Glen Arbor, Michigan

By VacationIdea Staff | Affiliate Disclosure

Michigan

csterken/stock.adobe.com

What is the population of Glen Arbor?
- The population of Glen Arbor is less than 1,000 according to a recent census, but the number of inhabitants triples in summer due to seasonal visitors.
Which township is Glen Arbor a part of?
- Glen Arbor is part of the South Manitoba Island township, where two-thirds of the area is water.
What is the history of Glen Arbor?
- Glen Arbor began as a trading post in 1848 and thrived during the 19th century due to the high demand for lumber for building homes and fueling passing ships.
Why was a US Life Saving Station established in Glen Arbor?
- Due to increased traffic in the Great Lakes, multiple shipwrecks occurred, leading to the establishment of a US Life Saving Station in 1901.
What is the primary economic activity in Glen Arbor today?
- The town’s main economic activity today is tourism, which brings in seasonal visitors and supports local businesses.
How can visitors reach Glen Arbor?
- Glen Arbor is accessible via M-22, which is considered one of the USA’s most scenic drives in the fall.

⮕ Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail

Bike or walk scenic paths, admire stunning forest and dune views.

Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail

What is the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?
- The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a 35-mile stretch of the eastern coastline of Lake Michigan on the lower peninsula of Michigan.
What is the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail?
- The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is a multi-use trail developed in sections to provide pedestrian and bike access to key areas of the national lakeshore.
When was the Glen Arbor to Dune Climb section completed?
- The four-mile stretch from Glen Arbor to the Dune Climb was completed in 2012, providing access to campgrounds and amenities.
When was the Empire section completed?
- In 2014, the 5.5-mile section extending the trail to Empire was completed.
When was the Port Oneida connection completed?
- In 2015, a 3.5-mile section was added, connecting the trail to the Port Oneida Rural Historic District.
What is unique about the last section of the trail?
- The last section includes a 600-meter boardwalk that stretches over wetlands, allowing visitors to experience the area's natural beauty up close.
Where is the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail located?
- 6900 S. Dune Highway, Empire, MI 49630

⮕ D.H. Days Campground

Camp under towering pines, enjoy easy access to lakes and trails.

D.H. Days Campground

Where is D.H. Day Campground located?
- D.H. Day Campground is a wooded campground located close to the Dune Climb in the northern district of Sleeping Bear. It is two miles from Glen Arbor and within walking distance of the beach.
How many campsites are available?
- The campground has 81 sites, each equipped with picnic facilities and a fire ring.
What amenities are available at the campground?
- The campground provides:
  - Vault toilets for sanitation.
  - Water fountains for drinking water.
  - No hot water facilities.
How far is Leland from the campground?
- The harbor village of Leland, which serves as the gateway to the North and South Manitou Islands, is a 30-minute drive away.
What kind of activities are available at the campground?
- Visitors can enjoy nightly ranger-led activities, including:
  - Tales of folklore
  - Environmental talks
  - Slide shows
When is the campground open?
- The campground is open from April to November and is a popular spot for residents of northern Michigan.
Where is D.H. Day Campground located?
- 8000 W Harbor Hwy, Glen Arbor, MI 49636, Phone: 231-326-4700

⮕ Sleeping Bear Point Maritime Museum

Explore maritime history, admire artifacts and learn about Great Lakes shipwrecks.

Sleeping Bear Point Maritime Museum

What is the Sleeping Bear Point Maritime Museum?
- The Sleeping Bear Point Maritime Museum is housed in a former life-saving station and showcases the history of the US Life Saving Services, the US Coast Guard, and Great Lakes shipping.
Why was the building moved?
- The original life-saving station was moved from its original position because sand dunes threatened to engulf it.
What historical elements can visitors see at the museum?
- The museum is designed to reflect the 1930s, with buildings and gardens preserved as they were during that time.
  - A crew's bedroom from around 1900 is recreated in one of the rooms.
  - The upper floor is designed as a steamer wheelhouse, offering panoramic views of the heavily used Manitou Passage.
Are there any live demonstrations?
- Yes! At certain times, visitors can watch a buoy rescue reenactment on the beach using life-sized dummies. This is a popular attraction for children.
Where is the Sleeping Bear Point Maritime Museum located?
- Sleeping Bear Dunes Rd, Glen Arbor, MI 49636, Phone: 231-326-4700

⮕ South Manitou Island Lighthouse

Climb historic stairs, admire panoramic views of Lake Michigan.

South Manitou Island Lighthouse

Why was North Manitou Island important for Great Lakes shipping?
- North Manitou Island was strategically important as the only fueling stop and safe harbor along the 300-mile stretch from Chicago to the Straits of Mackinac.
When was the first lighthouse on North Manitou Island built?
- The first lighthouse was built in 1839. It was a one-and-a-half-story building that cost $5,000.
Why was the first lighthouse replaced?
- By 1858, the original lighthouse had deteriorated significantly and had to be replaced.
How many times was the lighthouse replaced?
- The second lighthouse had an even shorter lifespan and was replaced again in 1872 by the current structure.
When was the lighthouse decommissioned?
- The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1958, but it is still lit from May to November.
What restoration work has been done on the lighthouse?
- The foundation has been reinforced, and both the staircase and lantern room have been restored to preserve the historic structure.

⮕ Art's Tavern

Savor classic burgers, enjoy casual dining with a lively local vibe.

