Is Leelanau County ‘The Hamptons Of The Midwest’?

Where might one find “the Hamptons of the Midwest”? If you ask Delamar Traverse City, a hotel located near downtown Traverse City, it’s right here in Leelanau County. The hotel announced last Friday that it will launch a new luxury experience for its guests this summer, spotlighting numerous Leelanau County sights and destinations from aboard a helicopter.

Dubbed the “Delacopter Experience,” the Delamar’s new package invites guests to go “soaring above the stunning landscapes of Traverse City aboard a sleek Bell 407GX helicopter, provided exclusively by 45North Aviation.” Each 45-minute tour will show off “breathtaking aerial views” of West Grand Traverse Bay and the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, before landing “amidst the vineyards” of Northport’s own Dune Bird Winery (pictured).

“Here, you will be treated to an exclusive wine-tasting experience curated by Dune Bird Winery's expert team,” reads a press release from the Delamar. “Enjoy a selection of wines paired with a chef’s choice of small plates, creating a delightful tasting experience. Once you have savored the exquisite wines and culinary delights, the helicopter will be ready to transport you back to Delamar…”

The Delamar plans to offer the Delacopter Experience this summer, with bookings available between June 15 and October 15. The experience is available exclusively to Delamar hotel guests, with each booking accommodating “up to six people for $7,500.”

The Hamptons comparison likens northern Michigan to a string of seaside communities on the eastern end of Long Island. The area is known both as a popular vacation destination and as a wealthy enclave.