Tucked In The Heart Of Michigan's Agricultural Region Is This Dreamy City With Lake Charm And Vineyards

An aura of tranquility rolls off the verdant plains making up the agricultural heart of Michigan. Dotted by vineyards, orchards, and small farms, the jewel in the crown of the state's pantry is an unassuming and restful city in the Lower Peninsula. Known for its thriving agro-tourism businesses and adorned streets, Fennville is a dreamy spot for those who want to savor the best produce with a scenic backdrop. Fennville really has the best of both worlds — with extensive farmlands on the one side and beautiful Lake Michigan on the other. Less than 10 miles away from the popular art-filled harbor city of Saugatuck, it has none of the crowds of the former, but an appealing access to the region's iconic dunes that make this corner of Michigan. In fact, in Fennville, you'll only be about an hour away from Warren Dunes State Park.

You won't have any trouble reaching Fennville, thanks to its abundant connections with main urban arteries in the region. Most people flock from nearby Saugatuck, but you can also drive directly from Detroit, if you fancy a vintage scavenge or an affordable city break before you immerse yourself into the agricultural heart of the north. The drive from Chicago is also not bad at a little over two hours.

Charming lake views are never too far from this tranquil city. Almost 7 miles away from the center of town, Pier Cove Bay and Park offers unspoiled views of Lake Michigan, untrodden by mass tourism. This quiet corner of the lake was once a busy harbor for lumber shipping to main metropolitan areas like Chicago and Milwaukee, as a green plaque on the beach testifies. Today, a staircase leads you to the pebbly and sandy shores of Pier Cove Bay, where you can admire the sunset reflected on the lake.

Once you've tasted a freshly-picked apple from Crane's Cider Mill and Orchard, or had a bubbly glass from Virtue Cider Mill, it's hard to go back to the store-bought versions. Fennville's many vineyards and orchards make it a favorite hotspot for wine and cider lovers. Open to visitors year-round, Virtue Cider Mill offers guided tastings and tours of its lush 48 acres of farmland. Crane's Cider also offers orchard and bar tours, but you may need to add your name to a waitlist to join.

Fennville is also home to the picture-perfect Poppy Fields, a heartwarming tribute from local couple Joan Donaldson and John Van Voorhees to their son, who took his own life after coming back from war. This 4-acre flower field is gorgeous when in full bloom between June and July. The fields can be visited alongside Summerhouse Lavender Farm, just a quick drive away. This purple oasis was once an abandoned field, and it has since been transformed by its caring owners into a lavender farm, which also hosts workshops and events. But summertime isn't the only time the city's natural wonders come to life. If visiting in autumn, Crane Orchards has its own u-pick pumpkin patch to explore.

It may seem like all the fun stuff to do in Fennville is located outside of the city boundaries, but there is actually plenty to do downtown, too. Embark on the Public Art Walking Tour to explore the modern and contemporary pieces adorning Fennville's Main Street. This easy trail, made of just eight stops, comprises colorful murals, Cubist clocks, and tributes to local citizens. The latter two, Clock V and the Dick Baker Plaque, dedicated to a beloved postal worker, are located inside Hutchinson Garden, a small green respite in the heart of the city.

As lunchtime approaches, head to the unmissable downtown gem Salt of the Earth. This rustic restaurant is known for its fresh ingredients and creative menu, from scallops drizzled in rhubarb salsa to short rib and pickled pepper wood-fired pizza. Before you plan your visit, bear in mind the restaurant is closed every Monday and Tuesday. Save space for dessert, because you can't leave Fennville without trying the pie flight at Crane's Pie Pantry and Winery. This family-run establishment has been going strong for decades, and it still offers its most popular option. If you don't know which pie catches your eye, why not try a slice — or five? The pie flight includes various flavors like apple, blueberry, cherry, rhubarb, and raspberry.

Once you have soaked in the fragrance of the orchards and taste of sparkling cider, it's time to head toward the lake that makes this corner of Michigan unique. A 20-minute drive separates beautiful Fennville from the city known as the Catskills of the Midwest. Here, you can bask in the sun and plunge in the blue water — ticking all the boxes on your magical Michigan trip.