How Do You Say That?! 30 Michigan Towns Outsiders Always Mispronounce – and Why You Should Visit Anyway

Here in Michigan, we love our lakes, our lighthouses… and our town names that make outsiders pause, squint, and take a wild guess.

Spoiler: they’re usually wrong.

In Michigan, pronunciation is practically a rite of passage. Outsiders butcher our town names with confidence (and sometimes flair), but locals know better.

From French-inspired spellings to Indigenous roots to names that look like they should rhyme with “Detroit” (but don’t), we’ve got a whole dictionary of “say what now?” towns.

But once you can pronounce them, you’ll want to visit – because each one is more than a mouthful; it’s a destination worth knowing.

Let’s dive in…

Charlevoix (SHAR-luh-voy)

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix, this town is postcard-perfect.

Known for its charming drawbridge, sailboats dotting the marina, and whimsical “mushroom houses” designed by Earl Young, Charlevoix is a fairytale brought to life.

Whether you’re strolling the waterfront or exploring Castle Farms, this town proves it’s more than just hard to pronounce – it’s unforgettable.

Cheboygan (shuh-BOY-gun)

Nestled on the northern edge of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, Cheboygan is a water-lover’s paradise. It connects to the Inland Waterway, making it a dream for boaters and paddlers.

The historic Cheboygan Crib Light and the paved North Central State Trail make it a scenic escape. Don’t miss a summer show at the Cheboygan Opera House – it’s small-town culture at its finest.

Mackinac Island (MACK-in-aw)

The crown jewel of Michigan tourism, Mackinac Island feels like a step back in time – in the best way. With no cars allowed, you’ll explore via bike, horse-drawn carriage, or on foot.

The Grand Hotel, famous fudge shops, and pastel-painted storefronts are iconic. Whether you’re into history, views, or just need a slower pace, this island delivers.

Ypsilanti (IP-sill-an-tee)

Often overshadowed by nearby Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti (or “Ypsi” to locals) is a funky, creative hub. The downtown and Depot Town districts boast vintage shops, coffeehouses, and a strong arts scene.

Don’t miss the Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum or the annual summer Elvisfest – yes, that’s a thing.

Sault Ste. Marie (Soo Saint Marie)

Michigan’s oldest city and a critical shipping point on the Great Lakes, Sault Ste. Marie is home to the Soo Locks.

These massive structures let freighters bypass rapids between Lake Superior and Lake Huron – and watching them work is oddly addictive.

Fun Fact: This border town shares its name and heritage with its Canadian twin across the river.

Pointe Aux Barques (Point Oh Barks)

This remote spot at the tip of Michigan’s Thumb is quiet and unassuming – unless you’re a lighthouse fan. The Pointe Aux Barques Lighthouse is one of the oldest on the Great Lakes and still operates today.

With rocky shores and lakefront winds, it’s the kind of place you go to unplug and breathe in the history.

Saline (suh-LEEN)

Despite its name, there’s nothing salty about this town. Located just outside Ann Arbor, Saline has a relaxed small-town feel with strong community vibes.

It’s known for hosting one of the nation’s top Celtic festivals each summer and has plenty of green space, great schools, and historic homes.

Bonus points if you knew it’s also pronounced differently than Saline, Texas.

Lapeer (luh-PEER)

A blend of countryside charm and historic architecture, Lapeer is one of the oldest communities in Michigan.

Its downtown is lined with preserved 19th-century buildings, and the PIX Theatre is a favorite for live performances. It’s a great spot for antiquing, apple orchards, and weekend wandering.

Lake Orion (Lake OR-ee-un)

Locals may say “Lake OR-ee-un,” but this town is anything but ordinary. It’s home to a sprawling chain of lakes perfect for boating and a downtown that has embraced its revitalization.

Dragon on the Lake Festival celebrates the community’s spirit and adds just enough quirk to keep things interesting.

