8 Slow-Paced Towns to Visit in Michigan
Michigan, the heart of the American Midwest, strikes the perfect balance between the bustling vibe of the Motor City, the beat of Grand Rapids, and countless small towns, some livelier than others. Touching four of the five sea-like Great Lakes—Huron, Michigan, Superior, and Erie—plus many smaller lakes and winding rivers, it is an unreplicable destination to soak up the natural beauty all around. Despite the clear natural advantages and abounding attractions, the small towns encourage you to explore at leisure, reveling in the charms of each.
Gaze upon the beautiful Burt Lake in all the serenity you've been dreaming about after a selfie by Lake Sturgeon Statue and then a picnic at Burt Lake State Park. Discover Mackinac Island, from the architecture along the streets with horse-drawn carriages to the state park, which comprises 80% of the car-free island, housing limestone bluffs, rocky beaches, and forest trails to sites. Sometimes off-beat, sometimes off-the-beaten-path, these towns are waiting patiently to be discovered, like Big Bay, one of the Upper Peninsula's best-kept secrets, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Big Bay
Just half an hour up the Superior's shore from Marquette, visitors enjoy easy access to and from the livelier town via County Road 550, which ends in Big Bay. This small town in a tight embrace of Lake Independence depicts a slow pace harking back at its establishment for the timber industry in the 1800s. Strolling the streets of the compact downtown with its historic wooden structures and brick buildings, you won't find fancy coffee shops or hip bars, nor a consistent cell phone service—perfect for disconnecting from the urban discontent, stepping back both in time and off-the-beaten-path. Once home to a Ford Motor Company automotive plant, in 1944, Big Bay captured the hearts of Henry Ford and his top company executives as a real retreat.
Later, it lit up the silver screen in James Stewart’s award-winning 1959 film “Anatomy of a Murder” as the site of the actual murder. Tooted for its unspoiled environs around the eponymous water body within Lake Superior, the quiet town continues to draw scores for nature-centric escapes to relax or enjoy big lakeside adventures. Offering many hidden spots that extend from Big Bay and its impressive Big Bay Lighthouse from 1896 to the surrounding region of lakes, forests, waterfalls, and hiking trails, Thomas Rock Scenic Overlook is particularly stunning in autumn dress just inland. Home to under 500 people, you won't even miss modern amenities, soaking in the natural charm, far away body and mind from the world hustle.
Charlevoix
Home to historic resorts, the World's Largest Cherry Pie Tin, and the infamous Earl Young Mushroom Houses, life in Charlevoix the Beautiful flows at a relaxed pace along two waterfronts. Its ongoing role in regional maritime activities bridges history with modernity, reinforced by a US Coast Guard station on Lake Charlevoix. Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse, a heritage site on Lake Michigan, without which the town's striking profile would not be complete, is a beacon of the rich seafaring history, a background for daytime strolls and sunset views. Lake Michigan offers beach access points, while a leisurely game of golf has been a local tradition for decades. Stroll through the waterfront CVX TWP Nature Preserve, which has a trail and an observation deck.
Incorporated in 1879 and named after the French explorer Pierre François Xavier de Charlevoix, you can stop by the Charlevoix Historical Society and see the picturesque ruins of the Old Railroad Overpass next to the gardens bounding the smaller lake. Having once hosted notable guests as a prestigious respite and vacation spot, the aesthetic town only got prettier with the years. Seek tranquil reflection at the Memorial Garden amid the meticulously kept greenery of native and adapted species that thrive in Michigan’s climate. Further south, Ferry Beach Park is often uncrowded for family picnics, while Charles A. Ransom Nature Preserve sprawls to the east. Imbibe culture over dinnertime at the Villager Pub, in the heart, along Round Lake, connecting the two larger water bodies.
East Tawas
Home to 2,685, life in East Tawas revolves around Tawas Bay. The natural serenity is apparent between Lake Huron and its own Lake Tawas in the backyard. Centered on East Tawas City Parks & Rec-on the Bay in Downtown East Tawas, it offers 178 campsites with full hookups and amenities. Whether you're in for a day or on a weekend camping trip, join the locals in their favorite craft. Steps from your camping space, the DNR State boat launch ramp offers access to Lake Huron for deep-water boating and fishing. Families enjoy six ball fields and courts, plus three day-use parks, like the picnic area to the west with barbecue grills, a playground, and restrooms. Next to the sandy public beach, the losco County Historical Museum reiterates the county's history for the price of a donation.
