There’s something magical about living in the big city, and we Detroiters certainly appreciate the fast-paced realities of our hometown. While there’s so much to love about Detroit itself, we’re also appreciative of smaller towns near Motor City that offer a lovely reprieve from the hustle and bustle. Here are nine small towns in Metro Detroit that offer a real sense of community charm.

1. Lexington
Lexington, MI 48450, USA
Flickr/Ken Lund
With a population of just over 1,000 residents, Lexington certainly qualifies as a small town. This gem is located approximately 90 minutes by car from Detroit, rendering it the perfect destination for a family day trip. Bask in the beauty of the waterfront at Lexington State Harbor, sip drinks at Old Town Hall Winery, or simply explore the town’s quaint downtown area. You’ll be enamored in no time.
2. Milford
Milford, Milford Charter Twp, MI 48381, USA
Flickr/Michigan Municipal League
Milford is home to around 6,500 full-time residents, but its vibe is decidedly quaint. When you make the 45-minute drive to Milford, you’ll find something for every member of the family to enjoy - whether you’re basking in the sprawling natural beauty of Kensington Metropark or grabbing food and drinks along Main Street. It’s easy to feel right at home here.
3. Dexter
Dexter, MI 48130, USA
Flickr/Deb Nystrom
It doesn’t get much more picturesque than Dexter, which offers so much to do in every season. Visitors and locals alike appreciate stretching their legs at Dexter-Huron Metropark, which hugs the banks of the Huron River and brings a sense of serenity to the area. Smile at friendly locals while shopping downtown or catch a show at the Encore Theatre. You might just want to move here.
4. Metamora
Metamora, MI 48455, USA
Flickr/Brandon C.
Metamora, Michigan is tiny, housing just under 600 full-time residents - but that doesn’t mean you should exclude it from your list of must-visit spots in Metro Detroit. From natural attractions to dining options, there’s plenty to love here, and the atmosphere throughout town is decidedly friendly. Stop in at Metamora-Hadley State Recreation Area, check out the historic White Horse Inn, or pick up a few goodies at the Metamora General Store. What’s not to love?

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5. Armada
Armada, MI 48005, USA
Flickr/Liza Lagman Spel
Armada might not be Metro Detroit’s most famous locale, but we think you’ll adore its many attractions. Visitors are particularly fond of Blake Orchard & Cider Mill, which brings families together throughout the year with apple-picking, dining, special events, and endless charm. Round out your trip with a walk through Armada’s small but delightful downtown stretch.
6. New Baltimore
New Baltimore, MI 48047, USA
Facebook/New Baltimore City Government
Approximately 12,000 residents call New Baltimore home, so this spot is slightly larger than some others on our list - but its sense of community is undeniable. Tucked away along the shores of Anchor Bay, New Baltimore offers everything from waterfront fun to shopping to annual festivals. Best of all? It can be accessed from Detroit by car in only 45 short minutes. You also may want to check out one of the best scenic drives in Michigan that are nearby.
7. Pleasant Ridge
Pleasant Ridge, MI 48069, USA
TripAdvisor/dogwalks
This Oakland County gem is home to just over 2,500 residents and easy access to some of Metro Detroit’s most exciting attractions. Most famously, Pleasant Ridge is just a stone’s throw from the Detroit Zoo - so be sure to stop by for dinner at the Whistle Stop Diner after a long day of checking out the animals. You’ll feel like you’re right at home when you sit down to dine.
8. Richmond
Richmond, MI, USA
Google Maps
As you drive through Richmond, you’ll undoubtedly notice its lovely homes, friendly faces, and genuine sense of community. Nestled away just 45 minutes from Detroit, this town offers so much to enjoy. If you’re a fan of antiquing, check out a handful of antique shops throughout the area - there’s no telling what sort of treasures you’ll uncover. More in the mood for nature? Never fear: Richmond also offers quick access to the beautiful Macomb Orchard Trail.
9. Algonac
Algonac, MI 48001, USA
TripAdvisor/Kurtiemon
For breathtaking views of the St. Clair River, head to Algonac and immerse yourself in its understated beauty. Camping enthusiasts will appreciate spending the night at Algonac State Park, while others will simply enjoy strolling along the riverfront. Throughout town, you’ll find friendly faces and a sense of simple serenity - this is small-town Metro Detroit at its very best.

Are there any other friendly small towns near Detroit that should have been included on our list? We’re always eager to hear your recommendations and thoughts, so drop us a line in the comment section below or fill out our official nomination form.

For more insight into one of these spectacular small towns, read up about the adorable small town of Armada.

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Tori Jane | September 16, 2022

What are some totally cute towns near Detroit?  

Detroit is a city that doesn’t get the credit it deserves, we think. It’s filled with rich history and, if you’re like us and you enjoy urban exploration and admiring abandoned buildings, it’s practically a playground. There are many small suburbs of Detroit we could count as small Michigan towns – some of them are technically still Detroit, but worth mentioning, nevertheless. Less than an hour from downtown Detroit is the town of Dexter, which is so cute you might just want to live there forever. Also just about an hour away from Detroit is Metamora, which has less than 500 residents, and we also can’t get enough of Milford, which is just 40 minutes away from Detroit!  

What are the best small towns near Detroit?  

Fear not, lovers of Detroit, for there are even more small towns near Detroit we think you need to visit. Fans of the arts and culture will love visiting the town of Ferndale, which is full of all sorts of fun stuff to do, see, and experience. Other small towns in Michigan (that aren’t terribly far from Detroit) include gems like Richmond (just 45 minutes away), Tecumseh (just over an hour away), and New Baltimore, which is just about a half hour away from Detroit.  

What are the safest neighborhoods in Detroit?  

Like anywhere else, Detroit has its safer places and its less safe places; there are plenty of wonderful Detroit neighborhoods that are cozy and safe (and perfect for a family). As of the time of this writing, the safest neighborhood in Detroit is Palmer Woods, which has a population of just over 1,000 people and saw just 8.5 violent crimes per 1,000 in 2020. Corktown, with its population of just over 500, comes in as the second-safest suburb in Detroit, and others that made the list include Rivertown, Midtown, West Side Industrial, Downtown, and the Marina District.  

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