What the Leelanau Peninsula is Known For: 12 Bucket List Experiences for Adventure Seekers
- Lindsay & Justin
- Mar 8, 2024
- 11 min read
Updated: Jul 10
As avid adventurers who've spent countless hours exploring Michigan's hidden gems, we're thrilled to share our insider knowledge of the Leelanau Peninsula. Our meticulous planning and multiple visits to this breathtaking destination will save you valuable time when organizing your own trip. Located in northwestern Michigan, the Leelanau Peninsula is known for its stunning coastlines, award-winning wineries, and charming small towns that create the perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts.
This picturesque peninsula, often called Michigan's "little finger", is nestled between the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan and the sheltered Grand Traverse Bay. Home to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (voted "Most Beautiful Place in America" by Good Morning America viewers) and over 25 wineries producing some of the Midwest's finest cool-climate wines, the Leelanau Peninsula offers authentic experiences for adventure seekers of all kinds.
In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover the best viewpoints, seasonal activities, and culinary experiences that make the Leelanau Peninsula a must-visit destination for those seeking to connect with nature while enjoying the finer things in life.
Table of Contents: What the Leelanau Peninsula is Known For
1. Visit the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
2. Explore the Leelanau State Park
5. Hike the Clay Cliffs Natural Area
6. Visit the local farmers' markets
7. Explore the charming town of Leland
8. Bike or walk the Leelanau Trail
9. Enjoy the local cuisine at farm-to-table restaurants
10. Explore the charming town of Northport
FAQ Section: Everything You Need to Know About Exploring the Leelanau Peninsula
1. Visit the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
We spent an entire day exploring the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and it was worth every minute. This place is simply stunning! Justin and I hiked the dune climb which was a serious leg workout, but the views over Lake Michigan were absolutely jaw-dropping.
What makes the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore so special is how it changes with the light throughout the day. We caught sunset from the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive overlook and honestly couldn't believe the colors. Don't miss the Dune Climb if you're up for a challenge - just bring plenty of water and be ready for sand in everything! The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is perfect for every kind of traveler since there are both easy scenic drives and challenging hikes.
2. Explore the Leelanau State Park
When visiting the Leelanau Peninsula, we highly recommend making time for Leelanau State Park at the peninsula's northernmost tip. With over 1,300 acres of pristine land, this park should be on every outdoor enthusiast's itinerary. You'll find excellent hiking trails, prime fishing spots, and incredible bird watching opportunities throughout the seasons. Don't miss the historic Grand Traverse Lighthouse - definitely worth the small tour fee to climb to the top for breathtaking views of the Leelanau Peninsula coastline.
Hours & Admission
A recreation passport is required to enter all Michigan State Parks. For residents, this is a $14-19 annual pass. For non-residents this an $11 daily fee or $40 annual fee (2024 pricing).
The cost for lighthouse admission is $8 for adults, $3 for students (ages 6-17), and it's free for children 5 years and younger (2024 pricing). Hours are 10am - 5pm in the summer, with varying hours in the off-season.
3. Tour the local wineries
Justin and I spent two full days exploring the Leelanau Peninsula wine trail and honestly, we had no idea Michigan could produce wines this good! With over 25 wineries scattered across rolling hills and offering stunning Lake Michigan views, this area has definitely earned its reputation as the "Napa of the North." We loved how the unique microclimate of the Leelanau Peninsula creates perfect conditions for growing grapes that produce some seriously tasty wines. The best part? You don't need to be a wine snob to enjoy the experience. We met plenty of casual sippers like us who were just there for the gorgeous views and fun atmosphere.
Our Favorite Wineries
"Leelanau Cellars" blew us away with their huge variety of wines and that gorgeous tasting room right on the water. We tried their Witches Brew which was unlike anything we've had before. Tastings ran us about $5-$10 which felt like a steal for the quality and experience.