Montague (MON-ta-gyoo)

Situated near White Lake, Montague is a peaceful destination for cyclists and lake lovers alike. The Hart-Montague Bike Trail passes through here, making it a favorite for scenic rides.

Don’t miss the famous weathervane downtown – it’s one of the largest working weathervanes in the world and makes a great selfie stop.

Dowagiac (duh-WAH-jack)

This Southwest Michigan gem is full of surprises. From its outdoor sculpture exhibit woven through downtown to its status as a college town thanks to Southwestern Michigan College, Dowagiac offers small-town friendliness with a touch of sophistication.

Bonus: The historic Beckwith Theatre and Dowagiac’s Underground Railroad roots make it a destination for both culture and history buffs.

Ontonagon (ON-ton-a-gin)

Tucked into the western Upper Peninsula, Ontonagon is your gateway to the Porcupine Mountains – Michigan’s wild, wonderful backcountry.

With Lake Superior lapping its shoreline and miles of hiking trails nearby, it’s a paradise for outdoor adventurers.

Add in fall color drives, waterfalls, and dark skies perfect for stargazing, and this quiet town punches way above its weight.

Presque Isle (Presk EEL)

It looks fancy. It sounds fancy. And it delivers – if you’re into lighthouses and secluded beaches.

Presque Isle is home to two of Michigan’s most photogenic lighthouses, both reachable by scenic drives along Lake Huron.

It’s not a place you stumble upon – it’s a place you seek out when you need peace, wind, and waves.

Note: Michigan actually has multiple Presque Isles – and they don’t all agree on how to say it. The one in the northeast Lower Peninsula is pronounced “Presk EEL,” while the Upper Peninsula locations are pronounced “Presk Isle.”

Houghton (HOE-tun)

In the Keweenaw Peninsula, Houghton is the unofficial capital of Michigan’s copper country – and a hub of outdoor action.

Home to Michigan Tech University, it’s both a tech-savvy town and a snowmobiling stronghold, with trails, waterfalls, and endless Upper Peninsula wilderness to explore.

You come for the views, but you stay for the grit and character.

Kalamazoo (Kal-uh-ma-ZOO)

No, you didn’t make it up. Kalamazoo is real – and ridiculously cool.

With a thriving arts and music scene, two major universities, and a craft beer culture that could hold its own against any big city, it’s the kind of place you’ll wish you had visited sooner.

Plus, there’s something about saying “Kalamazoo” that just makes you happy.

Beulah (BYOO-lah)

Overlooking the stunning blue waters of Crystal Lake, Beulah is as lovely as its name sounds – once you know how to say it.

It’s the perfect stopover before exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes, with a charming downtown, sandy beaches, and sweet ice cream shops.

Pro tip: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and glide your way into vacation mode.

Milan (MY-lan)

You may be tempted to go full Italian and say “Mee-LAHN,” but hold that thought. Michigan’s Milan is a down-to-earth town with strong roots in farming, festivals, and family fun.

Located between Ann Arbor and Toledo, it’s an easygoing stop with parks, a vintage downtown, and one of the most festive Fourth of July parades around.

Gaylord (GAY-lerd)

If you love four seasons of outdoor play, Gaylord’s got your back.

This Alpine-inspired town sits on the 45th parallel and offers world-class golf in the summer, snowmobiling in the winter, and vibrant fall colors in between.

Downtown Gaylord hosts year-round festivals and events that give it a festive, always-welcoming feel – no matter how you say it (but now you know).

Morenci (mor-EN-see)

Just a few miles from the Ohio border, Morenci is the kind of place where life slows down in the best possible way.

Surrounded by fields and farm stands, it’s a quieter corner of Michigan – but worth the detour if you’re chasing fall colors or small-town charm.

Pack your camera for a drive down Ridgeville Road in October. Thank us later.

Oshtemo (AHSH-teh-moe)

A tongue-twister for some, Oshtemo is a township just outside Kalamazoo that’s loaded with hiking trails, parks, and local gems.

