Day Trips from Sleeping Bear Dunes. Excursions, Nearby Cities, Tours

Nearby Destinations

Traverse City: Approximately a 45-minute drive from the Dune Climb, it is also known as the "Cherry Capital of the World."

Leland/Fishtown: A picturesque, historic fishing village about 20 minutes north of Glen Arbor, recognized for its iconic "Fishtown" district. It is a departure point for Manitou Island ferries.

Activities and Travel

Explore Front Street shops in Traverse City or stroll through Fishtown in Leland.
Savor craft beverages or fresh fish at waterside eateries.
Private vehicle access is the best way to travel around.
Dedicate a full day for downtown exploration, dining, or a museum visit.

Natural Wonders Nearby

The area around Sleeping Bear Dunes has additional opportunities to discover Michigan's natural beauty.

Parks and Reserves

Leelanau State Park: Located at the northern tip of the Leelanau Peninsula, with hiking trails, rugged shoreline, and the historic Grand Traverse Lighthouse.

Park Features

Trails and shoreline for outdoor enjoyment.
Tour the historic lighthouse for panoramic views.
A pristine natural environment.

Grass River Natural Area

Description: Near Alden, this preserve features over 7 miles of boardwalk and gravel trails winding through diverse wetlands and forests. It is a spot for birdwatching and tranquil walks.

Explore the Nature

Walk on boardwalks through diverse landscapes.
Excellent for birdwatching opportunities.
A peaceful setting for nature immersion.

Scenic Drives & Landscapes

M-22 Scenic Highway

Runs along Lake Michigan, traversing Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Continuous scenic beauty with overlooks and charming towns.
Fall foliage has spectacular displays.
Spring blossoms mark the orchards in early summer.

Inland Waters & Rural Areas

Numerous inland lakes are available for fishing and boating.
Many secluded beaches invite quiet walks and stone collecting.
Rolling hills, cherry orchards, and vineyards shape a lovely rural landscape.
Scenic drives present exploration options.

Regional Highlights Snapshot

Designated Scenic Highway Miles280
Count of Inland LakesMany
Number of Lighthouses (Region)Multiple
Local Orchard VarietiesCherry & Apple

Best Time for Fall ColorsLate Sept - Mid-Oct
Best Time for Spring BlossomsLate May - Early June
Main Rural ProduceCherries
Regional Wine VarietalsDiverse

Travel Insight

A rental car provides the most flexibility for exploring nearby areas. Organized tours are less common for general day trips here.

Cultural Connections

Discover historical sites and quaint villages offering insights into Michigan's past and present.

Point Betsie Lighthouse

A beautiful, historic lighthouse dating back to 1858, one of Michigan's most photographed spots. It welcomes tours and offers stunning Lake Michigan views.

Music House Museum

East of Traverse City, this unique museum houses an extensive collection of antique musical instruments, including automated pianos, many with demonstrations.

Rural Peninsula Charm

Explore the backroads of the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas. Discover small villages, family-owned orchards, and farm stands with fresh produce.

Suttons Bay & Northport

Charming small towns along M-22. They are known for abundant wineries, cherry orchards, and tranquil, scenic drives.

Local Experiences

Wine tasting at numerous vineyards.
Visit local farm stands.
Discover small art galleries.

Frankfort & Crystal Lake

Frankfort has a lovely Lake Michigan beach and charming main street. Crystal Lake, an inland lake, welcomes water recreation.

Activities Available

Relax on the Frankfort beach.
Visit Point Betsie Lighthouse.
Engage in water activities on Crystal Lake.

Seasonal Natural Events

Autumn Foliage PeakLate September to Mid-October

Cherry Orchard BlossomsLate May to Early June

Local Farm Stand SeasonSummer through Fall

Best Time for Scenic DrivesYear-round, notably Fall

U-Pick ExperiencesSeasonal availability

Wildlife ObservationThroughout the year

Multi-Day Extension Insight

Consider adding 1-3 days to explore the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail or Mackinac Island.
The Upper Peninsula, beyond Mackinac Island, welcomes several additional days for exploration.
Traverse City serves as a central hub for further regional exploration.
All extensions generally need a car for independent exploration.
For experiences like wine tours or other bookable activities, consider checking GetYourGuide.

Multi-Day Journeys

For those with more time, consider extending your trip beyond Sleeping Bear Dunes to witness more of Michigan or the Great Lakes region.

Mackinac Island Add-on

Approximately 2.5-3 hours drive north from Sleeping Bear Dunes, plus a 15-20 minute ferry ride. This historic island bans cars, presenting a step back in time.

Island Highlights

The Grand Hotel is a landmark.
Horse-drawn carriages traverse the island.
Fudge shops are a popular attraction.

Upper Peninsula Wilderness

Beyond Mackinac Island, crossing the Mackinac Bridge leads to Michigan's Upper Peninsula (U.P.), featuring rugged wilderness, stunning waterfalls, and dramatic Great Lakes shorelines.

U.P. Natural Wonders

Witness Tahquamenon Falls.
Discover rugged natural landscapes.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore awaits exploration.

Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail

Dedicate a full day or two to exploring the numerous wineries, cideries, and breweries of the peninsula.

Peninsula Exploration

Wineries and cideries await tastings.
Consider an overnight stay in Leland or Suttons Bay.
Fully experience the area without rushing.

Northern Coastal Towns

North of Traverse City, discover other charming coastal towns like Charlevoix, Petoskey, and Harbor Springs.

Further Exploration

Charming coastal towns invite a visit.
Lake Michigan views are a constant companion.
Access via US-31 north.

Longer Regional Travel Routes

A comprehensive tour of Northern Michigan's highlights. This journey mainly needs a car for independent exploration.

M-22 North Route

Drive M-22 north from Sleeping Bear Dunes, then explore the Leelanau Peninsula.

Coastal Drive

Continue north on US-31 towards Charlevoix, Petoskey, and Harbor Springs.

Upper Peninsula Gateway

From there, cross the Mackinac Bridge into the Upper Peninsula to explore its natural wonders.

Connectivity for Extended Trips

Ferries connect to Mackinac Island from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, and to the Manitou Islands from Leland. For various tours and excursions in the region, check GetYourGuide.

Day Trips from Sleeping Bear Dunes