11 Of The Quietest Great Lakes Towns
The five Great Lakes, the world’s largest freshwater system, is an enchanting region touching eight states and two Canadian provinces (if you include the St. Lawrence Seaway, which connects Quebec with Lake Ontario), with little towns along the immense shores. Away from the more popular destinations and lakefront cities, these 11 speak through nature, where the waves, bird calls, and glittering waterfalls create a soundtrack for the best retreat.
Tune into the local vibe through breweries and vineyards in Michigan's wine country, plus eclectic shopping and art galleries inspired by the natural splendor. So, which Great Lakes town whispers enchantment to you? From Pentwater to Linden Lake, these ten in the US and one in Canada offer great history and adventures, including famous state parks, lighthouses, and colorful sunsets.
Copper Harbor, Michigan
Tipping the Keweenaw Peninsula, Copper Harbor is an enriching escape at the northernmost point in Michigan and some of the world's oldest exposed rock, akin to the Grand Canyon. It was named after the copper deposits in the area. Enhanced by its remote feel, the warm glow of the rock tint is symbolic of the friendly town of under 150. With Fort Wilkins State Park to the east and Hunter’s Point Township Park to the west, chase the scenery between the glittering lake and the rest of the peninsula in the palm of your hand. Brockway Mountain is a scenic drive with overlooks to stop along the multiuse trails or pull out a lawn chair for a glass of vino against the spectacular foliage.
The open waters are perfect for activities and lounging, while Copper Harbor Light is a little cove with a cute lighthouse. Access the harbor from Brockway Avenue, Third Street Memorial Park, or the Sixth Street Boardwalk. The 9.4-acre Hunter's Point Park on a spit of land features a loop trail and pebbly beaches with "superior" views. Bernard Street is a designated tranquil route along the greater Hunter’s Point Pathway for hikes and cycling. From Astor House Museum, don't miss Gratiot Street's shops, restaurants, and a local microbrewery, while the aptly named Trails End Campground provides access to it all. Surrounded by waterfalls, the nearest Manganese Falls is not to be missed after rain.
Fairport Harbor, Ohio
Fairport Harbor lies on the southern shore of Lake Erie, on the northwest edge of the Greater Cleveland metropolis. This port town plays a critical role in the state's shipping and commerce. Now prime for boating and fishing, the tranquil surroundings of Lake County embrace you in the scenic harbor frame. It is very quiet here to listen for the bird calls through the lush nature where Grand River converges into Lake Erie. Headland Dunes State Nature Preserve offers spectacular views of the ocean-like coastline on the western tip of the Grand River's mouth.
The waterfront is under the watchful eye of the 1925 Fairport Harbor West Breakwater Light. The shorefront Fairport Harbor Marine Museum and Lighthouse reiterates how the replica replaced this 1871-era Grand River Light, now Ohio's first lighthouse museum, with tours to the top and keeper's dwellings. The Lakefront Park offers serene sands to relax, go swimming, and explore with a picnic. Plan a beachfront escape this summer for the cultural celebration courtesy of the Finnish Heritage Museum, with displays on how the Finns shaped Fairport Harbor. It makes for a relaxing getaway, ideal for lakeside living, with fair-priced homes.
Lake Linden, Michigan
Many towns get lost along the jagged shorelines, plus more lakes than the Great Five in the region. The Keweenaw Peninsula is dotted with relics from the copper mining past, perfect for a weekend or a weeklong vacation with so much to explore. Stranded on the northern shore of the tiny Torch Lake, not to be confused with another Torch Lake in the state, Lake Linden offers history and adventures unique to the area.
Lake Linden Campground is a dog-friendly spot to park right in the middle of the lake, next to Lake Linden Disc Golf Course.
Hungarian Falls is an all-season hike in a nature reserve, with roots and rocks to reach the waterfalls. Quincy Mine preserves the past; it was once a mineral extraction plant and now includes museum exhibits and an underground ride to a mine shaft.
