Introduction

Scenic Views. Quaint Motels. Friendly locals. These are the things we often consider when choosing a fun and relaxing summer destination. Living in the Midwest, we consider ourselves lucky to have several quaint towns that make you feel right at home as soon as you kick off your shoes. Today, we’ll be featuring five small harbor towns that feel frozen in time that are worth more than just a passing through. 

Port Austin, MI

We highly recommend Port Austin for your next weekend getaway. Located on the very tip of Michigan’s thumb, this harbor town feels like you’re stepping back in time. If you are looking to be within walking distance then the Lakeside Motor Lodge, originally built in the 1930’s,  is our top pick. Situated right on the corner of the downtown strip, this location makes it easy to grab any last minute necessities upon arrival and explore the local shops, or even enjoy a relaxing afternoon lounging in their outdoor pool. We highly recommend stopping into Grindstone General Store for some ice cream on the drive in. Founded in 1886, their massive scoops will not disappoint. Once you’re in town, check out the vintage charm-filled Port Austin Dime Store & Fudge Shop. They carry a wide selection of fudge and old-fashioned candies, perfect for the sweet tooth in your group. 

Bonus tips: If you are an avid kayaker looking for an adventure, a quick voyage out to Turnip Rock and Port Austin Harbor is a must-see. There are several local rentals (Port Austin Kayak, Tip-A-Thumb Canoe and Kayak Rental, and Port Austin Watersport Rentals) so no worries if you can’t transport your own there. If you do bring your own, we recommend swinging into one of these shops to get their opinion on the predicted water conditions (or check the forecast before heading out.) Conditions can change quickly on Lake Huron and a calm morning can quickly change into a choppy afternoon, making the trip back a dangerous one. 

Leland, MI

An always booming commercial fishing center since the 1800’s, the “Fishtown” still retains much of its maritime charm. Rustic shanties. Quaint cottages. A picturesque marina. Leland is still a site to behold and is always a family favorite to visit in the summer. Stroll the local galleries, museums and shops, enjoy an afternoon tasting at Verterra Winery, and soak in dinner outside at The Cove in the heart of downtown, featuring beautiful views of the Leland Dam and Lake Michigan. 

Do you or someone in your crew love to fish? Leland is an angler’s dream. Several local and specialized charters offer a plethora of options, from Manitou Passage and Lake Michigan to off-shore fishing. From Lake Trout and Chinook Salmon to Coho Salmon and Steelhead Trout, Leland is the spot to snag your best catch yet. Have kids that like to fish or are you newer to fishing? We recommend Mariah and Pier Pressure Fishing (MPP) Charters. Owned by the Smith family with over 40 years of experience, they welcome anglers of all ages and skill levels. 

Bonus Tips: A local fan favorite, be sure to stop by the Village Cheese Shanty for one of their mouthwatering sandwiches. For adorable apparel to remember your trip definitely visit Tug Stuff, they are sure to have something for everyone on your list. Want to miss the crowds? Visit in October during peak fall colors for a view you’ll never forget. 

Bayfield, WI

Originally home to the Anishinabe, primarily the Ojibwe nation, Bayfield has an incredibly long history. Following the Treaty of La Pointe in 1856, Bayfield became a booming shipping port for transportation of lumber and brownstone and a popular commercial fishing location, and even donned the name “the New Chicago” in the late 1800’s. Situated on one of the northernmost points of Wisconsin, Bayfield today is perfect for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Fresh locally caught fish is always on the menu at Hoop’s Fish and Chips Dockside, so we highly recommend stopping in for a bite on your way into town (plus we recommend stopping into their fish market if you’re looking to fry up something yourself!) Known as the Berry Capital of Wisconsin, we recommend planning a morning trip to Bayfield’s Blue Vista Farms (mid-July-August) to pick your own blueberries and raspberries (they also have an apple orchard if you are visiting in September)(Be sure to check their Facebook page for up to date information on harvest times). 

And for adventure seekers, booking a guide and kayaking/canoeing around the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Mainland Sea Caves is a must. We suggest booking through Trek & Trail or Apostle Islands Rustic Makwa Den prior to your trip to ensure availability. If you have time, spend a day exploring the Bayfield Maritime Museum and end your evening enjoying a craft cocktail at Bates Art Bar, which retains its original Art Deco bar from 1934 when it was established. 

Bonus Tip: Plan a day or two extra and catch a ferry over Madeline Island. The largest of the Apostle Islands, Madeline Island has a rich history and is worth exploring through its picturesque hiking trails and beaches. If you prefer, you can even rent bikes or mopeds (located close to the ferry exit) to explore local galleries around the island and the Madeline Island Museum. Stop by Tom’s Burned Down Cafe, a local bar that has burned down and been rebuilt twice now, for an unforgettable dinner before heading back to the mainland. 

Tobermory, ON

Established in the 1880’s and named after its Scottish cousin, Tobermory’s name stems from the Gaelic words Tobar Mhoire, meaning Mary’s Well. Located on the Bruce Peninsula, Tobermory is home to historic shallow shipwrecks, Big Tub Lighthouse, and the Fathom Five National Marine Park. The best part? It looks like a storybook illustration come to life. Book a cruise to explore Flowerpot Island, nestled just 4 miles off the coast, through Blue Heron Cruises or Bruce Anchor Cruises. Home to over 20 shipwrecks, some so shallow (The Sweepstakes and The City of Grand Rapids) that you can even view them from Big Tub Harbour itself or by snorkeling. If you are planning a multi-day trip, explore Greig’s Caves in Lion’s Head, a 40-minute drive south. 

Bonus Tips: If you are looking to explore the area on foot, we recommend exploring Bruce Trail by starting at Little Cove and ending at the Grotto (a large shoreline sea cave) before heading back. This is a hard all-day hike, at almost 12 miles in length round trip and 1,200 ft in elevation gain over rocks and roots, so plan accordingly (parking passes for either location must be reserved in advance on Parks Canada’s website here.) Looking for a quieter place to experience the scenic lakeshore without the crowds? Head to Halfway Log Dump, a nearby quiet and rocky beach with stunning views. 

Charlevoix, MI

Originally called “Pine River” up until its name change in 1869, Charlevoix’s unique geography made it the ideal commercial fishing spot until it transitioned to a popular summer destination, with places like the Beach Hotel and the Belvedere Club, for wealthy Chicagoans in the late 1800’s. By the 1920’s some of Charlevoix’s most whimsical homes were built, the Earl Young mushroom houses. Today, you can feel like you have stepped straight into The Shire and either schedule a GEM car tour where you take a tour past 26 of the original structures or walk a self-guided tour on foot (less than 1.25 miles). Hike Avalanche Preserved Hiking Trail (just under 3 miles), located 15 miles southeast of downtown Charlevoix for breathtaking views of Lake Charlevoix. Meander through downtown and watch the historic 77 year-old drawbridge open. Check upcoming events and exhibits prior to your visit at Charlevoix Circle of Arts and visit and explore the gardens and grounds of the 1918 Castle Farms, along with its WW1 museum and memorabilia. 

Conclusion

We hope you get the chance to visit some of these charming towns on your travels this year. Let us know your favorite hidden towns you’ve visited in the Great Lakes region or your experiences with visiting any of these in our comments below! Be sure to check out our blogs on The Top Five Hikes to Take Around the Great Lakes This Summer and A Guide to Dark Parks and Stargazing Spots in the Great Lakes for more trips ideas around the Midwest this summer.