20 Small Towns In Michigan You Must Visit

Are you wondering which small towns in Michigan you should visit? You are in the right place. In this article, I will walk you through Michigan small towns, Michigan beach towns, and the best lake towns in Michigan.

Michigan is a state with a lot to offer. Firstly it has more shoreline than any other state except Alaska which means lots of beaches. It also has lots of history, some incredible scenery and some of the great lakes.

These small towns in Michigan are full of amazing architecture, beautiful beaches, and incredible scenery and offer something for everyone. In autumn the colors in Michigan are incredible.

Summers are memorable. Winter shows this state in a whole new light and spring is just delightful.

Let’s waste no more time and get exploring. Here are the best towns in Michigan you will want to visit.

You might also be interested in 16 Best Beaches in Michigan.

20 Small Towns In Michigan You Must Visit

St. Joseph For Its Great Beaches

This port town in southwest Michigan is on a stretch known as “The Riviera of the Midwest.”  Located on the shores of Lake Michigan at the mouth of St. Joseph River, it has two incredible beaches Silver Beach and Lions Beach.

If you are looking for quintessential Michigan it does not get much better than this. St Joseph also comes packed with things to do.

You will find hiking and biking trails, incredible views, and the fishing around here is said to be great. The beach also has a restored 1910 carousel and a pavilion.

The landscape here is a mix of countryside and incredible sand dunes and it really is worth exploring.

There are also some great lighthouses to visit and you will find some of the nation’s finest orchards and vineyards in this area.

If you are looking for somewhere to stay how about one of these 15 Cozy Cabins In Michigan?

Frankenmuth Is The “Little Bavaria”

Known for its Bavarian-style architecture Frankenmuth is not surprisingly known as Michigan’s “Little Bavaria”. This town prides itself in making memories for its visitors with its warm hospitality.

It’s considered by most as one of the top travel destinations in Michigan.

Of course, this town plays hard on its Germanic heritage with German beers, festivals, and going all out at Christmas. The town is beautiful with fresh flowers on every corner and a picture-perfect view wherever you look.

Take a classic horse-drawn carriage ride through town, ride on the PedAle Trolley or go on a riverboat cruise. And for the more adventurous you will find an aerial course nearby.

The town has it all, history, beauty and culture with a side of shopping, eating and drinking. One of the unique and interesting towns in Michigan.

Harbor Springs A Charming Waterfront Town

Harbor Springs is in a sheltered bay on Lake Michigan. This charming waterfront town is on the north shore of Little Traverse Bay and really is a beautiful town and area.

This quaint town offers the deepest fresh-water harbor in the Great Lakes, an abundance of incredible restaurants, and has a great art community.

You will also find lots to do such as swimming, boating, hiking, biking, and golf if that’s your thing. The colors here in the fall are divine but this town is amazing any time of year and is a buzzing and lively place.  

Searching for places to stay in Michigan? Here are 15 Incredible Airbnbs in Michigan I know you will be interested in.

Mackinac Island To Get Away From It All

If you really want to get away from it all then this place might be for you. 

Apart from the world-famous Mackinac Island Fudge, historic Fort Mackinac, Mackinac Island allows no cars and no chain hotels so it really is a unique place.

Ranked as a Top 10 U.S. Island by TripAdvisor and USA Today one trip here and you will see why. It really is a gem.  

You can only reach the island by ferry or plane and to get around you must walk, bike or travel in old-style horse-and-carriage.

The pace here is slow, the architecture beautiful and everything has an old-world charm about it. 

Eighty percent of the island is a designated state park. Nature here really delivers with forests, interesting rock formations with names like Devil’s Kitchen and Eagle Point. Oh, and it has caves.

 If all the outside is a bit too much for you how about 14 candy shops?

Mackinac Island is known as America’s Fudge Capital and the air here is always full of this sweet smell. The downtown area is also full of unique shopping experiences.

This Michigan town really is an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend you try and grab a sunset or sunrise as they are stunning from here.  

Petoskey Is A Victorian Gem

Petoskey is known for its clean air and open spaces, it’s a place that demands you relax. Its also home to Michigan’s most famous ski slopes

Nestled along the shores of  Little Traverse Bay of Lake Michigan it is steeped in history and has Victorian architecture to prove it.

