It may be small, but it's mighty. Making a name for itself as one the most beautiful small towns in America, this charming northern Michigan town is as unique as they come.

Leland, Michigan was just named among Travel + Leisure's list of the "20 Most Beautiful Small Towns in the United States". Not only did the home of the legendary Fishtown make the list, but it also finished in the top 10, and we aren't surprised.

Cars 108 logo
Get our free mobile app

Located between Lake Michigan and Lake Leelanau on the Leelanau Peninsula, Leland has always been a popular summer destination for vacationers. From its downtown area with shops and eateries to the beautiful views and of course, the iconic Fishtown, what Leland lacks in space, at about 1 square mile in size, it makes up for in charm.

The historical town, settled in 1853, caught the eye of Travel + Leisure for its timeless appeal and beauty writing,

"On the coast of Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula, between Lake Michigan and Lake Leelanau, you’ll find Leland and Fishtown, a tourism dream team composed of a working commercial fishing village and a community of people who love their summer cottages. Leland is a special place virtually untouched by time. For instance, it has no stoplights. And the oft-photographed Leland canal epitomizes Michigan’s lakeside charm."

Visitors immediately fall in love with the collection of sweet weathered fishing shanties, smokehouses, overhanging docks, and charter boats along the Leland River that make up the area known as Fishtown. That's where you'll also find the fish tugs Joy and Janice Sue for the perfect photo op. A personal favorite is the Village Cheese Shanty. Owned by a Grand Blanc High alum, David Kareck, you will find lines stretching out the door and up the hill to score one of their amazing sandwiches. Trust me, it is worth the wait.

Check out the full list of the "20 Most Beautiful Small Towns in the United States" here.

LOOK: The most extreme temperatures in the history of every state

Stacker consulted 2021 data from the NOAA's State Climate Extremes Committee (SCEC) to illustrate the hottest and coldest temperatures ever recorded in each state. Each slide also reveals the all-time highest 24-hour precipitation record and all-time highest 24-hour snowfall.

Keep reading to find out individual state records in alphabetical order.

$5M 1929 Casa Del Lago is Everything Michigan Lake Life Should Be

Currently for sale for $4,995,900, this incredible property has over 400′ of prime Spring Lake water frontage and views for days. Sitting on 3.47 acres, the property that was built in 1929, is full of historic vintage details from the magnificent grand staircase, crown molding, arched entries, massive 8-panel doors, and a total of 9 fireplaces.
With the 12,500 square feet of living space you will find 7 en-suite bedrooms with the master featuring an incredible elegant bath and to die for his/her walk-in closets. Enjoy the incredible property with a multi-level deck, outdoor kitchen, and private beach area.
Welcome to Michigan perfection!

KEEP READING: Get answers to 51 of the most frequently asked weather questions...

 

More From Cars 108