While most of us adore the bustling vibe of the Motor City, there’s plenty to be said for escaping the hustle and bustle of Detroit from time to time. Luckily for us, metro Detroit sits within convenient driving distance of many small, laid-back towns and villages. When you’re ready to enjoy a bit of peace and quiet, venture to one of these eight lovely destinations and take a break from it all – here are some of our all-time favorite small towns near Detroit you ought to add to your bucket list:

1. Dexter
Dexter, MI 48130, USA
Facebook/City of Dexter, Michigan
It might sound cliche, but there’s truly something for everyone to appreciate in Dexter. This small community, which can be accessed via car from Detroit in approximately one hour, is home to everything from hiking trails to quaint cafes to historical sites. Whether you’re strolling along the Huron River or settling in for dinner at Dexter’s Pub, you’ll appreciate the quietude and hospitality here.
2. Metamora
Metamora, MI 48455, USA
Flickr/Rodney Campbell
Make the hour-long jaunt from the Motor City to Metamora, a decidedly tiny town that houses a full-time population of just over 500 residents. Despite its tiny size, there’s plenty to explore here. Venture to nearby Seven Ponds Nature Center for a stroll through the great outdoors, check out the iconic White Horse Inn when hunger strikes, or do a bit of shopping downtown. There’s no better place to unwind.
3. Tecumseh
Tecumseh, MI 49286, USA
Facebook/Downtown Tecumseh
You might not be familiar with Tecumseh, but this town is located only one hour and five minutes by car from the Motor City and offers a laid-back vibe that will quickly make Detroiters feel right at home. History buffs will appreciate the Tecumseh Area Historical Museum, while others might prefer to relax at one of the community’s wonderful wineries. By the time you’re done in Tecumseh, you’ll consider yourself a local.
4. Milford
Milford Charter Township, Milford Charter Twp, MI, USA
Facebook/Downtown Milford
Make the 40-minute drive from Detroit to Milford when you’re seeking a combination of outdoor exploration, family togetherness, and all-around charm. In addition to a lovely downtown area complete with shops and eateries, Milford houses the beloved Kensington Metropark. There’s fun to be had here in every season, whether you’re hunting for fall colors, searching for a place to cross-country ski, or in the mood to hike.

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5. Carleton
Carleton, MI 48117, USA
Google Reviews/Brock Dauterman
When it comes to under-the-radar communities near Detroit, Carleton might just take the cake. After all, this tiny area only houses approximately 2,500 residents and is rarely listed as a must-visit destination near Detroit - but we beg to differ. Carleton is quiet and unassuming, offering access to Calder Dairy Farm, golf courses, and more. You’ll want to take a day trip here when the city feels overwhelming.
6. New Baltimore
New Baltimore, MI 48047, USA
Facebook/New Baltimore Parks & Recreation Department
Located just 40 minutes from downtown Detroit by car, New Baltimore offers a dash of simplicity and small-town enchantment right here near the Motor City. Situated along the shores of Lake St. Clair’s Anchor Bay, this tight-knit community is home to family-friendly parks, plenty of restaurants and cafes, and Michigan’s tallest flagpole. Talk about a dose of hometown delight.
7. Armada
Armada, MI 48005, USA
Google Reviews/Blake's Orchard & Cider Mill
If you’re in the mood to get outside and escape the sprawl of Detroit, Armada might just be your ideal day trip destination. This farming community is ripe with outdoor activities, whether you’re perusing endless booths at the much-loved Armada Flea Market or making memories among the apple trees at Blake’s Orchard and Cider Mill. Visitors of all ages will find plenty to adore here.
8. Richmond
Richmond, MI, USA
Google Maps
Situated just 45 minutes from Detroit, Richmond is a fantastic spot for those who appreciate shopping, locally-owned attractions, and friendly faces. Check out a lovely antique store to pick up a few treasures, take a stroll at Beebe Street Memorial Park, or snag breakfast at the Village Cafe. By the time you’re ready to leave this small but mighty town, you’ll be relaxed and ready to face another day.

Are there any other lovely, slow-paced small towns near Detroit that we should have included on our list? What are some of your favorite towns near Motor City? We’re always eager to hear from you, so share your experiences with us in the Facebook comments or make an official recommendation by filling out our nomination form.

Searching for even more family fun? When looking for things to do in Detroit, Michigan, actually consider hopping in the car and going on a short drive. Read about these nine awesome day trips near Detroit.

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More to Explore

Small Towns Near Detroit

Tori Jane | September 19, 2022

What are some of the best small towns near Detroit?  

Well, “near” is certainly subjective, but for the sake of this answer, we’ll say a small town near Detroit is anything an hour or less from the city. Some small towns that make the list include:

  • Milford, a delightful small town that’s just 45 minutes away from downtown Detroit, and it is home to almost 7,000 residents. It’s got one of the cutest main streets in Michigan, and there’s nothing not to love!
  • New Baltimore is another wonderful option, also about 45 minutes away from downtown. It’s larger than Milford, with a little over 12,000 residents, but it still qualifies as a small town and therefore it’s among the best small towns in Michigan.  

 

Where are the best suburbs near Detroit? 

Detroit gets a scary rap sometimes, but those rumors couldn’t be further from the truth in many cases. There are plenty of suburbs near Detroit that are perfectly good for families with kids or retirees:

  • One of our favorites is definitely Northville, an artsy small town in Michigan with breweries, eateries, galleries, and more.
  • Bloomfield Hills is another excellent choice, with a very low crime rate, excellent schools, and its reputation as an overall top-notch town for, say, raising a family.
  • Another favorite suburb in Detroit is Berkley
  • And Beverly Hills is also certainly a gem  

 

What are the safest towns near Detroit?  

Many of Detroit’s suburbs are actually among the safest places in Michigan, blowing the stereotype about the Motor City out of the water.

  • Among the safest places to live near Detroit are gems like Thetford Township, which saw no violent crimes at all per 1,000 residents and just 1.19 property crimes per 1,000 residents.
  • Next is Raisin Township, with no violent crimes and just 3.56 property crimes per 1,000 residents.
  • Finally, there's Kinross Township, with 0.13 violent crimes per 1,000 residents and just 1.73 property crimes per 1,000 residents.  

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