Unveiling the Charm of Historic Fishtown
Discover the allure of Historic Fishtown, where charming fish shanties meet stunning Lake Michigan views and a rich maritime heritage.
Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan, Historic Fishtown in Leland, Michigan, is a captivating blend of history and natural beauty, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the region's maritime heritage. Wander through charming wooden fish shanties, enjoy fresh seafood, and soak in the stunning views of the waterfront. A must-visit for any traveler exploring the Great Lakes.
A brief summary to Historic Fishtown
- 203 W River St, Leland, Michigan, 49654, US
- +1231-256-8878
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful stroll along the waterfront.
- Don't miss the chance to try local seafood dishes at one of the waterfront restaurants.
- Check for local artisan markets or events happening during your visit for a taste of local culture.
- Bring your camera; the picturesque scenery is perfect for capturing memories.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're driving from the main areas of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, head west on M-72 towards Empire. Continue on M-72 for about 12 miles until you reach the junction with M-22. Turn left onto M-22 and follow it for approximately 15 miles, passing through the charming towns of Glen Arbor and Leland. Once in Leland, turn right onto W River St. Historic Fishtown will be located on your left at 203 W River St. There is limited street parking available, so be sure to check for any signs indicating parking restrictions.
-
Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, the closest bus service is provided by the Michigan Department of Transportation, which operates seasonal routes during peak tourist season. You can take the bus from Traverse City to Leland. Make sure to check the schedule ahead of time as services may be limited. Once you arrive in Leland, walk to W River St; Historic Fishtown is located a short 5-minute walk from the bus stop. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes, as the area is best explored on foot.
-
Biking
For adventurous travelers, biking is a great way to reach Historic Fishtown. If you are staying within Sleeping Bear Dunes, consider renting a bike from local rental shops. Follow the scenic routes leading west towards Leland. The ride is approximately 15 miles from the Dunes area and will take you through beautiful landscapes. Once in Leland, head towards W River St, and you will find Historic Fishtown on your left. Ensure you wear a helmet and obey all traffic rules for your safety.
Discover more about Historic Fishtown
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Clay Cliffs Natural Area: The Leelanau Conservancy
3.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Clay Cliffs Natural Area, a serene nature preserve on the Leelanau Peninsula with stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Port Oneida Beach
16.9 km
Explore Port Oneida Beach, a tranquil oasis in Michigan with stunning views, soft sands, and endless outdoor adventures for all ages.
Traverse Bay Tours
17.9 km
Discover Traverse Bay's hidden gems with personalized tours that offer stunning views, local culture, and unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
North Manitou Island Lifesaving Station
20.2 km
Explore the North Manitou Island Lifesaving Station, a historic landmark revealing the rich maritime heritage amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
Sleeping Bear Bay
20.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Sleeping Bear Bay, a pristine destination in Michigan's natural paradise.
Glen Haven Village
24.8 km
Discover Glen Haven Village, a historical gem in Michigan, showcasing rich maritime heritage with charming architecture and stunning lake views.
Sleeping Bear Point
24.8 km
Sleeping Bear Point: A Natural Wonderland in Glen Arbor, Michigan, Where Sand Dunes Meet Lake Michigan's Pristine Shores.
Traverse Tall Ship Company
28.2 km
Experience the beauty of Traverse City aboard the Traverse Tall Ship Company’s majestic vessels for a memorable sailing adventure on Lake Michigan.
Cottonwood Trail
28.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cottonwood Trail in Glen Arbor, Michigan - a serene hiking area that captivates nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
The Sleeping Bear
29.4 km
Discover the breathtaking Sleeping Bear, a towering sand dune in Glen Arbor, Michigan, offering stunning views and outdoor adventures amidst natural beauty.
Aberdeen Stone Cottage
30.1 km
Experience the charm of Aberdeen Stone Cottage, a unique indoor lodging in Traverse City, MI, blending historic elegance with modern comfort for an unforgettable stay.
Lake Michigan Overlook
30.2 km
Experience stunning panoramic views at Lake Michigan Overlook, a serene paradise nestled within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Frenchies Famous
30.2 km
Experience the taste of Traverse City at Frenchies Famous, where breakfast and lunch come together to create unforgettable meals.
Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook
30.2 km
Experience the breathtaking views and natural beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook, a stunning gem along Michigan's Lake Michigan shoreline.
Loco Boys Brewing Company
30.5 km
Discover the finest craft beers and delicious bites at Loco Boys Brewing Company in Traverse City, a true gem for beer lovers and foodies.
