Leelanau Peninsula Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture of Leelanau Peninsula. Plan your trip with our week-long itinerary and tips on transportation, food, and safety.


Introduction to Leelanau Peninsula

Located in the Grand Traverse Bay Area in Northern Michigan, Leelanau Peninsula is a charming destination for those seeking scenic views, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. With its picturesque lakes and rolling hills, Leelanau Peninsula offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Midwest. From wineries and museums to hiking and biking trails, there’s something for everyone in this hidden gem of Michigan.

List of Places to Visit in Leelanau Peninsula

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Leelanau Historical Society

The Leelanau Historical Society located in Leland, Michigan, is dedicated to preserving the history of the Leelanau Peninsula. The museum includes exhibits on the region’s Native American heritage, the timber and shipping industries, and early settlements. Don’t miss the Fishtown exhibit featuring an authentic fishing village that once thrived on Lake Michigan’s shores.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

One of Michigan’s most popular destinations, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore spans over 35 miles and features stunning sand dunes and beaches on Lake Michigan. Visitors can explore the park and learn about its history and natural resources at a visitor center and museum.

Natural Attractions of Leelanau Peninsula: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

Take a leisurely drive-through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and enjoy the magnificent views offered by this 7.4-mile long roadway. There are several stops along the drive, including the Dune Overlook and Lake Michigan Overlook.

Glen Lake

Glen Lake is a natural beauty and a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. The lake offers crystal clear water and is surrounded by forests and sand dunes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Leelanau Peninsula

Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail

The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is a 27-mile long trail that runs through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The route passes through forests, dunes, and lakefront areas and can be used for hiking, biking, and skiing.

Leelanau Trail

This 17-mile-long trail stretches from Suttons Bay to Traverse City and offers scenic views of the Leelanau Peninsula. The trail is paved, perfect for biking, inline skating, or walking.

Best Things to Do in Leelanau Peninsula: Activities and Tours

Wine Tasting

Leelanau Peninsula is home to over 20 wineries, so wine tasting should be on your to-do list. Explore the well-known wine trails and sample some of the region’s award-winning wines.

Charter Fishing

Enjoy a day on the water with a professional fishing guide. The area’s lakes are full of fish, including salmon and lake trout.

Week-Long Itinerary for Leelanau Peninsula

Day 1 - Leland: Visit the Leland Historical Society museum and explore Fishtown, a historic fishing village.

Day 2 - Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Take the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive and hike the Empire Bluff Trail.

Day 3 - Suttons Bay: Explore the charming town of Suttons Bay and visit local wineries.

Day 4 - Traverse City: Visit the Grand Traverse Bay beach and enjoy a sunset cruise on the water.

Day 5 - Glen Arbor: Hike the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail and explore the town of Glen Arbor and its shops and restaurants.

Day 6 - Northport: Visit the Northport Light House and take a sunset horseback ride on the beach.

Day 7 - Lake Leelanau: Rent a boat on Lake Leelanau, fish, and enjoy a lakeside picnic.

Food and Drink Scene of Leelanau Peninsula

Must-Try Dishes

Leelanau Peninsula is known for its fresh produce and delicious cuisine. Some must-try dishes include cherry pie, fried whitefish, and locally sourced steak.

Local Beverages

Wine lovers will enjoy Leelanau Peninsula’s over 20 wineries and wine trails. The region is also known for its craft beer and hard cider production.

Where to Stay in Leelanau Peninsula: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Homestead

Situated along the shore of Lake Michigan, The Homestead is a luxury resort that offers guests access to beautiful beaches, a golf course, and several dining options.

Sugar Beach Resort Hotel

Located in Traverse City, Sugar Beach Resort Hotel offers lakefront accommodations and easy access to restaurants and shopping.

What to Buy in Leelanau Peninsula: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Cherries

Leelanau Peninsula produces roughly 25% of the total cherry crop in the United States. Try cherry pie, jam, or juice, or purchase fresh cherries.

Artwork

Leelanau Peninsula is home to many artists and galleries featuring work from local painters, photographers, and sculptors.

Local Culture and Customs of Leelanau Peninsula

Leelanau Peninsula is known for its friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere. The region celebrates its Native American heritage with traditional pow wows, and the area’s natural beauty inspires outdoor enthusiasts.

Best Time to Visit Leelanau Peninsula

The best time to visit Leelanau Peninsula is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities are in full swing. Fall is also an excellent time to visit when the leaves change color and the area’s wineries begin to harvest their grapes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Leelanau Peninsula

Do:

  • Respect the natural surroundings by taking out your trash and avoiding littering.
  • Visit a local farm and try some freshly picked produce.
  • Attend a local festival or event to learn more about the culture of Leelanau Peninsula.

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables visible in your car while parked.
  • Disrupt wildlife or damage plants during your outdoor adventures.
  • Ignore safety protocols when exploring the area’s natural beauty.

Safety and Health

Safety in Leelanau Peninsula

Leelanau Peninsula is a safe and friendly destination for travelers. However, visitors should be aware of seasonal weather changes, such as icy roads in the winter or severe thunderstorms in the summer.

Health in Leelanau Peninsula

The area’s hospitals and clinics provide quality health care, and visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance before traveling.

Getting to Leelanau Peninsula: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Leelanau Peninsula

Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) in Traverse City is the closest airport, located approximately 30 minutes from the Leelanau Peninsula.

Bus Stations Near Leelanau Peninsula

The area is not well-serviced by buses, but Greyhound and Indian Trails have a station located in Traverse City.

Other Options

The best way to explore Leelanau Peninsula is by car. Renting a car is the easiest option to explore the area independently.

How to Get Around in Leelanau Peninsula

Renting a car or bringing your car is the most practical way to explore the Leelanau Peninsula. Biking is also a popular option, with several bike rental shops located in the region.

Where to Go Next from Leelanau Peninsula: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mackinac Island

Located just a few hours north of Leelanau Peninsula, Mackinac Island is a charming destination that transports visitors to a simpler time, with horse-drawn carriage rides, Victorian architecture, and fudge shops.

Sleeping Bear Dunes

Explore the northern end of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and discover more of Michigan’s stunning natural beauty.

Conclusion

Leelanau Peninsula offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Midwest while enjoying cultural experiences and outdoor activities. Planning a trip to this hidden gem of Michigan is easy with our comprehensive tour guide. Don’t miss out on the stunning views, delicious cuisine, and unique opportunities that you can find in Leelanau Peninsula.



    Leland