The locals enjoy life at a leisurely pace, getting out for a morning jog along the waterfront and a weekend game of golf at one of the many courses on the outskirts. The waterfront area caters to a relaxing feel for all, whether on a stroll after work or feeling the city's pulse if you're a visitor, with its sounds, benches, a playground, a pavilion, and a fountain along the flower-lined walkways. Just south of downtown, Tawas Point State Park offers an immersive natural experience along a jutting peninsula into the bay. From summertime hikes and picnics to leaf peeping in the fall breeze and even ice fishing in the winter, there's also snowmobiling in Losco County and some of the state's best-groomed cross-country trails minutes away within the beautiful Huron National Forest, the Corsair Trail System.
Indian River
Snug up against the sizable Burt Lake and Mullet Lake, Indian River is a quaint marine community under 30 minutes straight south of Mackinac Bridge. Home to 2,100 friendly locals, you can gaze upon the serene Burt Lake, get a selfie by Lake Sturgeon Statue, and dive into Burt Lake State Park. Enjoy the Inland Waterway for paddling and fishing for common brook and brown trout in the river. The picnic and pet-friendly areas really hit the spot among families and nature lovers, while Big Bear Adventures at the park's doorstep offers water tours, winter sports rentals, mini-golf, and ropes courses. Cross in the Woods Catholic Shrine of Indian River is a shrine in a park with a huge crucifixion sculpture and a nun doll museum.
Howe Marine, right at the heart of the Indian River, allows you to explore the surrounding water bodies after breakfast at Christopher’s Cafe. When not soaking up the sun at DeVoe Beach, with a beautiful pier, one of the most unique stops you can make is Chillermania, where Halloween is year-round with both spooky and silly finds. From Seven Springs Nature Preserve to Sturgeon Bay Nature Preserve, Landings Resort & Marina features a tree-lined path along the water edge for strolls and sunset views. Not far off the beaten path yet secluded to the east, five large, wooded, private campsites offer calming surroundings on a bluff over the river, a wooded picnic area, and access to the Indian River Canoe Trail.
Mackinac Island
Despite being a popular vacation spot, this landmark island, consistently ranked among the most scenic in the continental US, features a remarkable commitment to both historical and environmental preservation efforts. With bans on most vehicles, including motorized vessels on Lake Huron, the policy enhances the tranquility of Mackinac and reduces pollution, which helps maintain clean air and the integrity of its landscapes. Scattered throughout the undisturbed environment, the many historic landmarks highlight the slower pace of yesteryear. Played up by captivating geological attractions like limestone caves and the iconic Arch Rock, Pontic Trailhead overlooks grand mansions. Enjoy photoshoots or picnics after an adventurous trek from Sunset Rock to Devil's Kitchen.
In addition, the many architectural wonders downtown complement the natural pursuits while exploring the essentially wild island, bounded by pristine, undeveloped beaches. Encapsulating the grandeur of a bygone era, the Grand Hotel, a national landmark, exudes Victorian elegance, having hosted numerous dignitaries with its expansive veranda and period decor. Get a taste of 19th-century luxury and then reminisce in serenity at the Secret Garden. The horse-drawn carriages on the streets enhance timeless vibes, while Stuart House Museum and the Grand Hotel Stable & Carriage Museum depict the island’s fascinating heritage. Offering insights into the area's rich past, Fort Mackinac reminisces of the pivotal battles in the War of 1812, while Mission Church is Michigan’s oldest.
Marshall
Established as a key fur trading town in 1830, Marshall is a destination to behold and soak up its old world-cham at leisure. Take an immersive journey into America's architectural and civil rights history through the Marshall National Historic Landmark District. Encompassing hundreds of 19th- and early-20th-century meticulously maintained buildings, it is a touchstone worth time admiring. Built by a former US consul to the Hawaiian Islands, Honolulu House showcases a unique blend of Italianate, Gothic Revival, and Polynesian architectural styles. During its annual events, the town transforms into a living history exhibit, like the upcoming Candlelight Walk—blending historical architecture with seasonal cheer along the historic homes decked out in Christmas decor.
