The Mitten State (or Great Lakes) state is full of charming destinations, from coastal hideaways to bustling college towns. It truly is one of the most overlooked states; one easy to fall in love with at first sight. Whether you’re chasing fudge, craft breweries, sandy beaches, or cultural gems, these cool Michigan towns deliver unique experiences worth the drive.
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Alpena – Where Adventure Meets Lake Huron’s Beauty
Alpena is an artsy lakeside gem. Admire massive murals downtown, fuel up with a chicken-and-corn dish at Red Brick Tap & Barrel, or try breakfast pizza at JJ’s Steak & Pizza House. Learn local history at the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center and the Besser Museum.
Sip craft beer at Austin Brothers, relax with a latte from Cabin Creek Coffee, and browse Art in the Loft. For quirky fun, don’t miss nearby Dinosaur Gardens.
Ann Arbor – Eclectic Energy and College-Town Cool
A vibrant college town brimming with culture, Ann Arbor has something for everyone. Wander Kerrytown Markets, tour the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library, and catch a show at the Michigan Theater. Nature lovers will appreciate Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum.
Stop into Zingerman’s Deli for a legendary Reuben, admire street murals in Graffiti Alley, and hear the iconic 53-bell carillon at the University of Michigan. Stay downtown at the stylish Graduate Hotel, then finish with a scoop of Wolverine Tracks at Michigan Creamery.
Bay City – Riverfront Fun and Maritime History
Bay City shines with lakeside charm. Cruise aboard the Appledore tall ship, catch a show at the historic State Theatre, or climb Tawas Point Lighthouse nearby. Downtown, sip coffee at Populace with a cider donut, explore the Alpena Food Hall’s cheesy potatoes and BBQ, or pedal the town on the Sunrise Pedal Trolley.
Don’t leave without snagging chocolate or nuts from St. Laurent Brothers. For a cozy night, the Holiday Inn Express offers stylish rooms with Chihuly glass accents.
Charlevoix– A Storybook Harbor Town on Lake Michigan
This picturesque harbor town is known for its whimsical Earl Young mushroom houses and historic Van Pelt Alley murals. Stroll through Hoop Skirt Alley to learn local history, or treat yourself to Murdick’s Fudge.
Grab chicken shawarma at Pita Cruiser, then dine at Stafford’s Weathervane Restaurant overlooking the water. End the day at the iconic Charlevoix lighthouse—perfect for photos against Lake Michigan’s horizon.
Detroit – The Motor City’s Comeback Story
Detroit is a cultural powerhouse. Tour the Motown Museum, explore the Detroit Institute of Arts (with masterpieces by Van Gogh and Rivera), and stroll the colorful Eastern Market. See a show at the Fox Theatre, admire Art Deco architecture, or cheer at a Red Wings hockey game.
For nightlife, Bert’s Entertainment and Supino Pizzeria are staples. Add in MGM Grand Detroit Casino and Feet on the Street guided food tours, and Detroit easily earns its Motor City cool factor.
Fishtown (Leland) – Historic Fishing Village with Coastal Cool
Fishtown feels like stepping into Michigan’s maritime past. This preserved collection of fishing shanties and docks along the Leland River is now filled with shops like Leland Gal and Harbor House (don’t miss the pup cup window).
Sample smoked fish or a sandwich from Village Cheese Shanty, shop at Cherry Republic, and capture photos of the rustic shanties and boats along the river.
Frankenmuth – Michigan’s Little Bavaria
Known as “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth blends old-world charm with holiday magic. Shop Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland—the world’s largest Christmas store—before exploring River Place Shops and the Frankenmuth Historical Museum.
Feast on world-famous chicken dinners at Zehnder’s or Bavarian Inn, and watch the Bavarian Inn Glockenspiel come to life. Hop aboard the Bavarian Belle Riverboat, nibble cheese from Frankenmuth Cheese Haus, or grab sweets at Zak & Mac’s Chocolate Haus. Stay festive at Frankenmuth Jellystone Park Camp Resort.
Grand Rapids – Art, Beer, and Big City Energy in the Midwest
One of the coolest Michigan towns, Grand Rapids, perfectly blends creativity and culture with Midwestern warmth. Known as Beer City USA, it’s home to dozens of craft breweries, including Founders and Brewery Vivant. Explore the vibrant art scene at the Grand Rapids Art Museum or during ArtPrize, a citywide art competition that transforms downtown.
Don’t miss the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park—an awe-inspiring mix of nature and world-class art.
Holland – Dutch Heritage and Lakeside Charm
Charming Holland offers Dutch heritage with a modern twist. Stroll downtown’s flower-filled streets, enjoy Kilwins sweets, or sip Dragon’s Milk stout at New Holland Brewing Co. Visit Big Red Lighthouse, Holland State Park, and Windmill Island Gardens for perfect photo ops.
Families will love Nelis’ Dutch Village with its petting farm, vintage rides, cheese tastings, and giant wooden shoe slide. For breakfast, DeBoer’s Bakery has been serving Dutch favorites since 1956—don’t miss their cookies and breads.
Mackinac Island – Timeless Beauty and Horse-Drawn Magic
A trip to Mackinac Island is like stepping back in time. Arrive by ferry, then explore by horse-drawn carriage with stops at Arch Rock, Surrey Hills Museum, and Avenue of Flags. Sample fudge at Ryba’s, shop Pink Pony or Rustic Chic Boutique, and tour historic Fort Mackinac.
The Grand Hotel wows with its iconic porch and sweeping views, while Mission Point Resort’s spa and Chianti restaurant offer indulgence. Don’t miss Seabiscuit Café’s burgers or baked Cheese Crock.
Petoskey – Victorian Elegance on Little Traverse Bay
Petoskey is a lakeside treasure known for its namesake stones. Hunt for them at Petoskey State Park or browse shops downtown like McLean & Eakin Booksellers, Grandpa Shorter’s, and Roast & Toast Coffee.
Walk Bayfront Park for scenic views, then relax with boutique shopping or a café stop.
Traverse City – Cherry Capital and Wine Country Escape
Traverse City blends lakeside beauty with wine-country sophistication. Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, relax on the beach, or visit MiddleCoast Brewing Company. The Village at Grand Traverse Commons—once a state hospital—now features shops, eateries, wineries, and trails.
Wine tasting at Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery is a must, while local arts centers and luxury hotels make this a perfect getaway spot.
Michigan: So Much to Love
Michigan’s towns are chock full of character—whether you’re sipping wine in Traverse City, indulging in fudge on Mackinac Island, or snapping mural photos in Alpena, you’ll find unique experiences around every corner.
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