Mackinac Island, Ludington Up for Best Historical Small Town

Spring break is coming up! If you're looking to get away for a bit and explore somewhere with a rich history, these Mitten State locations should be at the top of your list.

Two Michigan spots are competing for best historic small town in the country. Last year, one even nabbed the No. 1 spot!

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A new USA Today 10best readers' poll is asking, "What is the best historic small town in the U.S. in 2025?" A panel of experts has chosen 20 locations with fewer than 25,000 residents and "big histories, making them fun and affordable ways to dive into our nation's past."

City of Ludington, Port of Ludington Maritime Museum, Mason County Historical Society/ Facebook

One of the Michigan locations up for honor is Ludington!

Last year Ludington was voted No. 1. I visit Ludington at least once a year, and I can attest to its awesomeness. Not only are the beaches gorgeous and the downtown super cute - there's a ton of history to explore!

Here's USA Today's praise for Ludington:

Ludington, Michigan, built its economy on the lumber industry and has continued to thrive as a shipping port, both by water and by train. Today, visitors come to explore Ludington's small-town charm, enjoy its waterfront location, and shop at its many specialty shops and art galleries. Explore the town's past at Historic White Pine Village and the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum.

You can vote for Ludington once per day through March 31 at noon here.

The other Michigan spot up for best historical town is Mackinac Island!

Of course, Mackinac Island is a wonderful vacation destination with a rich history as well. As a kid I remember being obsessed with the cannons at Fort Mackinac!

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Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, Facebook

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Here's what USA Today says about Mackinac Island:

Mackinac Island's history is filled with change. The French arrived in the territory encompassing the island, which had long been the home of the Anishinaabek People, back in the 1600s. By the 1700s, the British had taken over, and Americans claimed it shortly thereafter. Now a scenic, car-free northern Michigan vacation spot, Mackinac's history is still on display via numerous museums and original structures. Fort Mackinac is one of Michigan's oldest buildings, now within a state park including 13 other buildings from the 1700s. Find the Biddle House, Native American Museum, Benjamin Blacksmith Shop, and Mill Creek — history comes alive all over this must-see enclave.

Vote for Mackinac Island here!