8 Coolest Towns in Michigan for a Summer Vacation in 2024
Michigan, known for its many lakes and abundance of forests and parklands, is a perfect place to explore and relax in the summer. After a cold, snowy winter in this region of the Great Lakes, what better way to welcome the warmer weather than in a small town in cottage country with a beach, trails to hike on, and many other fun activities to partake in?
Here are 8 of the coolest towns in Michigan to spend your time in this summer. Whether it is an adventure out in nature or a unique cultural experience, there is something for everyone in the "Wolverine State."
Saugatuck
Saugatuck is a lakeside town on the eastern coast of Lake Michigan. Many come here throughout the year to see its numerous galleries and the acclaimed Saugatuck Center for the Arts, which hosts theater performances and art shows.
Saugatuck is probably best known for its proximity to Lake Michigan. Oval Beach, consistently ranked among the top beaches in the country, is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and simple beachcombing. For a more adventurous outing, the Saugatuck Dunes State Park features hiking trails through towering dunes and lush wooded areas. Saugatuck also offers water activities such as kayaking on the Kalamazoo River and leisurely cruises on a classic sternwheeler boat.
Explore the history of this region at the Saugatuck-Douglas History Center, which houses various exhibits and a historic schoolhouse that the public can go inside.
Marquette
On the shores of Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula to the far northern reaches of the state sits Marquette. Marquette's expansive waterfront is a highlight, featuring Presque Isle Park, a 323-acre peninsula with scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and unobstructed views of Lake Superior. The park's famous "Black Rocks" are popular for cliff diving and capturing spectacular sunset photos. For something a little less extreme, McCarty's Cove is a popular chill spot for its sandy shores.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find numerous trails for both hikers and bikers, including the Noquemanon Trail Network, which routes through diverse terrains from dense forests to scenic overlooks on the lake. The nearby Sugarloaf Mountain provides a relatively easier hike with rewarding views from its summit.
Downtown, the Marquette Regional History Center provides insights into the area's heritage, from Native American history to the iron mining era that shaped the town. Marquette also has a heritage that is closely tied with breweries and all things beer. Grab a cold one at breweries like Ore Dock Brewing, Black Rocks Brewing, and more.
Cadillac
Cadillac, nestled in the center of northern Michigan, is situated along the shores of Lake Cadillac and Lake Mitchell. A perfect place for a summer weekend on the water that is not too far from bigger cities like Grand Rapids and Lansing. As you can imagine, this town is perfect for boating, fishing, swimming, and spending time outdoors. The Cadillac Pathway, a network of trails, provides excellent hiking, biking, and bird-watching, meandering through dense forests. Kenwood Heritage Park, located on Lake Cadillac, features picnic areas, a sandy beach, and playgrounds, making it ideal for the whole family.
The Wexford County Historical Society Museum downtown is a fun place to learn more about Cadillac's history, from its roots in forestry to its development as a more modern community. The museum is housed in the historic Carnegie Library building.
Golfers come here for the many world-class courses nearby, including the Eldorado Golf Course and the Evergreen Resort, which offers beautiful and challenging courses in the woodlands outside of town.
Frankenmuth
Frankenmuth, often referred to as "Michigan’s Little Bavaria," is famous for its strong Bavarian culture and aesthetic. The iconic southern German-inspired architecture that can be found downtown, especially along Main Street, is where you can explore specialty shops and traditional German restaurants.
A highlight of Frankenmuth is Bronner's Christmas Wonderland, the world's largest Christmas store, which offers a festive experience year-round, buzzing with customers even in the height of summer. Frankenmuth is also home to the Bavarian Belle Riverboat along the Cass River, which offers narrated historical tours of the area. Families can enjoy the Frankenmuth Aerial Park, featuring zip lines and climbing courses suitable for various skill levels. History lovers will appreciate the Frankenmuth Historical Museum, which further dives into the town’s German heritage and settlement history.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Cass River offers options like paddleboarding and riverboat tours, providing scenic views of the town from its banks.
Ludington
Ludington, located along the shores of Lake Michigan, is a great place for nature lovers to escape the city. The town's expansive beaches, particularly Ludington State Park, provide plenty of opportunities for swimming and sunbathing. The state park also features extensive hiking and biking trails, a historic lighthouse, and more sand dunes.
Downtown Ludington is a great place to go after a day at the beach. The town’s maritime history is highlighted at the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum (conveniently located in the heart of downtown Ludington), which is a place where you can learn and enrich your knowledge of this small port town. The iconic SS Badger, a historic car ferry, is yet another boat you can buy a ticket for a cruise tour on Lake Michigan. For families, Ludington's Waterfront Park features sculptures, playgrounds, and a beautiful marina. The town also hosts numerous summer events, including the Ludington Arts & Crafts Festival and the West Shore Art Fair.
Charlevoix
Charlevoix is situated on a narrow bridge of land between Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix, making it a fun place to visit because of its variety of waterfront parks, such as East Park and Michigan Beach Park. All contain idyllic spots for picnics, swimming, and simply enjoying sunsets over the lake on a summer evening. Boaters take advantage of the town’s well-equipped marina too.
Charlevoix’s downtown core is characterized by unique attractions such as the Mushroom Houses, a collection of whimsical homes designed by architect Earl Young. Guided tours can be booked so you can take a look at the architectural significance and history of these fairy-tale-like structures. The Charlevoix Historical Society Museum also offers a glimpse into the town’s history, featuring exhibits on local heritage and maritime artifacts.
Be sure to take a trip out to the nearby Castle Farms, a historic estate with beautifully landscaped gardens, and the Little Traverse Wheelway, a popular bike path along the shoreline.
Glen Arbor
Glen Arbor is a popular place to stay for visitors going to the famous Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes, with their towering sand formations, are full of breathtaking views and challenging hikes. This town’s proximity to Lake Michigan and Glen Lake also provides everyone who comes here with the ability to enjoy a multitude of water-based activities and beaches to lounge on.
Glen Arbor’s downtown is a hub of local culture, featuring shops, art galleries, and delicious eateries. For a taste of local flavors, the Cherry Republic store is popular for its selection of cherry-themed products, from wines to gourmet foods, made only with the best locally picked cherries.
Port Oneida Rural Historic District is a preserved area showcasing 19th-century farmsteads and historical structures. The district offers guided tours and interpretive trails for you to learn more about this unique area in the north of Michigan's peninsula.
Mackinaw City
At the very northern tip of Michigan's lower peninsula is Mackinaw City, the gateway to the detached upper peninsula. This town also serves as a hub serves as a hub to get to Mackinac Island, with frequent ferry services making it easy to explore both locations. This island is a state park with a mix of natural attractions and historic landmarks dating back to 1780.
One of the city's standout attractions is the Colonial Michilimackinac, an 18th-century fort and trading post turned living history museum. Here, you can witness reenactments, tour reconstructed buildings, and learn about the area’s colonial history. Adjacent to the fort is the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, which is an ideal place to get a view of the Straits of Mackinac and partake in guided tours throughout the area
Take time to check out the nearby Headlands International Dark Sky Park, an excellent location for stargazing and experiencing the wonders of the night sky. The surrounding area offers ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Great Lakes region.
Find Your 2024 Summer Escape in Michigan
From its many pristine beaches to its forested parks, historic landmarks, and cultural attractions, Michigan is a place that just begs to be explored this summer; you just need to know where to look. Hopefully, these 8 towns will provide you with a great starting point to plan your next road trip as the weather starts to get warmer. These are but a few of the potential small towns that you should visit, whether you are a resident or just a visitor in Michigan.