The views and countryside are of course outstanding and the town offers beauty and charm to match.

A visit here is like stepping back in time and you might like that slower pace.  But you won’t be bored there is lots to do that change depending on the season you visit which makes this such a versatile Michigan small town.

Saugatuck An All-American Experience

Saugatuck was named one of the  “10 All-Star American Beach Towns” by Coastal Living Magazine. It offers that quintessential all American small-town experience and has a lot to offer whatever your reason for traveling.

The beach here is beautiful and the town has an extensive art and culinary scene so you can take it slow and just enjoy your surroundings.

For those who have a bit more energy, there are lots of hiking and state park trails around here adding to the appeal of this popular small town in Michigan.

Often referred to as the art coast of Michigan this destination is a top destination for artists and art lovers and offers a unique mix between old and new.

Birmingham North Of Detroit

Birmingham is in Oakland County and is a northern suburb of Detroit located along the Woodward Corridor. 

It’s the perfect mix of ambiance, arts, entertainment, and outdoor space with over 20 parks to enjoy.

The center is pedestrian-friendly and it calls itself a place to “live, shop, and play”. If you want your town with a little more life then head to Birmingham.

The town also has a wooded trail system that you can enjoy on bike or foot.

Bay City Is Magical And Majestic

This waterfront Michigan town is on the state’s eastern shoreline near the base of the Saginaw Bay on Lake Huron.  

People often describe this town as majestic and magical and it really is. The tall majestic old sailing ships adding to the ambiance.

There are lots of things to do here from exploring the shoreline, swimming in the bay, or enjoying the great lakes you won’t run out of things to do. 

Take an eco-tour through Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge, go sailing on a schooner, or hop on Sunrise Pedal Trolley a 15-passenger group bike. 

And for the romantic kind, a dinner or stargazer cruise might just do the job.

Munising Is The Gateway To Adventure

Munising is a small town in Michigan located in Alger County. It is often referred to as the ‘Gateway to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore’.

It is one of the most scenic areas of Michigan.  This Michigan town offers something different depending on the season you visit.

Considered one the best towns for fall travel this place makes a great base for exploring the local area. Pictured Rocks, Horseshoe Falls, Hiawatha National Forest are all within easy driving distance.

Enjoy the firest, streams shorelines, and the local wildlife by taking a hike and biking the area. 

Other things to do in this area include snowmobiling, boating, fishing Kayaking, ice climbing, cross-country skiing, golfing, and of course relaxing.

Ontonagon For The Outdoor Enthusiast

Located at the mouth of the Ontonagon River on Lake Superior this is one of the towns in Michigan that has everything to offer the outdoor enthusiast. 

The terrain is rugged, the views grand, the forests old, and the waterfalls spectacular.  

The Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park has 60,000 acres of virgin forest and is home to one of the most scenic spots in all of Michigan: Lake of Clouds.  The hiking treks around here are truly spectacular.

And if you want to relax you have the clear crisp waters of Lake Superior and miles of accessible beaches and shoreline. And the fly fishing on the rivers is said to be perfect.

There is also the historic Ontonagon Lighthouse to visit and self-guided trails to old mining sites on the Union Mine Scenic Trail.

Also, the restored hand-hewn log cabins at the Victoria Copper Mine are waiting for those who like a bit of history. This really is the small town in Michigan with something for everyone.

Copper Harbor Is Remote But Not Boring

Copper Harbor all-season resort town in Michigan in northeastern Keweenaw County.

It is a place to feel the fresh air, bike down the side of a mountain, or go hiking on the incredible trail system.

If you enjoy history you can learn a lot about the copper boom here. For those who want to take it easy, head to the beach.  What makes this place the best though is how it is off the beaten track.

This town is located the furthest distance from any U.S. Interstate Highway.

When you team this with friendly people, affordable prices and the best nature has to offer it’s a winning combination.

The Gateway to Isle Royale National Park starts here. Park with a daily passenger ferry service on the Isle Royale Queen during the season. 

 Fort Wilkins State Park a once active military outpost is also well worth a trip.

Make sure you download any travel instructions you need before you go as there is no cell phone here you really are in the middle of nowhere.

But that doesn’t mean boring, there are lots to do here including visiting the Michigan ghost town of Mandan.

