Michigan's Best Small Towns for a Weekend Escape
Also known as the Mitten State and Wolverine State, Michigan abounds in opportunities for year-round outdoor recreation, making it an ideal destination for a weekend escape. Consider St. James, a charming town on the hook-like Beaver Island, featuring its own toy museum, a lighthouse, and remote vibes perfect for chilling out. Michigan is home to five Great Lakes. Lake Michigan is the world’s largest lake located entirely within a single country, while Lake Ontario is the smallest, Lake Erie is the shallowest, and Lake Huron has the longest shoreline.
Holland offers a chance to enjoy the beauty of Lake Michigan and relax in its late-1800s and early-1900s downtown, characterized by tree-lined streets and whimsical pocket parks. Did you know that the enigmatic designer and artist Earl Young didn't use blueprints, instead creating homes that fit the site? Experience the "Lord of the Rings" vibes around his whimsical "Mushroom Huts" in Charlevoix, home to the world's largest cherry pie tin and numerous beaches.
Alden
Cozy, walkable, and uncrowded, Alden inspires an easy, breezy escape along the Upper Peninsula. Nestled along the turquoise Torch Lake, known as "the Caribbean of the North," this small, lovely, and pristine town boasts swimmable waters. Alden, the closest town to the Sandbar just off the southern shore, attracts paddlers and jet skiers to lounge under the rays, enjoy second-to-none scenery, and jump into the open waters from this sand mass. Overlooking Lake Michigan from the trails of its Coy Mountain Natural Area, the Grass River Natural Area sprawls just south in a beautiful nature preserve.
Brimming with Instagram-perfect mementos, think lakeside strolls in the cooling water's breath, sunny skies, and a dripping cone from Lakeside Dip. Visitors can take a trip to the Messiah's Tree Farm, surprise a loved one with a bouquet from the flower garden, or browse books at the town's library. Afterwards, share cold suds over a large pizza pie at the popular Torch Lake Beer Co., across from the public boat jetty with nine floating docks and a pretty replica lighthouse. Peppered with cute businesses for every taste, like Alden Muffin Tin and Alden Outfitters, Alden's Mill House is a stellar place to stock up on any kind of spice.
Caseville
Famous for its summer Cheeseburger Festival, the tiny beachside city of Caseville is much more than that. As the east side’s most popular “Up North” beach town at the start of Saginaw Bay in Lake Huron, Caseville inspires an easy-going weekend escape where locals know how to have fun each day. From mini-golf to go-karts and giant ice cream cones to fantastic food, Saginaw Bay's waters are generally warm, offering a refreshing embrace for splashing, swimming, diving, or floating. There is also the Sandy Acres Llama Farm and flamingos—lots of flamingos, which have symbolized the town ever since they were spotted flocking a decade ago.
Filled with fun, music, and lively events like the Cheeseburger Eating Contest, Caseville transforms into "Key North" as restaurants compete to create the best burgers. Enjoy the simple pleasure of dining at places like Lefty's Diner, the Caseville Pier, and the relaxed yacht club. Stay at Baywatch On the Beach Grill and next door at Caseville County Park, a scenic campground with lovely trails for walking. Just south, Sand Point Nature Preserve has a trailhead, and near a tree farm, Caseville Golf Course offers picturesque views. To the north, the amazing 723-acre Sleeper State Park on Saginaw Bay features seasonal campsites and shaded trails through ancient dune forests.
Charlevoix
Ah, Charlevoix the Beautiful, a long-time haunt for artists, dreamers, and families seeking an extraordinary escape. Home to three lakes and countless trails for every type of scenery chaser, the immense Fisherman's Island State Park flaunts an island vibe with high sand dunes and cedar bogs for hiking. From the World's Largest Cherry Pie Tin to East Park with a marina on Round Lake, Charlevoix is perhaps best known for the Earl Young Mushroom Houses. The enigmatic designer and artist didn't use blueprints, instead creating homes that fit the site, not vice versa. His scenic huts, real architectural treasures of the state, give off major Lord of the Rings vibes, as if rooted in the forest floor.
Built from locally sourced stone, using limestone, fieldstone, and boulders, each house is individually designed with cedar-shake roofs and a horizontal emphasis, lending a mushroom-like appearance and earning the names Gnome Homes or Hobbit Houses. While not open to the public, these private properties are open for self-guided tours. Highlights include the most photographed and impressive Half House, which appears to be cut in half, and the Thatch Roof House. After a hike through the North Point Nature Preserve, a serene day at the central Michigan Beach Park, or Ferry Beach Park overlooking Lake Charlevoix, Villager's Pub is just a hop away from sunset views behind the red Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse.
Holland
Historic and hip, Holland is a year-round destination to drink in the glory of Lake Michigan, the world’s largest lake located entirely within a single country. With four seasons of outdoor fun and cultural attractions, this small town transports you back in time and to another country. Home to a beautifully restored downtown, named the nation’s coolest downtown by America in Bloom, visitors can admire the late-1800s and early-1900s architecture along its tree-lined streets and relax at whimsical pocket parks. Flaunting a creative collection of boutiques to discover at your own pace between characterful bistros and breweries, a springtime visit promises tulips.
From summertime parades, perennials, and street performers, not to mention pristine beaches, to the corn stalks and pumpkin carvers of the fall, lake-effect snow arrives, and Holland shines with holiday greens and Sinterklaas, the Dutch version of St. Nicholas. Enjoy cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in the winter through hemlock forests, and in the summer, sailing, kayaking, jet skiing, and kitesurfing while anglers fish for their own dinner. With over 1,500 hectares of parks and trails at your backdoor, the marshlands, wooded glens, and towering dunes, including 240 kilometers of paved bike paths, beckon for backcountry treks, mountain biking, and fat tire adventures.
