10 Off-The-Beaten-Path Towns In Michigan
Most Michigan road trips end at Mackinac Island or the Sleeping Bear overlook. The state hides far stranger treasures past those parking lots. A 200-foot freshwater spring pumps 10,000 gallons a minute near Manistique. Nearly 100 shipwrecks sit preserved beneath Lake Huron off Alpena. Leland still runs one of the last working fishing districts on the Great Lakes. These 10 small towns reward drivers willing to keep going.
Empire
Empire is home to fewer than 400 residents and sits along the scenic 116-mile-long M-22 highway. Despite its proximity to the popular Sleeping Bear Dunes, this small village offers a unique experience with its walkable downtown area. Visit a wide range of locally owned shops, such as Grocer's Daughter Chocolate, famous for its handcrafted artisan sweets and delicacies, or browse the Sleeping Bear Gallery, which features local art, jewelry, and photography. Located just minutes away is Empire Beach Village Park. From there, visitors can swim, kayak, or surf, see the Robert H. Manning Memorial Light, or bike the mostly paved Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail.
Leland
Only 28 miles away is the town of Leland, which offers a unique combination of rich maritime heritage and breathtaking natural views. It is aptly nicknamed "Fishtown" for its history and its current status as one of the last working fishing districts on the Great Lakes. Soak up the sun at public beaches such as North Beach or Van’s Beach, or hike one of the many trails at Leelanau State Park, located around 20 miles northeast. Despite the town's small size, with fewer than 400 residents, it has a vibrant dining scene and even hosts the Leland Wine & Food Festival in the summer, showcasing local food and wine from the region's vineyards.
Rogers City
Rogers City is also a coastal town. Its location on the banks of Lake Huron provides tons of outdoor opportunities. Hike to your heart's content with seven miles of trails at Herman Vogler Conservation Area, which is less than 3 miles from town, or hit the beach at Seagull Point Park. Rogers City is home to about 3,000 residents, creating an active social district with a downtown area specifically designed to be walkable. Browse a variety of locally owned businesses, or explore the expansive dining scene with a sweet treat and a refreshing beverage at the Painted Lady Cafe, or dinner at the Lighthouse Restaurant.
Alpena
Another Lake Huron town is Alpena, often dubbed the "Sanctuary of the Great Lakes.” Founded in 1871, the town began as a fishing community and eventually became a booming lumber hub. Located 248 miles from Detroit, Alpena has strong ties to the fishing and lumber industries. Delve into the area's heritage at the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, whose protected waters contain nearly 100 historic freshwater shipwrecks. Explore both above and below the water with activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and diving, or discover more of the bustling downtown district, which features a range of historic buildings housing over 200 businesses.
Manistique
Originally settled as a fishing and lumber community in the late 1800s, Manistique’s roots are still present today. Stroll down the boardwalk along Lake Michigan or explore a variety of lighthouses, such as the East Breakwater Lighthouse or historic Seul Choix Point Lighthouse, which is located in the neighboring town of Gulliver. The town is also home to Palms Book State Park, which features Kitch-iti-kipi, the largest natural freshwater spring in Michigan. The spring spans 200 feet in width and reaches depths of 40 feet, and releases more than 10,000 gallons of water per minute from underground fissures.
Marine City
Marine City also has origins in the lumber and shipbuilding industries. Originally named "Newport," the town was officially incorporated as Marine City in 1865. While shipbuilding fizzled out in the 20th century, many historical sites and artifacts remain quite well-preserved and can be viewed at the Marine City Museum. A short drive away, Algonac State Park offers views of freighters moving along the St. Clair River, while WaterStreet Winery and Brewing Co. provides waterfront drinks in downtown Marine City. The town also has a lively arts and culture scene, housing a variety of live entertainment and performances at numerous theaters.
Marshall
The town of Marshall is nationally recognized for its 19th-century architecture. With over 800 historically preserved buildings, the district earned a designation on the National Historic Landmark registry. Step back in time and visit the Honolulu House Museum, built in 1860. Explore the whimsical American Museum of Magic, which houses an extensive collection of objects used by famed illusionist Harry Blackstone Sr. The pedestrian-friendly downtown area also offers a variety of retail opportunities, such as Alice & Giles antique shop or the Mole Hole of Marshall gift shop, allowing visitors to easily stroll between locations and take in the historic architecture.
Copper Harbor
Copper Harbor is another historic town. Step back in time with a number of preserved sites, such as the Copper Harbor Lighthouse or Fort Wilkins Historic State Park. The town's remote location provides a variety of activities for those looking to disconnect and get outside, including hiking, boating, fishing, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. The peninsula is also a fan favorite among birders due to heavy migration activity, with Brockway Mountain aptly nicknamed "Hawk Highway." Take a scenic drive along the mountain's winding roads on Brockway Mountain Drive, the highest paved road between the Rockies and the Alleghenies.
Sault Ste. Marie
Founded in 1668 by Father Jacques Marquette, a French explorer and missionary, Sault Ste. Marie earns the title of Michigan's oldest town. With roots dating to 1668, the town offers centuries of history and plenty to see, including the Soo Locks, an engineering masterpiece that enables massive ships to travel between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes. For fans of freighters and history, the Museum Ship Valley Camp offers visitors the chance to explore a 550-foot-long ship featuring artifacts and exhibits. About 20 minutes west near Brimley, Round Island Point Nature Preserve covers over 1,000 acres and is home to an array of wildlife, including black bears, bobcats, and waterfowl.
Saugatuck
Known as the "Art Coast of Michigan," Saugatuck is a hub for creatives. The town has dozens of art galleries featuring creations from both local and national artists. Explore downtown shops such as The James Boutique for clothing and accessories or The Butler Pantry for kitchenware, pantry goods, wine, and coffee. The town also features many farm-to-table restaurants, a direct result of Saugatuck's location in the state's Fruit Belt region. Set near Lake Michigan and the Kalamazoo River, Saugatuck also offers boating, water sports, and miles of hiking trails.
Stepping Off the Beaten Path
Michigan is home to dozens of underrated towns that many travelers don't think to consider. Alpena is home to the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, where nearly 100 historic freshwater shipwrecks rest beneath the waters of Lake Huron. Leland is one of the last still-working fishing districts on the Great Lakes. Manistique is near Kitch-iti-kipi, Michigan's largest natural freshwater spring. These unique spots are among the state's best-kept secrets and can not only elevate your trip but also reveal a side of the state that many visitors miss out on when sticking to the typical tourist spots.