Art's Tavern

What is the history of Art's Tavern?
- Originally known as The Blue Goose, the tavern was run by Frank Sheridan during the Great Depression. After his tragic death in 1934, his son Art took over and renamed the tavern after himself. Art ran the tavern until his death in 1970.
Who owns Art's Tavern today?
- Since 2000, the tavern has been owned by Tim Barr and Bonnie Nescott.
What is unique about the decor of Art's Tavern?
- The tavern features a stained glass portrait of Art, holding a beer and a burger, which hangs in the window. Tim is often mistaken for Art.
- The interior is decorated with college and other pennants, and visitors are welcome to add more to the collection.
What happens to the pool table in the summer?
- The pool table is lowered underground in summer to make extra space for visitors.
Where is Art's Tavern located?
- Art's Tavern, 6487 Western Ave, Glen Arbor, MI, Phone: 231-334-3754

⮕ On the Narrows Marina

Rent boats, explore scenic waters and enjoy relaxing lake adventures.

On the Narrows Marina

What is On the Narrows Marina?
- On the Narrows Marina is a family-owned marina located four miles from Glen Arbor, on a narrow strip of land between Big Glen and Little Glen lakes.
Who owns On the Narrows Marina?
- The Cahill family from Colorado had been vacationing in the Glen Arbor area for 20 years before deciding to settle there and purchase the marina.
What types of watercraft are available for rent?
- The marina offers rentals for:
  - Jet skis
  - Kayaks
  - Power boats
  - Pontoon boats
  - Safety equipment
Does the marina have a store?
- Yes! The marina runs a store that sells everything needed for boating and for an enjoyable day on the water.
When is the marina open?
- The marina is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
- Out of season, the boat rental operates for reduced hours, weather permitting.
Where is On the Narrows Marina located?
- On the Narrows Marina, 8137 South Glen Lake Rd. (M-22), Glen Arbor MI 49636, Phone: 800-707-5921

⮕ Spa Amira

Relax with luxurious treatments, enjoy peaceful views of Lake Michigan.

Spa Amira

What is Spa Amira?
- Spa Amira is a luxurious spa located in the Homestead Resort on the shores of Lake Michigan, offering a soothing and rejuvenating experience close to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park.
What kind of environment does the spa offer?
- The spa is a haven of serenity, surrounded by peaceful gardens, waterfalls, and an outdoor pool, providing the perfect setting for relaxation.
What treatments does Spa Amira offer?
- Guests can choose from a selection of pampering treatments, including:
  - Massage treatments
  - Revitalizing body scrubs
  - Foot treatments
  - Rejuvenating facials, tailored to your specific needs
Are there any additional amenities?
- After your treatment, you can relax poolside with a delicious beverage and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
Does the spa offer special packages?
- Yes! Seasonal Spa Packages are available from time to time, providing guests with exclusive treatments and offers.
Where is Spa Amira located?
- 1 Woodridge Rd, Homestead Resort, Glen Arbor, MI 49636, Phone: 231-334-5000

⮕ Glen Arbor Wines

Savor local wines, enjoy tastings in a charming, rustic setting.

Glen Arbor Wines

What is Glen Arbor Wines?
- Glen Arbor Wines is a scenic winery located between the beach and Glen Arbor’s M22 strip, offering a relaxing atmosphere for wine lovers.
What is special about the Tasting Room?
- The Tasting Room is the perfect place to unwind with a glass of wine after a busy day on the beach.
- The grounds include a bocce court and various other lawn games for visitors to enjoy.
- Delicious deli snacks are available to pair with your wine.
Where are the grapes for Glen Arbor Wines grown?
- All wines are made from grapes grown in the Leelanau Peninsula, ensuring locally produced, high-quality wines.
What types of wines does Glen Arbor Wines offer?
- White wines include:
  - Blanc de Blanc
  - Sparkling Riesling
  - Pinot Grigio
  - Sauvignon Blanc
  - Chardonnay
- Red wines include:
  - Liquid Beauty
  - Farmstead Red
Does Glen Arbor Wines produce anything other than wine?
- Yes! They also make some delicious cider for visitors to enjoy.
Where is Glen Arbor Wines located?
- 5873 South Lake St, Glen Arbor, MI 49636, Phone: +1 231 835 2196

⮕ Blu

Savor gourmet cuisine, enjoy fine dining with stunning waterfront views.

Blu

What is Blu?
- Blu is a fine dining restaurant in Glen Arbor, offering sweeping views of the Manitou Islands and Sleeping Bear Bay.
What makes Blu unique?
- Blu aims to provide guests with a memorable night out rather than just a good meal.
- It combines the finest fresh seasonal ingredients with elevated European cooking techniques to create an unbeatable dining experience.
How often does the menu change?
- The menu changes daily to showcase whatever is fresh and delicious on the day.
What kind of dishes does Blu serve?
- A sample menu could include:
  - Blue Crab Puffs
  - Tuxedo Gnocchi
  - Dry-aged Prime Strip Loin
  - Confit Duck
  - Rack of Lamb
  - Wild Boar Tenderloin
Does Blu have a wine list?
- Yes! Blu features a carefully curated wine list that includes both local and international vintners.
Where is Blu located?
- 5705 South Lake St, Glen Arbor, MI 49636, Phone: 231-334-2530

Plan Your Trip

Table of Contents:

1. Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
2. D.H. Days Campground
3. Sleeping Bear Point Maritime Museum
4. South Manitou Island Lighthouse
5. Art's Tavern
6. On the Narrows Marina
7. Spa Amira
8. Glen Arbor Wines
9. Blu