Glen Arbor, Michigan: A Quiet City Leads to a Relaxing Vacation

During our June 21-25, 2009 vacation, we knew we wanted to RELAX. It had been a long 6 months and my husband and I just needed to sit back, relax, and do very little. We choose to go to Northern Michigan to keep our trip local and cheap. Our initial plan was to stay in Traverse City, MI, but after doing some research I settled on the very small town of Glen Arbor, MI and it turned out to be a great decision. During these 4 nights, we stayed at The Homestead Resort and we have since found out that many of our friends go to this resort in this city every year!

Location
Located about one hour Northwest of Traverse City, Glen Arbor is situated right on Lake Michigan and right in the vicinity of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. While there are many places along Michigan's West Coast to enjoy Lake Michigan, Glen Arbor is one of the quietest places we have found. There really aren't many places to stay in this city, and there really isn't a ton to do, so you won't be overwhelmed by tourists and activity. Glen Arbor provides direct and easy access to Lake Michigan while also being minutes away from Glen Lake.

The Town
Glen Arbor is the definition of Small Town living. The downtown area consists of no more than just a few streets with a few businesses and restaurants. Cherry Republic Winery is one of the main attractions in town and is the only area winery that isn't located on one of the peninsulas of Northern Michigan. Here you will find Cherry flavored items for the whole family and you'll have the opportunity to taste things like Cherry BBQ Sauce and Cherry Salsa.

There are a few options of where to eat while in Glen Arbor, ranging from casual to more dressy. We choose to eat at Boone Docks and the place was packed on a weekday night. This restaurant offers live music, indoor or outdoor seating, and good food in a relaxing atmosphere. We made sure to get some coffee from Leelanau Coffee Roasting Co before leaving this small town.

Things to Do
It takes less than a few hours to explore downtown Glen Arbor, so what else can you do while you are visiting? First of all, if you stay at The Homestead Resort, you'll be able to swim in the pool or the lake and we spent almost a whole day just sitting around the resort. Another day could be spent at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore where you and your family can spend a day or more exploring the dunes, driving the scenic drive and learning the history of this beautiful area.

Adults can spend a day, or even two, exploring the local wineries. An Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour will take you to the further peninsula where you can take it slow while visiting 7 wineries. You can also try the Leelanau County Wineries if you have the inclination to visit more wineries. Between the two peninsulas, you could easily spend 2 whole day touring wineries.

Finally, if all else fails take a trip to Traverse City, MI. You'll find lots of tourists there, especially around the bay, and you'll realize why it's not as relaxing to stay there. While downtown, you can visit the bay, take a break at the mall, or visit any of the other attractions Traverse City has to offer. The 1 hour drive goes much quicker then you might think, and it's a relaxing view of the country the whole way.

Overall
Glen Arbor is now my "up north" destination of choice and I plan to return to this city soon! In June, the temperature was perfect and the tourists count was low making it a relaxing vacation. Kids and adults alike can enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of other touristy towns. Check out Glen Arbor, MI when planning your next vacation. Enjoy!!