our other articles. Happy exploring! (And who knows, you might just find your next favorite place.)
Your map is highlighting an area on Lake Huron and near Bay City. Traverse city is on the west coast and up north. Also on lake Michigan 🙃 I agree though that the setting is near Traverse as they talk about going to Petoskey and it being 1.5 hrs away.