Best Small Towns to Visit in Michigan On Your Next Trip
Often overlooked in favor of their larger, flashier counterparts, small towns are the unsung heroes of any state’s travel brochure. Michigan, blessed with an abundance of scenic landscapes, cultural diversity, and a rich history, is no exception. It boasts an impressive selection of small towns, each radiating its unique charm and allure. Venturing into these towns offers you an intimate experience, one that’s steeped in local culture, history, and natural beauty.
Here are five unique, charming, and absolutely unforgettable small towns in Michigan that you should consider for your next trip. Prepare to be inspired, captivated, and charmed by these hidden gems of the Great Lakes State.
Top Five Small Towns To Visit In Michigan
1. Saugatuck
Fondly referred to as the “Art Coast of Michigan,” Saugatuck offers an exceptional blend of culture and natural beauty. The town brims with art galleries, craft studios, and theaters, making it a paradise for art enthusiasts. From the annual art festivals and open-air concerts at Wicks Park to the independently owned boutiques lining Butler Street, you will find creativity at every turn.
Explore the tranquil Oval Beach, which has earned accolades from National Geographic Traveler for being one of the top freshwater beaches in the USA. Also, don’t miss a chance to witness a spectacular sunset on a dune ride at Saugatuck Dunes State Park.
Where to Stay in Saugatuck
For those journeying in an RV, the Saugatuck RV Resort provides a serene and comfortable stay. Nestled on the shores of Goshorn Lake, this campground is ideal for those who love water sports, with facilities for fishing, boating, and even a sandy beach for swimming. Each site features full hook-ups and picnic tables, ensuring you have a hassle-free camping experience.
2. Traverse City
As the cherry capital of the world, Traverse City has more than its share of sweet delights. The annual National Cherry Festival held in July attracts visitors from all over the country. If you’re a food and wine lover, indulge in the numerous wineries and farm-to-table restaurants that offer tastings and tours. This gastronomic journey highlights the rich agricultural abundance of the region.
Explore the quaint downtown area with its eclectic boutiques and enjoy the panoramic views of the Grand Traverse Bay. If you visit in autumn, a drive through the Old Mission Peninsula offers a spectacular display of fall colors.
Where to Stay in Traverse City
The Holiday Park Campground is an excellent choice for RV campers. This serene, pet-friendly campground features shaded, wooded sites and private beach access to Silver Lake. Each site has full hook-ups, and the grounds offer Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a playground for the kids.
3. Frankenmuth
Stepping into Frankenmuth is like stepping into a Bavarian village. This Michigan gem, known as “Little Bavaria,” celebrates its German heritage with festivals, architecture, and food. Take a leisurely riverboat tour on the Cass River and be sure to savor the world-famous chicken dinners at Zehnder’s or the Bavarian Inn.
Christmas cheer is year-round at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store, where you can browse through holiday decorations, ornaments, and collectibles spread across the sprawling 7.35-acre building.
Where to Stay in Frankenmuth
The Frankenmuth Jellystone Park is an excellent spot for RV camping. This family-friendly campground offers full-hookup RV sites, plus numerous amenities such as a pool, game room, mini-golf course, and outdoor theater. You can even rent a bike to explore the park and surrounding areas.
4. Petoskey
Petoskey, known for the fossilized rugose coral named after the town, is a haven for outdoor and history enthusiasts. Hunt for the unique Petoskey stones along the shorelines or immerse yourself in the stunning Victorian architecture of the Historic Gaslight District.
Be sure to take a scenic drive along the famous M-119 corridor, also known as the Tunnel of Trees, a serene and picturesque route that is especially breathtaking in the fall. Literary buffs can delve into the town’s connections with Ernest Hemingway, who spent many summers here in his youth.
Where to Stay in Petoskey
Petoskey RV Resort offers luxury RV camping with its resort-style amenities. It boasts a heated outdoor pool, a grand lodge with a fireplace and billiard room, a fully equipped fitness center, and planned activities for guests. It’s a comfortable base from which to explore the many treasures of Petoskey.
5. Mackinaw City
Mackinaw City, the gateway to the scenic Upper Peninsula, teems with history, culture, and natural beauty. Visit the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, a beacon of the past that offers stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge and the Straits of Mackinac. A ferry ride to Mackinac Island is a must for a step back in time to a place where cars are replaced by horse-drawn carriages.
Stroll down the main street, Central Avenue, where unique shops and restaurants offer delightful local crafts, foods, and beverages. Don’t forget to try the world-famous Mackinac Island Fudge.
Where to Stay in Mackinaw City
Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping is a dream destination for RVers. The 200-acre park has over a mile of shoreline on Lake Huron, providing breathtaking views of the Mackinac Bridge. The campground has both modern and rustic campsites, a natural beach, hiking trails, and a mini-golf course.
Wrapping Up
Discover the heart of Michigan not through its bustling cities, but through its charming, serene, and cultural small towns. Each town paints a different picture of Michigan’s diverse history, culture, and natural beauty. Happy travels!
Pro-tip: Don’t forget to secure your RV rental for visiting Michigan’s small towns with RVnGO!