Michigan Shines in 2026 Best Historic Small Town Awards
Thinking about a summer getaway? If you’re craving charming streets, waterfront views, and a deep dive into Michigan history, two Mitten State favorites are back in the national spotlight.
The results are in for USA Today and 10Best's Top Historic Small Town 2026 readers’ choice awards—and Michigan showed up in a big way. A panel of experts chose 20 locations, each with fewer than 25,000 people and rich, interesting histories.
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Two beloved destinations landed in the top 10, and both climbed higher than last year.
Ludington, Michigan
Ludington jumped to No. 3 (up from No. 4). I visit Ludington at least once a year, and I can attest to its awesomeness. Not only are the beaches gorgeous and the downtown super cute - there's a ton of history to explore!
Here's USA Today's praise for Ludington:
Ludington, Michigan, built its economy on the lumber industry and has continued to thrive as a shipping port, both by water and by train. Today, visitors come to explore Ludington's small-town charm, enjoy its waterfront location, and shop at its many specialty shops and art galleries. Explore the town's past at Historic White Pine Village and the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum.
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Mackinac Island, Michigan
The other Michigan location to make the cut is Mackinac Island, which rose to No. 5 up from No. 7 last year.
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Of course, Mackinac Island is a wonderful vacation destination with a rich history as well. As a kid, I remember being obsessed with the cannons at Fort Mackinac!
USA Today says of Mackinac Island:
Mackinac Island's history is filled with change. The French arrived in the territory encompassing the island, which had long been the home of the Anishinaabek People, back in the 1600s. By the 1700s, the British had taken over, and Americans claimed it shortly thereafter. Now a scenic, car-free northern Michigan vacation spot, Mackinac's history is still on display via numerous museums and original structures. Fort Mackinac is one of Michigan's oldest buildings, now within a state park including 13 other buildings from the 1700s. Find the Biddle House, Native American Museum, Benjamin Blacksmith Shop, and Mill Creek — history comes alive all over this must-see enclave.
See the other U.S. towns to make the top ten here.
These aren't the only Michigan spots crushing it in recent USA Today Polls—Traverse City was just voted the No. 3 Best Small Town Food Scene in the U.S.
Every Spot Josh and Jase Visited During Their Michigan Tour
Gallery Credit: Tommy McNeill
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