Other states might try to compete, but Michigan does lake life better than anyone else. Not only are we home to the Great Lakes — and have a nickname to match — we're home to thousands of inland lakes as well.

In fact, our lakes and their surrounding communities are so good that Midwest Living named them as some of the best in the Midwest.

Best Lake Towns in the Midwest

As its name implies, Midwest Living takes a look at all the things that make life in the Midwest such a treat. And there's no shortage of lake towns along the way.

READ ALSO: USA Today Names This Michigan Gem a Top 5 Midwest Small Town

Midwest Living put together a list of the ten Best Lake Towns in the Midwest, and Michigan absolutely dominated. Three of the ten destinations all belong to the Mitten State. If you want to check out some of the best lake towns around, here's where you need to go:

Charlevoix, Michigan

Charlevoix sits on Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix, so it's home to a gorgeous harbor. Additionally, there is an excellent downtown shopping scene; an abundance of wineries; and lots of interesting architecture (like the famous Mushroom Houses).

Petoskey, Michigan

Petoskey stones stacked on top of each other at a beach in Petoskey
Photo by Brad Switzer on Unsplash
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While visiting Petoskey, you can comb the beaches to hunt for our state rock — the Petoskey stone. Plus, you can enjoy Victorian-era stores and homes, copious amounts of fudge and wine, and plenty of seasonal outdoor activities.

Saugatuck, Michigan

Saugatuck is home to an impressive art scene, lots of downtown shopping and dining, and has deep roots in being an LGBTQ+ destination.

11 Lessons Learned Growing Up in 'Small-Town,' Michigan

Growing up in a small Michigan town as a Gen Xer was basically “Survivor: Great Lakes Edition.” Your playgrounds were fields, lakes, and questionable rope swings. You didn’t need gadgets — just a bike, a curfew, and parents whose only rule was “be home when it’s dark.” Here are 11 things you only learn growing up that way.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

10 Worst Small Towns in Michigan, According to RoadSnacks

RoadSnacks has identified what it says are the 10 worst small towns in Michigan, based on their crime rates, their economies, and a few other factors. Do you agree with these choices?

Gallery Credit: JR

The 25 Most Dangerous Small Cities in Michigan

The personal finance website WalletHub recently ranked the Best Small Cities in America. One of the criteria was "safety", and we couldn't help but notice a few Michigan towns near the bottom of the list. See if your town's among Michigan's 25 most dangerous small cities.

Gallery Credit: JR

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