Or take a scenic sunset cruise on Lake Superior, scuba dive the Keweenaw Underwater Preserve as well as sightseeing and lighthouse tours.

This place might be remote but it is by no means boring which makes it one of the most interesting small towns in Michigan.

Ludington A Town With Two Lighthouses

Removed from the hustle and bustle you will find Ludington, a harbor town on Lake Michigan.

You can visit miles of clear sandy beaches and have lots of opportunities to swim, fish, go boating, and skiing in the winter.

And you don’t just get one lighthouse to explore you get two!

The town is very family-friendly and the community is very welcoming of visitors. This place is just effortlessly naturally beautiful it doesn’t have to add fancy things and gadgets.  

This is a great town in Michigan to come and get away from it all while still having everything you need.

You might also be interested in 11 Coolest Lighthouses In Michigan

South Haven A Town In Michigan With Charm

South Haven is a port townat the mouth of the Black River.  It’s a mix of beautiful beaches, award-winning wineries, incredible places to eat, and beautiful surroundings.

This town has charm, culture and is oh so beautiful.

The downtown area offers unique shops and restaurants and is easy to walk around.

For those that like history you will find lots of maritime history here and the arts and culture scene are just the cherry on the top.

There are also some great golf courses, biking trails, and stunningly beautiful nature trails.

South Haven is one of the blueberry capitals of the US and has a national blueberry festival.

This little quaint town in Michigan never fails to surprise.

Traverse City Where Mother Nature Really Shines

Traverse City is the largest city in the 21-county Northern Michigan region.

It’s a playground for winter sports and beckons visitors all year round to enjoy the great outdoors with a side of sophistication.

Mother Nature is the draw here and she shows how the area is truly stunning.

And the downtown compliments it offering up its tree-shaded Victorian walkways full of diverse cuisine, unique shopping, and great culture.

This area is also known for producing tart cherries and the city’s ever-growing beer and wine scene which you should definitely indulge in.

This Michigan small town offers a lot especially a big culture city vibe without any of the noise and people.

Jackson Is A Place For Art Lovers

Jackson has a lot to offer and seems to strike the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation.  You will find culture, beauty, outdoor fun, and an eclectic art scene.

With art, museums, trails, shopping and much more there is always something to do here. And those of you who love fishing and golfing are also in luck too.

Interestingly the first state prison was built here and the Republican party was formed here. It is also home to the Bright Walls Mural Public Art and Mural Festival showcasing murals in downtown Jackson created by artists from around the world.

This is the Michigan town to go if you want nature, nourishment and culture.

Covington For Its Finnish Music Festival

Covington is best known for its annual Finnish music festival where Finnish musicians play Finnish songs on Finnish instruments.

If you haven’t guessed yet this town was settled by mostly Finnish & French immigrants.

They play on the history in this town and the museum documents early life here.

The scenery around here is also truly stunning and if you come in fall the colors are outstanding. The Finnish flair makes this one of the interesting towns in Michigan not to skip!

Plymouth With Lots Of Parks

About 25 miles east of Detroit, Plymouth gives you the small-town feeling while still been in the thick of it.

You will find spacious parks, a vibrant downtown, and some picture-perfect neighborhoods.

It also holds the Plymouth Ice Festival in January which is well worth a visit.

There is a lot to do here from the historical museum to the farmers market. Art, history, entertainment, golf, and outdoor activities all mix to make this Michigan town well worth visiting.

Northville Has Old Town Michigan Charm

Timeless charm mixed with modern life in Northville. It is located 17 miles from Ann Arbor.

Northville mixes small-town living with the pretty countryside and it makes a relaxing beautiful escape.

You will find tree-lined neighborhoods featuring historic homes, a historic downtown, unique shops, and as much to keep you entertained as you will need.

Elk Rapids Has A Great Harbor

Elk Rivers is a unique town offering charm, ambiance, and scenery in abundance. The sandy shores, quaint small-town feel, and unique restaurants attract visitors both locally and further afield.

Grace Memorial Harbor is one of the best in the area and the town is charming with unique shops and restaurants. You will also find some great places to swim, fish, and play golf.

This really is a bit of a hidden gem and of the best small towns in Michigan for you to discover!.

