Although Michigan is a beautiful state, the city of Detroit can seem drab and oppressive. The high crime rates combined with high levels of unemployment and poorly funded education system can make living in Detroit difficult for families and individuals. For those who want to stay in Michigan but are looking to move to a different city, there are many nice areas that will cause Detroit to be forgotten.
Grand Rapids
Table of Contents
Located on the west side of the state, Grand Rapids is a growing city full of young families and blossoming businesses. No matter the age of the resident, there is no shortage of things to do. There are plenty of activities for children, young people, and retired individuals.
Known for its reputation as the Beer City, USA, Grand Rapids features a lively night scene with trendy bars and delicious restaurants. There are many types of beers crafted right in Grand Rapids. Grand Rapids is especially well known for its large number of distilleries.
For kids, the downtown area has a children’s museum, outdoor parks, and a zoo. The suburbs of Grand Rapids are also great for raising children, as they are home to small, safe neighborhood parks and nature centers. The greater Grand Rapids features no shortage of family-friendly activities as well, including parks like Frederik Meijer Gardens.
Traverse City
Traverse City is located on the north end of Michigan’s lower peninsula. Located directly on Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City is a popular choice for those who enjoy the great outdoors. Traverse City offers access to outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and beaching.
Traverse City is also known for its beautiful wineries located around the town. Many of these wineries are located on vast acres of lakefront property. Couples enjoy spending the day wine tasting around the peninsula and enjoying the views.
Lansing
Located closer to Detroit, Lansing offers a similar urban feel while being cleaner and safer. As the capital of Michigan, Lansing features a high number of available jobs, especially for those interested in working for the State.
Because of the presence of Michigan State University in East Lansing, the city also has a youthful college-town feel. Lansing is home to a number of bars, restaurants, and clubs with entertaining nightlife and locally made beer. Plus, Michigan State fans can enjoy the close proximity to the university’s stadiums and sports.
Holland
Holland is a quaint town located on the shores of Lake Michigan. Although significantly smaller than Detroit, Holland is large enough to satisfy those with a craving for an urban feel. Holland’s downtown is home to multiple shops and restaurants with locally made food and alcohol. Many residents of Holland enjoy spending time on Lake Michigan’s sandy shores during the summer.
Marquette
For those who enjoy the coolness of northern summers, Marquette is located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Located on the shores of Lake Superior, Marquette tends to be cool year-round. Those who love heavy snowfall enjoy activities like skiing, snowmobiling, and ice skating around Marquette’s diverse landscape. For those who prefer summertime activities like hiking and swimming, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is within a short driving distance of Marquette.
For those who are living in Detroit and are looking to move elsewhere in the state of Michigan, there are many nice areas available. Although other cities are smaller than Detroit, many feature comparable activities for young people and families alike. Cities like Grand Rapids, Traverse City, and Lansing offer a big-city feeling while being clean and safe. Keep these things in mind when you are next looking for houses for sale in Michigan.
