ABC’s Good Morning America named Glen Arbor MI “The Most Beautiful Place in America” and with good reason too. This charming town rests at the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Adventure seekers and people looking to unwind will find their perfect escape here.
Glen Arbor Michigan sits along M-22, which many consider America’s best fall color scenic drive. The town blends outdoor thrills with small-town warmth perfectly. You can spend your days enjoying water sports on any of Leelanau County’s 33 inland lakes. The area also offers wine tasting at peninsula vineyards and local farmers’ markets bursting with fresh produce. Sleeping Bear Dunes attracts visitors with breathtaking Lake Michigan views. The town’s growing food scene and community events like the Glen Arbor Solstice Half Marathon showcase its vibrant spirit throughout the year.
Why Glen Arbor Stands Out Among Michigan Towns
“No matter the season, the Glen Lake area is a perfect outdoor getaway.” — Glen Lake Chamber of Commerce, Official Chamber of Commerce for Glen Arbor area
Glen Arbor sits snugly between the Crystal River, Glen Lakes, and Lake Michigan. This special place draws visitors with its unique character and natural beauty.
Natural beauty meets small-town charm
Glen Arbor stands out from typical tourist spots by keeping its genuine charm without big box stores or chain restaurants. Local art galleries, restaurants serving regional cuisine, and boutiques filled with Michigan-made crafts give the town its character. The area’s rich Native American heritage comes from the Odawa, Ojibwa, and Bodowadomi tribes who first discovered the fertile farming land and excellent fishing spots.
The 72,000-acre Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, established in 1971, keeps this beautiful landscape safe for future generations. The park includes more than 50,000 acres of birch, pine, beech, and maple forests. Beautiful sugar-sand beaches and coastal dunes tower over 400 feet high.
A scenic 30-minute drive through country roads takes you to Traverse City’s beautiful wineries. Regular ferries from nearby Leland make trips to the Manitou Islands where you can tour lighthouses and historical sites. The Crystal River Outfitters Recreational District provides family adventures right in the National Lakeshore. For over 25 years, Crystal River Outfitters has offered canoe and kayak rentals, river trips, shopping and more!
Maritime history comes alive at the Maritime Museum, housed in a 122-year old U.S. Life-Saving Station. History buffs love the Empire Area Museum Complex. It shows life from the late 1800s through old buildings like a schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and the famous Roen’s Saloon.
Local Summer Hidden Gems
Glen Arbor has secret treasures that locals cherish beyond its popular tourist spots. You’ll find authentic experiences away from the crowds in these hidden gems.
Hiking trails and viewpoints
Alligator Hill’s trail system winds through leafy ridges with nine miles of interconnected loops. Hikers can enjoy spectacular views of Lake Michigan and Big Glen Lake from various points. The Kettles Trail stretches three miles through ancient glacial formations and gives you a unique geological experience.
Adventure seekers can explore the Treat Farm Trail as it meanders through maple-beech forests to a historic farmstead. The trail doesn’t end there – a secluded bluff awaits past the farm buildings with stunning Lake Michigan views. Old Baldy stands out as a highlight on this trail, rewarding hikers with panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Locally recommended beach access points
Glen Arbor Lodging’s access beach at the end of our Manitou Condo, provides a great place for strolling down with a cup of coffee and watching sunrise, or accessing the beach to take a stroll.
The public access at the end of Lake Street includes a boat launch, less than a block away.
Sleeping Bear point is a beautiful beach for walking, and the best access is either the lifesaving station/maritime Museum or hiking into the sleeping bar point trail and following the dune down to the beach.
Empire Beach is not a secret beach, but it is truly phenomenal. Bathrooms, playgrounds and infrastructure, but still extra extraordinary views, the best spot for sunset and silky sandy swimming.
Esch beach used to have one of the worst roads in Michigan protecting it, but now that the road has been repaved, it’s easy to access and is our favorite beach. Wonderful option if you’re going to have a beach campfire, or stay for several hours.
