Welcome to Northport

Northport, Michigan is a charming, waterfront village located at the northern tip of the Leelanau Peninsula. Known for its peaceful harbor, historic lighthouse, cherry orchards, and small-town warmth, Northport is one of Northern Michigan’s most picturesque and inviting lakefront communities. With its quiet streets, stunning sunsets over Grand Traverse Bay, and easy access to parks, trails, and beaches, Northport offers a lifestyle rooted in nature, community, and relaxed lakeside living.

What to Love

• Serene marina and beautiful Grand Traverse Bay shoreline

• Historic Grand Traverse Lighthouse at Leelanau State Park

• Small-town charm with shops, cafés, breweries, and art galleries

• Cherry orchards, farms, and vineyards throughout the countryside

• Peaceful, friendly community with year-round events

• Abundant beaches, forests, and scenic drives

• Easy access to Suttons Bay and Traverse City while feeling worlds away

Local Lifestyle in Northport

Life in Northport is calm, neighborly, and deeply connected to the outdoors. Mornings often start with a peaceful walk by the marina, followed by trips to local farms, beach outings, or exploring forest trails. Evenings are spent enjoying waterfront sunsets, gathering with friends, or attending small-town events that bring the community together.

Residents value the slower pace, sense of belonging, and access to natural beauty. Whether year-round or seasonal, living in Northport feels refreshing, wholesome, and restorative.

Lakeshore & Rural Living

Northport blends waterfront relaxation with rustic countryside charm. Living here means:

• Swimming, boating, and fishing along the bay

• Exploring dunes, beaches, and forests in nearby Leelanau State Park

• Enjoying quiet country roads for biking or scenic drives

• Visiting cherry orchards and local wineries

• Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter landscapes

• Taking in star-filled skies free from city lights

Nature is part of everyday life, making Northport perfect for outdoor lovers.

Things to Do in Northport

• Grand Traverse Lighthouse – explore maritime history and beautiful shoreline trails

• Northport Marina – boating, fishing, and waterfront relaxation

• Haserot Park Beach – sandy beach with calm bay waters

• Leelanau State Park – hiking, picnicking, camping, and scenic overlooks

• Downtown Northport – boutique shopping, cafés, art galleries, and a local brewery

• Northport Farmers Market – fresh produce, artisan goods, and community favorites

• Local wineries – tasting rooms and vineyard views throughout the peninsula

• Annual events – Fly-In Pancake Breakfast, Dog Parade, Winter Carnival, Northport Wine Festival

With natural beauty and small-town charm, Northport offers something to enjoy in every season.

Schools in Northport

Northport is served by Northport Public School, a small, community-focused district offering individualized attention and a close-knit learning environment.

Programs include:

• Elementary, middle, and high school education on a single campus

• Strong arts, athletics, and extracurricular activities

• Small class sizes and supportive teachers

Families appreciate the district’s personalized approach and welcoming atmosphere.

Walkability & Transportation

Northport is an easy-to-navigate small village:

• Walkable downtown near shops, parks, marina, and dining

• Biking-friendly roads throughout the peninsula

• Quick access to M-22 for travel to Suttons Bay, Omena, Leland, and Traverse City

• Scenic drives with lake views in every direction

• Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City about 40–45 minutes away

Most residents rely on cars for longer trips, but the village itself is perfect for strolling and biking.

History & Culture

Northport is one of the Leelanau Peninsula’s oldest settlements, shaped by Native American history, maritime heritage, and early settlement along the bay. The historic lighthouse, fishing traditions, and Victorian architecture all hint at the village’s rich past.

Culturally, Northport celebrates:

• Local music and arts

• Community festivals and parades

• Maritime and agricultural heritage

• A welcoming, tight-knit village identity

Together, these elements create a warm, authentic atmosphere that honors both history and community pride.

Homes in Northport

Northport offers a scenic variety of homes:

• Waterfront homes with bay views and private shoreline

• Charming cottages and historic homes in the village

• Modern builds with open layouts and nature-focused design

• Acreage properties surrounded by cherry orchards or woods

• Seasonal cottages and vacation rentals

• Quiet residential streets near parks, beaches, and the marina

Homes often feature decks, porches, and windows designed to capture sunsets and water views.

Housing Market Trends

Northport’s real estate market is consistently desirable due to:

• High demand for waterfront living and small-town charm

• Limited inventory within a small and picturesque village

• Appeal to retirees, remote workers, and seasonal residents

• Long-term appreciation driven by Leelanau County’s popularity

• Strong interest in updated homes, cottages, and scenic acreage

Properties near the bay, downtown, or with lake views tend to attract the most attention.

Popular Areas in Northport

• Village of Northport – walkable, friendly, close to shops and marina

• Northport Point – luxury homes, private shoreline, exclusive peninsula living

• Leelanau State Park Vicinity – wooded homes near trails and the lighthouse

• Cherry Orchard Country Roads – rural homes with wide-open views

• Bayfront Neighborhoods – peaceful homes steps from the water

Each area showcases a different facet of Northport’s beauty and charm.

Buying or Selling in Northport

Northport’s combination of lake views, small-town welcome, and connection to nature makes it one of Northern Michigan’s most enchanting markets. Buyers love the peaceful lifestyle and scenic surroundings, while sellers benefit from steady demand and limited inventory in such a desirable location.

Whether you dream of a cozy village cottage, a waterfront retreat, or a serene country home, Northport offers a life filled with natural beauty, community connection, and timeless charm.