7 Towns in the Great Lakes Region with Vibrant Downtown Areas
The Great Lakes area is as much about beautiful shorelines as about picture-perfect little towns with their tiny downtown areas, putting history, culture, and scenic beauty together. From the lakefront charm of Traverse City to the art-lined streets of Saugatuck, each one of these towns has combined all the ingredients required to create a strong travel appeal. Walking historic districts, visiting art galleries, or just sitting by the water— these are all different experiences not to be missed.
Traverse City, Michigan
Traverse City's downtown pulses with energy as it overlooks grandeur - the Grand Traverse Bay. City Opera House hosts regular performances, and Dennos Museum Center has global art on display. Clinch Park is a tranquil beach hideaway, while some favorite locales include Cherry Republic and Horizon Books. The State Theatre of the 1916 cinema adds to the area's cinematic history with beautiful restoration. And do not miss the Great Lakes Children's Museum for some family-friendly interactive fun along the water. Rounding out your adventure will be the Traverse City Whiskey Co. for a taste of the locals' spirits and the updated Warehouse MRKT in town, which is full of one-of-a-kind boutiques and restaurants.
Petoskey, Michigan
Petoskey's Gaslight District is made up of historic Victorian-homes-turned businesses with boutique shopping and dining. The Crooked Tree Arts Center features changing exhibitions and performances. Stafford's Perry Hotel faces Little Traverse Bay and has views of it, while the Little Traverse History Museum explores the town's past. Pennsylvania Park is a downtown green space perfect for picnicking and is a short walk from Bayfront Park, which offers beautiful lakeside views and a softball field. The town also includes the Symons General Store, an institution since 1956, Kilwins Chocolates for sweets, and the beautiful beach and trail-rich Petoskey State Park, located just outside the downtown area.
Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin
The downtown of Sturgeon Bay reflects its rich maritime history. Exhibits at the Door County Maritime Museum illustrate shipbuilding history, while Third Avenue is a strip of galleries, restaurants, and the Inn at Cedar Crossing. The historic Michigan Street Bridge is a local landmark, while Martin Park offers waterfront green space. Do not be surprised if you are impressed by the Tug John Purves, a restored tugboat that will surely grab the attention of any landlubber. If you are in town, another nice place to visit some skilled local glassblowers at work is Popelka Trenchard Glass. Visitors should also make sure to stop by the historic Birch Creek Music Performance Center, which is just a 20 minute drive away.
Marquette, Michigan
Marquette's downtown combines history with the natural splendor of Lake Superior. For a taste of nautical heritage, one can visit the Marquette Maritime Museum and Lighthouse; on the scenic waterfront is Ellwood A Mattson Lower Harbor Park. The Peter White Public Library displays fantastic architecture, while Presque Isle Park provides a panoramic view of the lake. Blackrocks Brewery is a local favorite hot spot where craft beers are well-known. Other attractions include historic Ore Dock Brewing Co. and the Upper Peninsula Children's Museum, a great place for families to visit.
Saugatuck, Michigan
Creative flair abounds in downtown Saugatuck. The Saugatuck Center for the Arts features performances and exhibitions. Grills and home goods stores line Butler Street. The Star of Saugatuck paddlewheel boat gives a glimpse into history during scenic cruises. Wick's Park, by the river, is a quiet alcove to rest in. Oval Beach is but a short drive from downtown. Nature lovers might want to head to the Saugatuck Dunes State Park to take in some hiking amidst Lake Michigan views, followed by Mount Baldhead Park for overall views and Saugatuck Brewing Company for craft beers.
Bayfield, Wisconsin
Historic downtown Bayfield offers a unique mix of charming architecture blended with scenic views overlooking Lake Superior. Bayfield Maritime Museum and Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Headquarters connect to the area's seafaring past. The Old Rittenhouse Inn is a great place to soak in some history and wind down, and both it and Bayfield Inn are packed with a Victorian aesthetic. Memorial Park offers lakefront green space for picnics or relaxation. Take the Madeline Island Ferry for a memorable trip across Lake Superior. Take a peek at the event schedule of the nearby Big Top Chautauqua, before visiting, because this venue offers concerts and entertainment in a natural outdoor amphitheater.
Charlevoix, Michigan
In downtown Charlevoix, lakeside scenery is combined with historic charm. It contains the Charlevoix Historical Society Museum, which showcases the town's history, along with the architectural curiosity of Earl Young's Mushroom Houses. For shops and local eateries, try Bridge Street, while East Park looks over the marina on Round Lake. The Charlevoix Public Library is situated in one of the most breathtakingly renovated historic buildings. Castle Farms, a genuinely spectacular facility offering flower-filled gardens, lies just outside downtown. Enjoy more of nature at Michigan Beach Park, or take a boat tour around Round Lake to appreciate this town's natural beauty.
The Great Lakes region offers a creative mix of vibrant downtowns and breathtaking natural beauty. Rich in history, culture, and lakeside views, these towns make for ideal destinations. From historic landmarks to local art and all the way to simply relaxing by the water, the Great Lakes towns have their undeniably unique tastes and traditions. Each visit promises a blend of history and modern delight that is well worth the trip.
