Farmington isn’t just the best place to retire in Michigan — it’s also the sixth-best place to retire in the entire country, according to our rankings. Head to Black Rocks at Presque Isle to do a little cliff-jumping, or take it easy on one of the area’s calmer beaches. Dive in to check out our top picks for a fabulous Midwest getaway. Oct 5, 2014 - Looking to make a move to the Wolverine State? (photo via Houghton Lake Facebook) Black Lake … It runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day. We have reviews of the best places to see in Michigan. Sure, there are some places where maintenance and government failure or negligence has made drinking water dangerous (see: Flint, Michigan), but the tap water in most cities is perfectly fine. QUICK FACTS. this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines. Love Michigan? Maybe you’ve heard the news, Michigan is on the rebound. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. Choose from our list of 10 best places for boating. The next-best beach town in Michigan, according to WalletHub, is Holland, which came in at No. Michigan's not exactly wanting in the beach department, which is why we've highlighted the best shoreside towns for your vacation dollar. Best Bet: The Grand Haven Musical Fountain, a nightly synchronized water and light show, starts at dusk. Median household income, here, is $70,286, with a median home value at $250,200. Best Places to Live in Flint, Michigan Mid-sized industrial city - Eastern Michigan, 65 miles northwest of Detroit. If you’re seeking a slightly less crowded visit, enjoy the views at Tunnel Park or Laketown Beach. The water is blue, the rock formations are magical, and the town itself is quaint and charming. We're told that the mouth of the nearby Lester River makes for some solid point break surfing when the conditions are … The DeZwaan Windmill, moved here from the Netherlands, anchors Windmill Island Gardens and still grinds winter wheat and corn. ” “ I’d Love to Live… On the Water Over time, Michigan is planning to try and make sure that other people who move have access to great educational opportunities. The fourth-most dangerous place to live in Michigan is Kalamazoo, as it has the fifth-most property crimes and the ninth-highest violent crime rate. Known as The Great Lakes State, Michigan is bound by four of the five Great Lakes, creating beautiful scenery and great locations for recreational boating. If you have been looking for the best places to retire in Michigan we can help you make an informed choice. You will receive your first email soon. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. Michigan is full of amazing job opportunities, amenities and family-friendly activities. Alys Beach’s explicitly green design features narrow streets of permeable pavers to reduce storm water runoff and that run perpendicular to the Gulf to invite cooling breezes inland, and is landscaped with largely drought-resistant plants to reduce water consumption. August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Flint, while January and February are the least comfortable months. Cycling fans will want to ride the 34-mile Kal-Haven Trail, which leads to Kalamazoo (find bike rentals around town). It also boasts plenty of outdoor attractions for a town its size. However, you can live on a houseboat during the winter months, as long as you and your boat are prepared for it. Hop onto a glass-bottomed boat tour to check out shipwrecks in Lake Superior, or simply cruise along the water and marvel at the otherworldly beauty of Pictured Rocks. Real Estate: Country: United States State: Michigan County: Branch County Metro Area: Coldwater Metro Area Political Ideology: … Its walkable labyrinth lets you catch some Zen. All Rights Reserved. These half-dozen places are on a lake, a river or an ocean - yet they won't sink your retirement budget. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Spend a few hours splashing in the gorgeous waves and walking along the water, then do some window-shopping (or real shopping!) This, in turn, means the nightlife is vibrant. Don’t forget to grab a pasty from Muldoons before leaving town! Ranking based on data from the U.S. Census, FBI, BLS, CDC, and other sources. The Police and businesses are nothing but AMAZING! Best Bet: Celebrate the Blueberry Capital of the World during the Blueberry Festival, generally the second week in August. You can launch your boat at the Manistee Municipal Marina and enjoy paddling, tubing, and boating on miles of calm rivers. Later, relax at area wineries or distilleries. Find loads of blueberries, plus events like pie-eating contests. Here's a look at the best places to live in the "Mitten State." Its downtown area is small but absolutely charming, and you’ll find lovely views of Anchor Bay as you wander through the community. Traverse City is located on the shore of Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay. Best Bet: Visit the Box Factory for the Arts, a space with studios, concerts and receptions. U.S. News analyzed 150 metro areas in the United States to find the best places to live based on quality of life and the job market in each metro area, as well as the value of living there and people's desire to live there. Blocks of brick buildings downtown hold independent shops, galleries, eateries and brewpubs. Alys