Cindy's Place

3075 Marmac, Traverse City, MI 49684

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

4.8 from 100 reviews
5 stars
84
4 stars
14
3 stars
0
2 stars
1
1 stars
1

Assisted Living

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    Overall Review of Cindy's Place

    Pros

    • pro Joe was an excellent guide and the stops were delicious.
    • pro Sean F. was very knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor.
    • pro The 90-minute Explorer Building and Tunnel Tour at GT Commons was outstanding.
    • pro Clover was awesome, knowledgeable, engaging and funny.
    • pro The shops were unique, and the food and service at Red Spire were excellent.
    • pro The Village at Grand Traverse Commons is a unique and beautiful place.
    • pro The building is cool, with a great restaurant and cute shops.
    • pro The place is described as amazing, innovative, human-centered and healing.

    Cons

    • pro The group sizes were too large, making it hard to hear the guide, especially when others spoke.
    • pro The guide was difficult to hear unless one stood close, due to the big group and crowd noise.
    • pro The shops were very pricey.
    • pro Driving to the venue was terrible because of traffic and poor roads, with very little parking.
    • pro The tour spent too much time standing and listening to history, sometimes feeling like a lecture, leaving little time to explore.
    • pro The tour was described as spendy, implying it was expensive for what was offered.

    Review

    The Grand Traverse Commons area presents itself as a remarkable fusion of history, architecture, and modern life. Visitors repeatedly describe it as a place where old institutional buildings have been creatively repurposed into a vibrant village of shops, eateries, and cultural experiences. The core attraction for many is the guided tour program, which ranges from a 60-minute or 90-minute "Explorer" style walk to longer, two-hour historical tours that linger over the complex's layered past. Across the board, people come away with a sense of having stepped into a living history - one where a bustling market and charming boutiques sit side by side with the remnants and stories of an era when the site served as a state hospital and psychiatric care facility.

    A standout feature of the experience is the guides. Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and humor. Clover, in particular, appears repeatedly as a fan favorite - described as knowledgeable, engaging, and funny, able to weave history with accessible storytelling. Sean (often referenced as Sean F. or Finster) is also singled out for his expertise and engaging delivery, earning accolades for both content and personality. Joe is highlighted as well, praised for his depth of information and personal connections to the place. The consensus is that a great tour hinges as much on the guide as on the historical material itself, and many guests plan return visits precisely to see new facets through a different guide's lens.

    The content of the tours leans heavily into the site's original purpose and the broader history of mental health care. Guests learn about the former hospital, the treatment approaches of the time, and how attitudes toward mental health have evolved. The exploration often includes specifics like the original men's cottage, the brick steam tunnel, and the architecture that shows the evolution from older, unrestored sections to areas that are being renovated or repurposed in future phases. For many, the experience is as much about understanding social history and humane care as it is about the physical spaces themselves. The "Taste of the Village" tour adds a flavorful layer to this, combining visits to underground tunnels with beer and wine tastings, and prompting many to remark on the surprising depth and vitality of the community living and working in the area.

    The underground tunnels and the renovated versus unrestored buildings play a key role in the allure. Guests are drawn to the contrast between historic, untouched spaces and the parts that have been opened up or repurposed for contemporary use. The sensation of stepping into a place once dedicated to severe institutional care, now housing a marketplace of quaint shops and eateries, creates a unique mood - one that some compare to a European village tucked inside an old-world structure. For many visitors, the tactile experience of walking through tunnels or wandering the halls of renovated wings makes the history feel tangible rather than abstract, and there is a shared sense of awe at the scale and elegance of the site.

    Food, drink, and shopping are essential components of the overall draw. The village environment features a curated mix of boutique shops, casual eateries, and specialty destinations. Reviewers note the charm and variety of the shopping options - some stores are described as "cute," with a notable emphasis on unique, shop-local gifts. The dining and drink options also receive praise: visitors mention great restaurants such as Stellas and Red Spire, and casual stops at places like Left Foot Charley's and Spanglish as enjoyable complements to the tours. While several guests call some shops pricey, they still highlight the overall experience as worthwhile, with many attendees planning a return trip to revisit both the history and the retail ambience.

    Practical considerations surface in a few critiques. A common theme is that group sizes can be too large for some people to hear the guide clearly, especially when others are talking or when the group is spread out. A few guests express a desire for more walking time inside the buildings and less time stationary at outdoor locations, describing moments where a "soapbox" monologue overshadowed the more dynamic exploration they hoped for. Parking and traffic around the area also come up as challenges, with some reviewers noting that driving can be difficult and parking is limited, even as they praise the accessibility of certain facilities and the presence of elevators in parts of the complex. Despite these logistical hiccups, most guests frame these as manageable trade-offs for the depth of history and the distinct atmosphere they encounter on their visits.

