Hidden Gem Towns in Michigan Worth Visiting This Summer

OKEMOS, Mich., – There's nothing quite like summertime in Northern Michigan! Most people have their favorite spots to go to or camp at, and there are certainly a few destination towns that every Michigander can name by heart. But, there are also a lot of not so well known towns worth visiting where you'll find everything you need for an amazing vacation or weekend adventure. Read our list of hidden gem towns in Michigan worth visiting this summer to make the most of our gorgeous state!

Tawas

Lake Huron often gets a bit overshadowed by Lake Michigan, but spend some time on Tawas Bay and you'll start thinking much differently on the subject. With a perfectly protected bay to enjoy the water, a number of fun shops and restaurants to check out, a beautiful old lighthouse, and many other outdoor activities, Tawas City and East Tawas are a perfect change of pace for a fun weekend up north.

Port Austin

You may not know Port Austin by name, but you're probably familiar with it's most famous landmark, the Turnip Rock! While a trip to the thumb is worth it just to kayak over and snap a few pictures of the wild rock formation, you can also take advantage of Port Austin's many hiking trails, gorgeous beach, local shops, and water sport activities.

Houghton Lake

Do you and your family love water sports, skiing, tubing, and more!? Houghton Lake, one of Michigan's largest inland lakes, is the perfect spot to do so! The surrounding area has a ton of other smaller lakes and state parks to enjoy as well.

St. Joseph

Another overshadowed town due to it's proximity to hotspots like Holland, Grand Haven, and Saugatuck, St. Joe is a fun and energetic lakeside town tucked right above the Indiana border. It has an incredible downtown area filled with shops and yummy restaurants as well as a gorgeous beachfront to enjoy. It's a perfect spot for a day trip!

Old Mission Peninsula

Lots of people make a trip up to Traverse City each summer, but most don't take the time to drive up the Old Mission Peninsula and take in the spectacular views and landscape that it offers! We highly recommend a sunset drive up this beautiful stretch of land.

Paradise

Alright, it may be all the way up in the U.P. but it's worth being called a "troll" (what Upper Peninsula residents fondly call us Lower Peninsula people) to experience why this town totally lives up to its name! Paradise, Michigan offers the breathtaking Tahquamenon Falls, the Shipwreck Museum, and the ability to have lots of fun on Lake Superior and in the surrounding state parks.

Frankfort 

Located on Lake Michigan and right near the beautiful Crystal Lake, Frankfort is a perfect place to get all of enjoyment out of a trip up north without having to travel to some of the more crowded and touristy towns.

Cadillac

A town people are all too quick to pass by on their way up north on Friday nights. Cadillac is an amazing little town with terrific golfing, a modern downtown area with excellent choices for food, and access to a fun all-sports lake.

Harbor Springs

A little ways past the bustle of Charlevoix and Petoskey is Harbor Springs, Michigan. It's an adorable town on Little Traverse Bay that offers everything you'll want and need for a relaxing weekend up north.

Glen Arbor

Last but not least, the crown jewel of Northern Michigan. With access to a number of incredible beaches, the Sleeping Bear Dunes, bike and hiking trails, and a delightful little downtown area, there is a lot to love about Glen Arbor! Plus, you can spend an afternoon floating down the Platte River on inner tubes with the whole family!

We encourage you to take the road less traveled, so to speak, this summer and explore areas and towns in our great state that maybe you haven't experienced before. There's plenty of fun to be had all over in the hidden gem towns in Michigan worth visiting this summer! But before you head on the long road trip to your destination, consult our Summer Car Care tips to make sure your vehicle is in good working condition and ready for anything!

Located conveniently just outside of Lansing, Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is here to help you with your car buying and servicing needs. Our goal is to create a transparent experience and a comfortable environment for all of our valuable customers. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, reach us at (517) 349-8300, or stop by the dealership at 1748 W. Grand River in Okemos, MI 48864

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