Grand Traverse Resort Golf Season Opener: Tom McGee Shares Course Updates and Special Packages
- Metro Detroit Golfers
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
As one of the premier golf destinations in the country, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa continues to set the standard for resort golf—and 2026 is shaping up to be another strong season. In a recent Lesson on Golf segment, longtime Director of Golf Tom McGee cleared up some geographical confusion, shared updates on early-season operational adjustments, and highlighted the popular packages that continue to elevate the resort.
A 3-Course Destination Getting Ready for the Season
Grand Traverse Resort operates three championship courses across its northern Michigan property, making it one of the most expansive golf resort networks in the region. Located in Acme Township—though the home and business addresses carry a Williamsburg designation—the resort is prepping its premium layouts for summer play:
The Bear: Jack Nicklaus's legendary, world-famous signature course.
The Wolverine: Gary Player's highly acclaimed, wide-fairway design.
Spruce Run: The original resort layout featuring a distinct mix of sand and clay base soil.
Because of northern Michigan's regional landscape, early-season conditions are closely monitored to ensure the turf is stabilized. Predominantly sand-based layouts on the main courses allow the grounds to drain incredibly well, giving players an elite surface right out of the gate.
Golf Your Daylights Out Operational Plans
Rather than limiting players to standard rounds, Grand Traverse Resort’s signature early-summer strategy relies on the unique geography of northern Michigan. Located on the western edge of the Eastern Time Zone, the sun doesn't set until after 10:00 PM in mid-June, providing a massive window for marathon golf.
"It's a pay one fee, and you play as many holes as you want to,"
McGee noted regarding the legendary Golf Your Daylights Out package running from June 15th through June 21st.
"It's $150 a player if you're staying with us, only $190 a player if you're not."
The package is designed to maximize daylight hours, with some extreme groups even completing up to 90 holes of golf in a single day by switching to an alternate shot format toward the end of their run to save their bodies and keep moving.
A Complete Resort Experience
Grand Traverse Resort continues to earn major recognition well beyond its 54 holes of golf.
The resort features:
A world-class full-service spa led by Dawn Olson and her team.
Indoor and outdoor tennis courts along with newly restriped pickleball courts.
The 16th-floor Aerie Restaurant, offering unmatched panoramic views overlooking the bay.
This type of high-profile diversity reinforces what many Michigan vacationers already know—the property delivers a complete luxury experience whether you are hitting the links or relaxing off the course.
Built on Experience, Not Just Courses
While the championship golf footprint is impressive, McGee emphasized that a true destination getaway comes down to the complete guest experience:
The hidden gem Beach Club with pool amenities and watercraft rentals.
Premium lodging options, including the iconic resort tower rooms.
High-value membership options with advanced booking privileges and sold-out member events.
For visiting golf groups, corporate outings, and family vacations, that means every aspect of a stay-and-play package is handled seamlessly by an experienced operational team.
Planning Your Trip
Golfers can explore tee times, custom stay-and-play packages, and overall availability directly through Grand Traverse Resort’s official site. Guest experience teams are also available to help build custom itineraries across multiple courses and properties.
With stay-and-play packages bookable up to a full year in advance—and offering unlimited golf on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday—early planning is highly recommended for groups looking to secure the best summer dates.
Lesson on Golf is hosted by Jeff Lesson and produced by Make The Turn, the team behind Metro Detroit Golfers—one of the largest golf communities in Michigan.
The show highlights courses, destinations, and golf experiences across the state.
👉 Explore more episodes on the Metro Detroit Golfers YouTube channel.