A Day Trip to Leland, Michigan: The Best Things To Do
📸 Great Lakes Fisheries Heritage Trail
Leland, also referred to as Old Fishtown, is located on the Leelanau Peninsula situated on the picturesque Leland River and Lake Michigan. It stands as a testament to resilience, being one of the few remaining active fishing communities gracing the shores of the Great Lakes. Initially inhabited and utilized for fishing by Native Americans, the village gained prominence with the arrival of European settlers in the 1850s, who molded it into the bustling fishing hub it is today. Fishtown, both in yesteryears and present times, consists of aged fishing shacks, smokehouses, docks adorned with fishing vessels, charter boats, and the ferry connecting to Manitou Island Transit. Today, numerous shanties have been repurposed to accommodate quaint local businesses. Annually, throngs of visitors flock to admire and cherish these shanties, fishing vessels, and docks, preserving vital elements of Lake Michigan's rich fishing legacy.
Today, the Fishtown Preservation Society oversees and upkeeps Fishtown, ensuring visitors can still witness one of the last operating fishing villages on the Great Lakes. The beloved fishing tugs, Janice Sue and Joy, stand as enduring symbols of Fishtown's fishing heritage, playing pivotal roles in Leland's ongoing fishing traditions. Explore Fishtown, discover unique shops and galleries, savor delicious sandwiches from the Village Cheese Shanty, catch the ferry to North or South Manitou Island, and don't forget to swing by Carlson's Fishery for the finest smoked fish and other delectable seafood treats in the area.
Morning
📸 Leelanau Coffee Roasting Breakfast Bistro, Leland, MI
Breakfast at Leelanau Coffee Roasting Company (Leland, Michigan):
Kick off your day with a delicious breakfast is nestled in the charming town of Leland, Michigan. This local favorite offers a variety of over 40 coffee flavors that are locally roasted in Leelanau. From pancakes as big as your face, to delicious and fresh omelets, you can’t go wrong here.
📸 MLive
Take a hike at Whaleback Natural Area or Clay Cliffs Natural Area: The Leelanau Conservancy. Whaleback Natural Area has winding trails through lush forests and towering dunes, with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan along the way. Clay Cliffs Natural Area, offers a serene 1.5-mile hike amidst flat and hilly terrain. This stunning natural area, developed in collaboration with Leland Township, encompasses 1,700 feet of pristine shoreline along both Lake Leelanau and Lake Michigan. Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the surroundings as you traverse the picturesque trails, providing breathtaking views of the lakes and the captivating landscape.
Mid-Morning
Explore Historic Fishtown & Shop Downtown (Leland, Michigan):
After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through Historic Fishtown, a must-visit destination in Leland, Michigan. Immerse yourself in the town's rich maritime history as you wander among its iconic shanties and bustling docks. Browse quaint shops such as Wild Lettie, Leland Gal, The Find North and more, chat with local fishermen, and capture the views of Lake Michigan.
📸 Old Art Building
Continue your exploration of Leland by visiting the Old Art Building, a cultural gem located in the heart of town.The vibrant arts scene with a guided tour or hands-on workshop, showcasing the talent and creativity of the local community.
📸 Dashing Departure
This local gem specializes in showcasing the works of regional authors and tailored books on the area and Michigan itself. Browse through their collection, where you'll find a diverse array of titles ranging from classics to popular reads. Don't forget to explore their dedicated kids' section, offering an assortment of literature to spark young imaginations. Whether you're seeking a memoir to remember your journey, a guidebook to explore the local area further, or a delightful story for your little ones, Leelanau Books provides the perfect opportunity to bring a piece of Leland home with you.
Lunch
📸 Leelanau Ticker
For lunch, you have two enticing options to choose from that are quite popular among tourists and the locals.
📸 Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitors Center
The Cove: Enjoy a delicious waterfront dining experience at The Cove, offering fresh seafood, salads, and sandwiches in the heart of Leland. Don’t forget to grab the famous Chubby Mary - complete with smoked fish, dill pickles, and green olives to finish it off.
The Cheese Shanty: Alternatively, venture to the famous Cheese Shanty for a mouthwatering sandwich made with locally sourced ingredients. Please note that The Cheese Shanty is a cash-only establishment, so be sure to have cash on hand for your visit. Picnic benches are available along the riverbank, offering a serene spot to observe leaping fish or enjoy your sandwich on Vans Beach for a delightful picnic experience.
Whichever option you choose, you're in for a treat and a view!
Afternoon
📸 Traverse City Tourism
For the afternoon, we recommend having a beach day or visiting the local wineries in the area.
