Leland, Michigan should be on your "must do" list of places to visit. Located on the Leelanau Peninsula in northwestern Lower Michigan it is an easy, scenic drive from Traverse City and had much to offer.

To begin, take M-22 north out of Traverse City along the beautiful shores of East Bay. Just before you reach Suttons Bay watch for the sign to Black Star Farms Winery located at 10844 East Revold Road. It is one of our favorite wineries and a stop here is well worth your time. After sampling a few of their excellent wine offerings, browse the gift shop and view the cheese making room. When you are in the wine tasting room, make sure you look up to the ceiling (the Black Star!) For more information go to www.blackstarfarms.com

Continue north on M22 to Suttons Bay. The town is filled with quaint shops that will tempt you to stop. If time allows, wander around the harbor and docks area. If it’s summer when you visit, you will enjoy looking at some fantastic boats tied up in their slips.

Stay north on M-22 to M-204 or Duck Lake Road. Turn left and head west through the town of Lake Leelanau until you reach the "T" in the road which will be M-22 again. Turn right onto M-22 heading north and follow it to Leland.

Leland was originally an Ottawa Tribe village located on the banks of the Carp River. The river flows into Lake Michigan and formed a natural fish ladder that established a Native American fishing grounds. In 1854, a dam and sawmill were built thus creating Lake Leelanau. The settlers built wooden docks, allowing ships to bring in new settlers and supplies from elsewhere on the Great Lakes.

Today the docks and fishing shacks remain in what is called Fishtown . These structures line both sides of the river and host two fisheries as well as several charter fishing outfits. The quaint shacks have become shops, a restaurant, and the famous Carlson’s Smoked Fish Shop. Try their excellent smoked lake trout, salmon, and of course their smoked chubs. They are especially good with a fresh loaf of bread and a cold beer or glass of your favorite Michigan wine. Be sure to take some home or have a picnic at the beach.

Downtown Leland has good restaurants and many interesting shops along Main Street. So take your time, explore, and enjoy everything Leland has to offer. For more information, check out www.lelandmi.com