Cities and Towns in Emmet County, Michigan
Founded in 1840, Emmet County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Emmet County was formed from part of Mackinac County which was named Tonegadana County until 1843. The city of Petoskey is the county seat. With FIPS code of 47, Emmet County has a population of 34,225 and area of 882 square miles (2,284 km²).
List of all cities in Emmet County, MI alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Alanson, MI | 49706 | 616 |
| Bay Harbor, MI | 49770 | 231 |
| Bay View, MI | 49770 | 231 |
| Brutus, MI | 49716 | 231 |
| Carp Lake, MI | 49718 | 616 |
| Conway, MI | 49722 | 616 |
| Cross Village, MI | 49723 | 616 |
| Good Hart, MI | 49737 | 616 |
| Harbor Point, MI | 49740 | 616 |
| Harbor Springs, MI | 49737 | 616 |
| 49740 | 616 | |
| Levering, MI | 49755 | 616 |
| Oden, MI | 49764 | 616 |
| Pellston, MI | 49769 | 616 |
| Petoskey, MI | 49770 | 231 |
| Wequetonsing, MI | 49740 | 616 |
Major Cities and Towns in Emmet County, Michigan
1. Petoskey
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 5.29 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,877 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49770
- Latitude: 45.3736° N
- Longitude: 84.9553° W
Location and History
Petoskey, the largest city in Emmet County, is located along Little Traverse Bay of Lake Michigan. The area was originally inhabited by the Odawa (Ottawa) people, and the city was named after Chief Ignatius Petosega, a prominent local leader. Founded in 1852, Petoskey became a key hub for lumbering and shipping, benefiting from its natural harbor and proximity to Michigan’s vast forests. With the arrival of the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad in the late 19th century, Petoskey transformed into a popular resort destination for wealthy vacationers from the Midwest, known for its scenic beauty and historic charm. The region is famous for the Petoskey stone, Michigan’s state stone, which can be found along the shores of the bay.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Petoskey is served by Petoskey Public Schools, with Petoskey High School being the largest educational institution. Significant landmarks include Bayfront Park, which stretches along the waterfront and features walking paths, a marina, and the Petoskey Breakwater Lighthouse. Historic Gaslight District is a charming downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Petoskey State Park, located just outside the city, offers sandy beaches and hiking trails. The Little Traverse History Museum, housed in an old railway station, showcases the city’s rich history. Petoskey also hosts the annual Festival on the Bay, featuring live music, food, and activities on the waterfront.
2. Harbor Springs
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.30 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,194 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49740
- Latitude: 45.4311° N
- Longitude: 84.9875° W
Location and History
Harbor Springs is a picturesque resort town located on the northern shore of Little Traverse Bay. Founded in 1880, it has long been a popular destination for affluent visitors from Detroit, Chicago, and beyond, drawn to its natural beauty, sailing opportunities, and small-town charm. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, and the town was named after its natural harbor and numerous freshwater springs. Harbor Springs’ early economy was based on lumbering and shipping, but as the town developed, tourism and real estate became central to its identity. Today, the town is known for its historic homes, waterfront views, and world-class recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Harbor Springs is served by Harbor Springs Public Schools, with Harbor Springs High School being the primary educational facility. Landmarks include Zorn Park Beach, offering a public swimming area with views of Little Traverse Bay. Thorne Swift Nature Preserve provides walking trails through sand dunes and forests along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. The Harbor Springs Historical Society and Museum highlights the area’s Native American heritage and maritime history. The town hosts the annual Blessing of the Fleet in June, celebrating its deep connection to the water, and the Harbor Springs Festival of the Book attracts readers and writers from across the nation.
3. Alanson
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.61 square miles
- Population: Approximately 738 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49706
- Latitude: 45.4447° N
- Longitude: 84.7875° W
Location and History
Alanson is a small village located along the Crooked River, part of Michigan’s Inland Waterway, which connects Lake Huron to several inland lakes and rivers. The village was founded in the late 1800s and developed primarily as a logging and railroad town. Alanson’s location on the river made it an important stop for steamboats transporting lumber and other goods. After the decline of the logging industry, the town became a quiet, residential community with a focus on outdoor recreation. The river and surrounding lakes provide opportunities for boating, fishing, and nature exploration, drawing visitors to its tranquil environment.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Alanson is part of the Littlefield Public Schools district, with Alanson Public School serving local students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Notable landmarks include the Crooked River Lock, which allows boats to travel between the different lakes along the Inland Waterway. Crooked River Park offers picnic areas, boat docks, and playgrounds, making it a popular spot for families and visitors. The Inland Waterway Museum provides insights into the history of the region’s waterways and the role they played in local industry and transport. The village’s annual Riverfest celebrates Alanson’s connection to the water with boat parades, music, and food vendors.
4. Pellston
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.01 square miles
- Population: Approximately 844 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49769
- Latitude: 45.5528° N
- Longitude: 84.7847° W
Location and History
Pellston is located along the Maple River in the northern part of Emmet County. The village was established in the late 19th century as a railroad stop on the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railway, which connected southern Michigan to the Upper Peninsula. The town was named after pioneer settler William H. Pell, and it grew as a small agricultural and industrial center. Pellston is best known today for its regional airport, which serves as a gateway to northern Michigan and Mackinac Island. The village retains a quiet, rural charm, with its economy focused on agriculture, transportation, and tourism.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Pellston is served by the Pellston Public Schools district, with Pellston High School being the central educational institution. Major landmarks include Pellston Regional Airport, which provides flights to and from Detroit and other major cities, serving as an important transportation hub for the region. The University of Michigan Biological Station, located nearby on Douglas Lake, is one of the largest inland field research stations in the world, drawing students and scientists from around the globe. Maple River State Game Area offers hunting, fishing, and birdwatching opportunities. The annual Pellston Ice Festival is a winter highlight, featuring ice carving, snowmobiling, and other seasonal activities.
5. Mackinaw City
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 7.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 806 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49701
- Latitude: 45.7775° N
- Longitude: 84.7278° W
Location and History
Mackinaw City is located at the northernmost tip of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, where Lake Michigan meets Lake Huron. The city’s history dates back to the 1600s when it was a significant trading post for French explorers and Native Americans. The construction of Fort Michilimackinac in the early 18th century solidified the area’s importance as a military and trading hub. Mackinaw City became a bustling port town in the 19th century, with ferries connecting the Lower Peninsula to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The construction of the Mackinac Bridge in 1957 transformed the city into a major tourist destination, drawing visitors to its historic sites and scenic views.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mackinaw City is part of the Mackinaw City Public Schools district, with Mackinaw City High School serving local students. Major landmarks include Fort Michilimackinac, a reconstructed 18th-century fort that offers historical reenactments and exhibits. The Mackinac Bridge, one of the world’s longest suspension bridges, connects Mackinaw City to St. Ignace and is an iconic symbol of Michigan. Colonial Michilimackinac State Park offers hiking trails, scenic views, and historical sites. The Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is a popular attraction, offering tours and insights into the area’s maritime history. The annual Mackinaw City Winterfest and Bridge Walk celebrate the town’s cultural and historical significance.
