11 Overlooked Towns In Michigan Worth Visiting
The Mitten State is nationally revered for bordering four of the five Great Lakes, allowing it to have the longest freshwater shoreline in the country. While its bustling cities, Detroit and Grand Rapids, perennially grab the headlines, some of its best-kept secrets manage to hide in plain sight. From scenic waterfront escapes to low-key riverside gems, you only need a detour off the well-trodden highways to discover this treasure trove of fantastic destinations.
These delightful destinations blend natural beauty, thin crowds, and outdoor adventure to grant tourists unforgettable experiences. Sprinkled throughout the state, from the Upper to the Lower Peninsula, tourists are spoilt for choice when selecting an itinerary befitting of their preferences. Whether you want to relax by the lake in Alpena or savor island flavors on Mackinac Island, here are underrated towns in Michigan worth visiting.
Frankfort
Scenic beaches, pristine dunes, and stupendous sunsets just about describe what to expect in this under-the-radar gem along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Frankfort Beach is easily one of the most popular outdoor spaces in the town, offering a serene and secluded waterfront along which you can enjoy a stroll or sit back and admire the sunset over the dazzling water. The Point Betsie Lighthouse looks stunning from the shore, standing as a beacon of the town's maritime heritage since it was erected in the mid-1800s.
Frankfort has a thriving art scene, apparent from the multiple galleries and art centers around its downtown. The Elizabeth Lane Oliver Center for the Arts promotes the local arts community through performing, literary, and culinary art programs. Meanwhile, the town produces tasty craft brews that visitors can sample at Stormcloud Brewing Company.
Houghton
Popularly known as the "Gateway to the Keweenaw," Houghton is a sought-after destination in the Copper Country region with a mix of history, water fun, and outdoor splendor. The A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum tells a fascinating story of minerals found within the Great Lakes region and beyond its borders, using a fine collection of gemstones. Keweenaw Boat Tours excites guests with remarkable sightseeing cruises along the rugged shoreline of Lake Superior to witness the beauty of the Keweenaw Peninsula.
Meanwhile, the Kestner Waterfront Park provides a 5-acre sanctuary where guests can admire the water from afar during a lazy picnic. Finally, tourists can look forward to a modern movie experience at Rogers Cinema 5, which employs the latest in cinema comforts and technology.
Zeeland
Zeeland is a small town in Ottawa County with stunning natural scenery and a rich Dutch heritage. It is a compelling backstory that promises to interest newcomers when they tour the Dekker Huis Museum. This historic home dates back to 1876 and features exhibits highlighting life for the early settlers. Opportunities abound for those who want to immerse themselves in the outdoors, with many focused around the Upper Macatawa Natural Area. This 612-acre sanctuary borders the Macatawa River and presents activities like hiking, biking, and birding across the forest, wetland, and grassland habitats.
Zeeland is a tight-knit community, and this shows whenever there is a high school football game at Zeeland Stadium. Townsfolk come out in numbers to cheer their kids in a vibrant atmosphere that would overwhelm any first-timer. Furthermore, the community holds Pumpkinfest annually to celebrate its agricultural heritage.
Rockford
Rockford is a picturesque village along the Rogue River and an excellent escape for ardent adventurers. Tourists are spoilt for choice whenever they feel like hitting an outback trail, and the Saul Lake Bog Nature Preserve is a fantastic option. Spanning more than 120 acres, this rare bog and wetland ecosystem has dozens of native plant species, insects, and birds. Furthermore, the Rogue River Nature Trail offers an 8-mile route along the beautiful waterway, perfect for hiking and sightseeing.
In addition to the outdoors, the Rockford Area Museum extensively chronicles the community's history using a fine selection of engaging exhibits. Rockford also hosts several fun festivals throughout the year, headlined by electrifying live music performances during the Rogue River Blues Series.
Greenville
This under-the-radar village in the Lower Peninsula offers an all-around vacation with its broad spectrum of attractions. Historians will particularly enjoy visiting the Flat River Historical Museum, where an extensive library of documents, photographs, and artifacts preserves the region's heritage. The Flat River Community Players entertains townsfolk with a fun lineup of theatrical presentations that draws the young and old together, as a way to connect with the arts.
For the outdoors inclined, it doesn't get better than spending your downtime on the tranquil grounds of Tower Riverside Park. This downtown oasis, set along the Flat River, is a popular spot for picnickers and strollers. When it's time to eat, foodies can find some of the best Mexican dishes at El Jalapeno Mexican Restaurant.