Mackinaw City, Michigan
Often a stopover, rather than a destination, Mackinaw City is a hub to linger at the tip of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Home to Michigan Welcome Center, it is like a picturesque farewell for the travelers heading to the UP. The diverse town has something for everyone through local boutiques, restaurants, and attractions, plus distinctly its own flavor, like Jack Pine Lumberjack Shows. Take a stroll down the lively Main for unique souvenirs, gifts, and delicious regional specialties, including a warm fudge sundae at one-too-many places throughout. Mackinaw Area Historical Society Heritage Village recreates the late-1800s village life with restored buildings and programs.
Marquette, Michigan
Home of Northern Michigan University, Marquette is a significant port on Lake Superior's south-central banks. Explore the historic working waterfront, from the late 19th-century Lower Harbor Ore Docks to the circa-1912 Presque Isle Dock in use to this day. The Romanesque Marquette Museum and Lighthouse, circa 1891, dominates with front gables and maritime history exhibits within. Home to the De Vos Art Museum and Upper Peninsula Children's Museum, there's something for every type of tourist. In the evening, check out Forest Roberts Theatre.
It is like a trip back in time along the historic district brick buildings that are classic Americana. Take a stroll along the Dead River to Clark Lambros Beach Park in morning dew. Wright Street Falls is in town, while Presque Isle Park is minutes north along its own 323-acre peninsula. Enjoy wooded trails and scenic cliffs, like Sunset Point, plus picnics and a concert bandshell. The adventurous enjoy Hogback Mountain and Sugarloaf Mountain, accredited as some of the most rewarding hikes in the UP. Breweries and restaurants decorate the waterfront as a perfect vantage point to soak in the sunset.
Northport, Michigan
This peaceful harbor village in northern Michigan overlooks the open waters of Grand Traverse Bay. Accessible via M-22, one of Michigan's most scenic coastal byways, and the rather remote locale adds to a real sense of escape. The anticipation pays off with first impressions of the stunning views of Lake Michigan. The marina is a postcard-worthy shot of sailboats and fishing vessels against the sparkling bay. Thanks to the peninsula's favorable microclimate, Northport enjoys a one-of-a-kind landscape marked with vineyards and flourishing orchards along the coastline. Typical of hidden gems, expect first-class hospitality at small-town cost, like the fairly priced Bayshore Cabins.
Replete with cultural attractions like the Northport Area Heritage Association, Northport's peaceful ambiance and natural splendor inspire the creation and viewing of art through local galleries by regional artists. From Braman Hill Recreation Area for picnics to a sledding hill in winter, Yard & Lake is a local bar to vibe with the townsfolk. New Bohemian Café is a morning go-to and a stop to recharge after Northport Trails Trailhead. Outdoors-bound enjoy the nearby hiking and bird-watching trails, often to secluded beaches, like the nearby Leelanau State Park, where Grand Traverse Lighthouse peers over the open waters.
Pentwater, Michigan
Home to the 500-acre Pentwater Lake, Pentwater is an appealing beach escape with a scenic pier and colorful sunsets. Whether you're a boater or a fisher, there are plenty of ways to soak up the scenery on the east-central shore of Lake Michigan. Mears State Park is a recreation destination with a swimming beach, paved campsites, a lodge, and a playground. The great accessibility via the Pentwater River Access Ramp expands adventures and disperses the active along miles of open water. Wedged into both lakes with two waterfronts, the downtown features historic buildings and an eclectic mix of shops, like Storybook Village, to find the perfect read or Sew Lets Be Quilty to get crafty.
Sifting through art galleries and antique shops, relax on a terrace with a drink or the hearty fare at the Brown Bear. The central Village Green is a lush gathering spot with events, moms with strollers, and couples on a stroll. Good Stuffs is popular for breakfast, next to the Cosmic Candy Company Home Of Pentwater Popcorn. So grab a bag of goodies for a stroll to the marina or Pentwater South Pierhead. Just 30 miles south, the rustic Little Sable Point Lighthouse is an 1874 landmark on Lake Michigan.