Whether you’re catching a summer movie at the outdoor theatre or exploring the Oshtemo Township Park, it offers that balance of nature and convenience that West Michigan folks love.

Tecumseh (tuh-CUM-see)

Named after the famous Shawnee leader, Tecumseh blends historic charm with serious small-town personality.

Its walkable downtown is packed with boutiques, art galleries, and a cider mill that keeps the fall crowd coming back year after year.

Don’t miss the art trail or one of the many seasonal festivals – they know how to throw a party.

Au Gres (aww-GRAY)

Perched along the Sunrise Side of Michigan, Au Gres is a quiet beach town that’s perfect for anyone who prefers early-morning lake views and less traffic.

It’s a fishing and boating haven and the gateway to Charity Island cruises in the summer.

Bonus: It’s a great base for exploring the lesser-known beauty of Michigan’s “other” coast.

Tittabawassee (tit-a-buh-WAH-see)

A river, a township, and yes – a name that always gets a second glance. But Tittabawassee is more than a punchline.

Located in the Saginaw area, it’s full of outdoor recreation thanks to its namesake river and sprawling parks.

Paddle, picnic, or just enjoy the open skies – and maybe say the name out loud a few more times for fun.

Ionia (eye-OHN-yuh)

Halfway between Lansing and Grand Rapids, Ionia is known for its impressive historic architecture and one of the best county fairs in Michigan.

The downtown has a timeless look, with brick facades, old-school signage, and one seriously gorgeous courthouse.

It’s the kind of place that feels like it hasn’t changed much, and that’s a good thing.

Escanaba (ES-kuh-nah-buh)

In the land of the Yoopers, Escanaba is a standout. It hugs the northern shore of Lake Michigan and offers some of the prettiest sunsets you’ll ever see.

Between Ludington Park, the marina, and the legendary Swedish Pantry restaurant, this is a true U.P. experience. If you make it here, you’re doing Michigan right.

Tawas (TAH-wass)

Tawas City and East Tawas make up this breezy coastal destination on Lake Huron.

With sandy beaches, a charming downtown, and Tawas Point State Park offering incredible birdwatching, it’s a summertime favorite for families and couples alike.

Rent a bike, hit the shoreline, and don’t forget to stop for a fresh perch basket.

Gratiot (GRASH-it)

Despite what the spelling might suggest, Gratiot (like the county and the road) drops all pretense and goes with the straightforward “GRASH-it.”

Known for its wide-open farmland and small-town warmth, this mid-Michigan area is all about local pride. If you’re driving through Alma or Ithaca, you’re already in the heart of it.

Pellston (PEL-stin)

Known as the “Icebox of the Nation,” Pellston embraces its cold-weather reputation with a whole lot of heart.

This little town near the Mackinac Bridge is home to a surprisingly charming regional airport, a beautiful stretch of countryside, and friendly locals who don’t mind a long winter – as long as it comes with snowmobiles and bonfires.

Colon (KOE-lun)

Go ahead, get the giggles out – because Colon is proudly the Magic Capital of the World. No joke. This small town hosts an annual magic festival that brings illusionists from around the globe.

With magic shops, quirky energy, and a name no one forgets, it’s easily one of the most unique spots in Michigan.

Clio (CLY-oh)

Often misread as “CLEE-oh,” Clio is a Genesee County town with a lot going on for its size.

Summer concerts at the Clio Amphitheater bring big crowds, and its access to the nearby Flint River Trail makes it a great spot for cyclists and walkers.

Come for the tunes, stay for the neighborly vibe.

Ready to Road Trip?

From Clio to Charlevoix and Mackinac to Milan (that’s MY-lan, remember?), Michigan town names can trip up even the most seasoned road-trippers.

But learning how to say them isn’t just fun – it’s a great excuse to visit. Because behind each name is a community, a view, a flavor, or a festival just waiting for you to discover.

So go ahead – practice your pronunciation and plan your route. Michigan is calling. You just have to say it right.