6 Beautiful Small Towns in the Great Lakes Region in 2024
Mother Nature never misses the opportunity to amaze. The Great Lakes are a fascinating testament to her glorious work and generosity to humankind. Sprawling the Canada-US border, the five lakes—Erie, Huron, Michigan, Ontario, and Superior—interconnected within the "Great Lakes Basin" makeup one-fifth of the freshwater supply on Earth. In Munising, visitors can dive into the secrets behind the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore for an unforgettable summer vacation or an anytime escape from the city.
A habitat for innumerable species of plants and fauna in and around the nearly 95,000-square-mile breadth of water, resplendent biodiversity, and beauty drown the small towns. Dotting the almost 9,500-mile total shoreline, there's only one question: which of the Great Lakes speaks to you? Letting the natural beauty speak for itself, these six most beautiful small towns of the Great Lakes Region enrich every visit with a galore of cultural attractions, a beach culture, and unique attractions like lighthouses.
Grand Haven, Michigan
Grand Haven, a small town with a big name, a striking red lighthouse at the end of the long pier, and the Grand River through its heart, flaunts utopia-like surroundings along the Lake Michigan coastline. As a year-round vacation land, it is heaven for beachgoers in the summer, with biking and hiking in the spring and a falltime salmon run. Grand Haven State Park features amenities and concessions along the trails leading to an award-winning beach. Elevate your summer vacation at one of the 174 campsites at Grand Haven State Park Campground. Also here, Imagination Station is a 10,000-square-foot playground with slides and swings designed by local children.
When not chartering a fishing excursion from the City Beach or the North Beach Park with a playground, the active can explore the picturesque North Ottawa Dunes with daunting climbs. Take a hike through the Rosy Mound Natural Area or a hand-in-hand stroll along the boardwalk along Lighthouse Connector Park before an evening show by Grand Haven Musical Fountain, an incredible synchronization of water, music, and lights. Rain or shine, the 1938 Grand Haven South Pierhead Outer Lighthouse is a staple, like the lively, fine dining-lined boardwalk, and there's no off switch in the winter, from sled racing and downhill skiing to snowkiting, snowshoeing, and snowboarding.
Kelleys Island, Ohio
Some two hours from Cleveland, including a ferry ride, Kelleys Island welcomes you to an oasis of daunting natural beauty. Largely undeveloped with rocky shorelines, sandy state beach parks, and lush forests, Ohio's largest Lake Erie Island, promises unforgettable adventures for wildlife and bird lovers. Those seeking relaxation on a quiet getaway can enjoy a popular winery, stop by the reputable Kelleys Island Historical Association, and stay at a waterfront resort overlooking the western shore. From a serene bike ride to the spectacular Glacial Grooves at the northern edge, the world's largest glacial scorching, there's something for every level and interest, like chartering a fishing boat for perch and walleye.
Home to only 256, rent a golf cart and taste the island lifestyle at your own pace, with easy-on-the-eye views between the rocky shoreline and lush forests, and Native American petroglyphs carved into the limestone Inscription Rock. Visitors can enjoy unique live local entertainment and laidback attractions like the Charles Herndon Galleries and Sculpture Garden on the eastern edge. From camping and trails to a sandy Lake Erie beach, Kelleys Island State Park is a dream for nature photographers, explorers, and families seeking simplicity on an outdoor-centric escape. Find everything your comfort-creature heart desires along the small yet perky central downtown area, like clothing and gift stores, miniature golf, karaoke, and restaurants.
Munising, Michigan
Home to just under 2,000 people, Munising is an ideal base for adventurers at the gateway to the rugged wilderness of the Upper Peninsula, Grand Island National Recreational Area, and Alger Underwater Preserve. The charming downtown reveals a vibrant character through local shops, eateries, and galleries like Open Wings, inspired by the surrounding nature. Discover a rich history, culture, local eats—a pastie—and one of Michigan's most beautiful places via a Pictured Rocks Boat Cruise into mid-October. How about a shipwreck from a glass-bottom boat? A stone's throw away, the 42-mile-long Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is ideal for some fun!
Carving sandstone cliffs and caves over time, the gorgeous shoreline protects Lake Superior's sandstone formations like a never-ending source of inspiration. Get the best shots of the formations via an adventurous kayak ride along, and stop by Pictured Rock Lakeshore Park Headquarters just north of town. From boat and kayak tours to hundreds of miles of trails and sandy beaches, visitors can chase after serene waterfalls and historic lighthouses and, in the winter, "the Curtains," an ice climbing wall. Just inland, the 894,836-acre Hiawatha National Forest is rich in natural history and recreational opportunities, while the Munising Falls Visitor Center points you to the attraction itself.