Golfing In Glen Arbor
Michigan boasts an impressive collection of over 650 public golf courses, offering enthusiasts a diverse range of playing experiences. Glen Arbor, Michigan, stands out as a premier golfing destination, featuring perfect natural terrain and optimal weather conditions that rival any location in the United States. Among the standout courses in the area, golf enthusiasts should not miss:
Manitou Passage Golf Club: This prestigious Arnold Palmer Signature Course showcases Palmer’s masterful design philosophy. Originally crafted by the legendary golfer himself, the course underwent a comprehensive renovation in 2009, enhancing its already stellar reputation and earning numerous accolades.
The Dunes Golf Club: a casual, friendly course featuring 5730 yards of relaxing golf. The location in the Glen Lake is close to Sleeping Bear Dunes Area.
Mistwood Golf Course: Mistwood Golf Course is famous for its brilliant bent grass putting greens and enjoyable course layout. 27 Hole Championship Golf Course was designed for every level of player to be challenged and celebrated.
The River Club (miniature golf and fun center) for the whole family. Great place to take kids for fun family outing.
Fishing Near Glen Arbor
The park and region offers fantastic fishing opportunities. Charter a boat or launch your own for a deep water catch in Lake Michigan or wade into one of the area’s best fly fishing spots. Get your gear—lures, flies, rods and reels, and more—at Empire Outdoors or sign up for fly fishing classes at the Orvis Fly Fishing School at The Homestead in Glen Arbor. Check out some of the best fishing spots near Glean Arbor.
Rock hunting Locations
Point Betsie (between here and Frankfort)
Vans Beach in Leland
Peterson Park in Northport
Leelanau State Park, north of Northport by grand Traverse Lighthouse
Local favorite food spots
Art’s Tavern, an 89-year-old Glen Arbor institution, brings locals together with its famous Wednesday chicken jalapeño soup and Friday whitefish specials. Their smoked trout dip and tater tots rank among the Western shore’s best treats.
The Mill Glen Arbor stands out by baking artisan bread with house-milled grains. Cherry Public House takes classic comfort food to new heights with creative twists. Their cherry BBQ ribs and grilled cheese sandwiches come with house-made cherry-fig jam that locals love.
Good Harbor Grill opens for the season April 15, 2025, the blue exterior and lush surrounding flora create a welcoming small-town vibe. Fresh ingredients meet global spices on their diverse menu. Guests can enjoy everything from hearty breakfasts to flavorful vegetarian dishes.
Summer season sweet spots
Summer temperatures hover between 60°F and 80°F, which creates perfect beach and water sports weather. Lake Michigan waters reach their warmest point in late August. The busiest crowds show up from June through August at popular spots.
You can still enjoy a perfect summer experience without the peak crowds. Here are some smart timing tips:
- Hit the attractions on weekdays instead of weekends
- Head to the beach early morning or late afternoon
- Lock in your holiday weekend stays way ahead of time
Planning Your Perfect Glen Arbor Day
“Glen Arbor, Michigan, is a tapestry of natural beauty and vibrant culture, offering a summer escapade that goes beyond the ordinary. From the sunlit shores of Lake Michigan to the serene trails of the Sleeping Bear Dunes, this guide has navigated through the multitude of things to do in Glen Arbor MI, dining, shopping, and entertainment options that make Glen Arbor a premier destination.” — Glen Arbor Bed & Breakfast, Local lodging provider in Glen Arbor
Your Glen Arbor adventure needs a well-planned itinerary to make the most of this charming Michigan town. Every moment from sunrise to starlight gives you something special to remember.
Morning activities and best breakfast spots
The Mill Glen Arbor welcomes you in a historic 19th Century Grist Mill next to the Crystal River. Their house-milled grain pastries and sustainably sourced Parlor Coffee taste amazing. The Foothills Cafe stands out as another great option. It earned the title of best breakfast in Leelanau County and serves hearty meals from 7 a.m. until 3 p.m. daily.