Vans Beach: Spending a day at Vans Beach offers an escape to serene shores where you can enjoy activities like swimming and paddleboarding, or simply relax with a book on the soft sands. Picnic benches along the riverbank provide a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch, while the breathtaking sunset paints the sky with vibrant hues, culminating in a tranquil stroll along the water's edge.
Wine Tasting
Boathouse Vineyards (Village of Lake Leelanau): Venture just outside Leland for a delightful wine tasting experience at Boathouse Vineyards. Sample a diverse selection of locally crafted wines amid the serene waters of Lake Leelanau.
Aurora Cellars: Aurora Cellars is a boutique winery exuding Old-World charm nestled in the heart of the Leelanau Peninsula. They specialize in producing wine from grapes cultivated on the Leelanau Peninsula, offering an array of locally sourced food to complement and enrich the wine tasting experience. Guests are welcomed to their tasting room where they can explore tasting and food-pairing options, or opt for a glass of wine. Visitors can unwind on the patio, soaking in the breathtaking views of the vineyard estate.
📸 Bel Lago Winery
Bel Lago: Bel Lago Vineyards and Winery, meaning "beautiful lake" in Italian, earns its title from its idyllic setting overlooking the vineyard and south Lake Leelanau. Situated in the heart of the Leelanau Peninsula, the tasting room boasts a picturesque view that perfectly complements the wine tasting experience. It’s here that you can also find a variety of menu items for a snack or late lunch. Pizza, Bavarian style pretzels, cheese spreads,an italian sandwich and more.
Dune Bird Winery: Dune Bird Winery offers a unique collaboration of the unexpected. With a departure from the traditional, Dune Bird combines a craft espresso bar with an exceptional menu of cool climate wines in a warm and inviting space, accented with hints of aviation and industrial design. At Dune Bird, the focus is on people, inviting guests to linger and learn while enjoying small, hot plates and extended hours.
45 North Vineyard: Located directly on the 45th parallel, 45 North Vineyard leverages its unique geographical position as inspiration for crafting world-class wines that reflect the region. Using grapes sourced from estate and regional vineyards, everything is meticulously handcrafted on-site with the aim of producing approachable, elegant wines.
Not into the wine scene? We encourage you to try one of the many local breweries or distilleries instead.
Northern Latitudes Distillery: Northern Latitudes Distillery operates directly from their tasting room at the heart of Leelanau County, distilling small batch artisan spirits using Michigan's diverse agricultural products. Guests can enjoy complimentary tastings, sample unique cocktails, purchase bottled spirits, as well as browse through a selection of barware, gifts, and clothing.
📸 MadCap Coffee
Grab a coffee at Madcap, Leland: Indulge in a mid-day pick-me-up by stopping at Madcap, a beloved Grand Rapids coffeehouse and roastery that has ventured north to Leland. Savor the rich aroma and bold flavors of their expertly crafted coffee creations, brewed to perfection using ethically sourced beans. Whether you prefer a classic espresso or a specialty latte, a visit to Madcap offers a delightful caffeine fix amidst the charming backdrop of Leland's lakeside scenery.
Evening
📸 Riverside Inn
Sunset Cruise on the Manitou: As the day winds down, embark on a memorable sunset cruise aboard the Manitou, a historic schooner departing from Leland. Sail across the shimmering waters of Lake Michigan, basking in the golden hues of the setting sun against the picturesque shoreline.
Dinner at The Riverside Inn: Conclude your day trip with a gourmet dinner at The Riverside Inn, an esteemed dining establishment in Leland. Indulge in exquisitely prepared dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients, accompanied by fine wines and impeccable service.
📸 National Park Service
Stargazing at Van's Beach: Before bidding farewell to Leland, take a moment to marvel at the starry night sky at Van's Beach. Spread out a blanket on the sandy shores, gaze up at the twinkling constellations. If you hit the beach earlier in the day, you might be lucky enough to find one of Northern Michigans beloved beautiful stones, The Petoskey Stone, or Leland Blue.
As the sun sets on your day trip to Leland, Michigan, take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences you've encountered. From savoring a delicious breakfast to exploring the town's rich history and immersing yourself in its vibrant culture, every moment has been filled with discovery and delight. Whether you chose to indulge in local cuisine, embark on scenic adventures, or simply soak in the beauty of Lake Michigan, each experience has added a unique dimension to your journey. As you gaze upon the serene waters and starry skies, you're reminded of the charm and allure that make Leland a destination worth exploring. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning for another adventure, the memories created here will linger long after your day trip has come to an end.
