7 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in the Great Lakes
The Great Lakes region offers a picturesque and serene oasis in the northern United States. Travelers visit to experience the region's natural diversity, like in Munising, Michigan's Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Meanwhile, others prefer to enjoy the storied culture and wineries of towns like Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, or the alluring harborside like Port Washington, Wisconsin. With these and plenty of other unique sights, there is something for any traveler in these seven breathtaking towns to visit in the Great Lakes.
Holland, Michigan
Holland, Michigan, holds an extraordinary position among the most beautiful small towns in the Great Lakes because of its distinct Dutch character and architecture. The most recognized of its images is the Windmill Island Gardens, a fantastically curated park filled with tulips, walking paths, and stone bridges. A more interactive Dutch experience is available in the makeshift Nelis' Dutch Village, which features themed outdoor activities and attractions, or in the elaborate exhibits of the Holland Museum.
Visitors craving a connection with nature and wildlife can either visit the live animals at the DeGraaf Nature Center or explore the long sandy beaches of the nearby Saugatuck Dunes State Park.
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
Niagara-on-the-Lake is as culturally rich as it is picturesque. Much of its historical identity lives within the Fort George National Historic Site, a reconstructed landmark from the War of 1812, and the Butler's Barracks National Historic Site. Similarly, its cultural significance is best evidenced in the Shaw Festival Theatre, home to the renowned theatre of the annual Shaw Festival. These significant cultural monuments aside, Niagara-on-the-Lake offers beautiful natural scenery in parks like Queen's Royal Park along the waterfront of Niagara River or the reclusive Ryerson Park.
However, the town's greatest acclaim is to its wineries; the local Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate, Inniskillin Wines, and the Konzelmann Estate Winery are all world-class.
Munising, Michigan
Hidden between Lake Superior's Grand Island and the Hiawatha National Forest, Munising is a small town with unique rock formations contradicting the calm lake waters. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is the headline attraction featuring unique views along Indian Head Rock, Chapel Beach, and Mosquito Beach. Those looking for a more immersive experience can head on to Twelvemile Beach, which provides a popular Lake Superior Overlook aside the Au Sable Light Station.
Many travelers explore the Grand Island with a tour from Pictured Rocks Cruises, visiting notable attractions like the Grand Island North Lighthouse and the dramatic Grand Island Ice Caves in the winter season. Back in town, downtown Munising's Binsfield Bayshore Park and Bayshore Marina are the top destinations for a relaxing evening stroll and a picturesque sunset.
Bay Village, Ohio
Bay Village is Lake Erie's lesser-appreciated but most endearing destination. The town is often identified alongside the Huntington Beach Reservation, a large park offering complete outdoor opportunities in hiking, fishing, and walking trails. Most visitors walk along the shoreline of Huntington Beach towards the winding Staircase Zero, ending at the Huntington Beach Lake Picnic Area.
Families often spend time within the park at the Bay Village Parks & Recreation Area or exploring the interactive exhibits and live animal experiences available at the Lake Eerie Nature & Science Center. Meanwhile, Columbia Beach Falls can provide a quieter and more secluded experience along Lake Eerie.
Sackets Harbor, New York
Sackets Harbor is a comfortable getaway placed along the shoreline of Lake Ontario in northeastern New York state. The downtown area holds a distinct history as the home of the Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site and the Sackets Harbor Battlefield, each marking the significant battle of the War of 1812. The town can also be enjoyed for the quaint environment in its downtown area made by top-quality restaurants like the Tin Pan Galley, cafes like the Chrissy Beanz Bakery, and scenic downtown strolls along the Market Square Park. Travelers looking for an out-of-town escape should visit Westcott Beach State Park to enjoy calm beachside and forested walking trails.
Port Washington, Wisconsin
Port Washington, Wisconsin, is the home of intricate parks and docks along its harborfront, making for impeccable views over Lake Michigan. The best opportunity for harbor exploration is in the long walkways of Coal Dock Park, often continuing on to the wharf at Rotary Park and ending at the prominent Port Washington Breakwater Light, a popular town symbol.
Also, visitors can choose between enjoying the beaches of Port Washington South Beach Park, fantastic downtown restaurants like the Twisted Willow, and the stories of the Port Washington Historical Society 1860 Light Station. Ambitious outdoor travelers should follow the coast south towards the bluffs and trails of the Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve.
Marquette, Michigan
Marquette is a small town filled with charismatic downtown streets, unique attractions, and notable natural landscapes. The Lower Harbor Ore Deck is a striking symbol of historic mining and maritime activity in the downtown area, visible from the Ellwood A Mattson Lower Harbor Park and a waterside walk along the Founders Landing path. The town's other prominent image is the Marquette Harbor Lighthouse, a brightly red and picturesque marker of the town's beautiful rocky coastlines. The best opportunities for outdoor exploration include the seascapes of Picnic Rocks Park and the impressively lush Presque Isle Park, known for fantastic swimming on the Black Rocks.
The Bottom Line
The small towns surrounding the Great Lakes can exceed the expectations of any prospective traveler. Whether searching for historical roots in Sackets Harbor, New York, or for wanting a unique cultural experience in Holland, Michigan, every corner of the Great Lakes region can provide a new and surprising opportunity to even the most seasoned travelers. Thus, these seven breathtaking towns in the Great Lakes should be priorities on any travel itinerary to the Northern United States.
