9 Most Underrated Cities In Michigan
Michigan is full of well-known destinations, but its most rewarding gems often fly under the radar. Beyond the bustling streets of Detroit and the sandy shores of Traverse City, you’ll find charming, lesser-known cities that offer unique experiences and unforgettable adventures. From the historical allure of Sault Ste. Marie, home to the fascinating Soo Locks and the vibrant arts scene in Midland with its iconic Tridge and Dow Gardens, are underrated cities that highlight Michigan’s diverse appeal. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty, rich history, or cultural treasures, these lesser-known spots are worth a visit.
Alpena
Along the shores of Lake Huron, Alpena is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs. Known as the “Sanctuary of the Great Lakes,” it is home to Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, where over 100 historic shipwrecks lie beneath the waves, drawing divers from around the globe. Paddle through the serene waters of Alpena Wildlife Sanctuary, where visitors might spot herons and otters.
Rockport State Recreation Area has fossil beds to explore and scenic trails, such as the Besser Natural Area Trail, which winds through old-growth forests and leads to an abandoned 19th-century village. Mich-E-Ke-Wis Park has stunning lake views and is a perfect spot for picnics and beachcombing. Downtown Alpena is also full of places to explore, like Brush Creek Antiques, selling worldly finds, as well as eateries such as The Fresh Palate, known for its farm-to-table dishes.
Grand Haven
Grand Haven, perched on Lake Michigan’s eastern shore, exudes small-town charm and stunning waterfront beauty. The Grand Haven South Pierhead Lighthouse and historic South Pier create a picture-perfect backdrop for sunsets, drawing visitors and photographers alike. The Grand River meanders through town, perfect for kayaking and fishing, while forested trails like the winding paths of Duncan Woods and the adventurous Mulligan’s Hollow Bike Trails invite exploration.
Families flock to Grand Haven State Park, where golden sands and gentle waves create a quintessential beach day. After soaking up the outdoors, head to the boardwalk for waterfront dining at popular spots like Snug Harbor or The Kirby House, both serving local flavors with lakefront views. Stroll through the downtown shops filled with artisan goods, or end the evening at the Grand Haven Musical Fountain. This synchronized display of water, lights, and music enchants visitors nightly in the summer, adding a magical touch to this lakeside retreat.
Petoskey
Petoskey is Situated on Little Traverse Bay's sparkling waters, an enchanting waterfront town. The Gaslight District, known for its 19th-century architecture, invites leisurely strolls through boutique shops, antique stores, and gourmet eateries like Palette Bistro, where lake views enhance every meal.
Nature lovers will find plenty to explore at Petoskey State Park, where sandy shores meet wooded dunes, and trails like the Old Baldy Trail have stunning panoramas of Lake Michigan. For a different kind of adventure, the Bear River Valley Recreation Area features scenic walking paths and an exhilarating whitewater kayaking course along the rushing Bear River. Fossil enthusiasts can comb the shoreline for Petoskey stones, which are specific fossilized coral found only in this region.
Marquette
As the largest city in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Marquette is one of the most beautiful, underrated towns in the state. The vast waters of Lake Superior provide a breathtaking backdrop for year-round adventures. Hike, bike, ski, or snowshoe on trails like the Iron Ore Heritage Trail, which connects Marquette to Ishpeming, or visit Sugarloaf Mountain, where a short but rewarding climb leads to sweeping panoramic views of the city, forests, and lake. In summer, kayaking along the shoreline from the Founders Piers is a great way to take in the city, while winter allows for ice climbing on frozen cliffs.
Nearby, Presque Isle Park has scenic drives, abundant wildlife, and idyllic spots like Sunset Point, perfect for catching unforgettable views. History lovers can explore Marquette’s iron mining heritage at the Marquette Maritime Museum or stop by the Marquette Regional History Center.
The vibrant downtown area features craft breweries like Blackrocks Brewery, cozy cafes, and a thriving arts culture that captures the heart of this dynamic lakeside city.
Holland
Holland’s rich Dutch heritage makes it a standout destination in Michigan. Each spring, the city comes alive during the world-famous Tulip Time Festival. Millions of tulips blanket the city’s parks and streets for one week, with highlights like Windmill Island Gardens, home to the historic De Zwaan windmill, and Centennial Park, where tulip-lined pathways create a picture-perfect scene. Parades, traditional Dutch dancing, and cultural performances bring an extra layer of festivity, making this an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
Beyond the festival, Holland’s natural beauty shines through its connection to Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan. Holland State Park includes pristine beaches with breathtaking views of the iconic Big Red Lighthouse, perfect for relaxing or enjoying water activities. The Macatawa River Greenway provides scenic kayaking and birdwatching opportunities for a peaceful escape.