"Mawby Vineyards and Winery" quickly became our favorite stop on the Leelanau Peninsula wine trail. We're not usually sparkling wine people, but their bubbly changed our minds completely! The tasting room sits on this perfect little hill with vineyards spreading out in all directions. Tastings were between $5-$15 depending on which flight you choose. Worth every penny!
"Shady Lane Cellars" feels like stepping back in time with its 100-year-old estate buildings. The Leelanau Peninsula has plenty of beautiful wineries, but this one had a special charm that we couldn't get enough of. We loved their Blaufränkisch and the outdoor patio where we spent way too long soaking up the sun. Tastings were around $5-$15.
"Green Bird Cellars & Farm" was a refreshing stop on our Leelanau Peninsula wine tour. As the only certified organic vineyard we visited, they offered some unique ciders alongside their wines. The super laid-back vibe here was perfect after visiting some of the fancier places. Tastings cost us about $5-$15.
"Black Star Farms" is absolutely massive compared to other Leelanau Peninsula wineries! We spent nearly two hours exploring the property with its inn, stables, and sprawling vineyards. Their Arcturos Pinot Noir was so good we bought two bottles to take home. The tasting fee was $5-$15 but waived with bottle purchases. If you have limited time in the area, make this a priority stop.
4. Sail on Lake Michigan
The Leelanau Peninsula offers incredible sailing conditions that you simply shouldn't miss. With steady winds and crystal clear turquoise waters that rival the Caribbean, it's a sailor's paradise. We highly recommend booking a private charter to discover secluded coves perfect for swimming. Not interested in sailing? You'll find plenty of other boat tour options around the peninsula - from romantic sunset cruises to unique happy hour tours where you can sample local wines while enjoying stunning views from the water.
5. Hike the Clay Cliffs Natural Area
The Clay Cliffs Natural Area turned out to be one of our favorite hikes on the Leelanau Peninsula. Justin and I tackled this trail on our second morning, and we were the only ones there for most of our hike! What makes the Leelanau Peninsula's Clay Cliffs so special is the dramatic contrast between the towering clay bluffs and the deep blue waters of both Lake Michigan and North Lake Leelanau - you can see both from the top!
The 1.5-mile trail wasn't super long, but parts of it were pretty steep. We definitely got our workout in climbing to those panoramic viewpoints. The Leelanau Peninsula has lots of great hiking spots, but this one felt like a hidden gem with fewer tourists than Sleeping Bear.
6. Visit the local farmers' markets
We recommend visiting the farmers' markets during your Leelanau Peninsula trip. These markets aren't just shopping destinations, but vibrant community gatherings where you can connect with local farmers. Stock your rental with fresh cherries, just-picked vegetables, and incredible sourdough bread that will elevate your breakfast experience.
The Suttons Bay Farmers Market should be at the top of your list. Plan to spend a couple of hours browsing their exceptional selection of organic produce harvested that same morning. (Saturdays, 9 AM – 1 PM, May 11 – October 19)
Don't miss the Northport Farmers Market on the northern tip of the peninsula. Beyond fresh produce, you'll find talented local artists selling handmade jewelry and pottery that make perfect souvenirs. (Fridays, 9 AM – 1 PM, June 7 – September 20)
The Empire Farmers Market, though smaller, is full of character. Their artisanal bread stand and cheese selection are particularly noteworthy and worth seeking out. (Saturdays, 9 AM – 1 PM, June 8 – August 31)
7. Explore the charming town of Leland
Justin and I spent a fantastic day exploring Leland on the Leelanau Peninsula, and it totally stole our hearts! The locals call it "Fishtown," and we quickly saw why - this quaint fishing village has so much character with its weathered wooden shanties lining the waterfront. We wandered through all the unique little shops and found some amazing food (the sandwiches from the Village Cheese Shanty are was unreal, pinned in our Michigan Map).
The historic fishing shanties on the Leelanau Peninsula have been converted into the cutest boutiques and art galleries, and we picked up some local artwork as a souvenir. You can take a boat tour to the Manitou Islands from Leland, which gives you incredible views of the Leelanau Peninsula coastline from the water, plus more remote hiking opportunities. If you're looking for that perfect blend of history and charm on the Leelanau Peninsula, Leland absolutely needs to be on your list!