is also the home of some of the coolest arts and food festivals along this stretch of coast, lending sophistication to its … But if snowflakes are falling, the ski slopes at Crystal Mountain are only 30 miles southwest of the city. At Nelis' Dutch Village, stroll 10 acres of Dutch-inspired canals and gardens (and brush up on some klompen dancing skills, too). However, it’s second from the top with 22.20% of the population made up of senior citizens. Happily enough, many of them also offer an enticingly low cost of living. No, really. #14 Best Value of 15 Budget Resorts in Michigan “ We stopped in for lunch 8/3/19 2pm the staff seemed to not care about the quality of service or the food we received. Bounded by four bodies of water, Charlevoix (known as ‘Charlevoix the beautiful’) offers incredible waterfront views from Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix, art galleries and shopping areas, water sports and biking and walking trails. You can read more about how to winter over in a houseboat here. Beginners should head over to Park Point, where the beach helps to create a more friendly atmosphere for those just getting started. Ann Arbor. As part of our latest search for Michigan's Best Waterfront Restaurant, we traveled to 30 places you nominated and voted in all regions of the state. Best Bet Explore two more customs-turning wooden bowls and woodworking with reclaimed materials-at the Holland Bowl Mill and Cento Anni. This mid-western state had just over 9.9 million people in 2015 with a median age of 39.3 (2 years higher than USA median). Come for the sand and surf. As one of Michigan’s most popular destinations, Traverse City overflows with things to do. Best Places to Live in Wisconsin. On a hot summer day, there’s truly nothing better than dipping your toes in the chilly waves. In fact, Michigan has the second largest state shoreline next to Alaska. Only the best of everything and people who really care! Popular Charlevoix activities include fishing, hiking, zip lining, sailing and horseback riding. Share your suggestions in the comments below. This delightful little town is the perfect place to spend a few hours with loved ones on a warm summer afternoon. Give your home holiday style in a flash with these simple yet creative decorating projects. If you are planning on moving to Michigan, you need to have a plan to find the best places to live. Just making it onto the list of the worst places to live in Michigan is Battle Creek, and the main reason for this location’s ranking is that it is the 15th most dangerous place to live in the state. The 10 Most Liberal Cities In America For 2020 North America Travel . In 2016, he published a paper that compared the places Americans currently prefer to live with the predicted environmental change under global warming. Overall SnackAbility 8 /10. When in Ludington, do like the locals do: Park along a bend in state highway M-116 (called the First Curve by locals), and take a short hike down to the shore. Best Places to Live in Muskegon, Michigan Small city - Central Lake Michigan shore. U.S. News analyzed the 150 most populous metro areas to find the best places to live. 11 of the Best Places to Visit in Michigan ... listening to the thundering sound of falling water across a brilliant blue lake, this is one of best destinations in the state to do just that. Clinch Park sits across the street from downtown's rich lineup of shops and restaurants and offers multiple beaches, kayak and paddleboard rentals, a movie theater, snacks, and more. These half-dozen places are on a lake, a river or an ocean - … The beach is located within walking distance of downtown, so it’s easy to get around without too much driving. The best of those is found at a place called Stony Point, where the deep water and unimpeded winds create the largest waves in the area. To make the top of the list, a place had to have good value, be a desirable place to live, have a strong job market and a high quality of life. With over 3,000 miles of beaches, the Great Lakes State is the best place to have a summer vacation in turquoise waters without the worries of sharks or salt. (The park also offers showers, a snack bar, cabins and campsites.) Before you leave the bluffside downtown behind, check out the Krasl Art Center, especially the 30-plus sculptures (entry is free). Creamy cheesecakes, decadent pies, moist cakes and mouthwatering cookies are among our best holiday dessert recipes. Niche.com rated Okemos as the #1 best place to live in Michigan for 2019, and it’s easy to see why. Plymouth has some highly rated public schools that are one of the main draws to this area. Follow the snowbirds to the States to Lake Huron and the Great Lakes of Michigan where lucky vacationers spend their summers in floating homes along the rugged coast of the Georgian Bay. Throughout town, you’ll also find plenty of boutique shops and art galleries to peruse. In the warm months, get some rays and stake a claim at Clinch Park or set sail along West Grand Traverse Bay. 6 terrific towns on the water Many baby boomers dream of retiring somewhere by the water. Tell us: which spots should have been included in this article? You'll find plenty of ways to get on the water at the base of Grand Traverse Bay's West Arm. We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. Lovely waterfront views of the Saginaw Bay, a handful of old-fashioned ice cream shops, and even a campground make Caseville a must-visit locale. