Explore Shops & Markets

Charming spots from Glen Arbor to Leland and on to Suttons Bay and Traverse City. Find everything from souvenirs to toys to designer finds and uniquely M22 items. Too, each day there are Farmers’ Markets and farm stands —with ours on Tuesdays, 9:00-1:00 behind the Town Hall. Even on rainy days there is lots to explore. Before you start wandering, peak at our “What to Do in Glen Arbor on A Rainy Day” blog. Some great ideas.

In Glen Arbor…..

• A stop at Cherry Republic Café & Store is a taste and “stock up” delight; tour buses stop here to take away jars and bags and boxes of cherry treats. Few leave town without something.
• M22 Store — 2 blocks east at the other end of our shopping “strip” in the Crystal River Outfitters Recreational District — offers souvenir M22 items and a Leelanau winery tasting bar. Next door, the new shop, aptly named Coastal, brings upscale clothing, biking gear, footwear, and accessories. Adjacent you will find the kayak livery and the Cyclery, hosted by their exceptionally welcoming team. How can you miss? You may even spend most of the day buying, tasting and playing in the District.
• Jeweler-extraordinaire Becky Thatcher’s gallery, around the corner on Lake Street, will tempt you with serious pieces.
• The Totem Shop is an “adventure outfitter,” with great kids’ games, toys and sports items.
• What about a fleece, jacket or new sportswear outfit at Momentum’s amazing prices next door to the inn.
• Pickup a best seller, old classic or great children’s book at The Cottage Book Shop, where you always find a smile and well-informed recommendations.

End your day at Glen Arbor Wines — you can see them from the inn on Lake Street. Relax in their lounge area with a glass of wine and a game of bocce, taste multiple varietals to take home, or pickup at bottle and deli items for your evening enjoyment.

To Leland

On to Leland, wandering M22, we love Leland’s historic shanties-turned-shops at the harbor in quaint, historic Fishtown. The Cheese Shanty, Carlson’s Smoke House, favorite Sporck Tileart, the inevitable sweatshirt and ice cream shops, and more. That’s where you board the Manitou Island Transit to explore South Manitou and the majestic Lighthouse. Too, we are enchanted by Tampico’s Mexican jewelry, Molly’s beautiful sweaters, and multiple galleries. 

Suttons Bay

On the other side of the Peninsula, Suttons Bay has fun ice cream and fudge shops, great clothing stores, a marina docking the Inland Seas Education Association boats, the Bay Theatre, and interesting venues like the Brainstorm Shop, specializing in “Smart Fun” that exercises the mind, the body and the imagination for “Kids” of ALL ages.

And Traverse City

Most robust is pedestrian-friendly Front Street in Traverse City. Main Street America at its best, with blocks of wonderful shops, delicious “foodie” options, the magnificently restored (and all volunteer run) State Theatre, and the Victorian City Opera House. There always seems to be a festival or art fair happening on Front Street, too. Plan time to wander up-and-down if you possibly can.