Michigan Location Ranked No. 1 Best Small Historic Town in U.S.

Looking to get away for a while and explore a location with a rich history? This town should be at the top of your list! One Michigan location has been voted the very best small historic town in the U.S.

READ MORE: Two of the best small towns in the Midwest are in Michigan

USA Today and 10best sought to find the top locations with small populations (fewer than 25,000 people) and big histories in the country. A panel of experts chose twenty historic U.S. havens, and then it was put up to a public vote.

The winner of USA Today and 10Best's "Best Historic Small Town of 2024" is Ludington, Michigan! In 2023, Ludington celebrated it's 50th anniversary.

On the shores of Lake Michigan, Ludington built it's economy on the lumber and shipping industries.

I visit Ludington at least once a year and can attest to it's small town charm!

Of course it's an excellent waterfront location with gorgeous beaches and opportunities for swimming, boating and more. The downtown boasts great restaurants and bars, plus specialty shops and art galleries.

READ MORE: Michigan Town Voted No. 2 Best Small Coastal Town in the Country

You can explore the town's past at Historic White Pine Village, a replica of a19th century pioneer village.

On 23 acres sits 30 historic exhibit buildings, including the original 1849 Mason County Courthouse (on the State Register of Historic Places) and an authentic turn-of-the-century steam locomotive, tender car, and the flat car loaded with logs and headed toward the Village’s working sawmill. Historic White Pine Village is Open May through October.

Another place to check out is the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum.

Exhibits dive into the region's maritime history. Located in the former U.S. Coast Guard Station, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the museum overlooks Ludington’s iconic North Pier Light, and the historic carferry, the S.S. Badger.

Check out more of Ludington's history here: