Visit our absolute favorite National Lakeshore, where breathtaking views and a perfect blend of sand and water will captivate you. Discover what drew us to this incredible area and inspired our choice of venue—you’re sure to fall in love too!

Experience Great Lakes maritime history at Point Betsie Lighthouse. Step into the life of a lighthouse keeper, exploring daily routines, daring rescues, and the isolation of a time when the nearest road was 40 miles away, accessible only by boat. From the tower, imagine the bustling traffic of vessels carrying goods across Lake Michigan.

Located on the scenic shoreline south of Sleeping Bear Dunes and north of Frankfort, Michigan, Point Betsie features its 1858 lighthouse, keeper’s residence, fog signal building, and Boathouse Museum.

Experience a boutique wine tasting at Leelanau Cellars, offering over 60 unique labels and stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay. Arrive by car, bike, or boat, and enjoy a glass on the waterfront patio. It’s the perfect spot to relax and #DrinkHappyThoughts!

The Traverse City area is known for its cherry orchards and wineries; its nickname is the Cherry Capital of the World.

Explore the charm of Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor, the heart of Northern Michigan’s cherry country. Stroll through gardens, sample 200+ cherry products, enjoy complimentary wine tastings, and savor cherry-inspired meals and desserts. Don’t miss the fun at the Pit Spitting Arena or the family-friendly play areas—it’s a sweet adventure for all!

Visit Overlook #9 on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive for breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the iconic Dune Climb, where sandy slopes drop 450 feet to the shoreline. On clear days, spot Empire Bluffs, Platte Bay, and even Point Betsie to the south. Look west across 54 miles of lake to Wisconsin, and marvel at the stunning natural beauty shaped by Lake Michigan, one of the world’s largest freshwater lakes. A must-see highlight of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore!

Modern Leland, once the site of the Ottawa village of Mishi-me-go-bing, has a rich history shaped by its riverside location and Lake Michigan's influence. European settlement began in 1853 with the Manseau family, who built a sawmill near the Carp River, paving the way for a thriving community. By 1867, docks welcomed steamers and schooners that brought settlers, supplies, and visitors to the growing village.

Today, Leland’s maritime legacy lives on in its historic Fishtown, where Carlson’s Fisheries continues its fishing traditions. Visitors can explore the charming village, learn about its history through photos at the Blue Bird restaurant, or hop a boat to the Manitou Islands. Leland's blend of rich heritage and modern charm makes it a must-visit destination on the Leelanau Peninsula.