Help This Michigan Beach Town Be Named ‘Best Historic Small Town’

Author Anne Erickson

March 4th 4:38 PM

If you have Michigan pride, you should want to spread the word about our great state. Now, one Michigan beach town is in the running for national honors. This spot could be named “Best Historic Small Town.” Moreover, you can be the one who makes the difference and helps that town go all the way.

The town is Ludington, which has just celebrated its sesquicentennial in 2023. It’s in the running to be named the best in USA Today’s 10 Best Reader’s Choice award for “Best Historic Small Town.”

“With miles of sandy beaches, picturesque sunsets, and outdoor adventures for the whole family, in Ludington, you have found your perfect summer getaway,” Pure Michigan states on its website, describing the splendor of Ludington. They also note that Ludington isn’t just for the warm months, even though that’s when it’s most popular. “Here you’ll find outdoor activities that will enliven you, like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing through Lake Michigan dunes, or taking on snow-covered trails on a fat-tire bike,” they write. As for summer, the Pure Ludington website suggests, “Swim, sunbathe, and soak of the summer sun on one of Mason County’s beautiful beaches that line the Lake Michigan coastline.” In total, Ludington has 28 miles of sandy shoreline.

Vote for Ludington to Be Named ‘Best Historic Small Town’

You can vote for Ludington for “Best Historic Small Town” in the USA Today poll. “The United States has a fascinating history, and exploring the places which most affected it is much more fun than simply reading about it,” USA Today states. They add that “these 20 nominees for Best Historic Small Town” have small populations. That means fewer than 25,000 people. But, they have “long histories, making them fun and affordable ways to dive into our nation’s past.” You’re allowed to vote for your favorite town once per day. The polls close on Monday, April 1, at noon ET. The winning small towns will be announced on Friday, April 12. Vote here.

10 Adorable Michigan Small Towns to Visit Any Season

• 10. South Haven

  South Haven is one of my favorite Michigan spots, no matter the season. My uncle lives around that area, and it’s simply breathtaking. The beach town is right on the eastern shores of Lake Michigan, in the southwest part of the state. Its population is just over 4,000 residents, but it seems way larger during the summer months, as it’s a very popular tourist destination.

  Welcome to South Haven, Michigan | South Haven Visitors Bureau

  From the beautiful beaches along Lake Michigan to the eclectic eateries, award-winning wineries, quaint boutiques and the natural scenic surroundings - there's

• 9. Frankenmuth

  I already mentioned Frankenmuth as being the Christmas hotspot of the world. It’s truly a wonder in the winter months, and it’s great in the summer, too. Some popular activates when visiting Frankenmuth include dating a carriage ride, going on a river cruise, trying the different German food, drinking some German beer, snacking on fudge and more.

  Frankenmuth Michigan | Frankenmuth

  Frankenmuth is a Michigan vacation destination with plenty of fun things to do. We have great restaurants, shopping, festivals, and events. Learn more.

• 8. Northville

  Northville is located 30 miles northwest of Detroit, between Wayne and Oakland Counties, and truly has a great small town feel. You’ll find lots to do in downtown Northville, too, including shopping, dining, and live entertainment. It’s a fun stop for those on the east side of the state.

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• 7. Holland

  Holland is on the west side of the state, and it’s famous for its Dutch heritage. Who hasn’t heard of the Tulip Festival? It’s a popular spring event that draws people from all over the world. Holland is a charming town to visit any time of the year, though.

  Holland

  Holland is best known for its Dutch heritage, evident in many of its attractions and events. Visitors can walk back through time in the Dutch Galleries of the Holland Museum, the renovated splendor of the Cappon House and a recreation of 1890s Netherlands at Nelis' Dutch Village.

• 6. Paradise is located in the Upper Peninsula about 70 miles northwest of the Mackinac Bridge.

  Paradise really is, well, paradise. The small town is located in the Upper Peninsula about 70 miles northwest of the Mackinac Bridge. It’s surrounded by water, as Paradise has Lake Superior to its north and east, the Tahquamenon Falls State Park to its west, and the National Hiawatha Forest to its south, as noted by Pure Michigan.

  Paradise

  Spend the day at Whitefish Bay on sandy beaches with great views of Lake Superior.Uncover hidden treasures at the Shipwreck Museum, ranked one of the top ten mari-time museums in the world.

• 5. Saugatuck

  Saugatuck is another one of my favorite spots to visit year-round. My uncle lives fairly close to there, so I visit the small shops in the summer. Even though some of those shops are closed in the summer, it’s still a beautiful area to visit anytime. It’s off Lake Michigan.

  Visit Saugatuck Michigan - Saugatuck

  For a getaway that's rich in both recreation and relaxation, explore Saugatuck/Douglas and discover your ultimate escape.

• 4. Ludington

  Ludington has plenty of beautiful beaches. This small town is on the coast of Lake Michigan and offers lots of beach area, outdoors activities and more. Stearns Park Beach is a popular spot.

  Visit Ludington Michigan - Visit Ludington

  Visit Ludington in West Michigan! Home to two lighthouses and the S.S. Badger carferry, Ludington is a favorite place for visitors & locals!

• 3. Pentwater

  Another special spot on the west side of the state is Pentwater. This little village is off Lake Michigan and offers pristine, sandy beaches. It’s also smaller than Ludington, but nearby, so if you want a smaller place to escape while in the area, it’s a good pick.

  Pentwater, MI

  Discover Pentwater. Come for a day. A week. A life. Pentwater, Michigan - the village, township and surrounding area - is a quintessential, old-fashioned, laid back community with a rich history on the shores of Lake Michigan's clear waters and sugar-fine sandy beaches. It surrounds a 500-acre inland lake that's fed by a vibrant river.

• 2. Marquette

  Going up north, Marquette is a choice spot for a trip. Since it’s so far north, it’s very cold in the winter, but if you love snow, then it’s a great choice. Marquette offers lots of nature and outdoor activities.

  Marquette, Michigan | Hotels, Restaurants & Things To Do

  Experience the fun and adventure in Marquette, Michigan. Find comfortable hotels, great dining options, and attractions both in town and out to explore.

• 1. Petoskey

  Coming in at No. 1, I have Petoskey as a must-visit destination no matter the season. I remember as a little kid, going up to Petoskey and getting a real Petoskey stone. One of the bets spots to hunt for local stones is at Petoskey State Park. Enjoy it.

  The Petoskey Area

  Petoskey is located on the shores of Lake Michigan's beautiful Little Traverse Bay in northwest lower Michigan. Long a resort area, Petoskey is known for its fresh air, spectacular beauty and, of course, Michigan's state stone, the Petoskey Stone.

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Author Anne Erickson

Category:

• Local News
• WCSX