Carefree Travel Guide 2023

Small Town Gems

Small towns each have their own unique culture, flavor, and atmosphere. You’ll find many businesses that are special and intimate and uniquely original; cool coffee shops, quaint bookstores, outfitters stocked and ready, and breweries, distilleries, and restaurants all waiting to serve you the best of what they have to offer.

Jessica Davenport | Traverse City Fermin B. Manatad | Holland

A great way to explore a small town is to get insight from local residents! Pick a place, then visit, call, or check out the website of their local Chamber of Commerce or Visitors Center for a wealth of information and recommendations on what to do and see in the area. The staff will be happy to help you with suggestions that will make your trip all that it can be. Be sure to note the hours and dates for any attractions you are wanting to visit, and check for any special events, festivals, fairs, or parades that may be happening during the year. Check out our list of local resources at WMTA.org/area-info.

West Michigan is filled with many small town wonders – something for everyone and every season. Keep reading to learn about a few charming destinations that we’d recommend exploring. SOUTH: HARBOR COUNTRY Those looking to explore local small towns should be sure to check out Harbor Country, an eclectic collection of eight small towns in southwest Michigan. Nestled among sandy beaches and beautiful orchards and vineyards, these communities are a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of the Lake Michigan shoreline region. You’ll find vibrant art galleries in Union Pier, Harbert, and Three Oaks, and fantastic beaches in New Buffalo, Grand Beach, and Sawyer. Lakeside features several community events during the year, and Michiana is home to a number of charming cottage neighborhoods – perfect for a relaxing getaway. CENTRAL: LOWELL Just a 20-minute drive from Grand Rapids, you’ll find the small town of Lowell, featuring historic buildings, covered bridges, unique shopping, and antiques.

Lowell is located right where the Flat River and Grand River meet, offering scenic opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. This charming small town also features a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Showboat Sizzlin’ Summer Concert Series, the Fallasburg Art Festival, and Christmas Through Lowell celebration. NORTH: LUDINGTON Reminiscent of Norman Rockwell’s small town Americana depictions, Ludington could surely qualify. Near the long stretches of sugar-sand beaches, the flower-lined

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West Michigan Tourist Association | WMTA.org West Michigan Tourist Association