Cities and Towns in Benzie County, Michigan
Founded in 1863, Benzie County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Benzie County was formed from part of Leelenau County. The city of Beulah is the county seat. With FIPS code of 19, Benzie County has a population of 18,223 and area of 860 square miles (2,227 km²).
List of all cities in Benzie County, MI alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Benzonia, MI | 49616 | 231 |
| Beulah, MI | 49617 | 231 |
| Elberta, MI | 49628 | 231 |
| Frankfort, MI | 49635 | 231 |
| Honor, MI | 49640 | 231 |
| Lake Ann, MI | 49650 | 231 |
| Thompsonville, MI | 49683 | 231 |
Major Cities and Towns in Benzie County, Michigan
1. Frankfort
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.59 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,286 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49635
- Latitude: 44.6333° N
- Longitude: 86.2301° W
Location and History
Frankfort is located along the shores of Lake Michigan, in the northwestern part of Benzie County. The city was founded in the mid-19th century as a fishing and lumbering town, taking advantage of its natural deep-water harbor. Initially, Frankfort served as a key shipping port for timber and agricultural products being transported to larger cities. In 1867, the Frankfort North Breakwater Lighthouse was constructed, further establishing the town as a vital maritime hub. Over time, the area transitioned to tourism and recreation, with its sandy beaches, charming downtown, and proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore drawing visitors from across Michigan and beyond.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Frankfort is served by the Frankfort-Elberta Area Schools, with Frankfort High School as the main educational institution. Major landmarks include the Frankfort North Breakwater Lighthouse, which offers scenic views of Lake Michigan. Elberta Beach, located across Betsie Lake, is a popular destination for sunbathing and beachcombing. Point Betsie Lighthouse, a short drive from the city, is one of Michigan’s most photographed lighthouses. The Betsie Valley Trail is a favorite among hikers and cyclists, connecting Frankfort to nearby towns. Crystal Lake, one of the state’s largest inland lakes, is a key recreational spot offering boating, fishing, and swimming.
2. Benzonia
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.04 square miles
- Population: Approximately 497 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49616
- Latitude: 44.6217° N
- Longitude: 86.0981° W
Location and History
Benzonia is located in the central part of Benzie County, near the eastern shore of Crystal Lake. The village was founded in 1858 by a group of Congregationalists who established the community as a center of education and morality. Benzonia became known for its efforts to promote temperance and education, and in 1863 it became the site of Grand Traverse College (which later became Benzonia Academy). The village was named after the county itself, derived from the French word “Benzie,” a corruption of “Aux Becs Scies,” referring to the local sawbill ducks. Over time, Benzonia evolved into a quiet residential and agricultural community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Benzonia is part of the Benzie Central School District, with Benzie Central High School serving the area. Key landmarks include the Mills Community House, a historic structure that once housed Benzonia Academy and now serves as a community center and library. The Benzie Area Historical Museum, located in the former Congregational Church, showcases the village’s rich educational and cultural history. Crystal Lake, just a short drive away, offers recreational opportunities such as swimming, boating, and fishing. Beulah Beach, on the southern shore of Crystal Lake, is a popular summer destination.
3. Beulah
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.47 square miles
- Population: Approximately 340 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49617
- Latitude: 44.6289° N
- Longitude: 86.0903° W
Location and History
Beulah is located on the southeastern shore of Crystal Lake, one of Michigan’s clearest and most beautiful inland lakes. Founded in 1880 as a religious community, Beulah quickly grew as a resort town due to its stunning lakefront location and its proximity to natural attractions. The village’s name, taken from the Bible, means “married,” symbolizing the town’s connection to the land and water. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century boosted tourism and commerce, solidifying Beulah’s status as a summer destination. The town is known for its charming downtown, with quaint shops and restaurants catering to locals and tourists alike.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Beulah is also part of the Benzie Central School District, with students attending nearby Benzie Central High School. Major landmarks in the town include Beulah Beach, a public beach on Crystal Lake that draws families for swimming and picnics. Crystal Lake Yacht Club promotes sailing and water sports, and the Betsie Valley Trail passes through Beulah, offering cyclists and walkers access to scenic views. The Crystal Lake Outlet, a unique natural feature where Crystal Lake drains into the Betsie River, is another popular site. The annual Beulah Art Fair and winter Winterfest highlight the village’s community spirit and seasonal activities.
4. Thompsonville
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.95 square miles
- Population: Approximately 451 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49683
- Latitude: 44.5186° N
- Longitude: 85.9386° W
Location and History
Thompsonville is located in the southeastern part of Benzie County, in a rural area known for its proximity to natural attractions. The village was founded in 1889 by local landowner Henry Thompson, who established the community as a stop on the Ann Arbor Railroad. Thompsonville quickly grew as a lumbering and farming town, with the railroad facilitating transportation of timber and agricultural products. Over time, as the timber industry declined, the village became a hub for outdoor recreation. Today, it is best known as the gateway to Crystal Mountain Resort, a major year-round destination for skiing, golfing, and other outdoor activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Thompsonville is served by the Benzie Central School District, with students attending Benzie Central High School. The village’s most famous landmark is Crystal Mountain Resort, a four-season resort offering skiing, snowboarding, golfing, and a variety of family activities. The resort is a major draw for both locals and tourists, with its spa, art park, and hiking trails. Another important landmark is the Thompsonville Railroad Museum, which preserves the village’s railroad history. Nearby Betsie River is a popular spot for fishing and kayaking, attracting outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.
5. Elberta
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.02 square miles
- Population: Approximately 366 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49628
- Latitude: 44.6189° N
- Longitude: 86.2336° W
Location and History
Elberta is located directly across Betsie Lake from Frankfort, along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. The village was established in the late 19th century as a shipping port and a rail terminus for the Ann Arbor Railroad. Elberta’s deep-water harbor was key to its early development, as it became a major point for shipping coal and timber. For much of the 20th century, the village’s economy revolved around the railroad and shipping industries. In recent decades, as those industries declined, Elberta transformed into a peaceful lakeside community with a focus on recreation and tourism.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Elberta is also part of the Frankfort-Elberta Area Schools district, with students attending Frankfort High School. Notable landmarks include Elberta Beach, a hidden gem with expansive dunes and stunning views of Lake Michigan. The Elberta Life Saving Station, a historic structure from the 1890s, is a popular venue for weddings and events. The Elberta Bluffs offer breathtaking vistas of Lake Michigan, while the Elberta Waterfront Park hosts festivals, including the annual Elberta Solstice Festival. The village’s historic ties to the railroad are celebrated at the Elberta Historic Waterfront Park and Marina, which provides access to both Betsie Lake and Lake Michigan.