Silver Bay, Minnesota
A diamond in the rough, this Great Lake town nestles on the rugged northwestern shores of Lake Superior's "pointy finger," just 56 miles northeast of Duluth and three miles down from Beaver Bay, the North Shore's oldest community. Silver Bay and its imposing Tettegouche State Park, with craggy bluffs dispelling waterfalls, invite nature enthusiasts and watersport lovers to explore. From the picturesque coastal rocks to sandy picnic areas, boat launches, and even scuba diving, the area's best hiking trails extend into state trails and Superior Hiking Trails. The long Silver Bay Trail meanders just west of downtown, north, towards "twin lakes," Bean and Bear. Whether you're getting behind the wheel for a 14-minute drive south along the coast or lacing up your hiking shoes, the clifftop silhouette of Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is a staple.
The pet-friendly Black Beach Park features three small beaches with black sands, agate rocks, and peachy pebbles, corresponding to the names. Absolutely breathtaking and virtually tourist-free, visitors can explore the unique textures right from the popular Black Beach Municipal Campground. Pitch a tent at the nearby Finland State Forest, and you're jet set for the Superior National Forest, which lights up in fiery foliage around the cerulain Lake Janis in the fall. The best cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and ATV trails lead into the North Woods for endless backcountry adventures through the winter wonderland. From the marina to the library and a beautiful nine-hole golf course with a driving range, no matter the season, the spacious and casual Northwoods Family Grille will hook you with its droolworthy ribs and outdoorsy theme.
St. Joseph, Michigan
Boasting some of the most refreshing and clear waters of Lake Michigan, Southwest Michigan is a perfect summer destination to sunbathe and cool off. Home to five marinas, unique architecture, shops, and other entertainment beyond the waters, St. Joseph ranks among the top beach getaways in Wolverine State. From the blufftop Lookout Park to the sandy Lions Park Beach, the most popular Silver Beach County Park nestles up against both the lake and the St. Joseph River. The towering sand dunes attract photographers and adventurers with breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding areas. After a day of sailing or kayaking, stop by one of the century-old lighthouses for a touchstone with unique architecture and stories of the past.
The lively resort feel downtown juxtaposes the grand Victorian homes where locals and tourists mingle around lovely art pieces, while the iconic Silver Beach Carousel at Silver Beach County Park has been spinning chariots since the early 20th century. Just across the river, Tiscornia Park is a serene place to take in the best lighthouse views from a pier or a picnic pavilion. Beachcombers can take in the scenic beauty of the coastline in search of glass and crinoids to decorate a sandcastle, display on a mantle, or brighten up their own garden back home. In the fall, St. Joseph is crowd-free to lounge on the soft, golden sands over a picnic or a good read, stop by the Curious Kids' Museum, and visit Mutterly Love, a kennel, to say hello to the wagging tails.
Winthrop Harbor, Illinois
Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, just a hop from Chicago and south of Milwaukee, Winthrop Harbor is a dreamy family getaway or a road trip with friends you've been hankering about from behind your work desk. Rich in history and natural beauty for fun discoveries, this tiny town straddles the largest marina on the Great Lakes along the sparkling blue, the largest lake in the world, entirely in one country. From beautiful parks to stunning beaches for water sports, fishing, and paddleboarding, visitors can explore the scenery on a fishing sail with Diamond Ghost Charters. Cook your catch at the campsite or head to the kid-friendly Tropics for the best American cuisine overlooking the Great Lake.
Flaunting over 1,500 boat slips, North Point Marina—a destination for nearly one million visitors every summer—is a magnet for every kind of boater, with public beaches and recreational facilities overlooking great views. Next to the marina, Illinois Beach State Park encompasses 4,160 acres of varied landscape with over 650 species of dune flora and spectacular sand ridge trails through black oak forest tops. Offering camping and picnic spots, visitors can explore the unique environment and access the beaches in moments to relax. Just seven minutes north, lounge on the sands with loved ones at Carol Beach, a real Zen spot, before a lively night out at Harbor Brewing Co.
The Great Lakes Region is endlessly diverse, from the beaches to the dunes, formed during very high water some 4,000 to 6,000 years ago. Deeply intertwined in the region's natural history, each vogue-worthy town inspires with sea-like views of a lake and a spirit for the outdoors. Kelley's Island, home to the world's largest glacial scorching, offers a chance to taste the island lifestyle at your pace between the rocky shoreline and lush forests.
Munising flaunts the 42-mile-long Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, while St. Joseph is a lively resort town with thoughtful art pieces and grand Victorianas. Visitors can enjoy easy access from eight states and Ontario to other popular towns like Grand Haven or aim for the furthest reaches, like the North Woods and a range of beaches.