Houghton With Its Old Architecture

Located on the Keweenaw Peninsula in winter this town becomes a winter wonderland and is popular with winter sports enthusiasts.

However, it’s a great place to visit whatever the season with beautiful scenery and numerous inland lakes and streams.

This town in Michigan is known for its turn-of-the-century buildings, Jacobsville sandstone buildings. The Mineral Range Railroad Depot has been beautifully restored.

If you love old architecture you will love Houghton.  There are also several beautiful parks to stroll around and you have to try Thimbleberry jam, made from local berries it’s delicious.

And if you want to get out and about a bit more there are numerous trails for biking and hiking.  

Packing List For Visiting Michigan

If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to Michigan, here are some tips on how to pack lightly.

A concealed travel pouch may be one of the most important items you bring along when visiting the lovely towns in MI.  

It is always important to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind. You can place it under your hiking clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

f you have a pouch already that does not come with the RFID protection, as I do, these RFID sleeves are the perfect solution.

his configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet. 

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an external charging battery. This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast!

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

My daughter gifted me with this FugeTek selfie stick and tripod setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking selfies with all those nature shots while visiting Michigan towns.

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

Hydration is so important when visiting towns in Michigan. You want to remain hydrated throughout your day trip to support your immune system which in turn will be stronger to fight off any germs you will encounter during your travels. 

You will want to bring your own refillable water bottle with you. 

I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

When filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the charcoal filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

You can find filter replacements here. 

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.

Then this set of collapsible silicone foldable water bottles would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all. 

You will want a backpack or daypack with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. when visiting Michigan beach towns. No matter the time of day or evening.

This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great

It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack!

Please know that Linda On The Run is a participant in Amazon’s Affiliate Programs. This means I make a small about of money at no additional cost to you if you purchase an item.

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Whichever one of these towns in MI you visit I am hoping you will have a wonderful time. They all offer something unique and different and are all beautiful in their own way.

Let me know about your favorite Michigan small towns and if you have visited any of these Michigan beach towns. I’d love to know about your experience.

If you are looking for somewhere to stay how about one of thesee 15 Cozy Cabins In Michigan?

Are you wondering which small towns in Michigan you should visit? You are in the right place. In this article, I will walk you through Michigan small towns, Michigan beach towns, and the best lake towns in Michigan.

Michigan is a state with a lot to offer. Firstly it has more shoreline than any other state except Alaska which means lots of beaches. It also has lots of history, some incredible scenery and some of the great lakes.

These small towns in Michigan are full of amazing architecture, beautiful beaches, and incredible scenery and offer something for everyone. In autumn the colors in Michigan are incredible.

Summers are memorable. Winter shows this state in a whole new light and spring is just delightful.

Let’s waste no more time and get exploring. Here are the best towns in Michigan you will want to visit.

You might also be interested in 16 Best Beaches in Michigan.

20 Small Towns In Michigan You Must Visit

St. Joseph For Its Great Beaches

This port town in southwest Michigan is on a stretch known as “The Riviera of the Midwest.”  Located on the shores of Lake Michigan at the mouth of St. Joseph River, it has two incredible beaches Silver Beach and Lions Beach.

If you are looking for quintessential Michigan it does not get much better than this. St Joseph also comes packed with things to do.

You will find hiking and biking trails, incredible views, and the fishing around here is said to be great. The beach also has a restored 1910 carousel and a pavilion.

The landscape here is a mix of countryside and incredible sand dunes and it really is worth exploring.

There are also some great lighthouses to visit and you will find some of the nation’s finest orchards and vineyards in this area.

If you are looking for somewhere to stay how about one of these 15 Cozy Cabins In Michigan?

Frankenmuth Is The “Little Bavaria”

Known for its Bavarian-style architecture Frankenmuth is not surprisingly known as Michigan’s “Little Bavaria”. This town prides itself in making memories for its visitors with its warm hospitality.

It’s considered by most as one of the top travel destinations in Michigan.

Of course, this town plays hard on its Germanic heritage with German beers, festivals, and going all out at Christmas. The town is beautiful with fresh flowers on every corner and a picture-perfect view wherever you look.

Take a classic horse-drawn carriage ride through town, ride on the PedAle Trolley or go on a riverboat cruise. And for the more adventurous you will find an aerial course nearby.

