Lapeer, Michigan possesses charming small-town ambience and numerous historic delights.   Located in the lovely Thumb Region of the Lower Peninsula, Lapeer is the seat of rural Lapeer County.  The largest town in the region, Lapeer reported 9,072 residents to the Census 2000.The 2003 estimate showed a population of 9,343.  Lapeer lies along the banks of the Flint River.

Lapeer began as a lumberjack village in the early 1800’s.   The New York Central and Grand Trunk Railroads constructed lines to the area, and Lapeer developed into a city in 1869.  The Lapeer County Courthouse, constructed in stunning Greek Revival style, still stands today, one of the 10 oldest courthouses in the U.S., and listed as one of the 50 most significant buildings in Michigan.

A number of historic buildings grace Lapeer streets.   Piety Hill Historic District  contains many listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Homes and churches are from Gothic and Italianate designs, as well as Queen Anne and Greek Revival.  A wonderful walking tour delights visitors with over 40 historic sites.

Lapeer provides the commercial and cultural hub for all of Lapeer County. The rest of the communities in this mostly agricultural region contain less than 5,000 residents.  Lapeer’s pleasant Downtown District is the retail center for the area, with excellent shopping, antique stores and a fine array of restaurants. Historic downtown is the site of free summer concerts.  The Courthouse square hosts two Farmer’s Markets each week from May through October, giving local growers a venue to sell their goods.  The Lapeer Days Festival is a 3-day event in August, featuring live music, crafts and family fun.   The Pix Theater, built in 1941 in Art Deco style, holds more than 300 patrons and presents numerous theatrical and musical performances, and second-run films.

Family values live on in Lapeer.  Many ball fields and a surprising number of parks await healthy youths and adults alike.  The immediate land surrounding Lapeer is fertile wetlands full of ponds, wildflowers, marsh grasses and wildlife. Lapeer County contains 159 shimmering lakes and miles of trails extend through the undulating hillsides.  Hiking, biking, horseback riding and winter sports opportunities abound here.

Lapeer, Michigan offers an outstanding quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and traditional ideals.  While only 26 miles from the major city of Flint and 48 miles from the bustling city of Detroit, Lapeer provides the option of simpler living.

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