Attractions and Places To See in Leelanau County - Top 19
Best attractions and places to see in Leelanau County include diverse natural landscapes and historical settlements. The region is characterized by its Lake Michigan shoreline, towering bluffs, and inland lakes, offering varied outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can explore natural monuments, scenic viewpoints, and charming villages. Leelanau County provides a mix of coastal features, forested areas, and cultural sites.
Best attractions and places to see in Leelanau County
- The most popular attractions is View of Lake Michigan from the Sleeping Bear Point Trail, a viewpoint that offers views over the Sleeping Bear Dunes and Lake Michigan. This 2.8 mile loop trail is an alternative to the longer Dune Trail.
- Another must-see spot is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a natural monument featuring bluffs that rise 450 feet above Lake Michigan. It is part of the National Lake Shore Michigan park and showcases a unique ecosystem.
- Visitors also love Fishtown Leland, a settlement known for its fishing village character with wooden houses. This historical site is one of the popular places in Northern Michigan.
- Leelanau County is known for its natural monuments, scenic viewpoints, and historical sites. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from coastal dunes to charming villages.
- The attractions in Leelanau County are appreciated by the komoot community, with 14 upvotes and 5 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Glen Arbor
Highlight • Settlement
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View of Lake Michigan from the Sleeping Bear Point Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint
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Fishtown Leland
Highlight • Settlement
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Grand Traverse Lighthouse
Highlight • Monument
HOURS OF OPERATION
April 1 to Memorial Day: Daily: 10 AM – 4 PM
Memorial Day to Labor Day: Daily: 10 AM – 5 PM
Labor Day to October 31st: Daily: 10 AM – 4 PM
November: Weekends Only: 10 AM – 3 PM
December: During Christmas Lantern Lit Hike only
The Grand Traverse Lighthouse has been restored and is open to the public seasonally. Visitors can tour the restored keepers dwelling and climb the Lighthouse Tower for a magnificent view of Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay. The Lighthouse sits inside Leelanau State Park
grandtraverselighthouse.com
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North Manitou Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Suttons Bay Waterfront
Highlight • Beach
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Empire Bluffs Observation Deck
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Little and Big Glen lakes
Highlight • Lake
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The Floating Kettle Bog
Highlight • Natural
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Tips from the Community
The Grand Traverse Lighthouse has been restored and staged to reflect life as a lighthouse keeper during the 1920’s and 1930’s. Built in 1858 at the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula, which separates Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay, it marks the Manitou passage, where Lake Michigan elides into Grand Traverse Bay. HOURS OF OPERATION April 1 to Memorial Day: Daily: 10 AM – 4 PM Memorial Day to Labor Day: Daily: 10 AM – 5 PM Labor Day to October 31st: Daily: 10 AM – 4 PM November: Weekends Only: 10 AM – 3 PM December: During Christmas Lantern Lit Hike only The Grand Traverse Lighthouse has been restored and is open to the public seasonally. Visitors can tour the restored keepers dwelling and climb the Lighthouse Tower for a magnificent view of Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay. The Lighthouse sits inside Leelanau State Park https://www.grandtraverselighthouse.com/
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Leland is better known by its nickname FishTown. This charming fishing village with wooden houses is one of the most popular places in Northern Michigan.
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You can't go far wrong with a ride along the seafront at Suttons Bay. Taking in the beautiful blue waters of Grand Traverse Bay, it will be sure to lift your spirits whatever time of the year. There is plenty going on at Sutton Bay too, so it's a good place to stop for something to eat, drink, or to stay.
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Absolutely fantastic view, a beautiful place
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The Kettle Bog is an ancient land formation that was once the site of a glacier. The hole from the glacier left behind is now what remains today as a bog. Super interesting point on the Kettle Trail well worth visiting!
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The Sleeping Bear Point Trail is an easy 2.8 mile loop leading you through the incredible Sleeping Bear Dunes. This trail is a great alternative to the longer and more strenuous Dune Trail. Incredible views over the Sleeping Bear Dunes and Lake Michigan!
