Here at Cottage in the Mitten, I often share my favorite cozy corners and some fun family adventures. Today, I’m taking you on a journey to a truly special spot in Northern Michigan. Leland is nestled on the beautiful Leelanau Peninsula. It’s a charming coastal town that holds a particularly special place in our hearts, especially its historic and picturesque Fishtown. Get ready to discover why this hidden gem is our family’s absolute favorite Michigan getaway, packed with timeless charm and unforgettable memories.
Leland and Fishtown are two of Michigan’s most charming destinations tucked along the Leelanau Peninsula. From historic fishing shanties and locally smoked fish to boutique shopping and stunning Lake Michigan sunsets, this little gem is absolutely worth the trip!
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Our Family’s Favorite Leland Memories & Why We Keep Coming Back
Each summer, for the last twenty-two years, Big Al and I have taken our family to Leland, Michigan. Leland is on the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. If you didn’t know, and believe me there are plenty of people who do not, Michigan is the shape of a mitten. Leland sits right at the tip of what would be the pinky finger.
With beautiful beaches and breathtaking sunsets, it has become our family’s treasured tradition full of wonderful memories.
Leland Lodging: From Fishtown to Family-Friendly Rentals
Every year, we make our way to the Falling Waters Lodge. It’s the perfect location as it’s located right in Fishtown and is steps away from the beach. The lodge has been owned by the same family since we have been going. Recently, the original owner’s grandson has taken over the reign and has made some wonderful updates. The lodge offers standard double bed accommodations, rooms with small kitchenettes, and it even has a couple of apartment style rooms.
When staying here, you can even fish off of their balcony. Our sons grew up loving that and even joined an occasional fishing contest!
“Family traveling together means a little bit of crazy, a little bit of loud. A whole lot of love.” – Anonymous
This year, we rented a house about ten minutes from Fishtown. Although it was a different experience, it worked great for our growing family.
The house was a five bedroom cobblestone farmhouse that was on a cherry farm. The property had a big red barn, a tree swing, and an old piano in the living room. Real farmhouse style! The view in the backyard was beautiful with rolling hills and cherry trees. And yes, we did pick and eat some of the cherries!
Due to Leland and the surrounding area being such a popular travel destination, you need to secure your lodging a year in advance. If you don’t, you will be hard pressed to find anything.
Sweet Michigan Fact
Michigan is the largest producer of tart cherries in the United States, harvesting over 90,000 tons of cherries each year!
Discovering Fishtown’s Charming Shops and Culinary Delights
You may ask why Leland is called Fishtown. Well, let me tell you! Fishtown is nestled along the Leland River and it flows into Lake Michigan. It isn’t just a pretty spot, it’s one of the last truly working and thriving fishing districts remaining on the Great Lakes. Its roots run deep, with Native Americans originally inhabiting and fishing these waters. Later, in the 1850’s, European settlers arrived and meticulously shaped the charming fishing village that continues to intrigue visitors today.
If you love shopping, there are plenty of quaint shops in Fishtown. Local artisans and unique items line each store. There are also yummy places to eat in Fishtown. From candy and ice cream to amazing deli sandwiches, smoked fish and delicious chowder, there’s something for everyone!
Enjoy an occasional glass of wine? If so, the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail boasts over 20 award-winning Michigan wineries. There is also a wine tasting place in Fishtown, so you won’t need to hit the trail if you’re looking to try some Michigan made wine.
“And at the end of the day, your feet should be dirty, your hair messy and your eyes sparkling.” – Shanti
Leland Life on the Water: Beaches, Boats & Beautiful Views
We love the spending time at the beach! It’s an all day affair, full of beach umbrellas and blankets. We also pack coolers with homemade lunch, snacks and refreshing drinks. There’s plenty of music, sand burying, naps, and plenty of toys for young and old!
While we don’t have a boat, Leland makes it easy for those who do. There are several convenient boat launches nearby, making it a perfect spot for lake lovers of all kinds. If fishing on a boat is your passion, you can also book a charter for the day.
When we stay at Falling Waters Lodge, after a full day of fun in the sun, we head back to the room to drop our things and freshen up. Then it’s a quick bite for dinner before we return to the beach. Many years, we have actually had a fire on the beach. Nothing says summertime like a Lake Michigan sunset, in sweatshirts and shorts, along with a fire on the beach! The perfect way to end the day!
Leland and Fishtown – Frequently Asked Questions
Our Special Place in the Mitten
Whether we’re building sandcastles on the beach, strolling and shopping through historic Fishtown, or simply soaking in the peaceful views of Lake Michigan, Leland is a place that brings our family back year after year. It’s the kind of spot where special memories are made, traditions are kept, and the pace of life slows just enough to truly enjoy it.
If I’m being totally honest, sharing Leland together as a family is a true gift. It makes the memories made, a little sweeter! My family is my biggest treasure and sharing life with them in any form can’t be beat!
Whether you currently live in Michigan or have the opportunity to visit the Mitten, I hope you make a trip to Leland, make your own special memories, and enjoy the summertime magic of Fishtown!
Happy trails, my friends!
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I’m from Michigan though I live in Texas now. I miss the beach there so much! My parents lived in Arcadia but both are gone so I don’t get up there. My sister lives in Boyne City but they lived in Traverse City for many years so we spent a lot of time around that whole area. I too love Fishtown! Actually anything up there. Will you share the place you rented? I love that it is stone! Such a beautiful property. Have you been up to the Grand Traverse Lighthouse? That is one of my absolute favorites for many reasons. Everything there is built with that stone which is so cool. I really enjoyed reading this post!
Hi Sandy! I’m so glad you enjoyed my post. How fun to learn that you grew up in the area. You definitely know first hand how beautiful the area is. The house we rented was in Northport. It was about 10 minutes from Leland and Sutton’s Bay. I have not been to the Grand Traverse Lighthouse, but will put it on my list! Have a wonderful rest of your week and thanks for stopping by!
A beautiful family tradition. We have also been traveling to northern Michigan for decades. One of my favorite places.
So many charming and cool cities and towns on the shores of the lakes, rivers and streams. Many with art, food, or music as their summer draw.
It really is a beautiful area with so much to offer!
I love Leland too! It’s a true treasure as is that entire area of Michigan. Love that you shared your family adventures.
Thanks Ruth! You are so right. There are so many beautiful adventures to take in the Mitten! 💚
I just wanted to let you know that your blog inspired me to finally take a trip up to that region of Michigan. We just returned about a week ago. I loved it! We stayed in a tiny town called Lake Ann, and from there we were able to go to the dunes and see both peninsulas. There is so much to see and it is just beautiful. I think that Sleeping Bear Dunes was my favorite of all. Thank you for the tips!
Oh, I’m so happy to hear this and I’m glad my tips helped you! It’s such a beautiful part of the state. I hope you get to visit there again! Happy 4th!