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Saugatuck Today
By the People, for the People
Three Michigan Lake Towns Named Best in Midwest
Charlevoix, Petoskey, and Saugatuck make the list of top Midwest lake destinations.
Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:11pm
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Three of the Midwest's most picturesque lake towns are found in the state of Michigan, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, charming downtowns, and endless recreation.Saugatuck TodayMidwest Living magazine has named three Michigan lake towns - Charlevoix, Petoskey, and Saugatuck - as some of the best in the Midwest region. The towns were recognized for their scenic lakefront locations, charming downtowns, and abundance of outdoor activities and attractions.
Why it matters
Michigan is known for its thousands of inland lakes and Great Lakes coastline, making it a premier destination for lake-focused travel and recreation. Having three Michigan towns named to this prestigious Midwest list highlights the state's reputation for offering some of the top lake town experiences in the region.
The details
Charlevoix was selected for its location on both Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix, as well as its picturesque harbor, downtown shopping district, wineries, and unique Mushroom House architecture. Petoskey was recognized for its beaches where visitors can hunt for the state's official stone, the Petoskey stone, along with its Victorian-era buildings, fudge and wine offerings, and seasonal outdoor activities. Saugatuck was chosen for its thriving art scene, downtown shopping and dining, and status as an LGBTQ+ travel destination.
- Midwest Living published its list of the Best Lake Towns in the Midwest in April 2026.
The players
Midwest Living
A regional lifestyle magazine that covers travel, food, home, and other topics of interest to residents of the Midwestern United States.
Charlevoix, Michigan
A lakefront town in northern Michigan located on both Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix, known for its harbor, downtown shopping, wineries, and unique Mushroom House architecture.
Petoskey, Michigan
A northern Michigan town on Lake Michigan, famous for its beaches where visitors can hunt for the state's official stone, the Petoskey stone, as well as its Victorian-era buildings, fudge and wine offerings, and seasonal outdoor activities.
Saugatuck, Michigan
A lakefront town in western Michigan known for its thriving art scene, downtown shopping and dining, and status as an LGBTQ+ travel destination.
The takeaway
Michigan's reputation as a premier destination for lake-focused travel and recreation has been further cemented by Midwest Living's recognition of three of the state's lake towns as among the best in the Midwest. These towns offer a unique blend of natural beauty, charming downtowns, and a wealth of activities and attractions that make them standout lake town destinations.
