Harbor Springs ranked best small lake town in US by Travel and Leisure

If you're looking to book a relaxing getaway without going too far, look no further. A new national list considers Harbor Springs, Michigan a top destination among America's small towns.

The town won best small lake town in the U.S. in the 2024 ranking of America's best small towns 2024 by Travel and Leisure, a New York-based travel magazine.

“What incredible acknowledgment for our area,” said Jim Powell, executive director of the Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau. “The Harbor Springs community is steeped in rich history, storied hospitality and its location on the shores of Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay is unparalleled. We are thrilled to see this beautiful town honored.”

The town was selected for its "captivating combination of natural beauty and and quaint, eclectic charm," according to the West Michigan Tourist Association .

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The ranking features 10 U.S. cities broken down by category. Other rankings include best small beach town, best small mountain town, best small desert town, best small arts and culture town, best small food and wine town, best small spa and wellness town, best retirement town, best small college town and best small shopping town.

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The honor recognizes the thriving small businesses, seasonal activities and natural attractions in Harbor Springs and the surrounding area, according to the association.

The city features restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, is surrounded by the Petoskey State Park, beaches, nature preserves, the Tunnel of Trees, and the Little Traverse Bay. Each year, Harbor Springs hosts seasonal events, including the Harbor Springs Ice Fest, the Blessing of the Fleet and weekly summer farmers markets.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Harbor Springs ranked best small lake town in US by Travel and Leisure