Posted in Michigan March 04, 2021 by Sophie Boudreau

The Small Town In Michigan You’ve Never Heard Of But Will Fall In Love With

With so many charming towns and cities scattered throughout the Great Lakes State, it would be nearly impossible to visit each and every one. Michigan is home to scores of gorgeous communities, each with its own unique attractions. But there’s one small town here in Michigan that might not immediately come to mind when you consider getaway destinations – and you’ll have to see it to believe it. This quiet small town in Michigan is definitely some kind of paradise.

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The Village of Elberta is a delightful community tucked away in Benzie County.

With approximately 400 residents, Elberta certainly lives up to its "small town" title, and it has the charm and friendly atmosphere to prove it.

Since its founding in 1855, Elberta has served as a hub for nature-lovers and Michiganders seeking a quaint community in which to raise a family.

When you’re looking for a truly marvelous Mitten State getaway, Elberta is the place to be. Follow M-22 until you reach this one-of-a-kind community and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

Tucked between Lake Betsie and Lake Michigan, Elberta is noted for its stunning natural surroundings. This is northern Michigan at its best — sand dunes, beachfront sunsets, and hiking trails make Elberta a must-see spot.

Stop in to the Elberta Farmers’ Market to pick up some fresh produce for your day at the beach, or venture to nearby Frankfort for an hour or two of shopping.

Elberta is also home to a unique venue: the Elberta Life Saving Station, which features a rich history and plenty of stunning lakefront views. Can you imagine a more beautiful place to get married?

Check out Waterfront Park, which boasts approximately 10 acres for exploration, beachfront relaxation, and family togetherness. Stop in for a picnic lunch or toss your fishing line into the water: there’s something here for everyone.

Of course, no trip to the Elberta area is complete without a visit to the gorgeous Point Betsie Lighthouse in nearby Frankfort, which marks the southern entrance to the Manitou Passage. Talk about breathtaking!

After a day of exploring and adventuring on the waterfront, grab a meal at the Cabbage Shed, a pub-style eatery that boasts live music, a menu full of delicious eats, and plenty of craft beer to wash it all down.

When you’re finally ready to head home, give a wave and a "See you later!" to Elberta — because you’ll certainly be back for another wonderful visit, probably sometime soon. This quiet, small town in Michigan always seems to beckon people back.

Looking for more breathtakingly beautiful places to visit in Michigan? Check this article out for ideas for your next vacation!

For more information about the Village of Elberta, click here to visit its official website. Tell us: what are you best memories in Elberta and the surrounding region? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comment section below.

Address: Elberta, MI, USA

The OIYS Visitor Center

Quiet Small Town in Michigan

March 09, 2021

Tori Jane

What is the best small town to visit in Michigan?

Michigan is a unique state with lots of small, homey little towns just waiting to be explored. Which one is “the best” is certainly subjective, based on one’s personal preferences, but we do have some favorites. Clare is a gorgeous little Amish town with a population of about 500 people. They hold wildly popular auctions during the warmer months that must be experienced at least once. Port Austin offers up amazing views and incredible, photogenic landscapes, and you won’t forget its beauty once you’ve been here once. Colon is otherwise known as “the magic capital” of the world… you’ll have to visit to find out why.

What are some waterfront towns in Michigan?

With a front-row seat to Lake Michigan comes adorable waterfront towns, and Michigan is home to plenty. Among our favorites are St. Joseph, which is a cute waterfront town that definitely lays the “beach party” atmosphere on thick. It’s so nice that you’ll probably forget you’re in Michigan; instead, you’ll get the impression that you’re on a tropical vacation. Suttons Bay is a small, totally walkable waterfront village, where the population is under 700 – so you know it’s definitely small. But honestly, aren’t small towns just the best ever anyway? Bonus points if they have their own beaches!

Where are popular charming towns in Michigan?

There are a few towns that tend to be more popular than others when it comes to tourism. Saugatuck, Michigan, is full of art galleries and excellent shopping. It’s particularly popular during the summer months when there are several music festivals held around town. Frankenmunth is an adorable pseudo-European town featuring distinctly unique local architecture. You’ll forget you’re still in Michigan; the vibe here is definitely one that might make you think you’re in Europe somewhere.

Address: Elberta, MI, USA