Whether you're a local looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or a visitor hoping to explore the best of northern Michigan without the hassle of driving, the Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA) has you covered. With convenient routes, seasonal services, and connections to some of the region’s most iconic destinations, BATA is your key to enjoying everything the Grand Traverse area has to offer—stress-free and sustainably.

Why Choose BATA?

BATA’s mission is to connect the communities of Leelanau and Grand Traverse Counties through reliable, affordable, and eco-friendly public transportation. With clean, modern buses, friendly drivers, and a growing network of routes, BATA offers an unbeatable way to experience the area’s natural beauty, local culture, and world-renowned food and wine scene.

Top Destinations You Can Reach with BATA

Wineries of Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas

No need to designate a driver when you ride BATA to wine country. The Bayline and Loop Routes can connect you to The Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula (WOMP) and select Leelanau wineries. During the summer and fall, BATA’s Link On-Demand or special TART Trail connectors make it easy to access tasting rooms, wine tours, and vineyard events.

Beaches and Parks

Traverse City is surrounded by sparkling freshwater beaches, and BATA makes them easy to reach. Hop on a bus and head to Clinch Park, Bryant Park, or even Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Top Beach Destinations:

• Clinch Park – Walkable from downtown via Bayline.

• Bryant Park – Accessible via Route 1.

• Empire (gateway to Sleeping Bear Dunes) – Available with seasonal connectors or Link On-Demand services.

Downtown Traverse City

Whether you’re shopping, dining, or attending a festival, downtown Traverse City is a must. Avoid parking headaches by taking BATA’s Bayline, a free, high-frequency route that runs every 15–17 minutes and connects key downtown locations with major hotels, breweries, and trailheads.

Don’t Miss:

• National Cherry Festival (July)

• Front Street’s eclectic boutiques and eateries year-round

TART Trails and Outdoor Adventures

BATA and TART Trails have teamed up to offer seamless access to biking, hiking, and kayaking excursions. You can even bring your bike aboard most BATA buses and ride to your favorite trailhead.

Trail-Friendly Routes:

• Bayline for Boardman Lake Trail

• Routes 11/12 for Leelanau Trail access

Farmers Markets and Local Events

Traverse City’s farmers markets and craft fairs are local treasures. BATA helps you support local producers without the hassle of parking in busy lots.

Ride to:

• Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market

• Suttons Bay Art Festival

• Northport Dog Parade and Wine Fest

How to Ride BATA

Fares and Passes

• Bayline is always FREE.

• Standard fares start at just $1.50 per ride, with discounts for seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities.

• Multi-ride passes and mobile ticketing available through the Transit App or at bata.net.  

Plan Your Trip

• Visit bata.net for schedules and route maps.

• Use the Transit App for real-time bus tracking and trip planning.

• Call 231.941.2324 for rider assistance or special accommodations.

Accessibility

All BATA buses are ADA-accessible and offer bike racks, Wi-Fi, and climate control for year-round comfort.

Final Thoughts

Exploring Traverse City and the surrounding region doesn’t have to involve renting a car, navigating narrow peninsula roads, or searching for parking. Whether you’re sipping wine at a vineyard, basking in the sun at a beach, or hitting the trails, BATA offers a reliable, green, and convenient way to experience the best of northern Michigan.