    Overall, the sentiment toward the Grand Traverse Commons tours is overwhelmingly positive, with a strong sense that the experience is truly unique and worth the effort. Many guests call the tours "excellent," "extremely informative," or "a must-do" when visiting Traverse City. The combination of richly told history, engaging guides, and a living village filled with shops, markets, and eateries leaves travelers with a memorable impression - one that invites a return visit to hear new stories from another guide, to explore different corners of the campus, and to savor another round of the village's distinctive offerings. The consensus is clear: this is a place where history, culture, and modern vitality meet, offering an experience that is as educational as it is entertaining, and as inspiring as it is enjoyable.

    Features

    Housing

    • 6 resident community capacity 6 resident community capacity

    Types of Care

    • Assisted Living Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.

    Amenities

    • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
    • Dining room Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
    • Fully furnished Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
    • Garden GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
    • Housekeeping services Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
    • Move-in coordination Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
    • Outdoor space Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
    • Telephone TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
    • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

    Transportation

    • Cherry Capital (3 miles away) Cherry Capital (3 miles away)

    Care Services

    • 24-hour supervision 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
    • Activities of daily living assistance Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
    • Assistance with bathing Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
    • Assistance with dressing Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
    • Assistance with transfers Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
    • Coordination with health care providers Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
    • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
    • Meal preparation and service Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
    • Medication management Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
    • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.
    • Transportation arrangement (medical) Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
    • Transportation to doctors appointments Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life.

    Dining

    • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
    • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

    Activities

    • Community-sponsored activities Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
    • Scheduled daily activities Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.

    Description

    Welcome to Cindy's Place, an exceptional assisted living community located in the charming Traverse City, MI. Designed with comfort and convenience in mind, our community offers a welcoming atmosphere where residents can thrive while receiving the support they need.

    At Cindy's Place, we pride ourselves on our extensive amenities that enhance daily living. Our beautifully furnished dining room provides a cozy setting for meals, while our serene garden and outdoor spaces offer perfect spots for relaxation and socialization. Residents can enjoy complimentary housekeeping services and stay connected with loved ones through our high-speed Wi-Fi and telephone options. We also offer move-in coordination to ensure a seamless transition to your new home.

    Our dedicated care services focus on personalized assistance tailored to each individual’s needs. From help with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers, to specialized services like medication management and meal preparation accommodating special dietary restrictions, we ensure that every resident receives compassionate care. Our staff collaborates closely with healthcare providers to support overall wellness and coordinate necessary medical transportation arrangements.

    Residents at Cindy's Place have access to a variety of scheduled daily activities designed to promote engagement and well-being. The vibrant local community adds further appeal, with two nearby cafes for social outings, multiple parks for leisurely walks or picnics, pharmacies for convenient access to medications, numerous physicians for ongoing health care needs, an array of restaurants for dining experiences, places of worship for spiritual fulfillment, theaters for entertainment options, and hospitals readily available for emergencies.

    Cindy's Place is more than just an assisted living community; it's a place where comfort meets community engagement. Here, residents are encouraged to live life fully while receiving the support they deserve in a nurturing environment. Come join us at Cindy's Place – where independence flourishes amidst supportive care!

    Nearby Places of Interest

    Pharmacies

    • Target Pharmacy (0.1 miles)
    • Walgreens (1.1 miles)
    • The Prescription Shop (1.4 miles)
    • Hometown Pharmacy (1.4 miles)
    • Walgreens (2.2 miles)
    • Olesons West Pharmacy (2.2 miles)
    • Thompson Pharmacy (2.2 miles)

    Restaurants

    • Chili's Grill & Bar (0.2 miles)
    • Fuji Sushi & Steakhouse (0.3 miles)
    • Olive Garden (0.4 miles)
    • Chick-Fil-A (0.4 miles)
    • Pizza Hut (0.4 miles)
    • Red Lobster (0.5 miles)
    • La Senorita (0.7 miles)

    Physicians

    • Dr. Edward Stewart (0.3 miles)
    • The Walk-In Clinic (0.4 miles)
    • Well Spring Psychiatry (0.7 miles)
    • Rising Star Wellness Center (1 miles)
    • Austin Shirley McLaren N Michigan Psychiatric (1 miles)
    • SVS Vision Optical Centers (1.2 miles)
    • Northern Vision Eye Care (1.4 miles)

    Theaters

    • AMC CLASSIC Cherry Blossom 14 (0.7 miles)

    Cafes

    • Panera Bread (0.9 miles)
    • Starbucks (1.1 miles)

    Places of Worship

    • Bible Baptist Church (1.1 miles)
    • St Francis Catholic Church (1.9 miles)

    Parks

    • Medalie Park (1.2 miles)
    • Grand Traverse Veterans Memorial Park (1.9 miles)
    • Hull Park (2.4 miles)

    Hospitals

    • Copper Ridge Surgery Center (1.5 miles)
    • Munson Medical Center - Outpatient Services (2.3 miles)
    • Munson Medical Center (2.3 miles)
    • Munson Healthcare (2.4 miles)
    • Cowell Family Cancer Center (2.4 miles)

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Where is Cindy's Place?

    Nearby Communities

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