7 Most Quaint Small Towns in Michigan
Michigan, a bustling state in the Great Lakes region of the United States, is a wellspring of activity. From the urban metropolis of Detroit to its historic automobile industry, there is no end to the culture flowing through the streets. To this end, people from all over come to Michigan to take part in its amazing vibe. However, many people overlook the beautiful scenery and tranquil environment hidden within. With amazing small towns scattered throughout the state, adventurers can find iconic retreats for a quaint vacation. Combining Michigan’s Great Lakes with shops and eateries, these towns are a blast for everyone!
Leland
Leland is a scenic waterside destination in Michigan’s Leelanau County. Home to less than 500 residents, one can sit back and enjoy the calm atmosphere without noisy crowds. As you walk along the coast, you’ll have a range of options to choose from as the town is surrounded by Lake Leelanau, Lake Michigan, and the Leland River. For example, enjoy a classic beach experience along Lake Michigan at Van’s Beach. Reminiscent of a Caribbean Island, the beach boasts stunning scenery and lots of parking for an ideal day of sunbathing. Meanwhile, tourists can also opt for the historic Fishtown area which rests along the Leland River. Featuring endless rows of historic buildings, shanties, and docks, one can appreciate the fishing history of Leland. With these and tons of other waterside sights, you’ll never want to leave the coast!
That said, if you do roam into town, Leland has a range of fun things for everyone. While adults can grab a drink at the nearby Chateau Fontaine winery, kids will love watching the friendly fish at Carlson’s Fishery. No matter what you plan on doing, be sure to check out Benjamin Maier Ceramics before you leave. With tons of handmade ceramics, it is the perfect place to grab some souvenirs for your mates back home. All in all, Leland is a calm waterside town that the whole family can enjoy!
Elk Rapids
Similar to Leland, Elk Rapids is another one of Michigan’s hidden coastal gems. Centered between Elk Lake and Grand Traverse Bay, it boasts an expansive waterfront steeped with charming establishments. To this end, aquaphiles rejoice at the lovely waterside attractions such as Dam Beach, Elk Rapids Golf Course, and Elk Rapids Day Park. From playing volleyball in the sand to teeing off, these locations boast a lovely backdrop of clear waters. If you’re looking for complete silence, walk over to Elk Rapids Day Park in the southern end of town. Astray from civilization, it offers a natural reprieve of greenery where visitors can go hiking, biking, or just relax!
The scenic coast of Elk Rapids is intertwined with amazing stories as locals share their stories of fishing, boating, and more. If you’re interested in learning more, head into downtown Elk Rapids which is filled with life and culture. Breweries, galleries, antique shops, and restaurants are just a few of the fun buildings in the lively area. So, you can enjoy a bit of urban charm in this small town!
Traverse City
Traverse 30 minutes southwest of Elk Rapids and you’ll find yourself at the beautiful abode of Traverse City. The county seat of Grand Traverse County, this town offers a mix of urban amenities with rural charm. From the picturesque coastline along the West Arm of Grand Traverse Bay to lively streets, tourists rush to this charming town. If you’re looking for a completely relaxing experience, head away from the town center to one of the many outdoor attractions. For example, golfers can tee off at Traverse City Country Club, an established 18-hole golf course coveted by thick foliage and blue water. If the water sounds enticing, why not head in? With a boat ride into the majestic Traverse Bay, one will be engulfed by the soothing sound of waves and water. Moreover, Companies like Nauti-Cat offer various routes so you can choose the right tour for your budget and interests. While this is enough for any nature lover, if you’re still up for more, drive 30 minutes to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for 35 miles of waterside dunes.
Featuring a population of 15,700, Traverse City is bustling with life. So, while you can spend your days with Mother Nature, why not head into town during the evening? As you enter the downtown area, it’ll feel like you’re in a major city with plenty of hotels, shops, and restaurants lining the streets. For example, art lovers adore the Dennos Museum Center, a collection of more than 3,000 historic works of art. Meanwhile, foodies can stop by the Towne Plaza for some lovely American food complemented by great ambiance and service. With these and dozens of other sites, you’ll probably need a long weekend to enjoy all of Traverse City.
Tecumseh
Tecumseh, one of the original Michigan territory colonies, is a lovely town steeped in history. Named after a Shawnee chief, it was once a vital crossroads for Native Americans known as “The Dancing Grounds.” While Native American occupation dwindled in the 1900s, the town still holds true to its ethnic roots. So, visitors interested in a historic angle to their quaint vacation can check out some of the cultural destinations in town. Tecumseh Historical Museum is a great place to start as it showcases the town’s intricate story and paints a picture of the past. Following this, one can visit Lawnee County’s First Settlement, a log cabin from 1824 that housed the first true residents of the town. Even if you don’t visit these sights, the Native American culture is prevalent through street names, infrastructure, and local stories.
