Located near West Bay in downtown Traverse City, Michigan, Golden Shoes is proud to be a successful retail store in one of the most beautiful downtown shopping districts in the country. Golden Shoes is known for its superior customer service and experienced sales staff. Whether you’re looking for men’s, women’s, or children’s shoes and accessories, we have what you need.  

Golden Shoes is a family-owned business that was started in 1883 by the Fredrich family and operated under the name of Fredrich’s Shoes. In 1954, Nathaniel and Willard Golden (father and son) bough the business and changed the name to Golden-Fredrich’s Shoes. The business continued to thrive, and the Golden family changed the name to Golden Shoes in 1968. Several of the Golden children have been a part of the day-to-day family business throughout the years. 

After Nathaniel’s death in 1969, Willard became sole owner and continued running the business with the help of his oldest children and several long-time employees. In 1969, Willard’s son Craig, became partner and worked alongside his dad until Willard’s retirement in 1972. Several years later, Willard’s youngest son, Bill, took on a management role with Craig. 

Upon Willard’s death in 2012, Craig and Bill became co-owners of Golden Shoes. The two brothers have played an integral role in the success of the shoe store by growing the business each year and impacting the growth of downtown Traverse City. 

In 2023, after 54 years working, managing, or owning Golden Shoes, Craig decided it was time to retire from the family business. Fortunately, another family member, his niece’s husband, Nate Cook, was interested in carrying on the family business. Nate and Bill are now co-owners of the shoe store and continue to provide exceptional service to the customers who shop at Golden Shoes.