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Leland - Leland is located in northwestern part of Leelanau County in the township of the same name. Leland, situated on the Lake Michigan coastline, was named after the nautical term, "lee land", referring to north winds on stormy waters, which Leland is exposed to. The village is a popular tourist spot, attracting visitors to its unique shops, well-preserved Victorian architecture and waterfront atmosphere. The waterfront area is home to the historical landmark known as "Fishtown". It is also host to the summer ferries that go between North and South Manitou Islands.

Empire - Empire was settled in 1853 by the John LaRue Family. This town was eventually named after a boat "Empire" which became ice-bound in the harbor in the winter of 1863, and afterwards used as a schoolhouse. Because of the lumber industry, the community thrived and was organizing as a village in 1895. From 1950 to the early 1970's, Empire was the home to Empire Air Force Station - 752nd A C & W Squadron. It is the gateway to the Sleeping Bear Dunes, which can be seen from its beach to the north.

Glen Arbor - Glen Arbor Township is situated within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Shoreline. Its main community is Glen Arbor, centered between Glen Lake and Sleeping Bear Bay. Today, Glen Arbor remains a popular tourist spot adjacent to Glen Lake and the Sleeping Bear Dunes, with several specialty shops, resorts and restaurants.

Northport - Northport is situated near the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula, overlooking Grand Traverse Bay. It was founded by Deacon Joseph Dame in 1852 by who officially platted and registered the area. It became the first county seat in 1863, until it was moved to Leland in 1882. It eventually incorporated into a village in 1903. The marina, waterfront, unique shops, galleries and restaurants indeed make a great day for visitors.

Suttons Bay - First called Suttonsburg and later renamed Pleasant City, it was eventually named Suttons Bay in 1861. It was founded by Harry C. Sutton in 1854. Suttons Bay is known world-wide for hosting the Classic Boat Show each June, where the best of the best in antique, wooden small boats can be seen. It also presents its annual Jazz Fest the last weekend in July. Suttons Bay can also be appreciated any time of the year, with its many unique shops and restaurants along main street, not to mention the marina, the Bay and the scenery!

Lake Leelanau - Lake Leelanau was given two settlement names, one in 1867 of Le Naro and the other in 1871 as Provement. In 1924 the village and its post office were renamed to Lake Leelanau. The name "Leelanau" is said to be Indian for "Delight of Life".

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