What makes a small town stand out?
World Atlas, an online geography resource company, put together a list of the best small towns in every state based on what it has to offer visitors.
Metro Detroit families might not be surprised that Traverse City, located on the coast of Lake Michigan, took the top spot.
The World Atlas team said Traverse City is “bustling with life.” Visitors can expect to find popular breweries and wine shops filled with people on a warm summer day.
World Atlas isn’t the only fan of Traverse City. The town was included in the top 10 places to visit in 2025 by the Wall Street Journal, too.
Facts about Traverse City
Known as the cherry capital of the world, Traverse City is well known as a popular farming area. The city is filled with fresh fruit during cherry season, but locals also offer up fresh vegetables and other homemade goods in small markets.
The National Cherry Festival takes place in Traverse City every year. The festival draws in hundreds of thousands of tourists for good reason–the cherries are ripe, vendors offer unique themed goods and the surroundings are beautiful.
Traverse City is one of the most popular summer travel destinations for Michiganders.
The 153,448 residents in Traverse City enjoy a busy season during the warmer months and a much calmer time during the colder months. For visitors, expect packed restaurants and sites when visiting during these peak times.
Things to do in Traverse City
Traverse City is located along Lake Michigan and enjoys breathtaking views. The world famous Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes are located nearby and are a major draw for families looking for an incredible day of hiking, sightseeing and swimming.
The wineries surrounding Traverse City produce some of the best wine in the midwest region. Groups can go on organized wine tours or just pop into a few places for glass and some bites among the sweeping hills with beautiful views.
If a day spent downtown is more appealing, World Atlas recommends catching a show at the iconic 1916 State Theatre or grabbing drinks while on a brewery tour.
The company says shopping is another top activity while downtown, from picking out jewelry to talking to a cheesemonger about aged cheeses.
With its thriving downtown, abundance of outdoor scenery and incredible produce, it makes sense that Traverse City snagged the top spot as best small town in Michigan.
Follow Metro Parent on Instagram.
