The Guide to Leslie, Michigan

Looking for a serene spot in the Midwest to take a vacation, explore the countryside, or even establish a new home? Leslie, Michigan, has you covered. 

Leslie is a small, charming city located in Ingham County, Michigan. It has a population of approximately 2,000 people and is situated just south of the state's capital, Lansing. Despite its small size, Leslie has a lot to offer visitors looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of big cities.

Leslie is also a great destination for history buffs. The city has a rich and fascinating history, with numerous historic buildings and landmarks that tell the story of its past. In addition, it has a strong sense of community, and visitors will immediately feel welcomed by the friendly locals. The city hosts various events throughout the year, such as the annual Leslie Farmers Market and the Leslie Bike Rodeo, which bring residents and visitors together and foster a sense of camaraderie.

What Is the History of Leslie, Michigan? 

The city of Leslie, Michigan, has deep roots that date back to the early 19th century. The area was first settled in the 1830s, and by the mid-1800s, it had become an important transportation hub thanks to its location along the Michigan Central Railroad. The city was officially incorporated in 1893, and it continued to grow and prosper throughout the early 1900s.

One of the most significant events in Leslie's history was the construction of the Leslie Dam and Hydroelectric Plant in the early 1900s. The dam created a large reservoir that provided hydroelectric power to the city and the surrounding area, and it helped to spur economic growth and development in the region.

During the mid-1900s, Leslie continued to grow and evolve, constructing new schools, businesses, and residential neighborhoods. The city also became known for its agricultural industry, particularly for producing beans and corn.

Today, Leslie remains a thriving community with a strong sense of history and tradition. Many of the city's historic buildings and landmarks have been preserved, including the Leslie Depot Museum, which showcases the city's railroad history, and the historic downtown district, which is home to many buildings dating back to the early 1900s.

Outdoor Activities in Leslie, Michigan

Leslie, Michigan, boasts beautiful and idyllic scenery, with a variety of natural areas, lakes, and rivers that offer visitors plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. The city's natural beauty is second to none, with lush forests, rolling hills, and winding rivers that provide a peaceful and relaxing escape from the crowded urban sprawl of big cities.

If you’re hoping to enjoy some time in nature, here are some of the top outdoor recreation options available for visitors to Leslie.

Hiking in Leslie, Michigan

Leslie is home to several hiking trails that wind through the city's beautiful natural areas, including the Ledges Trail at Fitzgerald Park, which offers stunning views of the Grand River and sandstone cliffs.

The Leslie Park Trail is another excellent choice, as it is relatively easy and suitable for hikers of all skill levels. The Lake Lansing North Trail is a longer option, circling around Lake Lansing and offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding natural areas. The Burchfield Park Trail and the Riverbend Nature Area Trail are also great options, with scenic views of the Grand River and the parks' forests and wetlands. Whether visitors prefer short and easy trails or longer and more challenging hikes, Leslie, Michigan, has something for everyone to enjoy.

Fishing in Leslie, Michigan 

Leslie’s abundant rivers, streams, and lakes offer excellent fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. The Grand River is one of the best spots in the area, offering opportunities to catch bass, pike, and catfish. Lake Lansing is another popular option, with opportunities to catch bass, bluegill, and other species.

Ingham County parks — such as Burchfield Park and Hawk Island Park — also offer great fishing opportunities in their lakes and ponds. For those staying in Leslie itself, Leslie Lake is a small, man-made lake that offers opportunities to catch bass, bluegill, and more. Whether visitors prefer fishing from the shore or a boat, there are plenty of great spots to cast a line and enjoy the natural beauty of Leslie, Michigan.

Camping in Leslie, Michigan 

The area around Leslie offers several camping options, including state parks and private campgrounds. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful night under the stars and wake up to the sounds of nature. Here are some of the top camping and outdoor areas around Leslie. 

Fitzgerald Park

Fitzgerald Park is a 78-acre park located along the Grand River that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The park has several picnic areas and a playground for families, as well as a large pavilion that can be rented for events. Fitzgerald Park also has a 40-site campground that offers primitive camping and RV hookups.

Sleepy Hollow State Park

Sleepy Hollow State Park is located just a short drive from Leslie and offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and camping. The park has several lakes and ponds that offer great fishing opportunities, as well as several miles of hiking trails. Sleepy Hollow State Park also has a large campground with over 200 campsites, as well as modern amenities such as showers and restrooms.

Burchfield Park

Burchfield Park is a 500-acre park located just east of Leslie. As with other parks in the area, Burchfield offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The park has several picnic areas, a playground for visitors with children, and a large pavilion that can be reserved for outdoor events. Burchfield Park also has a 29-site campground that offers primitive camping and RV hookups.

Overall, Leslie, Michigan, offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities and natural areas to explore. Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, camping, mountain biking, or hunting, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Events in Leslie, Michigan

Not everything in Leslie, Michigan, has to involve camping or fishing. Leslie is filled with many outdoor leisure activities and other events that residents love to be involved in. From farmers markets to rodeos, Leslie never runs out of fun activities for its citizens. Here are a few you can explore if you are visiting or decide to make a move. 

Leslie’s Farmers & Craft Market

The Leslie Farmers & Craft Market is a vibrant community event held in the heart of Leslie, Michigan, from June to October every year. The market is a great place to shop for fresh, locally grown produce, baked goods, and crafts, and is a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.

The Leslie Farmers & Craft Market is held every Sunday from 9 am to 1 pm in the city's downtown district at 208 Main Street. The market features a variety of local vendors, including farmers, bakers, and artisans, who sell a range of products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade bread, cheeses, and jams, and handmade crafts.

In addition to the vendors, the Leslie Farmers & Craft Market also features live music and other entertainment, making it a fun and festive event for the whole family. The market is a great place to meet local farmers and other producers and learn more about the food and products they offer.

The Leslie Farmers & Craft Market is more than just a place to buy fresh, locally-grown produce. It is also an important community gathering place that helps support local farmers and businesses, promote healthy eating habits, and brings residents and visitors together to celebrate the city's vibrant culture and spirit.

Leslie Fall Festival

Every year, Leslie, Michigan, celebrates the arrival of fall with its popular Leslie Fall Festival. This festival is an exciting event for people of all ages, featuring a variety of activities and attractions. For kids, there are plenty of fun-filled activities to enjoy, including face painting, carnival rides, and bounce houses. In addition, there is a petting zoo that allows children to get up close and personal with their favorite animals.

Adults will also find plenty to do at the Leslie Fall Festival. Car enthusiasts can admire the impressive car shows on North Main Street, while sports fans can participate in cornhole tournaments. The festival also features live music, which provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying a delicious meal from one of the food vendors.

One of the highlights of the Leslie Fall Festival is the craft show, which features a variety of handmade items from local artisans. Visitors can browse and purchase unique gifts and decor, including jewelry, pottery, and home goods.

Giving Back Events in Leslie 

Leslie, Michigan, is a city that takes pride in its community spirit and values the importance of giving back. One way the city accomplishes this is through various events and initiatives that focus on community service and beautification.

One such event is the community clean-up day. This event brings together residents and volunteers to clean up the city's streets, parks, and public spaces. Volunteers can help with tasks such as litter pickup, graffiti removal, and general beautification efforts. This event not only improves the city's appearance but also fosters a sense of community pride and ownership.

Another important event in Leslie is the flower bed adoption program. This program encourages community members to adopt and care for flower beds throughout the city, helping to reinvigorate public spaces and create a more welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.

Leslie also hosts a variety of fundraisers and charity events that support local causes and organizations. These events provide opportunities for residents and businesses to give back to the community, and support causes that are important to them.

Whether you’re living in Leslie or just passing through, the beauty of the town is incomparable, thanks to the hard work of the town’s citizens. 

Where to Eat in Leslie, Michigan

Crossroads Grill and Bar

Crossroads Grill and Bar is a charming hometown family restaurant located in Leslie, Michigan. This restaurant offers a wide variety of delicious food options, ranging from appetizers like loaded cheese fries and mozzarella cheese sticks to main courses like the Wild West Burger, all-you-can-eat soup and salad, or a Philly cheesesteak. The menu also features a range of salads, sandwiches, and Mexican dishes.

The restaurant is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, which makes it a great place to dine with family and friends. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty burger or a light salad, Crossroads Grill and Bar has something to satisfy everyone's taste buds.

In addition to its delicious food, Crossroads Grill and Bar offers excellent service, making guests feel comfortable and appreciated. The restaurant's staff is attentive and accommodating, ensuring guests have a pleasant and memorable dining experience.

Dave’s Place Pizza & Subs 

Dave's Place Pizza & Subs is a beloved restaurant located on East Bellevue St. in Leslie, Michigan. This restaurant is known for its delicious pizza, loaded with cheese and customized with a variety of tasty toppings. The garlic breadsticks are also a fan favorite, and they are homemade for a truly authentic taste.

Aside from the pizza, Dave's Place Pizza & Subs also serves up mouthwatering subs that locals love. One of the most popular subs is the Corned Beef Reuben and Swiss, which is piled high with delicious meat and melted cheese. The menu also offers a variety of other subs that are sure to satisfy any craving.

What makes Dave's Place Pizza & Subs even better is that it's affordable, making it a great option for families and anyone looking for a tasty meal without breaking the bank. The combination of delicious food, affordability, and friendly service makes this restaurant a must-visit for anyone in the Leslie area.

Why Should I Move to Leslie, Michigan?

Leslie, Michigan, is a fantastic place to move with your family, with several unique features that set it apart from other towns. Firstly, Leslie has a strong sense of community, where families can form close relationships with their neighbors and engage in local events and activities. The town has a small-town charm that makes it easy to feel at home quickly.

Secondly, Leslie is surrounded by natural beauty, including several parks, lakes, and trails that offer opportunities for outdoor recreation. Whether your family enjoys hiking, fishing, or kayaking, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Houses for Sale in Leslie

Finding homes in Leslie, Michigan, doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Instead, you can contact the real estate professionals at MCM Communities to help you find the perfect home. 

We are here to assist you as you make the big decisions in life, all without compromising on the things you need. In our manufactured home communities, we offer affordable, well-built, and exceptionally maintained homes that provide excellent access to the outdoors and the community. 

We don’t just meet your needs. Instead, we exceed your expectations and redefine what it means to live in a manufactured home community. 

For more information on Leslie and finding your new home nearby, contact us today! 

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