Unmissable attractions to see
Whaleback Natural Area: The Leelanau Conservancy
2.0 km
Discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Whaleback Natural Area, a premier destination for hiking and nature exploration in Leelanau County.
Houdek Dunes Natural Area: The Leelanau Conservancy
7.4 km
Explore the stunning Houdek Dunes Natural Area in Michigan, a perfect blend of sandy dunes, lush forests, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
Manitou Passage Golf Club
13.5 km
Discover the beauty of Cedar, Michigan at Manitou Passage Golf Club - a premier golfing destination with breathtaking views and top-notch facilities.
Pyramid Point
14.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene nature at Pyramid Point, Michigan's stunning dune offering unforgettable adventures and picturesque landscapes.
Black Star Farms Suttons Bay
14.0 km
Explore the exquisite wines and serene landscapes at Black Star Farms, a premier winery and distillery in Suttons Bay, Michigan.
Pyramid Point Overlook
14.2 km
Discover the breathtaking views of Pyramid Point Overlook in Michigan, a scenic spot perfect for a day of hiking and nature appreciation.
Pyramid Point Trailhead
14.9 km
Discover the breathtaking views and natural beauty of Pyramid Point Trailhead in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan.
Ciccone Vineyard & Winery
15.8 km
Discover the beauty and flavor of Michigan at Ciccone Vineyard & Winery, where exquisite wines meet stunning landscapes and vibrant live music.
Shady Lane Cellars
16.6 km
Experience the charm of Shady Lane Cellars, a premier winery and vineyard in Suttons Bay, Michigan, offering exquisite wines and breathtaking views.
Peterson Park
17.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Peterson Park in Northport, MI, where nature meets adventure in a picturesque setting perfect for families and outdoor lovers.
Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear
17.1 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes at Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear, a unique nonprofit heritage museum in Michigan.
Old Mission Point Park
21.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Old Mission Point Park, a must-visit destination in Traverse City, Michigan, offering stunning lakeside views and outdoor adventures.
Mission Point Lighthouse
22.5 km
Visit Mission Point Lighthouse for a glimpse into maritime history and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan in Traverse City, Michigan.
Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
23.4 km
Explore the stunning Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, a must-visit hiking area in Michigan offering breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.
Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail
23.5 km
Experience the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail, where stunning views and exquisite wines meet in the heart of Michigan's wine country.
Essential places to dine
The Cove
0.1 km
Discover The Cove in Leland, MI - where exceptional American cuisine meets breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
Dick's Pour House
6.1 km
Discover the charm of family-friendly dining at Dick's Pour House in Lake Leelanau - where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Nonna's at The Homestead
20.0 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Nonna's in Glen Arbor - where every meal tells a story of tradition and taste.
Broomstack Kitchen and Taphouse
20.1 km
Discover delightful local flavors at Broomstack Kitchen and Taphouse in Maple City—where great food meets community spirit.
Cafe Manitou
20.2 km
Discover delightful American cuisine at Café Manitou in Glen Arbor - a perfect stop for food lovers amidst stunning natural beauty.
Blu
22.5 km
Experience fine dining at Blu in Glen Arbor, where New American cuisine meets breathtaking views of Lake Michigan for an unforgettable culinary journey.
Bear Paw Pizza & Market
22.6 km
Experience delicious pizza and convenience shopping at Bear Paw Pizza & Market in beautiful Glen Arbor, Michigan.
Cherry Public House | Glen Arbor
22.8 km
Savor local flavors at Cherry Public House in Glen Arbor – where craft beer meets delicious cuisine and delightful ice cream.
Good Harbor Grill
22.8 km
Experience delectable American cuisine at Good Harbor Grill in Glen Arbor, MI - perfect for post-adventure dining with scenic views.
Trattoria Funistrada
24.4 km
Indulge in authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Funistrada in Maple City, where every dish tells a story.
Apache Trout Grill
28.7 km
Experience delectable American cuisine and fresh seafood at Apache Trout Grill with stunning lake views in Traverse City.
Harrington's By The Bay
28.9 km
Discover delectable dishes at Harrington's By The Bay in Traverse City – where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking waterfront views.
Sleder's Family Tavern
30.2 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Sleder's Family Tavern in Traverse City – a historic spot for food lovers and families alike.
Slabtown Burgers
30.4 km
Discover the ultimate burger experience at Slabtown Burgers in Traverse City - where fresh ingredients meet mouthwatering flavors.
