This Community Has Been Named the Most Underrated City in Michigan

There are tons of great places all over Michigan, from big cities to tiny towns. Are there any spots that you think are overlooked though?

In an effort to encourage folks to explore and visit smaller, lesser known towns, Love Exploring has put together a list of the most underrated city in each state. The towns range from chilled out spots with Old West vibes to chic villages packed with galleries and boutiques.

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The travel publications pick for the must underrated city in Michigan is Owosso.

Owosso is the largest city in Shiawassee County. In 1859 Owosso was incorporated, at which time it had 1000 people. As of the 2020 census, Owosso had grown to 14,714 people.

READ MORE: This Michigan City's Charming Main Street Voted No. 1 in the U.S.

One thing Owosso is known for is Curwood Castle on the banks of the Shiawassee River. This is where adventure writer James Oliver Curwood penned many of his novels. Each June there is a festival to celebrate the author.

It's one of many historical museums in Owosso. There's also Comstock Pioneer Cabin, Woodard Paymaster Building, and Amos Gould House.

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The Shiawassee Arts Center is another attraction. Located in Curwood Castle Park its nine galleries serve as a showcase for the work of area, statewide and national artists.

Another spot to check out in town is the Steam Railroading Institute which is dedicated to educating the public about steam era railroading in Michigan and the Great Lakes Region. Owosso is home to the train that inspired "The Polar Express", Pere Marquette 1225.

The historic downtown is full of shops and restaurants and hosts sidewalk sales and farmers markets in the summertime.

You can take a stroll or a bike ride along the River Walk too!

Looking for more places to explore? These 20 beaches are in the running for the best beach in Michigan: