6 Most Eccentric Towns in the Great Lakes
Is it about time you tried something a bit more offbeat? If you are feeling eccentric or tired of the same old trips, far more interesting things are guaranteed to tickle your fancy in the small towns around the Great Lakes region of North America. The Great Lakes also cover the Canadian province of Ontario, but before the five large freshwater lakes made for some really eccentric towns, these lands were inhabited by many cultures, including Paleo-Indians, long before European settlements began to emerge. The hot summers and cold winters make the Great Lakes perfect for fishing and boating, hiking and exploring national parks, or, for most, visiting the infamous Niagara Falls. If you have been looking for something new to spice up your holidays, do not discount the following towns!
Saugatuck, Michigan
One of the quieter towns that overlook Lake Michigan, Saugatuck is located along the Kalamazoo River, which flows into the famous Great Lake. Incidentally, one of the best beaches in the U.S., Oval Beach, sits by the sledding dunes thanks to its sandy shores and breathtaking views. If the weather is unfavorable, however, you can still ride on the historic Saugatuck Chain Ferry—one of the last remaining hand-cranked ferries in the country! There is much to explore in this eccentric town, from the Saugatuck Dune Rides to the Saugatuck South Pierhead where locals like to fish and watch the sunset. If yours is an even more active lifestyle, then Crow's Nest Trailhead is a great place to stretch those legs, but a hike there is not complete without reaching Crow’s Nest Overlook—a top-tier scenic spot.
Charlevoix, Michigan
Another town along the coast of Lake Michigan, Charlevoix, enjoys many advantages. The Depot Beach Park sits on the shore of Lake Charlevoix, which feeds into Lake Michigan after passing through Round Lake. The entire path is a visual treat, and if you continue heading west past the connecting lake, you will likely come across the Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse, which leads to the Great Lake. However, it is most often the starting point for a boat route to Beaver Island. What really sets this town apart, though, is the petunia-lined streets during the summer months and the whimsical architecture of the Mushroom Houses. Try The Mushroom Houses Rentals for something a little off-beat, just a minute away from the Dragon On The Roof—a cool tourist attraction that usually catches visitors by surprise!
Bayfield, Wisconsin
On the shores of Lake Superior, you will find a town worth more than just a detour. There is much to do in this small town of Bayfield, commonly known as the gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Bayfield maintains its Victorian-era buildings and has a rich history you can unravel over at the Bayfield Heritage Association Inc. Visitors of culture are sure to enjoy the Eckels Pottery and Fine Craft Gallery before embarking on a hike along the Brownstone Trail, which is also near Dobson Park—a hidden gem where the flowers and lily ponds invite a moment of pause. A trip to Lake Superior would not be complete without a visit to Washington Avenue Beach, so be sure to come prepared for all kinds of activities!
Leland, Michigan
A small town that is also home to Fishtown. Leland features a historic fishing village with preserved shanties near Avenue A Lake Michigan, just along the Leland River. Pictures would not do this place justice; it is quite an experience to enter Historic Fishtown, and the rest of the town is no less significant. Leland is known for its smoked fish and local wineries, such as Verterra Winery. You may also want to leave room for ferry rides, which are famously used to reach the Manitou Islands, or just enjoy the sand at Reynolds Street Beach. If you are really interested in the history of this place, a trip to the Leelanau Historical Society Museum might give you a fascinating glimpse into the area's past, perhaps followed by a pleasant stroll down Nedows Bay.
Grand Marais, Minnesota
Hosting the annual Fisherman's Picnic since 1927, this Minnesota town has celebrated its fishing heritage with fish burgers, live music, and a parade. The next event is scheduled for July 31 this year, should you find yourself on the North Shore of Lake Superior. There are several historic and scenic spots around the Grand Marais Harbor, including the Grand Marais Lighthouse and the Grand Marais Lower Range Light Beacon Station. As you explore the bay, be sure to take time to stroll around Artist's Point—the true gem of this town. Here, you will encounter marine life, rocky shores, and breathtaking views along the concrete walkway.
Port Stanley, Ontario, Canada
Indeed, the Great Lakes cover more than just one country. The north shore of Lake Erie shares territory with both the USA and Canada, and that is where you will find Port Stanley, along with the Port Stanley Terminal Rail. If you are a fan of heritage railways and scenic train rides, this town offers something unique—especially if sandy beaches and fishing boats are not your main focus. Port Stanley Beach is still worth a visit, though, even if one does not intend to spend an afternoon admiring the Great Lake. The Port Stanley Visitor's Centre is adjacent to the Port Stanley Terminal Rail, but a good idea would be to head south of town immediately upon arrival to get a look at the Port Stanley Light Beacon Stations; conveniently, the Port Stanley Pier is also part of Hofhuis Park!
Soaking in the sights while gazing toward the horizon has a humbling effect that grounds you and reminds you that your problems are nowhere near as big as the big blue. The Great Lakes tend to have that effect, and that is why a trip to these towns can provide extra relief than the standard vacation spot. Adding an extra layer to your journey, whether a lakeside view or something eccentric, is a lot like adding the secret ingredient to your go-to dish—it might never feel the same without it! The best part of trying out new flavors is learning some unexpected combinations while expanding your palate.