The town has it all, history, beauty and culture with a side of shopping, eating and drinking. One of the unique and interesting towns in Michigan.

Harbor Springs A Charming Waterfront Town

Harbor Springs is in a sheltered bay on Lake Michigan. This charming waterfront town is on the north shore of Little Traverse Bay and really is a beautiful town and area.

This quaint town offers the deepest fresh-water harbor in the Great Lakes, an abundance of incredible restaurants, and has a great art community.

You will also find lots to do such as swimming, boating, hiking, biking, and golf if that’s your thing. The colors here in the fall are divine but this town is amazing any time of year and is a buzzing and lively place.  

Searching for places to stay in Michigan? Here are 15 Incredible Airbnbs in Michigan I know you will be interested in.

Mackinac Island To Get Away From It All

If you really want to get away from it all then this place might be for you. 

Apart from the world-famous Mackinac Island Fudge, historic Fort Mackinac, Mackinac Island allows no cars and no chain hotels so it really is a unique place.

Ranked as a Top 10 U.S. Island by TripAdvisor and USA Today one trip here and you will see why. It really is a gem.  

You can only reach the island by ferry or plane and to get around you must walk, bike or travel in old-style horse-and-carriage.

The pace here is slow, the architecture beautiful and everything has an old-world charm about it. 

Eighty percent of the island is a designated state park. Nature here really delivers with forests, interesting rock formations with names like Devil’s Kitchen and Eagle Point. Oh, and it has caves.

 If all the outside is a bit too much for you how about 14 candy shops?

Mackinac Island is known as America’s Fudge Capital and the air here is always full of this sweet smell. The downtown area is also full of unique shopping experiences.

This Michigan town really is an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend you try and grab a sunset or sunrise as they are stunning from here.  

Petoskey Is A Victorian Gem

Petoskey is known for its clean air and open spaces, it’s a place that demands you relax. Its also home to Michigan’s most famous ski slopes

Nestled along the shores of  Little Traverse Bay of Lake Michigan it is steeped in history and has Victorian architecture to prove it.

The views and countryside are of course outstanding and the town offers beauty and charm to match.

A visit here is like stepping back in time and you might like that slower pace.  But you won’t be bored there is lots to do that change depending on the season you visit which makes this such a versatile Michigan small town.

Saugatuck An All-American Experience

Saugatuck was named one of the  “10 All-Star American Beach Towns” by Coastal Living Magazine. It offers that quintessential all American small-town experience and has a lot to offer whatever your reason for traveling.

The beach here is beautiful and the town has an extensive art and culinary scene so you can take it slow and just enjoy your surroundings.

For those who have a bit more energy, there are lots of hiking and state park trails around here adding to the appeal of this popular small town in Michigan.

Often referred to as the art coast of Michigan this destination is a top destination for artists and art lovers and offers a unique mix between old and new.

Birmingham North Of Detroit

Birmingham is in Oakland County and is a northern suburb of Detroit located along the Woodward Corridor. 

It’s the perfect mix of ambiance, arts, entertainment, and outdoor space with over 20 parks to enjoy.

The center is pedestrian-friendly and it calls itself a place to “live, shop, and play”. If you want your town with a little more life then head to Birmingham.

The town also has a wooded trail system that you can enjoy on bike or foot.

Bay City Is Magical And Majestic

This waterfront Michigan town is on the state’s eastern shoreline near the base of the Saginaw Bay on Lake Huron.  

People often describe this town as majestic and magical and it really is. The tall majestic old sailing ships adding to the ambiance.

There are lots of things to do here from exploring the shoreline, swimming in the bay, or enjoying the great lakes you won’t run out of things to do. 

Take an eco-tour through Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge, go sailing on a schooner, or hop on Sunrise Pedal Trolley a 15-passenger group bike. 

And for the romantic kind, a dinner or stargazer cruise might just do the job.

Munising Is The Gateway To Adventure

Munising is a small town in Michigan located in Alger County. It is often referred to as the ‘Gateway to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore’.

It is one of the most scenic areas of Michigan.  This Michigan town offers something different depending on the season you visit.