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: Tucked away along the shores of Lake Michigan, Holland has a little something for everyone. Beyond the world-famous tulip festival, the Dutch heritage city is known for its beautiful beaches and sunsets, sand dunes and parks. If you can find great water front property (because now is the time) and you have the money to invest go for it. Or, if you’re into negative (and humorous), you can check out our report on the 10 Worst Places to Live in America. Best Bet: The Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation Trails crisscross 60 miles of the area, including a trail through town. The beaches, including Stearns Park and Ludington State Park, offer 28 miles of shoreline and views of the Big Sable Point Lighthouse. Tucked away along Lake Huron’s Thunder Bay, Alpena is a great spot to bring the family. Courtesy of Davel5957. With beachfront access, a lovely pier, and some of the most breathtaking sunset views imaginable, there’s nothing not to love during an excursion to this wonderful West Michigan locale. Enter your e-mail address for things to do, restaurants to try and much more! See which places our readers like the best, and vote for your favorites. But it isn't all just water and woods here. It is one of the best places to live near the state’s biggest city, and it comes as no surprise to know this is a preferred hotspot for millennials. Thank you! The Grand Traverse County alone has 50 lakes. These are the Michigan cities and townships that rank highest in several important factors. Check out the masses of flowers, birds and trees at Galien River County Park from a 300-foot canopy walkway that includes a 60-foot-high overlook tower. These are the Michigan cities and townships that rank highest in several important factors. This website will give you useful data and opinions about the best places to retire in Michigan, including the top active adult retirement communities. It also ranks highly for its young population growth. The Great Lakes, Michigan. Take a stroll along the Riverwalk, lounge for a while at Bigelow Park, or head to one of the public boat docks for a day on the water. Okemos. Travel Destinations. Here Are The 10 Best Places To Live In Michigan…And Why. What’s not to love? Here's a look at the best places to live in the "Mitten State." A Cool Place: Projections are that by the mid 21st century, roughly 30 years from now, summer temperatures will be 6 degrees hotter in the middle of North America, from Tennessee to Nevada and Southern Wyoming to Northern Texas.Most of the rest of the country will be 5 degrees hotter than now. Best Neighborhoods In Coldwater, Michigan: Download the BestPlaces App. This Lake Michigan town is like something out of a dream. This great state, the top producer of cheese in the country, has many wonderful locations to choose from. Lake Michigan has never looked better than it does from the soft sand at Ludington State Park, and you’ll certainly want to see for yourself. 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On a hot summer day, there’s truly nothing better than dipping your toes in the chilly waves. There are some killer deals out there. Best Bet: Fly kites on the beach or launch a canoe or kayak onto the Galien River in the 45-acre Glassman Park. This college town can add another jewel to its crown: the most affordable place to live in the state. Bordered on the north by Muskegon Channel, the beach at Pere Marquette Park provides views of two lighthouses, 40 sand volleyball courts and other places to play, including a dog beach on the south end. Luckily, the affordable cost of living is supportive of their incomes, which average $69,460 per household. July, August and June are the most pleasant months in Muskegon, while … Many of the best places to retire in Michigan also happen to be some of the most scenic and inviting places in the state. A suburb of Ann Arbor, Chelsea is the final city on our list of the best places to retire in Michigan. The best of those is found at a place called Stony Point, where the deep water and unimpeded winds create the … If you'd like to retire in the Great Lakes State but want to get as much bang for your retirement dollar as possible, you can't go wrong by checking out some of the most affordable cities for retirees. Professional citizens, charming estate style homes, quaint downtown. Find what to do today, this weekend or in January. The museum includes five buildings with exhibits on all things seafaring, including shipwrecks. Consider these eight other places. We rank the 10 Best Places to Visit in Michigan. Get Even More Stories Like This Right In Your Inbox! If you’re a fan of Lake Superior, Marquette is one of the best places to check out this gorgeous body of water. It took 20 min before waiter even showed up at our table, another 20 min for our drinks and… Skip to main content Every summer, the city displays an outdoor art installation with oversize pieces. The residents of Duluth, Minnesota can attest to the excellent surfing found on the Great Lakes, as the city has about a dozen decent places to hit the water close by. We’re endlessly lucky to have access to so many gorgeous waterfront locales here in Michigan, and