Early birds can visit the Glen Arbor Farmer’s Market every Tuesday from 9 am to 1 pm outside the Township Hall. Local produce and artisanal goods fill the market stalls.
Afternoon adventures
The outdoors beckons after breakfast at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Crystal River’s shallow, crystal-clear waters make it perfect for beginner paddlers. Mountain biking enthusiasts will love the newly developed trails at Palmer Woods Forest Reserve.
Your afternoon could include:
- A guided kayak tour along Lake Michigan’s shoreline
- Time at Glen Arbor Township Park with its picnic areas, playground, and basketball courts
- A visit to Glen Arbor Art Center’s exhibits and classes
Evening entertainment options
Glen Arbor’s downtown comes alive as darkness falls. The River Club opens in May, and blends fun with technology by combining putt-putt golf with TopGolf-style features. Blu restaurant serves upscale cuisine with breathtaking Lake Michigan views.
Art’s Tavern has been the town’s favorite evening spot since 1934. La Becasse Restaurant creates authentic French cuisine in a cozy setting.
The day ends perfectly with a Lake Michigan sunset at one of Glen Arbor’s pristine beaches. Seasonal events add extra charm to your visit. The Labor Day Bridge Walk at Glen Lake Narrows and the holiday PJ Party showcase local shopping and dining.
Conclusion
Glen Arbor showcases Michigan’s natural summer splendor with experiences that surpass typical tourist spots. Visitors can enjoy adventures at Sleeping Bear Dunes, explore hidden trails, beautiful lakefront walks, or the charming town center that creates lasting memories.
Glen Lake beach activities thrive perfectly in summer, and fall decorates the surroundings with brilliant colors. Quiet trails welcome wildflower enthusiasts in spring, while winter blankets the area in snow-covered wonder. Each season offers unique ways to experience this remarkable destination.
Bohemian Beach and Tiesma Road Beach let visitors avoid crowds while experiencing authentic Glen Arbor charm. These hidden spots paired with well-timed visits and thoughtful planning create an unforgettable northern Michigan adventure.
Glen Arbor’s allure stems from its natural wonders, welcoming community spirit, rich history, and commitment to preserving its authentic character. Visitors who plan around these elements quickly understand why this hidden gem continues to engage travelers year after year.
FAQs
Q1. What makes Glen Arbor a unique summer destination in Michigan? Glen Arbor stands out for its stunning natural beauty, combining pristine beaches, crystal-clear lakes, and the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The town offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and small-town charm, with unique art galleries, locally-sourced restaurants, and boutiques showcasing artisan-made Michigan goods.
Q2. When is the best time to visit Glen Arbor? Late August is ideal for warm Lake Michigan waters, perfect for swimming. However, for fewer crowds, consider visiting in early June or after Labor Day. Fall offers spectacular colors and milder temperatures, while winter transforms the area into a snowy paradise for cold-weather activities.
Q3. What are some hidden gems in Glen Arbor that locals recommend? Locals suggest exploring the Alligator Hill trail system for spectacular views, visiting the secluded Bohemian Beach for quiet relaxation, and dining at Art’s Tavern, a beloved gathering place since 1934 known for its Wednesday chicken jalapeño soup and Friday whitefish specials.
Q4. What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Glen Arbor? Visitors can hike the Sleeping Bear Dunes, kayak on the Crystal River, mountain bike at Palmer Woods Forest Reserve, or take scenic drives like the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. The area also offers excellent opportunities for beach activities, water sports, and wildlife viewing.
Q5. Are there any unique local events or experiences in Glen Arbor? Glen Arbor hosts several unique events throughout the year, including the Glen Arbor Solstice Half Marathon and the Labor Day Bridge Walk at Glen Lake Narrows. Visitors can also enjoy seasonal experiences like wine tours through local vineyards, the Glen Arbor Farmers’ Market on Tuesdays, and special off-season dining deals at local restaurants.