Considered one the best towns for fall travel this place makes a great base for exploring the local area. Pictured Rocks, Horseshoe Falls, Hiawatha National Forest are all within easy driving distance.

Enjoy the firest, streams shorelines, and the local wildlife by taking a hike and biking the area. 

Other things to do in this area include snowmobiling, boating, fishing Kayaking, ice climbing, cross-country skiing, golfing, and of course relaxing.

Ontonagon For The Outdoor Enthusiast

Located at the mouth of the Ontonagon River on Lake Superior this is one of the towns in Michigan that has everything to offer the outdoor enthusiast. 

The terrain is rugged, the views grand, the forests old, and the waterfalls spectacular.  

The Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park has 60,000 acres of virgin forest and is home to one of the most scenic spots in all of Michigan: Lake of Clouds.  The hiking treks around here are truly spectacular.

And if you want to relax you have the clear crisp waters of Lake Superior and miles of accessible beaches and shoreline. And the fly fishing on the rivers is said to be perfect.

There is also the historic Ontonagon Lighthouse to visit and self-guided trails to old mining sites on the Union Mine Scenic Trail.

Also, the restored hand-hewn log cabins at the Victoria Copper Mine are waiting for those who like a bit of history. This really is the small town in Michigan with something for everyone.

Copper Harbor Is Remote But Not Boring

Copper Harbor all-season resort town in Michigan in northeastern Keweenaw County.

It is a place to feel the fresh air, bike down the side of a mountain, or go hiking on the incredible trail system.

If you enjoy history you can learn a lot about the copper boom here. For those who want to take it easy, head to the beach.  What makes this place the best though is how it is off the beaten track.

This town is located the furthest distance from any U.S. Interstate Highway.

When you team this with friendly people, affordable prices and the best nature has to offer it’s a winning combination.

The Gateway to Isle Royale National Park starts here. Park with a daily passenger ferry service on the Isle Royale Queen during the season. 

 Fort Wilkins State Park a once active military outpost is also well worth a trip.

Make sure you download any travel instructions you need before you go as there is no cell phone here you really are in the middle of nowhere.

But that doesn’t mean boring, there are lots to do here including visiting the Michigan ghost town of Mandan.

Or take a scenic sunset cruise on Lake Superior, scuba dive the Keweenaw Underwater Preserve as well as sightseeing and lighthouse tours.

This place might be remote but it is by no means boring which makes it one of the most interesting small towns in Michigan.

Ludington A Town With Two Lighthouses

Removed from the hustle and bustle you will find Ludington, a harbor town on Lake Michigan.

You can visit miles of clear sandy beaches and have lots of opportunities to swim, fish, go boating, and skiing in the winter.

And you don’t just get one lighthouse to explore you get two!

The town is very family-friendly and the community is very welcoming of visitors. This place is just effortlessly naturally beautiful it doesn’t have to add fancy things and gadgets.  

This is a great town in Michigan to come and get away from it all while still having everything you need.

You might also be interested in 11 Coolest Lighthouses In Michigan

South Haven A Town In Michigan With Charm

South Haven is a port townat the mouth of the Black River.  It’s a mix of beautiful beaches, award-winning wineries, incredible places to eat, and beautiful surroundings.

This town has charm, culture and is oh so beautiful.

The downtown area offers unique shops and restaurants and is easy to walk around.

For those that like history you will find lots of maritime history here and the arts and culture scene are just the cherry on the top.

There are also some great golf courses, biking trails, and stunningly beautiful nature trails.

South Haven is one of the blueberry capitals of the US and has a national blueberry festival.

This little quaint town in Michigan never fails to surprise.

Traverse City Where Mother Nature Really Shines

Traverse City is the largest city in the 21-county Northern Michigan region.

It’s a playground for winter sports and beckons visitors all year round to enjoy the great outdoors with a side of sophistication.

Mother Nature is the draw here and she shows how the area is truly stunning.

And the downtown compliments it offering up its tree-shaded Victorian walkways full of diverse cuisine, unique shopping, and great culture.

This area is also known for producing tart cherries and the city’s ever-growing beer and wine scene which you should definitely indulge in.

This Michigan small town offers a lot especially a big culture city vibe without any of the noise and people.

Jackson Is A Place For Art Lovers

Jackson has a lot to offer and seems to strike the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation.  You will find culture, beauty, outdoor fun, and an eclectic art scene.