Frankenmuth
Like Holland, Frankenmuth also has a European connection, although this time, German. Known as Michigan’s “Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth is a mix of German culture and Midwestern hospitality. Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store, is a must-visit for holiday enthusiasts.
The Cass River flows through the town, providing scenic riverboat tours aboard the Bavarian Belle. This paddlewheel-style boat cruise highlights the town’s history. Also along the river, Heritage Park invites families to enjoy its picnic areas, well-maintained trails, and playgrounds.
The park also hosts events like the Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival. Frankenmuth’s German-inspired architecture enhances the town’s storybook feel, with quaint streets lined by shops of handmade goods, like the intricate wood carvings at Frankenmuth Clock Company or locally made sweets at Zak & Mac’s Chocolate Haus. A visit isn’t complete without indulging in a meal at Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth, where their world-famous chicken dinners—complete with buttery mashed potatoes, fresh-baked bread, and German-style sides—have delighted visitors for generations.
Port Huron
Port Huron, where the mighty Lake Huron meets the St. Clair River, is a maritime treasure often overlooked by travelers. The city’s iconic Blue Water Bridge, a striking feat of architecture, is an excellent option for taking in freighters gliding between the U.S. and Canada. For beachgoers, Lighthouse Beach Park provides sandy shores and picnic spots ideal for a day of relaxation, with the historic Fort Gratiot Light Station standing as a sentinel nearby. The Huron Lightship Museum, housed in a retired floating lighthouse, delves into the region’s nautical history for an immersive look into life on the Great Lakes.
Along the revitalized Blue Water River Walk, you’ll find a scenic pedestrian path framed by public art, native plant gardens, and scenic overlooks that connect visitors to nature and community spirit. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Thomas Edison Depot Museum, housed in a historic train depot, which explores the early life and inventions of one of America’s greatest minds, who spent part of his youth in the city.
Midland
Midland is another standout yet often overlooked destination in Central Michigan. One of Midland’s distinct attractions is the Dow Gardens, a sprawling 110-acre botanical haven featuring meticulously designed landscapes, ponds, and bridges. Within the gardens, the Canopy Walk, the nation’s longest of its kind, elevates visitors 40 feet above the forest floor.
Similarly, outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the Chippewa Nature Center, which boasts over 19 miles of trails along the Chippewa River. The area is teeming with wildlife, including white-tailed deer and red foxes, while birdwatchers may spot species such as great blue herons, red-tailed hawks, and pileated woodpeckers.
Midland’s engineering marvel, the Tridge, is a unique three-way pedestrian bridge that spans the junction of the Chippewa and Tittabawassee Rivers. It has picturesque vistas and is a hub for community events like farmers' markets and festivals. The city also boasts a rich arts and culture scene, with the Midland Center for the Arts hosting diverse performances, exhibits, and educational programs. Visitors can also explore an array of public sculptures downtown, including the Whiting Forest Totem and Wynken, Blynken, and Nod, a whimsical bronze sculpture based on the beloved children’s poem.
Sault Ste. Marie
As Michigan’s oldest city, Sault Ste. Marie is a great place to explore. The St. Marys River, which connects Lake Superior to the lower Great Lakes, is a defining feature of the city. Visitors can marvel at the engineering of the Soo Locks, where massive freighters navigate the height difference between the lakes. Nearby, Rotary Island Park provides peaceful walking trails, riverside picnic spots, and opportunities to observe local wildlife like bald eagles and river otters.
The Tower of History, standing 210 feet tall, offers a 360-degree look at the city, the St. Marys River, and even the Canadian shoreline, making it a must-visit for photographers and history buffs alike. The city also celebrates its Native American heritage at the Niigaanagiizhik Ceremonial Building, which hosts cultural events, art displays, and storytelling sessions that honor the rich traditions of the Anishinaabe people.
Downtown Sault Ste. Marie has a cozy feel, with eateries serving fresh-caught whitefish from Lake Superior and craft beers from local breweries like Soo Brewing Company.
Exploring Michigan’s underrated cities reveals a side of the state that’s as diverse as it is captivating. Whether you’re walking among the towering forests on Midland’s Canopy Walk, admiring panoramic views from Sault Ste. Marie’s Tower of History, or uncovering hidden gems, each destination has its own appeal. Whether planning a getaway, weekend trip, or family vacation, consider venturing off the beaten path to discover a brand-new favorite destination.