St. Joseph
Nestled near the bottom of Lake Michigan, the St. Joseph River flows through the heart of this charming town into the expansive lake. From romantic morning sunrises along the pier to the never-crowded beaches like Lions Park Beach for daytime lounging, St. Joseph North Pier Inner Lighthouse features not one but two iconic, historic lighthouses on a breakwater with an elevated catwalk and dramatic sunset views. Nature takes center stage in St. Joseph, with town greens like Riverview Park with trails and Carronde Park with a playground. Lookout Park is perched atop a hill with hiking trails and offers the best panorama over the bluff, lake, and city of St. Joseph for picnicking.
Begin each lovely day at a cozy new café before visiting parks, Silver Beach, or the popular Harbor Shores Golf Club. Be sure to visit the Krasl Art Center, which features exhibits, permanent sculptures, and classes suitable for all ages. Families can enjoy Slackers Family Fun Center, offering laser tag, and stop by Mutterly Love, a kennel where you can say hello to wagging tails. Pick up a treat at the iconic Culver’s for a walk through Tiscornia Park, which offers stunning views year-round along the peaceful lakeshore with a sandy beach, pier, lighthouse, and picnic pavilion. Cracker Barrel Country Old Store makes an ideal stop for your picnic supplies and to pick up treats for your return home.
Petoskey
Petoskey is one of the most popular towns among those in the know, featuring beaches, state parks, and coral formations. It remains pleasantly uncrowded, giving visitors a chance to explore its attractions. Perched atop a hill with views resembling those of the Atlantic Ocean, the southern shoreline of Lake Michigan's serene Little Traverse Bay is filled with hidden gems. The sandy beaches of Petoskey State Park are ideal for searching for the elusive Petoskey stones—fossils and rocks from ancient coral deposits over 350 million years old. The historic train depot has been restored and now functions as the Little Traverse History Museum. Additionally, the Sky Bridge, located just 20 minutes from town, is the world’s longest timber-towered suspension bridge.
Bayfront Park is wonderful for a stroll through the former industrial site with rocky and water views, as well as places to relax or enjoy sports fields and a playground, all along the charming Little Traverse Bay. Hop next door to Sunset Park just for the relevant evening pursuit, or take it down—not a notch—but south to the scenic Bear River Valley Recreation Area. This 1.5-mile stretch along riverbanks beckons you to follow via trails, boardwalks, or in a whitewater raft. Petoskey Bayfront Lighthouse is accessible via a jutting pier, while the treats at Kilwins Chocolate Kitchen, an old favorite chocolate shop with fudge and ice cream, will blow your mind.
South Haven
South Haven is a revered summertime destination for a weekend getaway in the state. Flaunting many beaches and nature trails along the shores of both Lake Michigan and at the mouth of the Black River, the crowds seem less daunting when everyone is engaged otherwise. South Haven Piers feature a bright red lighthouse, while Black River Preserve feels like a world of its own with miles of trails for hiking through the shaded forest and wetland. From North Beach to South Beach, Deerlick Creek Park offers a slick sand stretch with backwoods and scenic rocks.
From viewing spring flowers to leaf peeping during fall, South Haven offers year-round beauty, with its lush trails favored by snowshoers and cross-country skiers. The Kal-Haven Trailhead guides visitors through a peaceful covered bridge. Camping remains popular here, with options like the Kal-Haven Outpost, Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort, and Covert/South Haven KOA. Additionally, the Michigan Maritime Museum, located locally, provides an engaging glimpse into the area's maritime history through exhibits on the Great Lakes and boating culture, complemented by a gift shop and research library.
St. James
Covering a portion of Beaver Island as well as the wild islets of High, Garden, and Hog, one day in St. James is never enough. Accessible via a scenic, over two-hour ferry ride from Charlevoix, this harbor town on the northern tip of the largest island in the middle of Lake Michigan is a popular camping destination, perfect for a long-weekend escape. Truly in the middle of nowhere, with miles of coastline, St. James promises an escape from reality. With something to keep the whole family happily engaged, don't miss the Beaver Island Marine Museum and the delightful Toy Museum for visitors of every age.
Starting from Mt. Pisgah, a popular hiking spot, to Bella's Roost Trail, Daddy Frank’s ice cream shop is the place to satisfy your cravings for flurries, malts, and hot-fudge brownie sundaes. Grab a picnic basket at McDonough's Market for a loop around Font Lake or explore the trails through the George & Althea Petritz Nature Preserve on the blufftop before watching the sunset behind Beaver Island Harbor Light at the island's "hook" tip. The Big Rock, a historic landmark, is nestled at the "Beaver's Heart," while Beaver Head Lighthouse adorns its tail, accessible via a trail from Bill Wagner Campground, where you can also visit Martin's Bluff Scenic Overlook.
Michigan’s diverse towns offer unique experiences for all. From the historic charm of Holland's downtown to the fantastical Mushroom Houses in Charlevoix, and the serene, remote beauty of St. James on Beaver Island, there's something for everyone. Whether you're exploring scenic trails, enjoying beachside relaxation, or uncovering quirky attractions, Michigan's blend of natural beauty and cultural treasures makes it the perfect destination for an unforgettable weekend escape.
