You’re driving down US-31, probably headed toward the bay or maybe just stuck in that inevitable Cherry Capital traffic, and you realize you need... well, something. Maybe it’s a USB-C cable because yours just frayed, or perhaps your kid suddenly "needs" a Squishmallow for a birthday party that starts in twenty minutes. This is exactly where Five Below Traverse City enters the chat. It’s located in the Grand Traverse Crossing, that massive sprawling retail hub on the south side of town that honestly feels like a rite of passage for anyone living in Northwest Michigan.
It’s a weirdly specific kind of magic.
The store isn't just a place to buy cheap stuff; it’s a tactical stop for locals and tourists who are tired of the "resort pricing" found downtown. While Front Street has the charm and the $40 t-shirts, Five Below offers a bit of a reality check. You walk in, the music is loud—usually a Top 40 remix that makes you feel slightly younger or significantly older depending on the day—and you're immediately hit by the "Five Beyond" section.
Where Exactly is Five Below Traverse City?
Finding things in the Grand Traverse Crossing can be a headache if you don't know the layout. If you’re familiar with the area, you know it’s tucked in near some heavy hitters. It sits at 2642 Crossing Circle, sharing a neighborhood with Target, TJ Maxx, and Dick's Sporting Goods. Basically, if you find the massive parking lot that everyone complains about during the National Cherry Festival, you’re in the right zip code.
Traffic here is a beast. Especially on Saturday afternoons.
If you're coming from Interlochen or Grawn, you're likely taking 31 straight in. If you're coming from the Old Mission Peninsula, you've got to navigate the Parkway and then the Division Street crawl. Most people think they can just "pop in," but the layout of the Crossing is designed like a maze. Once you pull into that specific section of the lot near Kohl’s, you’re golden. But getting there? That’s the real work.
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The store hours are pretty standard for the area, usually opening at 10:00 AM and closing around 8:00 PM or 9:00 PM. It’s worth checking Google Maps specifically for Sunday hours, as TC can sometimes feel like a small town that still likes to close up early on the weekends.
What's Actually Inside? (More Than Just $5 Toys)
Five Below Traverse City has a specific vibe compared to the ones you might find in Grand Rapids or Detroit. Because TC is a vacation destination, this location leans heavily into the "I forgot my beach gear" niche. You’ll see aisles packed with $5 towels, cheap flip-flops, and those inflatable rings that will inevitably pop after three hours in West Bay. It’s a lifesaver for parents who don't want to spend $30 on a bucket and spade at a boutique shop.
Then there is the tech section.
Let's be real: the $5 headphones aren't going to replace your Sony XM5s. They won't. But if you’re a student at Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) and you lost your earbuds in the library, these are the perfect "get me through the week" solution. They carry Bluetooth speakers that are surprisingly loud, LED light strips for dorm rooms, and those massive 10-foot charging cables that actually reach your bed from the outlet across the room.
The "Five Beyond" Shift
A few years ago, the brand made a huge move. They started carrying items over five dollars. This was a controversial play, honestly. Some people felt the name was a lie. But at the Traverse City location, this section is where you find the "big" stuff—like $10 or $25 gaming chairs, weighted blankets, and even some small furniture. It’s still cheaper than the big box stores next door, but it’s no longer strictly a "fiver" experience.
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Seasonal Rotations are Brutal
If you see something you like at the Traverse City Five Below, buy it. Seriously. The inventory turnover here is incredibly fast because of the foot traffic from tourists. In the winter, the store transforms into a haven for cheap hats, gloves, and "room decor" that helps locals survive the gray, sunless months of January and February. By the time the snow melts in May, that stuff is gone, replaced by pool noodles and lawn games.
Why This Specific Location Matters to Locals
Traverse City is expensive. It just is.
The "cost of living" discussion is a constant topic at every coffee shop from Mundos to Higher Art. For the people who actually live and work here year-round—the teachers, the hospitality workers, the retirees—having a spot like Five Below in the Grand Traverse Crossing is essential. It provides a low-barrier entry for treats and necessities. When you're trying to budget for a $2,000-a-month rental in a town where the average wage hasn't quite caught up, a store where you can walk out with a bag of snacks and a gift for $15 is a big deal.
It’s also a social hub for the younger crowd. On Friday nights, you’ll see groups of middle schoolers wandering the aisles. It’s a safe, cheap place for them to hang out when it’s too cold to be outside. They buy the "mystery boxes" or the latest viral candy from TikTok—like those jelly straws or freeze-dried Skittles—and it’s their version of a night out.
Navigating the "Hidden" Gems
Most people walk in and go straight for the candy wall. It’s impressive, sure. They have the classic theater boxes and the bulk bins. But the real pros look at the fitness section.
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- Yoga Mats: They are usually $5 to $10. Are they professional grade? No. Are they perfect for a quick session at the park or a beach yoga class? Absolutely.
- Pet Toys: If you have a dog that destroys toys in five minutes, don't buy the $20 ones at the pet store. The Traverse City Five Below has a solid selection of squeakers and ropes that won't make you cry when they get shredded.
- Graphic Tees: They often have licensed shirts from Marvel, Disney, or various bands. The quality is decent, and they make great "sleeping shirts."
- Beauty Aisle: Don't sleep on the face masks and nail polishes. They often carry brands like Wet n Wild or their own "City Color" line which is surprisingly popular among the budget-beauty community.
Common Misconceptions About Shopping Here
People often think everything is "junk." That’s a bit of a lazy take. While you shouldn't expect heirloom quality, a lot of the stationery, storage bins, and party supplies are identical to what you’d find at a higher-end craft store for double the price.
Another misconception is that it’s just for kids. I’ve seen plenty of adults in the Traverse City store grabbing office supplies or home organizational bins. The "Style" section often has minimalist mirrors or gold-rimmed trays that look way more expensive than they are. If you have an eye for DIY, you can easily "upcycle" a lot of the home decor items with a bit of spray paint.
The Logistics of Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip to Five Below Traverse City, here is the ground-level strategy to make it suck less:
- Avoid 4 PM to 6 PM: This is when the after-school crowd and the "just off work" crowd collide. The lines can get long, and the self-checkout kiosks (which they have plenty of) start to bottle up.
- Park Near the Back: Don't try to get the spot right in front of the door. The Crossing Circle is a loop, and people get aggressive. Park a few rows back near the Kohl's side; you'll save yourself the stress of backing out into a line of cars.
- Check the App First: If you’re looking for a specific viral item, check the Five Below app and set your location to Traverse City. It’s usually 90% accurate on stock levels.
- The "Bag" Situation: Like many stores now, they encourage you to bring your own bags. Their reusable bags are actually pretty sturdy and only cost a buck or two if you forget yours.
Actionable Steps for Your Next Trip
If you're heading to the store today, start by checking the "New Arrivals" section right by the front door. This is where the most seasonal, high-demand items live. If you're looking for room decor, head to the back left. If you need tech, it's usually on the right.
Before you checkout, do a quick lap through the candy aisle—even if you aren't buying. It's a nostalgic trip. Once you're done, exit the Crossing Circle by heading toward South Airport Road rather than trying to get back onto 31 directly; it’s usually a much smoother transition if you're trying to head toward the east side of town.
For those planning a party or a beach day, make a list before you go. It’s incredibly easy to walk into Five Below for a $5 charging cable and walk out with $60 worth of stuff you didn't know existed. Keep your eyes on the "Five Beyond" signs to avoid any surprises at the register. The store is a tool—use it to save money on the "disposable" items in life so you can spend more on the experiences that Traverse City is actually famous for.