Wakefield's Hidden Charm: A Gem in Michigan's Upper Peninsula

Wakefield, Michigan, radiates a unique charm that's hard to find elsewhere. As you enter this quaint town in the Upper Peninsula, you're greeted with a warm sense of community and breathtaking natural beauty. It's a place where soaring trees meet glistening waters, creating an inviting backdrop that visitors quickly fall in love with.

One of Wakefield’s standout features is its access to the great outdoors. The town is embraced by the majestic Ottawa National Forest, offering endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. Sunday Lake, a sparkling jewel in the heart of the town, is perfect for leisurely afternoons of kayaking or enjoying a serene picnic by its shores.

Life in Wakefield is not just about nature —it's about community. Local events, from the festive Fourth of July celebrations to the Wakestock music festival, create lasting memories and a strong sense of belonging among residents. The local shops and dining venues scattered through downtown add to Wakefield’s picturesque charms, each with its own story and unique flavor.

For those seeking a blend of adventure and a tight-knit community vibe, Wakefield, Michigan, offers a vibrant lifestyle that inspires both action and tranquility. Its welcoming spirit and natural beauty make it an ideal place to live, relax, and explore.

Workforce & Industrial Development

Nestled in Michigan’s scenic Upper Peninsula, Wakefield is strategically positioned to serve as a gateway for industrial and logistics operations in the western part of the state. The city benefits from direct access to US Highway 2 and proximity to the Canadian border, making it attractive for companies seeking regional distribution or cross-border trade opportunities.

Industrial real estate in Wakefield is characterized by affordability and access to large parcels of land, ideal for manufacturing, warehousing, and light industrial development. The city is supported by the Western Upper Peninsula Planning & Development Region, which actively promotes business growth and infrastructure improvements tailored to industrial users.

Michigan’s robust incentive programs, such as the Michigan Business Development Program and the Community Development Block Grant, are available to qualifying businesses looking to expand or relocate in Wakefield. Local and county-level economic development offices provide guidance on site selection, permitting, and workforce recruitment.

Workforce development is a priority, with area colleges and Michigan Works! offering customized training and placement services. These programs ensure that employers have access to skilled labor in manufacturing, transportation, and logistics, helping businesses scale efficiently in Wakefield.