The Friendly Small Town In Michigan That’s Perfect For A Spring Day Trip

Jackson is known as the birthplace of the Republican Party. No matter your political affiliation, we think you will agree that Jackson, Michigan is a friendly small town that is perfect for a spring day trip. It offers museums, outdoor pursuits, and famed haunts where you can get a sweet snack or brew. Oh, and if you are a golfer, bring your clubs, just in case.

Jackson is approximately 40 miles west of Ann Arbor.

Visit the Ella Sharp Museum, featuring ever-changing exhibits in science, history, and art.

Kids have been captivated by dinosaur displays, and the planetarium. The Michigan Military Heritage Museum is also in town. Several county museums participate in an annual spring event - Free Museum Day.

An old railroad route, the 10.5-mile out-and-back Falling Waters Trail is just right for walking or biking.

Maybe you built up an appetite - next, we head to Virginia Coney Island for a famous Michigan Coney dog.

An authentic Coney hot dog comes with all-meat chili (no beans), diced white onions, and yellow mustard.

Spend time at the Dahlem Environmental Education Center, complete with five miles of walking trails.

Leashed dogs are allowed on the Butterfly Trail. Get up close with snakes and turtles at the visitor center.

Attend the annual Fairy Festival, where imagination reigns supreme.

Or, take part in one of the other spring events in Jackson.

The Parlour has been serving its extraordinary ice cream in this location for close to 100 years, with a couple of name changes along the way.

For another gem, browse the Jackson Candy & Fudge Factory.

Pop in for a glass of wine at Sandhill Crane Vineyards, with indoor and outdoor seating.

Other places for adult beverages include Chateau Aeronautique Winery & Blue Skies Brewery, 127 Brewing, and the Tilted Arcade Bar.

Jackson is a friendly small town in Michigan, perfect for a spring day trip. The possibilities for filling your day are endless. For particulars, visit the Ella Sharp Museum website, the Michigan Military Heritage Museum Facebook page, the Jackson events calendar, the Virginia Coney Island website, the Dahlem Center website, the Jackson School of Arts Fairy Festival website, the Parlour Facebook page, the Sandhill Crane Vineyards website, the Chateau Aeronautique Winery & Blue Skies Brewery website, the 127 Brewing Facebook page, and the Tilted Arcade Bar Facebook page.

Read our other articles about Jackson: the Falling Waters Trail, the wildlife sanctuary, and the fudge factory.