Leland

A Harbor Towns Special

By Alexandra Dailey | July 2, 2022

The secluded spots and quaint towns tucked away in harbors and bays on the Lake Michigan coast have long been desirable destinations for those seeking a weekend respite or relaxing summer season away from the usual harried hubbub. Sandy beaches with hidden Petoskey Stone treasures beckon, restaurants of local fame prepare home-style meals, and freshwater bodies welcome you with friendly waves. With so many tiny towns and cozy communities to visit and explore, let Northern Express provide some insight.

On the west side of the Leelanau Peninsula rests the quaint town of Leland, smack-dab between Lake Michigan and North Lake Leelanau. Known for historic Fishtown, a charming shopping district, gorgeous scenery, and family-owned businesses, Leland is an ideal place where visitors can “get away from it all” and savor a relaxed pace in a friendly and welcoming setting.

Nosh & Nibble
Family-owned since 1927, The Bluebird caters to all with its 100-seat bar and elegant dining room overlooking the Leland River. The Bluebird is one of the area’s most popular restaurants, serving timeless favorites, such as their award-winning whitefish and famous cinnamon rolls. bluebirdleland.com

A seasonal riverside bar and grille, The Cove is located above and below the Leland Dam with views of Lake Michigan and the Manitou Islands. Sought after for its unusual waterfront dining experience, The Cove boasts signature dishes made from local ingredients and from-scratch recipes. And their take on a Bloody Mary—The Chubby Mary—is an experience all its own. thecoveleland.com

A Main Street staple, Trish’s Dishes serves up full-flavored options focusing on nutrition. Chef and owner Trish Kropp uses freshly baked bread and select ingredients for her breakfasts, lunches, and weekly dinner specials. Plus, this is a great spot to grab a hot or cold coffee drink as you continue to explore Leland. ​trishesdishes.com

Must-sees & Must-dos
A quick walk from Trish’s Dishes is Main Street Gallery, which represents nearly 40 of northern Michigan’s finest artists. Plus, there’s a lovely sculpture garden to walk through on the river directly behind the gallery. mainstreetgalleryleland.com

Hopping aboard A Lake Trick with Cruise Leelanau allows you to explore the sights of Lake Leelanau and the Leland River from the water! The tour lasts about an hour and a half and costs $50/person. P.S. You’re welcome to bring food and drinks. (231) 866-0351

For chartered fishing excursions on Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay, you’ll want to contact Captain Tony Radjenovich of Reelin’ Leland. No fishing gear is necessary, as top-of-the-line equipment is provided. And the best part is, once you catch it, the fish is cleaned and cooked at The Cove! reelinleland.com

The historic heart of a once-active commercial fishing village, Fishtown has been preserved as a living legacy of Michigan’s maritime culture. Visitors can walk through weathered fishing shanties, smokehouses, overhanging docks, fish tugs, and charter boats on the Leland River. fishtownmi.org

Lay Your Head
Nestled on 200 feet of private North Lake Leelanau frontage is the Whaleback Inn. With 14 lake-view rooms, a private cottage, and three cottage suites, the inn offers mesmerizing views of the water. Check out the nearby Whaleback Sand Dune and partake in swimming, boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding off the inn’s two docks. whalebackinn.com

For lodging close to restaurants and downtown attractions, consider staying at Falling Waters Lodge (pictured), connected to the Leland Dam on the Carp River. Built in the 1960s, this family-owned and operated establishment melds historic vibes with modern amenities and strives to make guests feel like family. fallingwaterslodge.com

For a bit of quintessential northern Michigan relaxation, The Leland Lodge offers rooms and an on-site restaurant to simplify your visit. Open year-round and over 100 years old, the Lodge is within walking distance of numerous attractions, including beaches, a golf course, and Fishtown. It’s also close to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, wine tours, and hiking trails. lelandlodge.com

Dock It
The Leland Township Marina and its 63 slips are located in the Historic Fishtown District. This marina provides restrooms and showers, gasoline, a dog run, playground, boat launch, and rentals for vehicles, bikes, and kayaks, among many other amenities. (231) 256-9132