Owosso
This historic railroad town in Shiawassee County mixes rich history and vibrant arts to deliver unforgettable encounters throughout your stay. Its historic downtown is decorated with beautiful architecture from the yesteryears, none more conspicuous than the Owosso Curwood Castle. Set on the banks of the Shiawassee River, this colorful castle from the 1920s was built by James Oliver Curwood.
The corridor is also known for its lively theater scene, which enthusiasts congregate inside the Lebowsky Center for the Performing Arts to watch. This is also true for the Shiawassee Arts Center, which focuses on displaying beautiful creations by local artists. Elsewhere, more than four miles of trails cut through the 136 acres of DeVries Nature Conservancy, where you can discover a tranquil ecosystem with forest, farmland, and prairie.
Lexington
Festivals, the arts, and a stunning waterfront make this lakeside community one of the most overlooked towns in Michigan, worth visiting. Lexington lies along the shores of Lake Huron, and some of its best vistas await at Lexington State Harbor. This is a lovely spot to simply stroll and take in the scene. The Lexington Village Theatre has staged premier performances throughout the years inside an intimate Victorian venue. The townspeople are always meeting here to watch world-class entertainment.
A string of local pubs and restaurants along the downtown corridor serves as the perfect evening out. When you feel like sampling the area's nightlife, the Village Pub is one of the options to consider. Lexington is also famous for its festivals, with Thumbfest ranking among the most awaited in town.
Mackinac Island
This storybook village on the shores of Lake Huron enchants vacationers with its gorgeous natural scenery, relaxed pace of life, and rustic charm. There are no cars to pollute the peaceful atmosphere in Mackinac Island. Instead, people commute on the back of horse-drawn carriages, which newcomers can experience during a unique tour with Grand Hotel Stables. The community's two-century heritage comes to life through noteworthy monuments and landmarks, including Fort Mackinac. Built in the 1700s, this historic fortress maintains tens of exhibits, relics, and artifacts from the warring period.
Mackinac Island State Park beckons nature enthusiasts to explore its magical scenery, framed by stunning geological formations and stupendous lake vistas. A climb to the dramatic Arch Rock places you at the perfect position to soak in the glistening waters of Lake Huron for as long as the eye can see.
Alpena
Alpena's charm lies in its rich maritime heritage and strategic location on the shores of Lake Huron, accompanied by a vibrant arts and culture landscape. A walk through the downtown district reveals a fair share of theater venues, welcoming visitors to catch compelling live productions in the intimate interior of the Alpena Civic Theatre. There is also enough opportunity for visual art enthusiasts, who tour the Thunder Bay Arts Council, to inspect the works of local artists.
The quiet setting of Bay View Park gives vacationers every reason to want to step outside. This lovely natural space overlooks the blue waters of Lake Huron, setting the stage for a quiet meditation. Lastly, remember to stop by the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Museum to discover the town's rich history and learn about shipwrecks from the past.
Marshall
This historic town in southern Michigan leaves many first-timers marveling at its well-maintained old downtown district, which stands out for its elaborate display of 19th and 20th-century architecture. The Honolulu House Museum is a highlight in the lovely neighborhood, known for its conspicuous Gothic Revival style and a heritage going back to 1860. The Franke Center for the Arts showcases Marshall's artistic side and provides a vibrant venue where guests can watch community-based theater for a feel of local culture.
Meanwhile, those visiting with family can opt for a quirky pursuit at the American Museum of Magic, where a strange assemblage of magical paraphernalia chronicles the history of magic and illusions. Finally, spare time to enjoy the outdoors while strolling down the Marshall Riverwalk, featuring terrific views of the Kalamazoo River.
Saint Joseph
Saint Joseph is a beach town in southwest Michigan, bordering the scenic shoreline of Lake Michigan and near the St. Joseph River. It has a beautiful waterfront with splendid views into the horizon, including the St. Joseph North Pier Inner Lighthouse. This 19th-century structure is proof of the town's nautical history. The Silver Beach County Park presents the perfect escape for anyone looking to let loose and relax. It offers smooth sands for walkers and loungers, perfect for a family day out. The site is home to the Silver Beach Carousel, restored to its 1900s form for children to have classic fun.
Saint Joseph enjoys an active art scene, clear from the several art centers around downtown. Those interested can pass by the Box Factory for the Arts to enjoy a captivating live show.
Final Thoughts
Michigan's lesser-known towns offer rich experiences beyond the usual tourist paths that any seasoned traveler would be keen to uncover in the United States. From Saint Joseph's lakeside charm to the historic allure of Owosso's Curwood Castle, these overlooked towns in Michigan are worth visiting and provide unique cultural and natural attractions. Whether a history enthusiast, culinary connoisseur, culture vulture, or outdoor adventurer, venturing off the beaten path promises memorable adventures and a deeper connection to the state's diverse heritage.
