Traverse City, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and the surrounding region has made National Geographic's list of the top sustainable destinations in the world. They rated destinations based on a mix of what local governments, residents, and businesses can control (pollution, cultural quality and authenticity, tourism management) and what they can't, such as natural disasters and global economic meltdowns. About Traverse City they wrote:

Has the typical aesthetic appeal of a beach destination with two distinct scenarios: crowds and noise during summer, quiet off-season. The landscape in areas not spoiled by beach developments is gorgeous and little exploited for tourism and recreational purposes…

Managed to maintain its cultural character, especially with the re-opening of the historic Opera House and the State Theater. A large number of local businesses still thrive in the historic downtown. The area has excellent recreational resources, with extensive trails along the shore and following abandoned rail lines.

Photo: Dawn Fleet, Grand Traverse Bay by farlane