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Michigan Small Town Named the Best to Visit in the State

Author Anne Erickson
Lighthouse

Here in Michigan, we have plenty of lovely small towns sprinkled throughout the state. One of my favorite things to do in the summer is drive around a discover a new favorite small town or village, especially on a sunny day. Well, one Michigan small town has been named the best to visit in the state.

TheCrazyTourist.com has put together a list of the best small towns in Michigan to visit. Of the Mitten, the publication writes, “Originally a French interpretation of an indigenous tribe’s word meaning ‘large water,’ the name Michigan fits this state perfectly. The only state to be comprised of two peninsulas, it is one of the most popular boating destinations in the United States, and with coastlines that stretch along 4 of the 5 Great Lakes, there is plenty to do in Michigan for both beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.”

So, which Michigan small town is the best to visit in the state? Their pick for the best small town to visit in Michigan is Saugatuck. I love this pick, because I visit Saugatuck each year. My uncle lives off Lake Michigan not far from Saugatuck. So, it’s such a great activity to go there and visit him as often as possible in the summer, or any time of year, really. But, many Saugatuck shops close in the winter months. So, make note of that if you plan a Christmastime trip.

Of the town, TheCrazyTourist.com states, “Transformed from a lumber town and port on the Kalamazoo river into an art colony and tourist destination in the late 1800s, this town continues to charm people of all walks of life. Take a stroll and peruse the art galleries, or walk down to the harbor.” Find their full list of the best small towns to visit in the Michigan here.

6 Michigan Islands To Explore Other Than Mackinac

  • Isle Royale

    Isle Royale, one of Michigan’s five national parks, attracts around 17,000 visitors annually. This little island nestled in the heart of Lake Superior offers wildlife and outdoor fun. Despite its national park status, it remains uncrowded. In fact, Isle Royale is one of the least-visited national parks in the entire country according to Michigan.org. But that’s due to its lack of accessibility. Most adventurers reach the island by taking a five-hour boat ride from the Upper Peninsula.

  • Beaver Island

    Beaver Island, the biggest island in Lake Michigan, is a nature lover’s paradise with plenty of activities to enjoy. The year-round population has around 600, and a significant portion of the islanders proudly trace their roots back to Ireland.

  • Les Cheneaux Islands

    Les Cheneaux Islands is a cluster of 36 small islands in Lake Huron, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. These islands are a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The Les Cheneaux Islands are located just a few miles northeast of Michigan’s famed Mackinac Bridge, which connects the state’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas.

  • Drummond Islands

    Drummond Island, the second largest freshwater island in the United States, is home to 1,058 people. This island stands out for its closed-loop trail system, offering off-road adventures. Drummond Island has a diverse range of ecosystems. With over 13 distinct ecosystems, including six forest types, five swamp-marsh types, inland lakes and rivers, and cobble beaches, the island is a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking to explore the richness and variety of its natural landscapes.

  • North & South Manitou Islands

    North and South Manitou Islands are two islands situated within an island chain that stretches northward towards the Straits of Mackinac. South Manitou, located approximately 16 miles west of Leland, covers a land area of 8.277 square miles. On the other hand, North Manitou Island lies to the north, about 12 miles from Leland, and has a larger land area of 22.346 square miles.

  • Belle Isle

    Located in the international waters of the Detroit River, Belle Isle Park is a 982-acre island park known as the “Jewel of Detroit.” With its stunning natural landscapes and historic landmarks like the Belle Isle Aquarium and Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, it offers a perfect urban oasis and cultural retreat for visitors to enjoy.

Anne Erickson started her radio career shortly after graduating from Michigan State University and has worked on-air in Detroit, Flint, Toledo, Lansing and beyond. As someone who absolutely loves rock, metal and alt music, she instantly fell in love with radio and hasn’t looked back. When she’s not working, Anne makes her own music with her band, Upon Wings, and she also loves cheering on her favorite Detroit and Michigan sports teams, especially Lions and MSU football. Anne is also an award-winning journalist, and her byline has run in a variety of national publications. You can also hear her weekends on WRIF.

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