While Detroit gets most of the attention from the rest of the country, Michiganders know the Great Lake State has many incredible small towns that are worth visiting. If you’re looking for a charming and historic place to take a day trip, consider the small town of Niles, Michigan. With a winning combination of nature and an idyllic downtown, you’ll love exploring this quaint city.

Niles is a small town with 11,000 residents and is located in Southwest Michigan close to the Indiana border.
Google Maps
The city is rich with history and is known as the “City of Four Flags” due to four nations occupying the Fort St. Joseph, which was built in 1691. At different times in its history, the fort was held by the British, French, Spanish, and the United States.
Small Town Niles Michigan
Webelong826, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
The fort was abandoned and overtaken by forest until its ruins were discovered in 1998.
As for Main Street, much of its original charm and historic architecture has been preserved and appreciated thanks to a revitalization effort by the city.
Wystan/Flickr

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You’ll find a collection of eclectic shops, food, and events held year-round downtown.
Sanya Vitale/Google
Niles also has gorgeous natural beauty as it lies on the banks of the St. Joseph River. On the east side of the river, you’ll find Riverfront Park which has playground equipment and scenic nature trails.
Teddi Kella/Google
Whether you’re looking for a day trip spot to enjoy a winter stroll, a great place to go antiquing, or to experience a bit of history, you’ll find it in Niles.
Adam Marshall/Google

To learn more, visit the Downtown Niles website. Have you been to the charming and historic city of Niles before? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. If you’re looking for a riverfront place to spend the night, check out our article on the Riverfront Park Campground.

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Niles, MI 49120, USA