Stay: AmeriInn By Wyndham, Petoskey
Overlooking the Grand Traverse Bay, the AmeriInn by Wyndham in Petoskey is a beautiful place to make your home base.
With a relaxing spa bath and 24-hour indoor pool, you’ll be able to relax in comfort. You won’t need to take dirty clothes home since there’s a Laundry facility on site.
Start your day with a continental breakfast, and end your day with a hot chocolate chip cookie (Sunday to Thursday).
26. St. Ignace
If you will be in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, you must add St. Ignace to your list! A designated Michigan Trail Town, you can enjoy outdoor dining over Lake Huron.
Plus, there is a ferry service to Mackinac Island, lakeshore lodgings, trails to explore, fantastic food, shopping, and entertainment options.
No matter what you’re looking for, St. Ignace has it all!
Stay: Bavarian Haus Lakefront Inn
With balcony views of the gorgeous Lake Huron from each room, the Bavarian Haus Lakefront Inn will surely please even the pickiest person!
Enjoy bright and spacious rooms with your own private balcony and bathroom. Feel like taking a dip? There’s a heated indoor pool, two whirlpool hot tubs, and a sauna.
Plus, there’s an exercise room, sundecks, and a volleyball area. This Inn is the sort of place you visit and leave feeling refreshed.
27. Cheboygan
Perfect for outdoorsy types, Cheboygan is gorgeous. Marking the eastern gateway to the Inland Waterway (a water trail that goes for 40 miles!) Cheboygan has lots of water activities.
Boat or fish up the Cheboygan River, check out a lighthouse tour, and shop and dine while you’re there.
Stop by Kilwin’s for the best ice cream you’ve ever tasted!
Stay: The Monarch Motel
You can’t do much better for simple but clean rooms than the Monarch Motel in Cheboygan. Each room has a bed, flat-screen tv, air conditioning, and a private bathroom.
While this isn’t the place to go if you want all the bells and whistles, it’s a great home base if you plan to spend your days out and about exploring the beauty of Cheboygan.
28. Gaylord
Right in Northern Michigan, Gaylord is a small town that you’ll find immediately endearing. Step out into the beautiful forests or get out onto the water.
Don’t be fooled; there’s plenty to do in the small town.
Check out the Big Buck Brewery, El Patron Grill, and other fantastic dining options. Enjoy the sparkling lakes and charming downtown area, and rest and relax in this beautiful town.
Stay: Comfort Inn & Suites
23 miles from Monument Golf Course, the Comfort Inn and Suites in Gaylord has a great fitness center, private parking, and a shared lounge.
Perfect for any activity all year round, this hotel has an indoor pool, hot tub, ski storage space, and a complimentary American breakfast every morning.
29. Indian River
Home to the world’s largest crucifix, Indian River is a small town with many tourists. Watch for the new 32-foot-long sturgeon sculpture as you enter the small town!
Located right in the center of the inland water route, you’ll find tons of fun things to do on the water. Head out via kayak, paddle-board, or even go fishing!
Stay: Waterway Inn
You’ll find the Waterway Inn right in Indian River. With air-conditioned rooms and express check-in and check-out, this is the perfect place if you want somewhere comfortable to sleep.
Each room has a seating area, a tv, a coffee machine, and a private bathroom.
Some rooms feature a small kitchen with a fridge, an excellent option for making the most of your food.
30. Charlevoix
Nicknamed ‘The Beautiful,” Charlevoix serves unique looks and vistas from almost every angle.
Visit the wonderful downtown area with microbreweries and fun boutiques, and then stroll over to the sandy shoreline of Lake Michigan.
Visit the hobbit houses that are popping up in the area, and check out the homes created by the whimsical architect Earl Young.
Charlevoix is a great spot with something for everyone, no matter what you want.
Stay: The Earl in Charlevoix
Initially designed by Earl Young, this boutique hotel is the perfect place to stay in Charlevoix.
With modern flair and unique details, it’s also conveniently located near Lake Charlevoix and the downtown.
Plus, you can enjoy an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center. The rooms are enormous, elegant, and brightly decorated, making this a fun place to set up as a home base.
Best Small Towns in Michigan: FAQ
What is the best small town to live in Michigan? The best small town to live in Michigan comes down to what you’re looking for, but Ann Arbor often ranks as the best place to live for the quality of life.
What is the friendliest town in Michigan? All the towns in Michigan are friendly! It doesn’t matter what town you stop in; people will greet you with kindness and a smile.
What is the best small town in Michigan? Each small town in Michigan has loads to offer visitors and residents alike. However, Manistee and Marshall hold a special place in our hearts.
What are the best small lake towns in Michigan to buy a house in? Saugatuck and Grand Haven are the best small lake towns in Michigan to buy a home in.
Conclusion: Best Small Towns in Michigan
Truly, all of the best small towns in Michigan have so much charm and adventure to offer!
No matter what town you visit this year, you’ll surely find unique dining and outdoor experiences for a beautiful trip.
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