30 Best Small Towns In Michigan To Visit In 2024
If you’re looking for the best small towns in Michigan to visit in 2024, look no further! This is a comprehensive list of the top 30 small towns you should check out this year.
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Best Small Towns in Michigan
Each small town in Michigan offers so much- from historic downtowns, lighthouses, festivals, and more, you’ll see that Michigan has a wide variety.
1. Marshall, Michigan
One of the best small towns in Michigan is, hands down, Marshall. Once part of the underground railroad, this town was the front-runner for the state capitol. Despite losing to Lansing, this town is full of charm.
With architecture and museums that have been compared to the Smithsonian, even just walking around the streets of Marshall is enjoyable!
Enjoy live performances, unique shopping opportunities, and fun festivals during the summer months. Such as the fun Bluegrass Festival!
Stay: Hampton Inn, Marshall
The best place to stay in Marshall is Hampton Inn, right off Interstate-95 and conveniently within walking distance of the downtown.
The warmly decorated rooms all include a work desk, coffee maker, and free wifi so you can relax or get a few emails sent off.
Take advantage of the fitness center and hit the gym, or take a quick dip at the indoor pool.
2. South Haven, Michigan
With its famous beaches along the sparkling Lake Michigan, South Haven is both naturally scenic and charming. As beach towns go, South Haven has something for the entire family to enjoy.
Take a walk (or a cycle) on the nature trails surrounding the town, play a round of golf, or hang out at the inland lakes. Check out the walkable downtown area for small-town charm, and enjoy the small-batch West Michigan breweries that abound.
Take advantage of Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant & Winery. This family-run business has the most fantastic treats. They’re worth every indulgence.
Stay: Hampton Inn, South Haven
Look no further than the Hampton Inn in South Haven for the perfect mix of convenience and comfort.
This hotel is only five minutes from Lake Michigan and the Michigan Maritime Museum. Despite its close location to the freeway, it’s quiet.
Enjoy the hot breakfast, on-site gym, and hot tub while you explore all that South Haven has to offer!
3. Saugatuck
Saugatuck is a wonderful getaway with a thriving art scene, delicious culinary scene, and beautiful beach scenes.
One of the most incredible outdoor areas is the forested paths of the Saugatuck Dunes State Park and the Kalamazoo Lake.
For a unique and wonderful experience, ride the last hand-cranked Chain Ferry across the Kalamazoo River, or ride on the Star of Saugatuck, a paddlewheel boat.
Stay: Starlite Resort
There’s no better place to stay in Saugatuck than the Starlite Resort. This resort is recently remodeled, only 4 miles from Dunes State Park.
You’ll find modern, fresh colors throughout the decor. Enjoy the seasonal outdoor pool, hot tub, on-site vending machines, and daily continental breakfast.
4. Frankenmuth
Frankenmuth is home to the chicken dinner and indoor water parks!
Known locally as “Little Bavaria” due to the town’s rich German heritage and architecture, this is the place to go for homemade noodles and delicious German bread.
No matter what time of year you go, the indoor waterparks— Zehnder’s Splash Village and the Bavarian Inn Lodge Waterpark & Family Fun Center—are open for some old-fashioned family fun.
Want a jolt of adrenaline? Check out the Frankenmuth aerial park! The zip line and ropes course are fun challenges for any age.
Frankenmuth is a fantastic place to visit in 2024, with year-round festivals and events.
Stay: Drury Inn & Suites Frankenmuth
Only a ten-minute walk away from the Bavarian Belle Riverboat, the Drury Inn & Suites has a daily hot breakfast and comfortable rooms.
Each room has wifi, a flat-screen cable TV, a microwave, and a fridge. Take advantage of the indoor pool and hot tub; this small and welcoming hotel is a great place to stay.
Plus, it’s in a convenient and incredibly walkable area, making it ideal for longer stays.
5. St Joseph
St Joseph is a gorgeous beach town on Lake Michigan’s shore with a charming downtown area. Enjoy eating fantastic food in the downtown area and spend your summer days enjoying the sunshine at one of the seven beaches in the town.
This beach paradise is fantastic for weekend getaways, girls’ trips, or family holidays. Check out the hand-carved Silver Beach Carousel or visit the two St. Joseph’s Lighthouses.
Stay: Holiday Inn Express & Suites, St. Joseph
Holiday Inn Express & Suites does the job nicely for a stay in St. Joseph!
The bright rooms in this hotel come with a flat-screen tv, coffee maker, microwave, and refrigerator. Every morning, wake up to a hot breakfast buffet.
Spend the rest of your day exploring the town, hanging out at the fitness center, playing racquetball, or steaming in the sauna.
6. Tecumseh
Named after the great Shawnee Native American chief Tecumseh, this small town has a charming downtown area.