Warehouse KiTChen + Cork
30.5 km
Discover Warehouse KiTChen + Cork: A Culinary Delight in Traverse City with Local Flavors and Exceptional Wines.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Diversions Leland
0.0 km
Explore Diversions Leland, a charming gift shop in Fishtown offering unique local crafts, art, and memorable souvenirs for every traveler.
Greta's of Leland
0.1 km
Explore the charm of Leland with unique gifts and local crafts at Greta's of Leland, a treasure trove for tourists seeking memorable souvenirs.
Two Fish Gallery
0.1 km
Discover the artistic essence of Leland at Two Fish Gallery, where local craftsmanship meets charming gift selections in a delightful boutique setting.
Molly's
0.1 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Molly's in Leland, where local charm meets stylish elegance for every occasion.
Leland Gal
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local craftsmanship at Leland Gal, a charming gift shop in Leland, Michigan, perfect for tourists seeking a special memory.
Leelanau Gifts
6.2 km
Explore the essence of Michigan's Leelanau Peninsula at Leelanau Gifts, your destination for unique, locally made treasures and artisanal products.
204 Country Store
6.6 km
Explore the flavors of Lake Leelanau at 204 Country Store, your go-to destination for fresh produce and local delicacies.
Happy Woman
10.1 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish women's clothing at The Happy Woman in Suttons Bay, your perfect shopping destination in Michigan.
Front Porch Gift Shop
10.1 km
Explore the artistry of Michigan at Front Porch Gift Shop, where unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures await in Suttons Bay.
Poppy Things
10.1 km
Discover unique women's clothing and local artistry at Poppy Things, a boutique in Suttons Bay offering a delightful shopping experience.
Bayside Gallery
10.2 km
Discover Bayside Gallery in Suttons Bay - a vibrant gift shop and art gallery showcasing local talent and unique home goods.
The Bear Den Gallery
16.5 km
Explore The Bear Den Gallery for unique gifts and local art in the heart of Suttons Bay, Michigan.
Pennington Collection
16.5 km
Discover the Pennington Collection in Northport, Michigan - a charming gift shop brimming with unique treasures and local artistry for every taste.
Coastal Clothing And Accessories
22.5 km
Discover the essence of coastal fashion at Coastal Clothing And Accessories, Glen Arbor's premier destination for stylish apparel and unique accessories.
Cottonseed Apparel
22.7 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish clothing, and exquisite jewelry at Cottonseed Apparel, your go-to destination in Glen Arbor, Michigan.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant
30.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Traverse City at Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant, where local ingredients meet a lively atmosphere.
Kilkenny's Irish Public House
30.7 km
Immerse yourself in an authentic Irish experience at Kilkenny's Irish Public House with traditional cuisine, drinks, and vibrant entertainment in Traverse City.
Union Street Station
30.9 km
Experience the charm of Union Street Station, Traverse City's favorite bar for craft beers, cocktails, and a friendly atmosphere.
The Pub
30.9 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Pub in Traverse City, where delicious food, craft beers, and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Low Bar
30.9 km
Discover Low Bar in Traverse City – a prohibition-style cocktail bar offering handcrafted drinks in a cozy, vintage setting for an unforgettable night out.
Dillinger's Pub
30.9 km
Experience the charm of Dillinger's Pub in Traverse City, where delicious grill favorites meet a vibrant bar atmosphere in a rustic setting.
North Bar
30.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delectable cuisine at North Bar in Traverse City, a must-visit destination for food and drink lovers.
U And I Lounge
30.9 km
Discover the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of U And I Lounge in Traverse City, where great drinks and friendly service await.
Beacon Lounge
31.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Beacon Lounge in Traverse City, a perfect spot for relaxation and socializing with a diverse drink selection.
Brady's Bar
31.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Brady's Bar in Traverse City, where great food, craft beers, and friendly service await every visitor.
The Parlor TC
31.3 km
Discover Traverse City's vibrant nightlife at The Parlor TC, a cocktail bar and live music venue offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.
SideTraxx Dance Bar
31.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and affordable drinks at SideTraxx Dance Bar in Traverse City, a perfect spot for dancing and socializing.
Sail Inn Bar & Grill
33.0 km
Discover the perfect blend of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and stunning views at Sail Inn Bar & Grill in Traverse City, MI.
A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort
33.6 km
Discover the ultimate golfing experience and tranquil retreat at A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort, where stunning landscapes meet luxurious accommodations.
Pizza Hut
50.6 km
Savor delicious pizzas and chicken wings in Charlevoix—a family-friendly dining experience that complements your Michigan adventure.