Sister Bay, Wisconsin
Sister Bay is wedged into an inlet on the Green Bay of Lake Superior. Starting at a cozy coffee shop, the bay calls you for the day to toss a Frisbee on the waterfront or jump off the dock. There are plenty of attractions downtown, with nearly 2,000 feet of public waterfront, to soak up the views on a stroll, plus patios and decks, or pack a picnic for the beach. Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant & Butik is a state-wide destination, with goats grazing the sod roof atop a casual log cabin, serving traditional Swedish fare.
Suttons Bay, Michigan
Named after a turquoise bay on Little Traverse Bay of Lake Michigan, a trip to Suttons Bay is a loopy drive worth making. The area is rich in agriculture and grape-growing, with nearby wineries, including 45 North Vineyard & Winery. After a morning at Chimoski Bakery, 45th Parallel Park is a landmark just up the shorefront scenic MI-22. Whether you're touring Michigan wine country, taking a foliage hike at Leo Creek Preserve, or snowshoeing around Bahle Park, which is all dog-friendly, Suttons Bay is beautiful in every season.
The glittering bay sets the mood with a fishing pier, a boat launch, and a beach to relax in the sounds of the waves. Suttons Bay Beach downtown offers kid-friendly shallows and great sailing at the fingertips of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Boating enthusiasts enjoy easy access via their own vessel, with a marina to dock and explore the historic downtown shopping district. From gorgeous golf courses to bike rentals through the rolling landscapes, it is all about leisure. Hop aboard the Inland Seas tour, do a tasting in Michigan's wine country, or explore the nature trails at your pace. V.I. Grill is not to be missed in a friendly, no-frills atmosphere with a patio, American comfort chow, and local brews on tap.
Tobermory, Ontario
At the northern tip of the Bruce Peninsula, Tobermory offers unique attractions. Take a rugged trail through Bruce Peninsula National Park, then swim in the crystal-clear Georgian Bay, and relax by a campfire. The Grotto and Cyprus Lake is a hyped-up hike to some of the best natural rock formations and ancient caves to explore. Washed over by the two natural deep harbors, enjoy the scenery from Little Dunks Bay Lookout.
Big and Little Tub, the twin harbors in Tobermory, attracted fishermen in the late 1800s. Tobermory is a jewel of Canadian vacations on the Great Lakes, perfect for an escape from the US, with boat access plus electric vehicle chargers at select roadside accommodations. The incredibly clear waters attract scuba divers from around the world, plus glass-bottom boat tours, available, like Tobermory’s Blue Heron Cruises, to a 19th-century shipwreck. During summer, take advantage of beginners’ lessons and rentals for scuba diving or boat excursions through Fathom Five National Marine Park.
Vermilion, Ohio
Vermilion, on the southeastern Lake Erie shore, is not far from Toledo. It's easy to self-navigate along storied streets with local businesses like Brummer’s Homemade Chocolates at the fingertips of Main Street Beach. The Old Vermilion Jailhouse Bed and Breakfast is a memorable stay. Vermilion has a relaxed atmosphere and playful vibe, like the annual rubber duck races at McGarvey's Landing. Chronicling its past on a walking tour with local lore, notable sites, and well-preserved architecture, stop at the Vermilion History Museum. The swimmable Lake Erie waters and sandy shores attract kayakers and fishers to gather in view of the charming Vermilion Lighthouse.
The historic landmark is a picturesque backdrop while kayaking and fishing against a glimpse into the rich maritime heritage. Enjoy expansive Lake Erie views and the lighthouse just east at Sherod Park, a dog-friendly spot on the banks with large grassy areas to kick a ball, plus a great playground and a coveted pavilion. Follow the Vermilion River, snaking directly through the heart to the scenic boardwalk for sunset strolls and public boat ramps. Vermilion River Reservation offers serene shaded trails for leisurely strolls and picnics under mature tree growth, plus a prime spot for bird watching. The top-rated Paper Moon Vineyards & Winery is just inland on the doorstep of Willow Creek Golf Course.
Now is the perfect time to escape in the clear springtime weather or plan a summer getaway. Fresh and vivid from the morning dew along the sloping banks, fill the days with adventures under the sunny skies and beachfront family fun like sailing, swimming, and sunbathing until the lakes fizzle out the sun.