8. Bike or walk the Leelanau Trail
The Leelanau Trail was such a pleasant surprise during our trip! We rented bikes in Suttons Bay and spent a whole day cruising this awesome 16-mile trail that cuts right through the heart of the Leelanau Peninsula. The variety of scenery was incredible - one minute we were pedaling through rolling farmland, then dense forests, and suddenly we'd come upon these gorgeous sparkling lakes. The trail is super well-maintained with both easy flat sections and some fun hills that got our hearts pumping a bit. We loved how we could stop at all these scenic overlooks whenever we wanted to catch our breath and snap some photos.
The absolute best part of biking the Leelanau Peninsula trail? All the wineries right off the path! We planned our route to hit a couple of them and took breaks for wine tastings along the way. Bring a small backpack if you want to take home a bottle or two like we did! The Leelanau Peninsula really knows how to combine outdoor activities with the good stuff. The trail also connects several of those adorable small towns we mentioned, so we got to hop off our bikes and explore local shops and grab lunch. Just remember to sunscreen and plenty of water if you're doing the full trail!
🚲 Don't have a bike with you? Here's where we recommend you rent one!
9. Enjoy the local cuisine at farm-to-table restaurants
Justin and I went crazy for the farm-to-table scene on the Leelanau Peninsula! We stuffed ourselves with dishes made from ingredients so fresh they were probably picked that morning. The Leelanau Peninsula restaurants totally nailed that perfect mix of rustic charm and amazing flavors. We loved how each spot had its own unique vibe, whether it was a laid-back cafe or a slightly fancier bistro with killer views.
🍽️ Some of our favorites on the Leelanau Peninsula included:
"9 Bean Rows", where we couldn't get enough of their farm-fresh food and crazy good bread (try their wood-fired pizza!). We spent about $10-$20 per meal and thought it was totally worth it.
"Cedar Sol Taco Stand & Hydro Farm", which blew our minds when we realized they grow most of their taco ingredients right there on one of the Leelanau Peninsula's largest outdoor hydroponic farms. The tacos were incredible and super affordable at $10-$15.
"The Cove", where we got the most amazing seats overlooking the Leland River. Their local seafood menu was unlike anything else we tried on the Leelanau Peninsula. Meals ran us about $15-$25.
"Trattoria Funistrada", which we almost skipped until a local told us it was a must-visit on the Leelanau Peninsula. This Italian spot in a converted farmhouse was so cozy and romantic! Dinner cost about $20-$30 per person.
"Martha's Leelanau Table", which became our go-to breakfast spot. This farmhouse bistro was all about organic local ingredients, and you could taste the difference. We spent around $20-$30 per meal.
"The Riverside Inn", where we treated ourselves to our fanciest meal of the trip. The seasonal menu showcased everything the Leelanau Peninsula had to offer, and those river views were the perfect backdrop. Dinner ran us about $25-$35 each but was totally worth the splurge.
📲 We have pinned all of these places and more in our Michigan Google Map!
10. Explore the charming town of Northport
Justin and I fell in love with Northport during our Leelanau Peninsula adventure! This charming town at the peninsula's northern tip has a laid-back vibe perfect for relaxing. We spent hours at the picturesque harbor watching sailboats while enjoying ice cream.
Northport's main street offered exactly what we wanted - unique boutiques, art galleries, and great food spots instead of tourist traps. If visiting in September, plan around the Leelanau Uncaged festival - a highlight with live music, dance performances, art displays, and local food. The authentic, non-commercial atmosphere was truly refreshing!
11. U-pick flowers and fruits
For a memorable u-pick experience on the Leelanau Peninsula, head to Hallstedt Homestead for some of the juiciest cherries in Michigan. The peninsula is renowned for its exceptional u-pick opportunities where visitors can harvest their own fresh snacks and souvenirs. There's nothing quite like enjoying cherries straight from the tree with Grand Traverse Bay as your backdrop!