In the present, Tecumseh is a wonderful place for a laid-back weekend. Whether you are into watching a musical or sipping on some wine, there is something relaxing for everyone. For example, recover from stress at the wellness center, Tranquility Mind Body Soul. Providing spiritual practices and energy healing, you’ll have no trouble attaining inner peace in this mystical sanctum. As you re-enter society as a new person, why not celebrate with a drink at Pentamere Winery? Red, white, sparkling, and rosé are just some of the delicious spirits available to taste.
Mackinac Island
Back to Michigan’s alluring coastline, Mackinac Island is a dream destination! Often ranked as one of the most beautiful islands in the continental U.S., it boasts charming viewpoints of the majestic Lake Huron. Intertwined in the natural beauty is an interesting past palpable throughout the attractions. For example, tourists adore the Mackinac Island State Park for its geological and historic features. From a geological perspective, limestone caves, waterside rock formations, and pretty beaches make it a sight for sore eyes. Among these, Arch Rock stands tall jutting nearly 150 feet above the water for the perfect picture spot. On the historic side, Fort Mackinac, Mission Church, and Fort Homes will take one back in time. From the War of 1812 to Michigan’s oldest church, these sites are full of unique tales! If the park isn’t enough, travelers can also head into the open waters of Lake Huron with Mackinac Island Ferry Co. Offering a relaxing venture coveted by the sound of splashing waves, it is the perfect way to relax in Michigan. Add on the peaceful surroundings bolstered by Mackinac Island’s 600 residents and you have the perfect quaint small town in Michigan.
Munising
Munising is more than just a town; it's a slice of Mother Nature hidden behind the vibrance of larger cities. Snuggled along the southern shore of Lake Superior in the Upper Peninsula, the entire town has an upbeat vibe rarely found elsewhere. As you walk through town, the glistening coastline follows you providing a myriad of adornments for a calming environment. Among these sights, several protected areas shine in the eyes of outdoor enthusiasts. For example, the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a prime attraction emanating Michigan’s natural beauty. Filled with beaches, waterfalls, dunes, and sandstone cliffs, one can take many viewpoints to adore the turquoise waters of Lake Superior. Moreover, hiking is a great way to enjoy the park as there are more than 100 miles of trails through thick foliage and steep cliffs.
If you’re willing to put in the effort, hike over to one of the most unique natural monuments in the region, Miners Castle Rock. Jutting out above the cliffside, this limestone formation places you above the soothing waters for an out-of-body experience. After you re-enter your body (metaphorically speaking), Munising is also a wellspring of sights inland. Munising Falls and Miners Falls make up two cascading waterfalls perfect for a picture and memories you’ll keep for a lifetime. With these and tons of other outdoor opportunities such as boating, swimming, and biking, Munising is the epitome of waterside grandeur.
Saugatuck
Saugatuck is a quintessential name when it comes to amazing small towns in Michigan. Originally a lumber town and port, the 19th century saw a shift transforming Saugatuck into a creative art colony. Building upon this, the town of 865 is now a reprieve of seaside culture with endless tourist attractions. To this end, people from all over flock to the lovely galleries, marinas, scenery, and conversations overflowing here. Dive straight into the appeal with a stroll through Butler Street, the main street of downtown Saugatuck. Lined with all sorts of boutiques, shops, and venues, art lovers can choose between a range of attractions like Ox-Bow School of Art & Artists Residency, Amazwi Contemporary Art, and James Brandess Studios & Gallery. Whether you want to learn about painting or check out some local pieces, these spots showcase endless creativity. As you begin to tire from all the walking, why not grab something to eat? Stop by Phil’s Bar & Grille for some delicious scallops with a side of chilled beer to recharge your batteries.
While the town has a peaceful vibe to it, some people might not be into roaming crowded streets. In that case, the town’s natural hotspots are ideal destinations. Specifically, Saugatuck Dunes State Park enjoys a state-wide reputation as one of the most scenic retreats for tourists. Featuring 1,000 acres of undulating dunes, clear beaches, and thick foliage, you’ll forget being near civilization. Moreover, there are plenty of ways to have a blast such as swimming, hiking, and wildlife watching. So, clear your mind of any tension and book your trip to Saugatuck now!
These quaint small towns in Michigan offer an array of lovely sights that’ll take away the stress in your life. Whether you enjoy the coastal beauty of Elk Rapids or the historic stories intertwined in Mackinac Island, there is something for everyone. Moreover, with the majestic Grand Lakes spanning throughout, waterside activities and sports are commonplace in Michigan. So, plan your trip today for a relaxing retreat in this upper Midwestern state of America.
