Welcome to Glen Arbor

Glen Arbor, Michigan is one of Northern Michigan’s most breathtaking and beloved lake towns — nestled between the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan, Glen Lake, and the towering dunes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. With its small-town charm, vibrant seasonal energy, and unbeatable outdoor beauty, Glen Arbor offers a lifestyle that’s equal parts peaceful, adventurous, and inspiring. Whether you’re strolling through town, paddling on Glen Lake, or soaking in a Lake Michigan sunset, Glen Arbor feels like pure Up North magic.

What to Love

• Surrounded by Lake Michigan, Big & Little Glen Lake, and pristine inland waters

• Steps away from Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

• Clear turquoise lakes perfect for swimming, paddling, and boating

• Charming downtown with shops, cafés, markets, and local art

• A friendly, welcoming community with strong seasonal traditions

• Incredible trails, dunes, forests, and scenic overlooks

• Peaceful yet lively in summer — ideal for both year-round and seasonal living

Local Lifestyle in Glen Arbor

Life in Glen Arbor is relaxed, outdoorsy, and community-centered. Residents enjoy early morning kayak paddles, afternoon bike rides along the Heritage Trail, and cozy evenings with neighbors over locally made food and drink. Summers bring festivals, farmers markets, and family gatherings; fall delivers brilliant foliage; winter offers cross-country skiing and quiet snowy beauty; and spring blooms with blossoms along orchards and backroads.

Whether enjoying a lake day or simply soaking up the village’s small-town spirit, Glen Arbor’s lifestyle is peaceful, nature-driven, and deeply fulfilling.

Lakeshore & Outdoor Living

Glen Arbor’s identity is built around lakes, dunes, and forests. Living here means:

• Swimming, boating, and paddleboarding on Big & Little Glen Lake

• Wandering miles of sandy Lake Michigan beaches

• Climbing the Sleeping Bear Dunes for world-famous views

• Hiking and biking the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail

• Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on winter paths

• Fishing inland lakes, rivers, and nearshore waters

• Kayaking or tubing the Crystal River

Outdoor lovers find endless ways to explore the area’s natural wonders year-round.

Things to Do in Glen Arbor

• Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – endless trails, dunes, beaches, and overlooks

• Glen Haven Historic Village – preserved blacksmith shop, cannery, and museum

• The Heritage Trail – scenic biking and walking path through the National Lakeshore

• Glen Arbor Village Center – local shops, art galleries, cafés, specialty food markets

• Crystal River – a relaxing waterway perfect for kayaking or tubing

• Glen Lake – known for its Caribbean-blue water and sandy bottom

• Dune Climb – iconic and family-friendly adventure

• Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive – must-see vistas and photo stops

• Seasonal events – art fairs, parades, live music, and community gatherings

From nature to culture, Glen Arbor has something special every season.

Schools in Glen Arbor

Glen Arbor is part of the Glen Lake Community Schools district, located just a short drive away. The district is highly regarded for its small class sizes, supportive teachers, and strong academic and extracurricular programs.

Schools include:

• Glen Lake Elementary

• Glen Lake Middle School

• Glen Lake High School

Families appreciate the district’s warm environment and its connection to the natural surroundings.

Walkability & Transportation

Glen Arbor offers accessible and scenic mobility:

• Walkable village center with shops, eateries, parks, and beaches

• Bike-friendly terrain and direct access to the Heritage Trail

• Easy driving connections to Empire, Maple City, Leland, and Traverse City

• M-22 scenic highway running directly through town

• Cherry Capital Airport (Traverse City) just 35–40 minutes away

Most residents rely on cars for longer trips, but the town itself is ideal for walking and biking.

History & Culture

Glen Arbor’s history is rooted in logging, homesteading, and early tourism that flourished thanks to its stunning lakes and forests. Nearby Glen Haven preserves much of this heritage, while the National Lakeshore plays a major role in protecting the area’s natural and cultural resources.

Culturally, Glen Arbor celebrates:

• Local art and craftsmanship

• Music, festivals, and seasonal celebrations

• Outdoor education and environmental stewardship

• A strong sense of hometown pride mixed with warm hospitality

The town’s blend of history, nature, and community gives it an irresistible charm.

Homes in Glen Arbor

Housing in Glen Arbor reflects its lakeside and wooded surroundings:

• Lake Michigan and Glen Lake waterfront homes

• Cottages and cabins with rustic charm

• Modern homes with large windows and nature-focused design

• Vacation properties and seasonal rentals

• Wooded parcels and secluded retreats

• Small in-town homes steps from shops and beaches

Many homes feature outdoor living spaces, decks, and scenic views that highlight the region’s natural beauty.

Housing Market Trends

Glen Arbor remains one of Northern Michigan’s most desirable markets due to:

• High demand for waterfront and National Lakeshore–adjacent properties

• Limited inventory because of protected land and small-town scale

• Popularity as a vacation home and short-term rental destination

• Strong appreciation driven by lifestyle appeal and natural beauty

• Competitive market for updated homes with lake access or views

Waterfront homes and well-located cottages tend to attract significant buyer interest.

Popular Neighborhoods in Glen Arbor

• Glen Lake Waterfront – luxury homes with clear-blue water and sandy beaches

• Lake Michigan Shoreline – dunes, sunsets, and private stretches of coastline

• In-Town Glen Arbor – walkable living near shops, cafés, and parks

• Wooded & Rural Outskirts – peaceful lots tucked into forests

• Glen Haven Vicinity – historic charm and proximity to beaches

Each area offers a different expression of Glen Arbor’s outdoor beauty and relaxed living.

Buying or Selling in Glen Arbor

Glen Arbor’s combination of world-class scenery, charming village atmosphere, and coveted lakeshore living makes it one of Michigan’s most sought-after home markets. Buyers love the natural surroundings and peaceful lifestyle, while sellers benefit from strong demand, especially for lake and dune-area properties.

Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy cabin, a modern lakeside home, or a year-round retreat near the dunes, Glen Arbor offers a lifestyle that’s truly extraordinary — peaceful, scenic, and deeply connected to nature.