If you’d rather be out in nature, check out the nearby walking trails, or find one of the 22 fairy doors scattered throughout the city.
If you’re a wine enthusiast, check out Pentamere Winery and enjoy locally crafted wines for all tastebuds.
Stay: Carlton Lodge, Adrian
The best place to stay in Tecumseh check out the Carlton Lodge. This 4-star hotel has an outdoor seasonal swimming pool, garden, and fitness center.
This adults-only hotel is for 21-year-olds and over. Enjoy the complimentary continental breakfast and take a dip in the indoor pool.
With 24-hour service, this hotel is excellent no matter your plans!
7. Belle Isle
While not technically a town, Belle Isle is a 985-acre island park near Detroit. This park is gorgeous, full of rich historical and cultural resources, and a must-visit if you’re in the area.
Not only do you get spectacular views of the city of Detroit, but it’s also the location of the Belle Isle Aquarium and the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory.
Want to spend your day outside? Go golding, swim at the beach, ride bikes, paddle, and fish instead!
Unless you’re driving, the park is entirely free to enter and is a fabulous way to spend a day or two.
Stay: Detroit Foundation Hotel
You’ll find the comfortable Detroit Foundation Hotel within walking distance of downtown Detroit. Relax in your air-conditioned room or in the comfortable shared lounge. Grab a drink at the hotel bar or a meal at the American Restaurant called the Apparatus Room.
A renovated fire station, this hotel is full of character and charm. Plus, it’s only ten minutes drive from Belle Isle, making it the perfect place to stay.
8. Greenfield Village
Greenfield Village is an excellent place to visit in Michigan. Not only is it the birthplace of Henry Ford, but you can also see the lab where Thomas Edison invented the lightbulb. Check out the Wright brother’s workshop, and take a drive in a real Model T.
When you stop by, you should ride the train, explore the buildings, and take many photos! It’s a truly memorable experience you don’t want to miss out on.
Stay: Home2 Suites by Hilton-Taylor, Detroit
Home2 Suites is a fantastic place to stay. With a shared lounge, free wifi throughout the property, and a fridge in each room, you’ll have everything you need for your stay.
This hotel is clean and comfortable and boasts a friendly and helpful staff. Plus, the complimentary breakfast serves fantastic waffles (yum!) and has guests return again and again.
9. Caseville
This beach town has a sandy beach, many fun shops, and unique festivities. Caseville is a fun place to visit year-round and offers impressive views of Saginaw Bay. This small town is laid-back and casual.
If you’re in town during the Cheeseburger Festival, held every August, you’re in for a real treat! Not only is it a highly-anticipated event, but you’ll also get the best cheeseburger of your life.
Stay: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Bad Axe, an IHG Hotel
The Holiday Inn is a well-maintained hotel in Bad Axe and is a great place to stay if you’re spending time in Caseville. Enjoy the breakfast buffet, indoor pool, and fitness center.
The front desk is open 24 hours, so you can check in no matter what time you arrive.
10. Leland
Leland is a quaint, historic fishing village with an absolutely charming downtown area. Check out the Fishtown shanties and specialty shops, all set against the backdrop of a picturesque coastal town.
Easy to walk around in, this town is one of the last working fishing districts in the Great Lakes.
Stay: Whaleback Inn
The Whaleback Inn offers gorgeous lakefront accommodation in Leland. This Inn has terrific views, perfectly perched atop a hill overlooking North Lake Leelanau.
Plus, with on-site kayaks and stand-up paddle board rentals, you don’t even have to leave the grounds to find something fun!
The rooms are all comfortable and well-equipped, making this top of the list for Leland hotels.
11. Ludington
The perfect spot for an outdoor adventure, Ludington has excellent places to go camping, boating, fishing, swimming, or hiking.
Check out the Hamlin Lake Dam and Big Sable Point Lighthouse while you’re in town.
Plus, Ludington is the home port for the Lake Michigan Cruise Ship— the S.S. Badger Carferry. Talk about cool!
Stay: Summers Inn
Just a short 5-minute drive from the shores of Lake Michigan, Summers Inn is a charming place to stay.
A delicious, homemade breakfast, kind staff, lush gardens, and a full koi pond are included. The rooms are cute and brightly decorated, making this feel like a home away from home.
12. Empire
Home to the Sleeping Bear Dunes, Empire offers impressive views and outdoor adventures. Enjoy biking, hiking, swimming at the glorious beaches, and exploring the sand dunes.
Despite being one of the top travel destinations in Michigan, it’s still a quiet spot. Make sure to take your camera because there are many picture-perfect photo opportunities!
Stay: Maple Lane Empire
The Maple Lane Empire has a private beach area and is the perfect place to base your Empire adventures.
