Historic Fishtown — Attraction in Leland Township

Historic Fishtown in Leland, Michigan, stands as one of the last working and thriving fishing districts on the Great Lakes, deeply rooted in both Native American and European settler heritage dating back to the 1850s. This fishing village, nestled along the Leland River where it meets Lake Michigan, showcases a cluster of original weathered fishing shanties, smokehouses, and docks that have survived from the early 1900s through the 1970s, embodying a living connection to the Great Lakes fishing tradition. Originally inhabited and fished by Native Americans, Fishtown evolved with European settlers into a commercial fishing hub, where boats transitioned from wooden sailboats to gasoline-powered wood tugs in the early 20th century, and later to steel-hulled tugs like the iconic Janice Sue introduced in 1958, enhancing durability and changing maritime culture. These vessels, alongside the historic buildings, continue to actively support commercial fishing, making Fishtown unique as a rare place where historic commercial fishery practices remain alive. Preservation efforts have been essential to maintaining Fishtown’s cultural and historical integrity. In 1975, it was first recognized as a vulnerable historic site, and community-led initiatives culminated in the formation of the Fishtown Preservation Society (FPS) in 2007, which successfully purchased key properties, fishing boats, and licenses, ensuring the village’s ongoing operational legacy. The village received national recognition with its listing on the National Register of Historic Places as a historic district and traditional cultural property, highlighting its statewide significance and ongoing role in commercial fishing and cultural traditions. Today, Fishtown is not only a vital fishing community but also a vibrant historic tourist destination, with its quaint shanties housing small businesses, shops, and eateries that celebrate and sustain the village’s maritime heritage. Visitors experience an authentic step back in time, enjoying the preserved structures, active docks, traditional fish markets, and boat tours to nearby Manitou Islands, making Fishtown a cherished symbol of Great Lakes maritime history and culture. In summary, Leland’s Historic Fishtown is a rare and impactful historic enclave where the past vividly meets the present through ongoing commercial fishing, preservation of original structures, and cultural heritage, cementing its place as a treasured landmark upon the...

Tucked along the Leland River, Historic Fishtown is a living postcard of Michigan’s maritime past. Once a working fishing village, the weathered fish shanties—many dating back over a century—have gradually evolved into charming storefronts that still echo their freshwater roots.

Today, each wooden shack offers something uniquely local, from nautical gear and bead jewelry to Leland’s infamous Dam Candy Store, home to classic sweets and fan-favorite Superman ice cream. Local artists rotate through the space between the coffee shop and pottery studio (both ends closest to the road), while Carlson’s Fish and the Village Cheese Shanty serve up Historic Fishtown’s only food options—both must-tries, especially if you order ahead.

Free parking is available at the marina and on nearby streets, making this a walkable delight once you arrive. But come prepared: peak tourist season (especially after July 4th) brings heavy crowds, so early morning strolls or weekday visits are your best bet. If you prefer quieter charm, consider visiting in late spring or early fall.

Don't miss the Fishtown Preservation Society’s museum and office, now housed near the library. Their former gift shop, though repurposed into a coffee and pottery shanty, once offered rich local history—and their legacy lives on through tours and exhibitions. Just remember: these are original fishing structures, meaning all of them close for the winter season due to lack of insulation.

Historic Fishtown isn’t just a spot to shop—it’s a snapshot of working waterfront heritage, shaped by resilience and...

This historic downtown village in Leland is worth the side trip. It can be difficult to find parking and some spots have to be paid for, but it will be worth the walk or couple of bucks. The city has saved and maintained the fishing huts from when the cities main industry was fishing. You can get some smoked fish or smoked fish dip to snack on later, and there's lots of incredible artists with shops there or nearby. And of course, don't forget your locally branded cute and kitschy merchandise. If you go at the right time of year you can watch salmon trying to swim up the dam, but even without that it is a cute detour. It is also a great place for kids. Though it is not necessarily designed for kids, it has enough neat things to see and would keep them interested for about an hour or so. The surrounding neighborhood has some more cute shops and ice cream spots. This little gem of a city is a great detour on your way to or from Sleeping Bear Dunes or Traverse City. It is located on M 22, and you don't have to pay an entrance fee. We will...