Ghost Towns in Michigan
12 documented ghost towns
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History
Explore the ghost towns of Michigan.
All Ghost Towns
Central
Central was a copper mining town on the Keweenaw Peninsula. Stone mine buildings and foundations remain in the forest. The Central Methodist Church (1...
Central Mine
Central Mine was a prosperous copper mining village in Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula. Cornish miners brought their distinctive stone construction tech...
Cliff Mine
The Cliff Mine was the first profitable copper mine in the United States. Opened in 1845, it produced native copper so pure it could be shipped direct...
Fayette City
Fayette City was one of many logging towns in Michigan's Thumb region. When the timber was gone, so was the town. Today, only scattered foundations re...
Fayette
Fayette was an iron smelting town on a scenic limestone bluff. It's now Michigan's most picturesque ghost town and state park. 22 original buildings s...
Mandan
Mandan was an iron mining camp in the remote Upper Peninsula. Ruins remain accessible by ATV trails....
Pere Cheney
Pere Cheney was a lumber town devastated by multiple epidemics - diphtheria, scarlet fever, and smallpox. Legend says a witch cursed it. All that rema...
Quincy
Quincy Mine earned the nickname 'Old Reliable' for consistent copper production. The mine tour features the world's largest steam-powered mine hoist....
Quincy Mine
Quincy Mine operated for 150 years and was known as 'Old Reliable' for its consistent copper production. The mine features the world's largest steam-p...
Shelldrake
Shelldrake was a lumber town on Whitefish Bay that processed white pine timber. When the timber was gone, the town died. Foundations remain near the L...
Singapore
Singapore was a lumber town that supplied wood to rebuild Chicago after the 1871 fire. Deforestation allowed sand dunes to bury the entire town. It re...
Singapore
Singapore was a prosperous lumber town at the mouth of the Kalamazoo River—until they cut down all the trees. Without tree roots to hold the soil, san...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ghost towns are in Michigan?
We have documented 12 ghost towns in Michigan. These range from completely abandoned mining camps to semi-inhabited historic settlements.
Are ghost towns in Michigan safe to visit?
Most ghost towns are safe to explore, but exercise caution. Watch for unstable structures, mine shafts, and wildlife. Some are on private property - always check access rules before visiting.
What should I bring when visiting ghost towns?
Bring water, snacks, sun protection, sturdy shoes, a flashlight, and a first aid kit. Many ghost towns are in remote areas without cell service, so download offline maps.
Can I take artifacts from ghost towns?
No. Removing artifacts, bottles, or debris is illegal and destroys historical sites. Take only photos and leave only footprints.
What's the best time to visit ghost towns in Michigan?
Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring. Summer can be extremely hot in desert locations, while winter may make roads impassable.