Discover the Best Things to Do on the Leelanau Peninsula
Tucked between the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Leelanau, the Leelanau Peninsula is one of the most beautiful corners of Northern Michigan. This little finger of land is packed with sandy beaches, rolling vineyards, historic fishing villages, and quiet forest trails. When you book your stay with Visit Up North Vacation Rentals, you have a cozy home base and endless adventure right outside your door. Keep reading for our favorite things to do on the Leelanau Peninsula.
9 Can’t-Miss Leelanau Peninsula Activities & Attractions
The Leelanau Peninsula is home to villages and communities like Suttons Bay, Leland, Glen Arbor, Northport, and Empire. From towering dunes to walkable waterfront towns, the list of activities and attractions to check out near these Northern Michigan destinations is almost endless.
- Climb the sand and take in jaw-dropping overlooks at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, including the scenic Pierce Stocking Drive.
- Wander the weathered docks and old shanties of historic Fishtown in Leland, a working fishing village listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Climb the tower and tour the keeper’s dwelling at the Grand Traverse Lighthouse, found at the very tip of the peninsula inside Leelanau State Park.
- Sip your way through more than 20 tasting rooms along the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail, all surrounded by vineyard and water views.
- Drive the famous M-22 highway, a winding route that connects charming villages and hugs the Lake Michigan shoreline.
- Stroll the boutiques, galleries, and cafes in the walkable towns of Suttons Bay, Northport, and Glen Arbor.
- Hop on a ferry from Leland Harbor to North Manitou Island or South Manitou Island for hiking and remote Lake Michigan views.
- Soak up the sun at Van’s Beach in Leland or the sugar-sand shoreline of Good Harbor Bay.
- Spend a lazy afternoon paddling, boating, or fishing on the blue waters of Lake Leelanau.
Where to Stay on Your Northern Michigan Getaway
Half the fun of exploring the Leelanau Peninsula is having the perfect place to come home to at the end of the day. Our collection of Northern Michigan vacation rentals includes charming cottages, spacious homes, and cozy cabins in some of the area’s most sought-after spots. Settle into one of our Lake Leelanau rentals for easy access to the water, or make historic Leland your base for morning walks through Fishtown.
Prefer to wake up to water views? Our waterfront vacation rentals put you steps from the shoreline, many with private docks or direct beach access. No matter which of our Leelanau County vacation rentals you choose, you will enjoy all the comforts of home, including fully equipped kitchens and spacious living areas. Call 231-922-8922 to speak with a reservationist and start planning your Northern Michigan escape today.