The Marshall Historic Home Tour, the longest-running in the Midwest, offers an intimate look at private homes dating back to the 19th century, each beautifully preserved with a different story. Former residents played a pivotal role in helping escaped slaves, like Adam Crosswhite's journey to freedom in Canada. Keeping alive its significant role in the Underground Railroad, the Marshall Historical Museum at GAR Hall provides detailed narratives of the town's involvement in pre-Civil War activities. The American Museum of Magic, aka "the Smithsonian of American Magic," preserves artifacts and stories for a fascinating glimpse into the world of magic arts for every age. The Governor’s Mansion is a real testament to Marshall's formative significance.
St. Ignace
Home to 2,300 at the southern gateway to the UP, St. Ignace is an often overlooked town right in between the lakes Michigan and Superior. Offering affordable hotels, motels, B&Bs, and campgrounds, like those at Straits State Park, explore native history, local attractions, and the exquisite beauty of the lakes. From the beach, scenic bridge views, and a picnic area at the state park, the nearby Bridge View Park offers peaceful lakeside areas and walking paths. The active can take a fishing charter or a boat ride to explore the Straits of Mackinac and the Upper Peninsula. Towering over the Straits of Mackinac from green lushness, Father Marquette National Memorial remembers the 17th-century missionary explorer and the meeting of French and Native Americans in the wildlands. Its gift shop with a birch bark ceiling and walls was handcrafted by local Native Americans.
Wake up to the humbling view to the north of the 195-foot ancient Castle Rock, known as “Pontiac’s Lookout” by the Ojibwa Tribe. It offers an inspiring panorama of up to 20 miles, including Mackinac Island, Lake Huron, downtown St. Ignace, and the wildlife habitat. For a unique perspective of the western shore, Wood Observation Tower is graffiti decorated with a cool gift shop. The 1950 Deer Ranch, the oldest live whitetail exhibit in North America, hosts dozens of native whitetail deer, white deer, and even albino deer. It features a grassy area and a fawn barn, and you can fawn over and pet the little ones. Take a stroll around the Chain Lake and stop by the Museum of Ojibwa Culture at Old Mission Saint-Ignace for native culture, including a longhouse and a crafts shop. St. Ignace Marina is the best for sunset views, overlooking the historic Wawatam Lighthouse.
Tecumseh
Named after the great Shawnee Native American chief, Tecumseh is one of the state's most relaxing, slow-paced towns, home to 8,571. With the River Raisin coursing through and the intruding Mill Pond from the northern side, the air is drenched in serene vibes. Boasting countless water bodies, a number of dams, and village greens, there's plenty of space to decompress on a picnic. The best way to explore the small, meticulous town is to bike around its charming downtown area. Get off for a stroll around the pet-friendly Indian Crossing Trails Park, where you can enjoy a photoshoot and picnic, plus fishing, kayaking, and hiking for miles upon miles along different routes with lots of offshoots.
Just south, Tecumseh Park offers a small beach with a splash pad where families can practice batting or play baseball at the diamond. Surrounded by nearby trails, you can enjoy a leisurely hunt for the 22 fairy doors scattered throughout the city. Don't miss the historic residences in between! Hear those soothing sounds of the rushing waters? Stop for the powerful stance of Standish Dam. In the evening, unwind at Pentamere Winery over locally crafted wines for all tastebuds, or catch a pay at Tecumseh Center for the Arts. Carlton Lodge, a 21+ hotel, offers a pool, fitness center, and a garden, plus a complimentary continental breakfast.
Unwind in Michigan’s Hidden Gems
From charming fishing villages to the quaint countryside gems, escape the hustle away from the ordinary. Whether you call it the “Great Lakes State” or the Mitten State, in reference to its unique shape, there's no hurry in some of its most picturesque small towns in America. Even Henry Ford reveled in the family-friendly feel of Big Bay despite his plant being right on site.
Step back both in time and off the beaten path in Charlevoix, which welcomed prestigious guests for a whole vacation. Fitting the lake environs like a glove, Michigan is fun and convenient to explore. Another unique stop is just a scenic drive away along a Great Lakes shoreline, full of relaxed vibes and pure Michigan activities.