The rooms all have a private bathroom, flat-screen tv, and air conditioning. Some even come with a private balcony!
Just a few minutes away from Sleeping Bear Dunes, ask the staff for their pro tips to make the most of your time.
13. Copper Harbor
Located at the tip of Keweenaw Peninsula, Copper Harbor has a unique mountainous terrain with fantastic views, a lighthouse, and the impressive Eagle River Falls.
While in town, check out Jam Pot, a cute store with shelves full of baked goods and preserves. Ask the friendly monks running the store for their favorites, then hit the road!
Stay: Lake Fanny Hooe Resort
For a pleasant place to stay, look no further than the Lake Fanny Hooe Resort.
While there’s no breakfast included, each room has a private patio, coffee pot, tv, and free wifi. Choose from cabins, campsites, or small rooms with a tiny stove and refrigerator.
14. Suttons Bay
Ideal for the whole family, Suttons Bay has a cute downtown area with brightly colored shops, art galleries, and delicious restaurants.
Check out the hiking trails at Bahle Park at the edge of town, or head to one of the nearby vineyards for a wine tasting.
Adventure or relaxation, Suttons Bay has it!
Stay: Fountain Point
Offering beachfront accommodations, Fountain Point is a comfortable resort to stay at. Not only are the rooms comfortable and relaxing to stay in, but the resorts’ grounds are beautiful.
You can take advantage of the free bikes, stroll in the garden or enjoy the resort’s private beach area.
15. Port Austin
Considered the tip of Michigan’s “thumb,” Port Austin has incredible rock formations, sandy beaches and dunes, a top-rated farmers market, and a fabulous historic district.
Notably, Port Austin is one of the only places in Michigan where you can see both sunrise and sunset. Small boutiques and adorable cafes dot the town.
Stay: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Bad Axe and IHG Hotel
Looking for a spot to stay? Check out the Holiday Inn Express Hotel! This quiet hotel is perfect for sleeping after a long, fun day.
Each room covers your basic necessities, providing a comfortable spot to come home to each night.
16. Frankfort
Frankfort is another idyllic place you need to check out this year! This charming small town has a cute marina surrounded by paved walkways, shops, and restaurants.
Snap a few shots of the Victorian homes that line the streets, surrounded by maple trees, or spend the day reading and playing at the spectacular Lake Michigan beaches.
Lighthouse enthusiasts can check out the Point Betsie Lighthouse, and nature lovers can take advantage of the Betsie Valley Trailway for the best views in town.
For a calm summer getaway, there’s no better small Michigan town than Frankfort!
Stay: Hotel Frankfort & Restaurant
The Hotel Frankfort is a 4-star hotel and is only a quick 3-minute stroll away from the public beach, making it a fantastically positioned property for any stay in Frankfort.
The rooms are spacious and comfortable; you can choose one with a city-view balcony.
The restaurant and bar on the property make mealtime a cinch, making this the perfect home away from home!
17. Glen Arbor
The small town of Glen Arbor is the perfect place to base a visit to Michigan. Right on the shore of the beautiful Glen Lake, it’s got unique recreational activities and scenic views.
Blue waters and white sand dunes make this quaint town a spot to remember. Check out the Cherry Republic for the best cherry salsas, jams, wine, and chocolate-covered cherries.
Glen Arbor’s proximity to the Sleeping Bear Dunes, Maple City, and Empire makes it ideal for an active vacation!
Stay: The Sylvan Inn Bed & Breakfast
Directly located in Glen Arbor, the Sylvan Inn Bed & Breakfast is a perfect location with kind innkeepers.
Highly recommended, each room comes with wifi, air conditioning, and access to a perfectly manicured garden with a terrace.
You can indulge in the delicious breakfast options daily and rent bicycles to explore the beautiful areas nearby.
18. Grand Marais
Grand Marais is a fantastic year-round destination, a historic village on the south shore of Lake Superior.
With over 50 miles of shoreline along the great lake, you’ll find many impressive waterfalls and historic lighthouses.
Hike or bike along the trails, take a boat on the lake to see amazing cliff views and even go snowshoeing or skiing in the winter.
Stay: Hilltop Cabins and Motel
Look no further than the Hilltop Cabins and Motel for a cozy place to stay. Perfect for couples and families, you’ll find a well-equipped log cabin for your vacation home.
Enjoy the outdoor covered deck, a fully-equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances, and foosball for post-dinner fun.
Complete with a washer and dryer, the Hilltop Cabins and Motel is the best place to make a home during your trip to Grand Marais.
19. Manistee
Home to “unspoiled wilderness,” Manistee is a Victorian port city and one of those towns you fall in love with.
Perfect for anyone wanting to experience a slower pace of life and get outdoors, Manistee has 270 miles of rivers and 25 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan.
