One of America's Top Rated Lake Towns is Right Here in Michigan

Consider this the year of Michigan when it comes to making the "top" lists for incredible destinations. Once again a Michigan town is taking its seat amongst the best of the best for offering magnificent views and experiences waiting to be discovered.

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According to a recent list by Travel + Leisure, the Northern Michigan town of Charlevoix has been named one of the best lake towns in America. The travel blog compiled this list to showcase those shoreline towns that offer the quintessential elements that make you instantly relax and enjoy.

Travel + Leisure picked the top 15 nationwide that checked off all the boxes to be considered the "15 Best Lake Towns in America".

"These places are not only right on the waterfront of the country's clearest and most sought-after lakes, but they also have bustling town centers and lively culture within — and isn't that what makes the best lake towns in America shine? Think beyond boat and paddle board rentals to consider that these lake towns are also destinations with exciting restaurants, hotels, shopping, and plenty of non-water-based activities."

If you've spent any time in the town of Charlevoix on the shores of Lake Michigan, you know for sure why it made the list. The popular summertime destination has that small-town charm and lakeside casual vibe that just screams relaxation. T + L described its charm as this,

"Charlevoix is the perfect getaway to Lake Michigan. While Charlevoix offers both waterfront attractions and inland charms, beach-going visitors will love the six miles of shoreline at Fisherman's Island State Park and Beach. For those who aren't as keen on sinking their toes into soft white sand, Charlevoix is also home to Lavender Hill Farm, with idyllic fields packed with 30 lavender varieties, and Castle Farms, an actual stone castle in northern Michigan. This lake town is brimming with charming accommodations, too, from the modern Hotel Earl to the waterfront Edgewater Inn & Suites."#1

Although they captured all the usual highlights, how could they leave off the legendary Stafford's Weathervane? It was always a favorite growing up during our family trips, especially if you were able to catch the bridge in action.

Just another reason the world is finding out that Michigan is the ultimate #1 vacation destination.

Check out the full list of the "15 Best Lake Towns in America" here.

Live Like A Storybook Character Inside the This Iconic Charlevoix Mushroom House

If you head to Charlevoix, Michigan you are sure to see the unique row of 4 Mushroom Homes situated on Park Avenue. The homes are the creation of artist design by Michigan-born builder/ architect Earl Young, the homes have become a bit of a tourist destination. Always something to marvel at with their storybook, Hobbit cottage-like appearance, the homes have become legendary, and now one can become yours. The Thatch House is now for sale for $4,500,000 and offers 7 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, and 6000 square feet of whimsical living space. Take a look inside what can be your very own fairytale home. Carole Griffin

Christie's International Real Estate | North Harbor 231-881-9400

Gallery Credit: Zillow

$18M Historic Randall's Point Walloon Lake Homestead

Currently offered for $18 million, making it one of the most expensive properties in the state, the compound comes with four cabins. Three of the cabins were built in the 1920s and the main log home was built in the 1970s. The original boathouse and barn remain. The homestead was founded by Bo Randall who was the founder of Randall Made Knives and a good friend of Ernest Hemingway who frequented the property for hunting. With over 5700 square feet of living space amongst the cabins, the compound is perfect for large families. A mix of modern and timeless history, this is truly a slice of Michigan history.

Gallery Credit: Zillow