We Really Need To Keep These Michigan Towns a Secret

I probably don't have to tell you this- Michigan is hands down one of the most beautiful states in the country. We're one of the only places you'll get the full spectrum of all four seasons, we have beaches, wilderness, and tons of things to do.

And while it's easy to find a Michigander that will tell you all of their favorite things about the mitten state, there are a few stereotypes we're always fighting:

• There's nothing in Michigan but pot holes and empty buildings
• Michigan is always covered in snow and cold
• The UP is empty and full of nothing to do
• The only reason worth visiting on Mackinac Island is the fudge
• Michiganders refuse to call it soda and instead still insist on 'pop'
• Detroit is dangerous and scary and you shouldn't consider it for a vacation
• Flint has terrible water

But you're probably aware- most of this just isn't true. And while we want to fight the rude assumptions, maybe we also want to keep those judgemental jerks at bay.

Read More: Educational Excellence: Ranking Michigan's Top School Districts

However, that's perfectly fine as these locations' uniqueness significantly enhances their allure. Many of these towns in Michigan may not be on your radar yet. Perhaps it's best to keep these hidden gems to ourselves? These quaint Michigan towns offer fantastic options for memorable day trips

Romulus

As you're landing in Detroit, one of the closest destinations is the small town of Romulus. Full of bike trails, great local dining and the Yankee Air Museum, there's tons to do without leaving the area.

South Haven

While many people may encourage you to visit some other coastal towns on the West Side of the state, South Haven truly is it's own little slice of Michigan heaven.

Traverse City

While many of the richest people in America have started to flock to Traverse City, there is still a large portion of the country that is blissfully unaware of Michigan's Cherry capital.

Offering incredible views of the lake and an adorable downtown perfect for a family trip, Traverse City is worth the drive for those visiting out of state. If you want to get the most of your trip, I reccomend a trip with an empty stomach to their annual National Cherry Festival.

Holland

Many may know Holland for the Tulip Time festival, but there's so much more to this adorable town. Not only do they have a year round walkable downtown thanks to their heated sidewalks, they also have one of the best social media accounts in the state:

@cityofholland Heard it here first. #mayorbocks #cityofholland #bestmayor #holland #michigan #puremichigan #mayor ♬ original sound - hard ahh audios fr

Frankenmuth

Michiganders know about this Christmas wonderland, but our out of state friends may not be aware of this unique Barvarian town. Home of the world's largest Christmas store, you can also catch their 16-person PedAle Trolley while you enjoy their downtown.

Marquette

Remember that rumor about how the UP is boring and empty? Marquette is the reason to make the trip. This adorable lakeside town has so much to do and see, and you can stay at a hotel with a view like this as you're waking up without breaking the bank on a carribean vacation.

(This is a view from the bed of the room we stayed in. Pretty incredible, right?)

Petoskey

Nature lovers, especially those who love to hunt rocks, need to add Petoskey to their list.

They're known for their coral fossils, also known as Petoskey stones, and they are are highly prized by rock hunters, making the Petoskey State Park the perfect place for camping and hiking. Or if you're not a fan of nature, the Gaslight District is a great place for relaxing walks.

Detroit

Hear me out, Michiganders know that Detroit isn't just crime and trouble, it's actually an incredible city filled with flavorful food, a beautiful downtown with lots of venues and restaurants, and some of the best muesums in America. It's also the home of motown, so it's a music lovers paradise.

While many who have never visited will warn you to stay away for your safety, I say the more time we spend in Detroit, the better it will get.

Michigan is full of hidden gems, but these towns truly represent some of the best, less appreciated parts of our wonderful state.