Take pictures in the charming downtown or along the Manistee North Pier for the perfect day, and stop at the Manistee County Historical Museum.
Get some broasted chicken at The Painted Lady Saloon while you’re in town!
Stay: The Dempsey Manor Bed & Breakfast Inn
Step into the past and stay at the Dempsey Manor Bed & Breakfast Inn. This ideally located mansion offers an authentic Victorian atmosphere with recently renovated rooms.
Enjoy the spa services, gourmet breakfast, and a short walk to downtown Manistee from this endearing Inn.
20. Ironwood
One of the most charming small towns in Michigan, Ironwood has terrific outdoor opportunities.
Hike through the gorgeous Black River Scenic Area and find five different waterfalls.
Into ski flying? Check out the only ski-flying hill outside of Europe!
The downtown is vibrant and endearing, full of art, history, and culture.
Stay: Budget Host Cloverland Motel
Only a 20-minute drive from Porcupine Mountains State Park, Budget Host Cleveland Motel is a comfortable spot to stay.
Enjoy the guest rooms’ microwave, refrigerator, tea, and coffee-making facilities. Plus, ask the staff for valuable information about restaurants and nearby attractions!
21. Munising
With over 14 waterfalls and historic lighthouses, Munising is breathtaking. Not only are there shipwrecks to visit in Munising Bay, but you can also take a glass-bottom boat ride.
The raw beauty of the Upper Peninsula has lots to please. With colorful sandstone cliffs, you’ll want to take as many hikes and boat tours as possible!
Stay: Comfort Inn & Suites Munising Lakefront
The Comfort Inn & Suites Lakefront Inn is a 2-star property with a fitness center, 24-hour front desk, and comfortable rooms.
Enjoy the delicious buffet breakfast and take advantage of the fantastic location! The Eben Ice Caves are 23 miles from this Inn, and the staff is highly rated.
22. Harbor Springs
Nestled in a small sheltered bay, you’ll find the cute Michigan town of Harbor Springs. No matter what time of year you decide to hop over, you’ll find plenty to do here.
From fantastic art galleries to exploring incredible culinary exploits and plenty of outdoor adventures, Harbor Springs is a lovely place to visit.
Golf fans should definitely check out the Little Traverse Bay Golf Course!
Stay: The Highlands at Harbor Springs Resort
Only a 5-minute drive from the Harbor Springs Airport, the Highlands at Harbor Springs Resort offers spacious rooms in a beautiful place.
Dip in the pool or jacuzzi before relaxing in your comfortable room. There’s even a small on-site fitness center with cardio equipment.
Enjoy the complimentary breakfast before heading out for a day of fun activities around the town!
23. Mackinac Island
Ranked the Best Island in the Continental US, Mackinac Island is an ideal vacation spot. There are notable natural landmarks, and you’ll also see the historic Fort Mackinac.
Got a sweet tooth? Try out the Mackinac Island fudge and meander the car-free streets. Tired of being on your feet? Hop into a horse-drawn carriage to get around!
With plenty of hiking trails, spots to kayak or bike riding opportunities, Mackinac has plenty to entertain.
Stay: Lakeview Hotel
Lakeview Hotel is a 4-star accommodation, located only a 9-minute walk away from Fort Mackinac. Spend your time on the island in comfort, and hang out at the pool and hot tub if you want a break.
Each room has a flat-screen tv and a safety deposit box to store your valuables with peace of mind.
24. Mackinaw City
The northern tip of Michigan’s lower Peninsula, Mackinaw City is a perfect vacation destination.
This city features multiple historic parks, sandy beaches, and great shopping and culinary opportunities. Every night there’s a free laser light show and a live evening lumberjack show to enjoy!
Whether you want a city experience or are more interested in hitting the trails, Mackinaw City is ideally located and an absolute blast.
Stay: Vindel Motel
There’s no better place to stay than Vindel Motel. This Motel is located right off Interstate 76 and is only a 10-minute walk from the Mackinaw City Bridge and Lighthouse.
The property has an outdoor pool, too, so you can cool off during the hot summer months. Each room has a flat-screen cable tv and a seating area.
You should use the free transfer service to the casino and ferries!
25. Petoskey
Whether you’re interested in beach combing or are more interested in sipping your way through the Petoskey Wine Region, Petosky is a fabulous place to go.
In a waterfront resort community, you’ll find plenty of natural and man-made pleasures, such as local breweries, distilleries, and delicious restaurants.
Enjoy ziplining, ice skating, or Boyne Mountain’s Sky Bridge Michigan between meals!
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
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.
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.
Each small town in Michigan has loads to offer visitors and residents alike. However, Manistee and Marshall hold a special place in our hearts.
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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