Following is a top five list of best places to watch the Tour de Leelanau, as compiled by race director Steve Brown and from informal opinions from county residents:

No. 5 — The corner of Front Street and Lake Street in Empire. Life-long Empire resident Phil Deering said the male racers will be coming down Wilco Road from the south onto Lake Street. “By the time they get to this corner, they are flying. It’s a great spot to watch, as is all of Front Street,” he said. Brown also recommends watching along Wilco, but spectators should stay well off the road

No. 4 — Tower Road. This is one of the most brutal hill climbs in both the men’s and women’s race. “This is where a lot of the local cycling club members are going to be to cheering racers on. It’s a great atmosphere,” Brown said. Spectators should park on the north side of County Road 616 and walk up the hill to watch.

No. 3 — Inspiration Point. The male racers will be coming up County Road 616 heading west, meaning they are climbing the steepest part of the hill. Again, spectators should keep the road shoulders clear and stay off the road as the racers come through.

No. 2 — St. Wenceslaus Church, where Kolarik Road and County 637 converge. Brown said its a great scenic spot and is the last feed zone for racers.

No. 1 — The finish line at Eagle’s Ridge in Peshawbestown. Not only is that where everything is decided, there’s also a vendors’ expo plus the racers have to climb the final steep grade to win.