20 best Michigan small towns to see the leaves change this fall

By Metro Times Staff

The weather is cooling down, school is back in session, and everything is pumpkin spice flavored. That must mean Autumn is here, and with it comes an array of colors. We came up with the top places to visit to watch the colors of fall.

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Petoskey
One place you can view the emergence of fall colors is Petoskey. The laid back atmosphere of the city goes perfectly with watching the leaves change. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants to go to enjoy yourself when you’re done. Photo via Instagram user, Jackleena

Harbor Springs
Besides visiting shops or enjoying other attractions, Harbor Springs is a wonderful place to watch the colors of fall. Grabbing lunch or dinner on the water of Little Traverse Bay and looking at the trees will make this visit worthwhile. Photo via Instagram user, Keller_Joe

Charlevoix
Spanning both sides of the Pine River Channel and Round Lake, Charlevoix is a town with a deep history and natural beauty. From the beautiful shores to boating, Charlevoix has many different ways one can view the varied colors of fall. Photo via Instagram user, Megan_Buchanan

Sault Ste. Marie
You can also watch the fall colors in a city where the locals call it “The place where Michigan was born.” Tightroping along the U.S. and Canada border, Sault Ste. Marie not only provides perfect autumn scenery but is also home to some historic buildings as well. Photo via Instagram user, Abigailtraveler

Marquette
On the southern shores of Lake Superior lies Marquette. The home to Northern Michigan University has no shortage of trees that can fill up your instagram with stunning photos of fall. Photo via Instagram user, Travelmarquette

Tawas City
The coastal community of Tawas City is a tranquil place. This small town will provide an excellent weekend getaway for witnessing Mother Nature decorating the trees in autumn hues. When you’re not busy doing that be sure to check out the quaint shops and the bay shoreline. Photo via Instagram user, Masphotomi

Tahquamenon Falls
If visiting a town for a day to watch the changing of the leaves doesn’t sound appealing to you. Try going camping for a few days in one of Michigan’s largest state parks. No, Tahquamenon Falls isn’t a town. However, there are an over abundance of leaves and the sight will surely leave you in awe. Photo via Instagram user, Puremichigan

Escana
Home to the shoreline with the most freshwater in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Escanaba is another great location to relax and witness the arrival of fall. You can go to Hiwatha National Forest for a view or catch a glimpse from Escanaba’s countryside. Photo via Instagram user, blackwater_outdoors

St. Ignace
St. Ignace is a wonderful destination. With attractions like museums, lighthouses, and state parks, you’re going to want to do more than just stare at the gorgeous multi-colored trees. Photo via Instagram user, Kathykatke

Mount Pleasant
Mount Pleasant is a good place to keep busy. You can explore the campus of Central Michigan University, dine, and go shopping. It is a lively and fun area to look at the sights of fall. Photo via Instagram user, mtpleasantcvb