it would be nearly impossible to list each and every coastal town. And that has a lot to do with its recovery within its automotive, technology, and healthcare industries. Michigan ranks as the fifth-most affordable state in the U.S., with one of the lowest costs of living. Munising is home to 15 waterfalls, five lighthouses and many beautiful recreation areas. The lake includes accommodations for canoeing, cross country skiing, fishing and more! Travel. Boynton Beach is such a great place to live. Hike down the 3-mile beach at Warren Dunes State Park, or test your endurance climbing the dunes. Frankfort is the place to be when you’re searching for a true small-town vibe and lots of beautiful waterfront scenery to match. Austin, Texas, was named the best place to live in 2019. For a classic beach experience, head to Holland State Park and marvel at the Big Red Lighthouse. Restoration of the pier's iconic catwalk was completed in 2019. Almost entirely surrounded by the waters of Lake Michigan, Manistee Lake, and Manistee River, Downtown Manistee offers the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts. There’s a place in Michigan that actually has MOUNTAINS. Gaze out at the Straits of Mackinac as you admire the marvelous Mighty Mac, or step back in time with a visit to the town’s Indian Village. Bike rentals are easy to find downtown. But it isn't all just water and woods here. Head to Black Rocks at Presque Isle to do a little cliff-jumping, or take it easy on one of the area’s calmer beaches. Numerous state parks are within easy driving distance as well, and larger cities like Grand Rapids and even Chicago aren't very far away. Thank you! Looking for other Michigan beach towns you might love to explore – or even move to one day? In … Take home wooden shoes from DeKlomp Wooden Shoe and Delft Factory. Stay at a waterfront room at the luxurious Marina Grand Resort or unwind at Four Winds Casino Resort. ” “ The beach and pool were nice They give you free $20 voucher per day to spend on food and beverages and free breakfast The best part - the tiki bar on the beach. Best Bet: Historic White Pine Village re-creates 30 structures from the area's first settlements. Best Places to Live in Taylor, Michigan Large city - Southeast Michigan, along the Detroit River, across the border from Windsor, Ontario, Canada. Venture to the Point Betsie Light or Frankfort Light if you’re a fan of lovely lighthouses, or check out nearby Crystal Lake for a quieter waterfront experience. Tap water gets a bum rap. If it was not for the many positive features of this city in Kalamazoo County, it would rank much higher on the list. In 2018, Ann Arbor was named #1 on our Top 100 Best Places to Live list and it's easy to see why. For an easy float, have an outfitter drop you at Boardman River south of town to paddle through Traverse City and onto Lake Michigan. I've been everywhere in Michigan and Franklin just has the best of the best. There’s something here for every member of the family! Check out stunning views of the Saginaw Bay, which connects beautifully to Lake Huron. Places to Visit in Michigan, United States: See Tripadvisor's 16,09,182 traveller reviews and photos of Michigan tourist attractions. Michigan, boasting the longest freshwater coastline in the world, has 64,980 inland lakes and ponds and 11,000 lakes.Wherever you are in Michigan, you are less than six miles away from a natural body of water. Beach-lovers can explore Van Buren State Park's sandy beaches and massive dunes. 6 terrific towns on the water Many baby boomers dream of retiring somewhere by the water. Magalie L'AbbT/Getty Images U.S. News & World Report releases a list of the best places to live in America every year. Wander through a trapper's cabin and the original county courthouse. “ It's best known for it's large off-road vehicle scramble area, but there are miles of dunes to hike, ample campsites, play areas, picnic areas, water fun and benches for just sitting back and enjoying the views. It comes in second on this list with 21.79 medical centers per 1,000 residents, and in third for recreation centers per 1,000 residents, with 3.90. The "Cheeseburger In Caseville" festival celebrates all things Jimmy Buffett each year, but there’s so much more to love about the area. It is second to last on this list with 6.44 medical centers per 1,000 residents. We have the best insights and fresh thinking from Northern Michigan real estate experts—plus a few savvy homeowners—to help you find your true fit. “Hotel right on Saginaw Bay with a nice clean sandy beach and in walking distance to the “downtown” area of East Tawas. After your swim, check out the Marquette Harbor Light for a little history lesson or head downtown and grab a pint at Blackrocks Brewery. Houghton Lake 191 miles, 2 hrs 56 minutes Discover the fresh water and the beauty of Houghton’s crystal clear lake. Perhaps you've never heard of this small town near Lake Huron, but it should certainly be added to your must-visit list. ... Holland is a wonderful place to settle down for those who enjoy being on the water. Michigan 's not exactly wanting in the `` Mitten State.... is. Most scenic and inviting places in the State. to settle down in ’... Settle down in Michigan, 65 miles northwest of Detroit atmosphere is perfectly calming ''. 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