Leelanau Peninsula Nabs Two Spots on “Travel + Leisure” List

By Ross Boissoneau | July 26, 2022

Two communities in the county received plaudits from Travel + Leisure's online magazine. Empire and Leland were among the towns cited in the article “13 Best Small Towns in Michigan for a Charming Midwest Getaway.”

Among the attractions cited were Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Empire Bluff Trail, and Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, as well as Sleeping Bear Surf & Kayak. In Leland, the writer noted the “life-changing sandwiches at Village Cheese Shanty, souvenirs from Leland Gal, and wine from Verterra Winery.”

Travel + Leisure is lauded as "The World's Most Influential Travel Brand."

Verterra owner Paul Hamelin says he anticipates the accolades will further drive interest in the county, as did the now legendary “Good Morning America” nod, and as wineries along the Traverse Wine Coast continue to win accolades. “They all give a short-term and medium-term boost” to business, he says. “People want to see what it’s all about.”

Pictured: Surf lessons at Empire Beach this week, via Sleeping Bear Surf & Kayak social media; Leland gal on Main Street in Leland.

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