This Hidden Gem Between Lake Michigan and Lake Leelanau Is One of the Most Charming Towns in the Midwest—It’s Known as the State’s ‘Living Fishing Museum’

What makes a small town stand out? The answer is, of course, subjective. Maybe you have a preference for a coastal village. Or, perhaps you admire renowned architecture. The Midwest is dotted with charming small towns along the shores of Lake Michigan, each with its own unique characteristics. *Travel + Leisure* deemed this tiny town an adoring little coastal spot , and after visiting, we can see why. Located on the coast of Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula, between Lake Michigan and Lake Leelanau, Leland—also known for Fishtown—features a working commercial fishing village alongside a magnetic main street filled with quaint cottages. This special place feels virtually untouched by time; it has no stoplights, and the Leland canal captures the quintessential appeal of Michigan’s lakeside towns. Why is Leland called Fishtown? ---------------------------------- According *to Leland*, modern-day Leland is the site of the oldest and largest Ottawa village on the Leelanau Peninsula. Native Americans originally inhabited this site and fished from its waters, with European settlers arriving in the 1850s to establish the current fishing village. Often referred to as *Fishtown,* this area has a rich history as a working fishing village and is one of the last thriving fishing districts on the Great Lakes. Fishtown is still comprised of weathered fishing shanties, smokehouses, overhanging docks lined with fish tugs, charter fishing boats, and the Manitou Island Transit ferry. When you walk through the preserved historic district, make sure to grab fresh whitefish and take in the rustic waterfront charm. The best things to do in Leland, MI --------------------------------------- If you’re exploring Northern Michigan or planning a day trip from Traverse City, here are some of Michigan’s offers an abundance of fun and picturesque activities. * Stroll Through Historic Fishtown * Explore locally-owned shops such as Dam Candy Store, Carlson’s Fishery, Tug Stuff, and Leelanau Artisan * Browse downtown Leland’s local boutiques * Grab a bite at The Village Cheese Shanty * Go Fishing with FishBilly Charters * Take a ferry to North or South Manitou Island How to get to Leland, MI from Chicago ----------------------------------------- 🚗 By car: It’s around a 5-hour drive (340 mi) via US-131 N Source: https://secretchicago.com/leland-michigan-best-small-town-travel-leisure/