11 Standout Main Streets In The Great Lakes
Towns in the Great Lakes region are often filled with the scent of freshwater breezes drifting, the distant hum of a drawbridge rising for passing boats, or maybe even the sound of gulls circling over a historic harbor. However, their main streets and unique downtown areas, often just steps from the water, also add to the charm of these towns. Spanning multiple states and two countries, these communities combine natural beauty with vibrant, walkable streets, highlighting the magic of the Great Lakes region.
Bayfield, Wisconsin
Located in Northern Wisconsin along Lake Superior, Rittenhouse Avenue in Bayfield looks like it was pulled from a postcard. Bookstores, galleries, and lakeside cafés are situated all along Bayfield’s compact downtown. In this tight-knit community, businesses such as Honest Dog Books offer unique spaces for social gatherings, such as book clubs and mahjong game nights. As the name implies, they also sell new and used books, as well as vinyl records. Local eateries like Starlit Kitchen and Wonderstate Coffee are a short walk from the waterfront, so when the weather is nice, grabbing food and drinks for a picnic by the lake is a stress-free afternoon activity. Also, not far from the main strip sits the Bayfield Maritime Museum, a free museum that highlights the unique history of the town and the nearby Apostle Islands.
Port Hope, Ontario
Port Hope is one of the most charming small towns on Lake Ontario, and its Walton Street corridor is lined with beautifully-preserved Victorian storefronts and brick facades. A stroll down Walton Street leads to antiques stores, indie boutiques, cozy cafés, and art spaces that stay vibrant year-round. Authenticity|Lana Taylor Antiques and Folk Art is a great place to buy one-of-a-kind pieces for your home, and Antiques on Queen features a stunning collection of jewelry and home goods. Along the lakefront, East Beach and West Beach are beautiful sandy beaches separated by the Ganaraska River, which runs parallel to downtown. In the summer, residents and visitors enjoy paddleboarding, boating, and swimming in the lake here.
Grand Haven, Michigan
In Grand Haven, Michigan, Washington Avenue and the surrounding downtown area emit classic lakeshore small-town vibes. On one side of Grand Haven is Lake Michigan, and on the other flows the Grand River, so waterfront views are hard to escape. But who wants to do that? With so much to do along Washington Avenue, it can be hard to choose what to do. Maybe you could start your day out at Tri-Cities Historical Museum, a free museum that features exhibits on local history, and then walk over to The Toasted Pickle for one of their unique sandwiches and delicious sweet potato waffle fries. Or, enjoy a seasonal craft cocktail at Kirby House, a former hotel turned restaurant that serves crowd-pleasing American dishes, and then go see the Grand Haven Musical Fountain, which is situated by the lake. The fountain’s free show that synchronizes lights, water, and music is one of Grand Haven’s most beloved attractions.
Saugatuck, Michigan
Butler Avenue in downtown Saugatuck is a boutique-lined street located near Lake Michigan and Kalamazoo Lake. Enjoy gallery-hopping at the dozens of small art galleries and studios, such as James Brandess Studio and Gallery, a local favorite for buying cards and small gifts. Butler Avenue and its surrounding streets also feature local restaurants, bars, and eateries of all sorts. Stop by the Drug Store Soda Fountain for a root beer float or a malt in an old-school-style soda shop that will charm the whole family, or pop into the Sandbar Saloon, which the locals have deemed “the friendliest bar in Saugatuck”. Butler Avenue also runs directly through a green space called Village Square that is perfect for an afternoon of relaxing, and it even has convenient public restrooms.
Ashland, Wisconsin
Ashland sits directly on Lake Superior’s Chequamegon Bay, and the town's Main Street is a walkable haven. The Ashland Mural Walk is a self-guided tour that features many outdoor murals that highlight aspects of local culture and history, which are located near cafés, outfitters, bookstores, and local shops. If you are looking for unique gifts, Main Street is definitely the place to go. Purchase hand-made goods at Market on Main, or buy classic toys at Play Unplugged, a spot that also hosts community events and game nights. From Main Street, there is also quick access to waterfront parks, lakeside trails, and harbor views. Lakefront green spaces, such as Chequamegon Bay Scenic Overlook and Bayview Park, are ideal spaces to enjoy a sunset.
