Michigan - Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
This park is a combination of stunning sand dunes, beaches, forests, and ancient glacial phenomena
A good five hours drive and a million miles or so from the Motor City lies another Michigan, one that time happily forgot - a peninsula of small hamlets (and one bona fide town) that ends in the hushed splendor of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The Leelanau Peninsula, which juts out into the hypnotic inland seas known as Lake Michigan is a paradise of outdoor activities - swimming, hiking, fishing and canoeing - give it a 9 on our Activities scale. But it is the dunes at Sleeping Bear, which range in color from pale champagne to burnt sienna and which roll and spike to 400 feet in height that earned a perfect 10 in our Splendor category. Here, you can picnic as if you were the last family on earth - and actually feel that way even at the most crowded time of year.
WHERE TO STAY
The Homestead - A Resort on Lake Michigan
The Homestead is a luxurious, four season resort located on a mile of Lake Michigan's sandy shore. On-site facilities include pools, spa pools, tennis, golf and watercraft for summer, skiing, snowboarding and skating for winter with shops, restaurants, children's center, fitness center, meeting centers, wedding venues and the accommodations described below year-round.
Fiddler's Pond - A Small Hotel at The Homestead
From charming interiors accented with washed pine and cottage-like colors you look over creeks, ponds and pools from this resort hotel. Choices include rooms with fireplace and small whirlpool tub and connecting rooms. Shopping, dining, entertainment and some recreation are adjacent, ½ mile walk, drive or shuttle ride to beach. Rates from $92 to $220.
Little Belle- Luxurious Suites for Couples at The Homestead
Antiques and original art add to the romance of these completely renovated honeymoon suites. While the décor in each suite is unique, all have a sitting area with a fireplace and flat panel televisions, two person Maax Calla combined Hydromax and AeroFeel tub adjacent to another flat panel television, spa style showers and king size beds. Shopping, dining, entertainment and some recreation adjacent, ½ walk, drive or shuttle ride to beach. Rates from $180 to $470.
Lodging & Boat Rentals on Glen Lake
This property offers a hand-crafted log exterior lodge overlooking Glen Lake with one to three bedroom condominiums and a few rustic cottages. All share the private, sandy beach. Boat rentals and a full service marina are available. Within walking distance to shops and restaurants. Short drive to the beaches on Lake Michigan.
Comfortable Lodging at Historic Sylvan Inn
Established in 1885 to accommodate the lumbering and seafaring trades, this historic inn rests in an idyllic setting. It has been authentically restored to retain its historic ambience and casual comfort. Offering 14 beautifully decorated rooms, some with private baths. Adjacent to shops and restaurants, it's a short walk to the beaches on Lake Michigan. Open May through October.
WHERE TO DINE
Casual Dining in Leelanau County
Beppi's
The Homestead
Wood Ridge Road
Glen Arbor MI, 49636
231-334-5151
An Italian American athlete themed sports bar which serves up food the whole family can enjoy.
Art's Tavern
6487 Western Ave
Glen Arbor MI 49636
231-334-3754
Fine Dining in Leelanau County
Nonna's Ristorante
The Homestead
Wood Ridge Road
Glen Arbor MI, 49636
231-334-5150
Newly redesigned Italian restaurant features stylish new menus featuring local wines, cheeses, fruit and vegetables.
The Riverside Inn
302 River Street
Leland, MI 49654
231-256-9971
Outdoor Dining in Leelanau County
Cafe Manitou
The Homestead
Wood Ridge Road
Glen Arbor MI, 49636
231-334-5195
Sit back and relax as you watch the sun sizzle into the Lake Michigan horizon. Casual dining and drinks available.
Riverfront Pizza & Specialties
6281 W Western Ave
Glen Arbor, MI 49636
231-334-3876
Waterfront Dining in Leelanau County
Cafe Manitou
The Homestead
Wood Ridge Road
Glen Arbor MI, 49636
231-334-5195
Just sit back and relax as we work to serve you, as you witness the sun sizzle into the Lake Michigan horizon.
Riverfront Pizza & Specialties
6281 W Western Ave
Glen Arbor, MI 49636
231-334-3876
The Riverside Inn
302 River Street
Leland, MI 49654
231-256-9971