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One of the best viewpoints of the Sleeping Bear Dunes Lakeshore as well as the highest point of the dunes, Empire Bluffs offers incredible views over the Sleeping Bear Dunes as well as Lake Michigan. This is one of the busiest trails in the Sleeping Bear Dunes Lakeshore, so arrive early to enjoy the scenic hike and seasonal wildflowers in the spring.
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Named after Glen Arbor, the town nearby, Glen Lake is made up of two parts – big and little. Water from the lakes travels along the Crystal River, through Glen Arbor and emptys into the sea. The road splits the two lakes in two. This is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Great Lakes region and is perfect for summer days (and winter too!).
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in Leelanau County?
Leelanau County is rich in natural beauty, featuring the iconic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore with bluffs towering 450 feet above Lake Michigan. You can also discover the serene Little and Big Glen lakes, and unique spots like The Floating Kettle Bog.
Are there historical sites or charming villages to visit in Leelanau County?
Absolutely. A must-visit is Fishtown Leland, a charming fishing village known for its historic wooden houses. You can also explore the Grand Traverse Lighthouse, offering a glimpse into the region's maritime past.
What are some family-friendly activities in Leelanau County?
Many attractions in Leelanau County are great for families. The View of Lake Michigan from the Sleeping Bear Point Trail offers an easy 2.8-mile loop with stunning views. The villages of Glen Arbor and Fishtown Leland are also popular for their relaxed atmosphere and scenic beauty, suitable for all ages.
Can I find easy hiking trails in Leelanau County?
Yes, Leelanau County offers several accessible trails. The Sleeping Bear Point Trail is an easy 2.8-mile loop that provides incredible views of the Sleeping Bear Dunes and Lake Michigan, serving as a great alternative to more strenuous options.
What is the best time to visit Leelanau County for fall colors?
For spectacular fall foliage, the best time to visit Leelanau County is typically from late September through mid-October. The scenic drives and trails, such as the route to Empire Bluffs Observation Deck, offer vibrant displays of autumn colors.
Are there scenic drives in Leelanau County?
Leelanau County is renowned for its scenic drives. The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, located within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the dunes. You can find more cycling routes that double as scenic drives in the Cycling in Leelanau County guide.
Where can I go cycling in Leelanau County?
Leelanau County is a fantastic destination for cycling. You can explore routes like the Glen Lake and Sleeping Bear Heritage Loop or the North Manitou Trail. For a comprehensive list of options, check out the Road Cycling Routes in Leelanau County and Cycling in Leelanau County guides.
What kind of beaches can I find in Leelanau County?
Leelanau County boasts diverse beaches along Lake Michigan and its inland lakes. You can enjoy sandy shores at locations like Suttons Bay Waterfront, which offers family-friendly access to the lake. Many areas within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore also feature beautiful stretches of beach.
Are there attractions with great views in Leelanau County?
Yes, Leelanau County is home to several stunning viewpoints. The View of Lake Michigan from the Sleeping Bear Point Trail and the Empire Bluffs Observation Deck both offer panoramic vistas of Lake Michigan and the surrounding dunes. Many areas within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore also provide incredible scenic overlooks.
What outdoor recreation opportunities are available beyond hiking and cycling?
Beyond hiking and cycling, Leelanau County offers opportunities for mountain biking on trails detailed in the MTB Trails in Leelanau County guide. The numerous lakes and Lake Michigan shoreline also provide options for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming, especially around areas like Glen Lake.
Is Leelanau County suitable for a winter visit?
While many attractions are seasonal, Leelanau County offers unique charm in winter. Opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and enjoying the serene, snow-covered landscapes are popular. Some trails, like those within Sleeping Bear Dunes, remain accessible for winter activities.
What makes Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore a must-see?
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a must-see for its dramatic bluffs rising 450 feet above Lake Michigan and its unique ecosystem. It's part of the National Lake Shore Michigan park system and offers breathtaking views, diverse landscapes, and opportunities for hiking and exploration.
Most popular routes in Leelanau County
Most popular attractions in Leelanau County
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