Flower enthusiasts should visit Omena Cut Flowers, where you can create your own wildflower bouquet – perfect activity for girls trips and bachelorette parties. The Leelanau Peninsula's unique climate provides ideal growing conditions for everything from lavender to apples. Don't miss Bohemian Lavender Farm, where the intoxicating fragrance welcomes you before you even step out of your car.
Fall visitors should put Jacobs Farm on their itinerary. Spend a morning picking apples and then challenge yourself in their impressive 2-hour corn maze. Adding a u-pick adventure to your Leelanau Peninsula visit provides both a fun activity and a delicious souvenir to enjoy throughout your trip.
12. Go Petoskey stone hunting
For an unforgettable experience on the Leelanau Peninsula, we recommend hunting for Petoskey stones along the shoreline. The best time to search is right after a storm has churned up the lake, making these iconic fossils more visible. These ancient coral specimens feature distinctive hexagonal patterns that become more prominent when wet. We suggest bringing a small spray bottle of water to help spot them among ordinary rocks.
The Leelanau Peninsula offers several prime locations for Petoskey stone hunting. Christmas Cove Beach is particularly rewarding, with smaller stones often found at the water's edge. The peninsula's beaches provide an ideal mix of sandy and rocky sections perfect for stone hunting. Paterson Park is another excellent spot where you might discover larger specimens worthy of display back home.
If you're planning a Petoskey stone hunting adventure on the Leelanau Peninsula, be sure to bring a small bucket and wear shoes you don't mind getting wet. The stones are easiest to spot in shallow water where waves gently wash over them. Don't forget to pack some sunglasses and sunscreen since you'll be exposed to the sun reflecting off both the water and the stones!
FAQ Section: Everything You Need to Know About Exploring the Leelanau Peninsula
What is the best time of year to visit the Leelanau Peninsula?
The peninsula is beautiful year-round, but summer (June-August) offers warm weather for water activities, while fall (September-October) showcases spectacular foliage. Cherry blossom season in May is also stunning but often overlooked.
How many days should I plan to spend exploring the Leelanau Peninsula?
A minimum of 3-4 days is recommended to experience the diverse offerings, though many visitors spend a week to fully explore the viewpoints, wineries, and outdoor activities without rushing.
Are there accommodations on the Leelanau Peninsula for outdoor enthusiasts?
Yes, options range from campgrounds in Leelanau State Park to rustic cabins, boutique inns, and vacation rentals with lake views. Many accommodations cater specifically to outdoor enthusiasts with amenities like bike storage and trail maps.
What makes Leelanau Peninsula wines special?
The peninsula's unique microclimate between Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay creates ideal conditions for cool-climate grapes like Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Franc. The region is becoming especially known for its dry whites and aromatic reds.
Are there guided tours available for first-time visitors?
Several companies offer guided wine tours, kayaking expeditions, and hiking adventures. These can be excellent ways to discover hidden gems with local expertise while enjoying outdoor activities responsibly.
The Leelanau Peninsula truly stands as Michigan's crown jewel, offering a perfect blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences that can't be found anywhere else. From the towering dunes of Sleeping Bear to the serene waters of Lake Michigan, this "little finger" of Michigan captivates visitors with its diverse landscapes and outdoor adventures throughout all four seasons.
What makes Leelanau truly special is its harmonious balance - where world-class wineries sit alongside working cherry orchards, where historic lighthouses share coastlines with pristine beaches, and where farm-to-table dining celebrates the bounty of local harvests. Whether you're climbing sand dunes, paddling crystal waters, tasting award-winning wines, or watching a spectacular sunset, the peninsula offers authentic experiences that connect you deeply with both nature and local culture.
Ready to create your own unforgettable Leelanau memories? Visit our resources page for pinned maps, itineraries, and bucket list checklists!. For daily inspiration and our latest adventure photos, follow us on Instagram @Noms.Brews.Views where we share real-time updates from our Michigan explorations. Your perfect northern Michigan getaway is just a click away!
