Hagerty Conference Center | Traverse City

The Hagerty Conference Center, commonly referred to as the Hagerty Center, is a premier waterfront venue located on the Great Lakes Campus of Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) in Traverse City, Michigan. Overlooking the crystal-clear waters of West Grand Traverse Bay, the facility blends elegance with functionality, making it one of the most sought-after locations in northern Michigan for business events, weddings, and social functions.

Location and Surroundings

Situated at 715 East Front Street, the Hagerty Center occupies prime waterfront real estate just minutes from downtown Traverse City. It is located on the NMC Great Lakes Campus, which houses the Great Lakes Maritime Academy, the Great Lakes Culinary Institute, and other marine and technical training centers. The building sits directly on the bay, offering panoramic views of the water, marinas, and occasional sailboats drifting past.

The venue benefits from this location by providing not only scenic beauty but also a tranquil environment. Guests can enjoy the breeze from the bay, watch the sunset over the water, or stroll along the connected waterfront paths that link to Clinch Park and the TART Trail.

Architecture and Interior Design

The Hagerty Center is a modern, purpose-built event facility with approximately 11,000 square feet of usable indoor space. Its design emphasizes natural light, open layouts, and large glass windows that frame the spectacular bay view. Inside, the decor is refined and adaptable, with a neutral palette and upscale finishes that can suit both formal corporate functions and stylish receptions.

The primary event space is a large ballroom with movable partitions, allowing it to be divided into smaller breakout rooms. This modularity gives planners the flexibility to host events of various sizes—ranging from an intimate board meeting to a banquet for up to 380 guests seated at round tables.

Key Features and Amenities

1. State-of-the-Art Technology

Full audio-visual setup with high-resolution projectors, large screens, wireless microphones, and integrated sound systems.

Strong Wi-Fi coverage throughout the building.

On-site technical support is available during events.

2. Flexible Layouts

Configurations for banquets, theater-style presentations, classroom-style seating, U-shaped meetings, and more.

Outdoor patio space for cocktail hours or scenic breakout sessions.

3. On-Site Culinary Excellence

One of the center’s most distinct features is that its catering is provided by the Great Lakes Culinary Institute, part of NMC. Meals are prepared and served by culinary students and professionals, ensuring restaurant-quality dishes with a local, seasonal focus. Menus often highlight Michigan ingredients, including:

Cherry-glazed poultry and pork

Lake Michigan whitefish

Fresh-baked breads and pastries

Gourmet plated dinners and buffets

Vegetarian and dietary-specific options

4. Elegant Waterfront Patio

The center opens directly onto a lakeside patio, perfect for outdoor receptions, cocktail hours, or pre-dinner mingling. The patio offers unobstructed views of West Grand Traverse Bay and is often used for wedding ceremonies, especially during the summer months.

5. Support Facilities

A large prep kitchen for catering operations

Dedicated bride and groom rooms or private breakout lounges

Ample on-site parking for guests

ADA accessibility throughout

Event Types and Uses

Business Conferences and Seminars

The Hagerty Center is a favorite among Michigan-based and national companies for hosting:

Annual meetings

Leadership retreats

Industry conferences

Trade shows and expos

Staff training workshops

Its location and professional amenities make it an appealing alternative to traditional hotel ballrooms or remote retreat centers.

Weddings and Private Celebrations

With the waterfront backdrop and full-service event coordination available, the center hosts many:

Wedding ceremonies and receptions

Rehearsal dinners

Anniversary parties

Fundraising galas and silent auctions

Many couples choose to exchange vows on the patio overlooking the bay, then move indoors for the reception.

Academic and Community Events

Because of its affiliation with NMC, the Hagerty Center also serves as a venue for:

College lectures and symposiums

Culinary Institute showcases

Public policy forums

Nonprofit board meetings and community gatherings

Logistics and Visitor Experience

Accessibility

All entrances, rooms, and restrooms are wheelchair-accessible.

Drop-off zones are available for shuttles or vehicles transporting guests with mobility challenges.

Parking

On-site surface parking is available, with overflow parking accessible nearby on campus.

Lodging Proximity

The center is within a short drive or walk from many downtown Traverse City hotels, including the Delamar, Hotel Indigo, and several boutique inns.

It is also a 10-minute drive from Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), making it ideal for out-of-town attendees.

Atmosphere and Appeal

What sets the Hagerty Center apart is its serene yet central location. Attendees enjoy views of West Bay just beyond the large floor-to-ceiling windows, creating a peaceful and inspiring backdrop for any occasion. Whether it’s the golden hour light during a summer wedding or the serene snowfall during a winter conference, the space adapts beautifully to Traverse City's seasons.

Summary

The Hagerty Conference Center offers a rare combination of professional-grade amenities, exquisite culinary service, and a world-class setting on Grand Traverse Bay. Its design, service, and setting make it ideal for:

Corporate events that demand both professionalism and charm

Celebrations that seek an unforgettable waterfront atmosphere

Culinary-forward functions that emphasize regional flavor and quality

It is more than just a venue—it’s a showcase of what Traverse City hospitality, education, and natural beauty can offer.