Vermilion, Ohio
Being just a few blocks from Lake Erie, Main Street in downtown Vermillion blends nautical charm with classic storefronts. Victory Park is located in the middle of town and features a beautiful gazebo. This park has a rainfanning platform where train enthusiasts can sit peacefully watching the trains pass. History buffs will appreciate a stop by the Vermilion History Museum to get a peek at the old print shop that used to supply the town with news, and it is important to note that children under 10, seniors, and veterans can enter at a reduced rate. When you are craving a delicious sweet treat on Main Street, Brummer’s Homemade Chocolates will definitely satisfy your craving. This local chocolatier has been serving the residents of Vermilion since 1904 and offers a variety of delicious snacks, as well as imported wine.
Holland, Michigan
Residents and visitors love strolling along 8th Street and the surrounding area in downtown Holland. The town is surrounded by Lake Macatawa and is less than 10 miles from the shores of Lake Michigan. On a nice day, a trip to the Waterfront Gazebo at Kollen Park is a perfect way to capture the town’s lakeside vibes. Museum-goers will also appreciate the several small museums located near the main strip in Holland. The Holland Museum is a particular favorite for families thanks to its interactive children’s area called the Spark!Lab. During spring, when the tulips bloom, Tulip Time events and parades transform the main street. For 10 days each May, events and activities take place all over downtown. The Tulip Immersion Garden, where visitors can take photos among the flowers, is a particularly popular place during Tulip Time.
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
As its name suggests, Niagara-on-the-Lake is located near Niagara Falls on the Canadian border across from New York. Queen Street, a graceful, historic main street in this lakeside wine country town, is centrally located and a wonderful spot for a peaceful stroll. Foodies will love their options on Queen Street, which is home to eateries that offer everything from snacks to fine dining. If you are looking for an upscale dining experience, Treadwell Cuisine menu features Canadian dishes and seasonal fare. However, if you just need a quick snack, Chef and Bub sells gourmet ice pops with unique flavors such as avocado cream, watermelon-cinnamon, dill pickle, blueberry-goat cheese, and more. Additionally, anyone visiting Niagara-on-the-Lake should get tickets to one of the incredible performances at the Shaw Festival Theater.
Petoskey, Michigan
Tucked away in Little Traverse Bay, Petoskey is a charming town with brick storefronts and historic lamps lining the downtown streets. Residents come to Mitchell Street in Petoskey’s Gaslight District for dining and shopping experiences. Additionally, Crooked Tree Arts Center offers classes, lectures, and workshops, as well as live performances, creating a welcoming space for self-expression. Mitchell Street is also a short walk to Bayfront Park, a public green space right on the waterfront that has sports fields, a playground, and the Petroskey Clock Tower. This landmark is a charming reminder of Petrosky’s history because it was originally purchased for the courthouse in 1902 and later relocated to the lakefront. Another historical landmark in town is the Ernest Hemingway Statue, erected in 2017 to honor the time that the famed American author spent in Petoskey.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Main Street in Mackinac Island is a car-free, Victorian-era streetscape that feels frozen in time. Located in Lake Huron off the northern coast of Michigan, this island has banned most vehicles, but horse-drawn taxi rides and bicycle rentals are a popular form of transportation along the main drag. Tourists enjoy visiting the old-fashioned shops on the island, which is well-known for its fudge stores. The Original Murdick’s Fudge is a great place to buy a variety of different fudge flavors and other sweet treats. Don’t forget to buy enough to take some home with you. Other than the spectacular views of Lake Huron, The Secret Garden represents the spectacular natural beauty of the island. In the spring, this garden, which is located outside the famed Grand Hotel, blooms with the stunning colors of tulips, grape hyacinths, alliums, and many other flower species.
Collingwood, Ontario
First Street in downtown Collingwood is a bright, waterfront-facing main drag. Along this pedestrian-friendly street, restaurants and breweries are easy to come by (which is good because you will need to refuel after walking so much). If you are looking for large portions of delicious Canadian meals, Kelsey’s Original Roadhouse is a fantastic option. At Northwinds Brewhouse and Kitchen, you can dine in and enjoy some of their craft beers in a cozy setting, and then buy some of your favorites from the on-site store to take with you. From First Street, there is also easy access to waterfront trails and marina views at nearby Harbourlands Park. Collingwood Arboretum is also a short walk to the lake and a lovely spot to appreciate the local flora and fauna.
The Great Lakes region proves that main streets in small towns are a full-on sensory experience, so when you are here, remember to pause for a bit and give your senses a new experience. Sample local flavors and watch the sunset over one of the massive lakes. Browse antique stores and enjoy the aroma of freshly made coffee and pastries. However you decide to spend time on the main streets in these small towns, you will undoubtedly walk away with a greater appreciation for the Great Lakes.