With art, museums, trails, shopping and much more there is always something to do here. And those of you who love fishing and golfing are also in luck too.

Interestingly the first state prison was built here and the Republican party was formed here. It is also home to the Bright Walls Mural Public Art and Mural Festival showcasing murals in downtown Jackson created by artists from around the world.

This is the Michigan town to go if you want nature, nourishment and culture.

Covington For Its Finnish Music Festival

Covington is best known for its annual Finnish music festival where Finnish musicians play Finnish songs on Finnish instruments.

If you haven’t guessed yet this town was settled by mostly Finnish & French immigrants.

They play on the history in this town and the museum documents early life here.

The scenery around here is also truly stunning and if you come in fall the colors are outstanding. The Finnish flair makes this one of the interesting towns in Michigan not to skip!

Plymouth With Lots Of Parks

About 25 miles east of Detroit, Plymouth gives you the small-town feeling while still been in the thick of it.

You will find spacious parks, a vibrant downtown, and some picture-perfect neighborhoods.

It also holds the Plymouth Ice Festival in January which is well worth a visit.

There is a lot to do here from the historical museum to the farmers market. Art, history, entertainment, golf, and outdoor activities all mix to make this Michigan town well worth visiting.

Northville Has Old Town Michigan Charm

Timeless charm mixed with modern life in Northville. It is located 17 miles from Ann Arbor.

Northville mixes small-town living with the pretty countryside and it makes a relaxing beautiful escape.

You will find tree-lined neighborhoods featuring historic homes, a historic downtown, unique shops, and as much to keep you entertained as you will need.

Elk Rapids Has A Great Harbor

Elk Rivers is a unique town offering charm, ambiance, and scenery in abundance. The sandy shores, quaint small-town feel, and unique restaurants attract visitors both locally and further afield.

Grace Memorial Harbor is one of the best in the area and the town is charming with unique shops and restaurants. You will also find some great places to swim, fish, and play golf.

This really is a bit of a hidden gem and of the best small towns in Michigan for you to discover!.

Houghton With Its Old Architecture

Located on the Keweenaw Peninsula in winter this town becomes a winter wonderland and is popular with winter sports enthusiasts.

However, it’s a great place to visit whatever the season with beautiful scenery and numerous inland lakes and streams.

This town in Michigan is known for its turn-of-the-century buildings, Jacobsville sandstone buildings. The Mineral Range Railroad Depot has been beautifully restored.

If you love old architecture you will love Houghton.  There are also several beautiful parks to stroll around and you have to try Thimbleberry jam, made from local berries it’s delicious.

And if you want to get out and about a bit more there are numerous trails for biking and hiking.  

Packing List For Visiting Michigan

If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to Michigan, here are some tips on how to pack lightly.

A concealed travel pouch may be one of the most important items you bring along when visiting the lovely towns in MI.  

It is always important to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind. You can place it under your hiking clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

f you have a pouch already that does not come with the RFID protection, as I do, these RFID sleeves are the perfect solution.

his configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet. 

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an external charging battery. This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast!

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

My daughter gifted me with this FugeTek selfie stick and tripod setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking selfies with all those nature shots while visiting Michigan towns.

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

Hydration is so important when visiting towns in Michigan. You want to remain hydrated throughout your day trip to support your immune system which in turn will be stronger to fight off any germs you will encounter during your travels. 

You will want to bring your own refillable water bottle with you. 

I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

When filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the charcoal filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

You can find filter replacements here. 

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.

Then this set of collapsible silicone foldable water bottles would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all. 

You will want a backpack or daypack with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. when visiting Michigan beach towns. No matter the time of day or evening.

This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great

It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack!

Please know that Linda On The Run is a participant in Amazon’s Affiliate Programs. This means I make a small about of money at no additional cost to you if you purchase an item.

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Whichever one of these towns in MI you visit I am hoping you will have a wonderful time. They all offer something unique and different and are all beautiful in their own way.

Let me know about your favorite Michigan small towns and if you have visited any of these Michigan beach towns. I’d love to know about your experience.

If you are looking for somewhere to stay how about one of thesee 15 Cozy Cabins In Michigan?