With towering buildings, bright lights, and a constant bustle of activity, city life is an exciting experience. And while there’s something wonderful about spending time in the big city, small towns in Michigan have something to offer too. Michiganders understand the appeal of small town relaxation, and we’re lucky to have access to some of the loveliest small towns in the country. Here are 10 destinations in the Great Lakes State where you’re sure to be rejuvenated; they’re truly some of the best towns in Michigan to visit.

1. Tawas
Tawas Township, MI, USA
Flickr/George Thomas
A small city along Michigan’s "Sunrise Coast," Tawas is a favorite spot for nature lovers looking for a laid-back getaway. Relax next to a lighthouse at Tawas Point State Park, where you might just spot a few unique migratory birds.
2. Harbor Springs
Harbor Springs, MI 49740, USA
Flickr/User Blake
This charming resort community on Little Traverse Bay comprises just over one square mile of land, making it a true small town. Relax at a downtown coffee shop, spend a few hours golfing, or simply chat with loved ones on the porch of a cozy cottage. A stay in Harbor Springs offers visitors a one-of-a-kind escape from real life.
3. Douglas
Douglas, MI, USA
Facebook/The City of The Village Of Douglas
Dubbed the coolest town in Michigan, this quaint village near the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan is tiny, but it offers plenty of interesting attractions. Peruse one of its beautiful local art galleries, stroll downtown for a bite to eat, or simply relax at the nearby beach.
4. Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA
Flickr/Jasperdo
There’s no denying that Mackinac Island is one of the most unique towns in Michigan. You’ll notice a sense of calm that can’t be found anywhere else — this is because there are no cars on the island. What could be more relaxing than a quiet day on a bicycle, taking in the stunning views of Mackinac?
5. Northville
Northville, MI, USA
Flickr/Michigan Municipal League
This suburb of Detroit is home to a lovely downtown area and a slew of buildings created with Victorian architecture. Throughout the year, Northville is home to several family-friendly festivals — but this doesn’t make it any less suited for calm and relaxation.

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6. Marquette
Marquette, MI, USA
Flickr/Joey Lax-Salinas
Venture north for a visit to Marquette, where you’ll be stunned by views of Lake Superior. Get blissfully lost on one of the town’s nature trails or watch the world go by from along the harbor. No matter how you spend your time in Marquette, you’ll leave feeling more relaxed than you were when you arrived.
7. Suttons Bay
Suttons Bay, MI 49682, USA
Flickr/David Cornwell
Tucked away in Leelanau County, this quaint village boasts a relaxing vibe that can rarely be found elsewhere. Suttons Bay has a population of under 700 people, so you’ll truly feel like you’ve stepped into a traditional village. While you’re in the area, peruse the town’s shops — you’ll find everything from handmade fudge to spices.
8. Caseville
Caseville, MI 48725, USA
Flickr/Redi-Rock International
If you’re looking for a genuinely tiny town in the Mitten State, Caseville is the place to be. Its charming downtown area houses a few restaurants, coffee shops, and bars, but most of its neighborhoods are made up of small homes and quaint cottages. Grab a book and spend the day reading on the beach at nearby Sleeper State Park.
9. Escanaba
Escanaba, MI, USA
Flickr/Deb Nystrom
Located along the Bay de Noc in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Escanaba has a little something for everyone. Chill out on the shores of the bay or marvel at a nearby lighthouse. If natural relaxation is more your style, there are plenty of hiking trails in the area just waiting to be explored.
10. Charlevoix
Charlevoix, MI 49720, USA
Flickr/John Menard
Charlevoix is renowned for its gorgeous natural scenery, but it’s also an ideal place to enjoy some peace and quiet. Watch sailboats float by on the banks of Lake Michigan or Lake Charlevoix, or take a boat ride yourself and let the waves soothe you. If you’re looking for an educational experience, visit one of the town’s multiple historical sites. It truly lives up to its reputation as the best small town in Michigan.

 

This is just a short compilation of beautiful small towns in Michigan. What are your favorite towns in Michigan for peaceful relaxation in the Great Lakes State? Tell us!

These might be some of the best small towns in Michigan, but they’re not the only ones worthy of a spot on your bucket list. There are several others, including these charming small towns in Michigan.

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Small Towns In Michigan

Daniella DiRienzo | September 19, 2022

What is the most scenic town in Michigan?

The best towns in Michigan aren’t limited to those above. The state is brimming with beautiful towns, including South Haven. A quaint town, South Haven is home to about 4,000 residents and spectacular waterfront vistas, thanks to its location on Lake Michigan. Its on-the-water locale makes South Haven a, well, haven for water enthusiasts. A true beach town it boasts plenty of beautiful beaches, along with a laidback vibe, eclectic eateries, wineries, unique boutiques, and lots more.

What's the most beautiful hike in Michigan?

As far as beautiful hikes go, Michigan has got plenty of them. One of the state’s most stunning trails is the Greenstone Ridge Trail in Isle Royale National Park. Spanning a total of 40 miles and rated as “hard,” the Greenstone Ridge Trail is no easy trek; however, all the effort is well worth it, as the hike boasts spectacular scenery and vistas throughout, including white pine forests, granite outcroppings, Lake Superior, Big Lake, and, if you’re lucky, a few moose. The Penosha Trail is also among the most beautiful hikes in Michigan. Nestled in the Brighton Recreation Area in Howell, the trail spans five miles – just about every foot of which is jam-packed with stellar views, including rolling hills, inland lakes, and forests of maple and oak. The trail is beautiful year-round; however, the views are especially stunning in the fall, when vibrant foliage is abundant.

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