Top 5 Must See Towns in Michigan!

Looking forward to a little trip up to America's favorite mitten-shaped state? Here's my personal opinion you didn't ask for but I hope you consider.

1. Petoskey - Situated near the upper peninsula but not quiet is the beautiful college town of Petoskey. This is a town who's city planner has perfected the art of their job; nearly the entire city is walkable to and from any point. The views don't disappoint, stand literally anywhere near sunset and be blinded by the vintage charm this cozy upholds. If you are looking for a recommendation on where to stay I will be the first to shout Apple Tree Inn. It's nothing fancy but the rooms are clean and there's a complimentary limo that will take you anywhere in town. Ideal time to visit? I'd head up there late spring to super early fall. The foliage is what gives Petoskey spot #1.
2. Ada- Close enough to Grand Rapids that it's charm is often lumped in, Ada does not get the recognition that it deserves. Yes, I could have put Grand Rapids here. Chances are if you're reading about places to go to Michigan then you've already heard about the Michigan Beer plug. Ada is its gorgeous sister sitting slightly North-East trying to flirt across the room with amazing coffee shops (*ahem* Foxtail) but the tourist keeps ordering IPA's. Side note: anyone ever offers you a IPA with a fish on it say no. One thing you'll learn about me fast is I am a sucker for a vintage downtown moment, which is why Ada sits firmly in spot #2. Not to mention they have one of the prettiest libraries I have ever had the pleasure of seeing in person.
3. Traverse City - Cherries. Cherry festival. Cherry parade. Cherry Orchards. Cherry Wines, Cherry dines. If you like cherries then go to Traverse City. If you don't like cherries that much, don't worry, we outnumber you. On the off chance your travel partner drags you here anyways then I invite you to check out some of their four-season activities or the views at the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes. If outside isn't your thing, go on a history walk. I recommend starting at the lighthouse.
4. Douglas - Gayest place in Michigan. No, I'm serious. You cannot go a single block without passing a pride flag. While the locals are a big catty, the views at the docks make up for it. Not looking for a view? Try one of the best fried fish meals to be found in Michigan at the Inn. Douglas is a small town with tons to do in summer. I love the accessibility of the entire town. There's not a single street without a sidewalk, impressive. Hope College, a Christian institute nearby in Holland, is also a great pride for the local townies.
5. Kalamazoo - Yes, it's a real place; now, do you wanna party? You might get robbed but the chances aren't as high as Detroit. While the rest of this list points out Michigan's beautiful views, architecture, and vintage charm; I want you to go to Kalamazoo to twerk. Nightlife in Michigan is a desert and Kalamazoo is one of the few oasis'. Also important is the fact that Kalamazoo host one of the only 24hour dispensaries in the state. So if you want light up and get lit on your Great Lakes Adventure, ditch the lake and come here unless you're going to #3's cherry land.
6. BONUS - Lansing - Got family? Ignore everything I just said if you're bringing you're kids. Or don't, that's valid too. Lansing is where elementary school field trips go for inspiration. Interactive Science center? Check. Potter Park Zoo? Check. Cheap tour of the capitol building? Check and Balances. I'm not a parent myself but last time I checked you can let those little buggers loose in a park and Lansing has one of the lowest crime rates in Michigan so you might as well take advantage. A low cost of living insures a low cost of eating; plus if you fall in love and want to stay apartments aren't hard to come by.