by Howell, Michigan, is a charming city in the middle of Livingston County. It has a unique mix of history, nature, and modern amenities. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, this city has something for everyone. Here are ten things to do in Howell Michigan, to add to your itinerary.
Table of Contents – Things to Do In Howell Michigan
Historical Sites In Howell
Howell, Michigan, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. One important historical event was the arrival of the first settlers in 1835. They made the city a center for agriculture and business. Another critical moment in Howell’s history was the construction of the Michigan Central Railroad in the 1850s, which connected the city to larger cities in Michigan and beyond and facilitated its growth as a center for trade and industry. At the end of the 19th century, Howell finally became a popular tourist spot, thanks to its beautiful scenery, lively culture, and thriving economy.
Howell Opera House
This beautifully restored venue hosts various cultural events and performances throughout the year. Built at the end of the 19th century, this building is a beautiful example of the city’s rich cultural history. The Howell Opera House has beautiful Victorian architecture and a large interior. It can be used for various cultural events and performances, such as concerts, plays, and dance performances.
Historical Society Museum
The Historical Society Museum in Howell, Michigan, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. The museum offers many exhibits and artifacts, including photographs, documents, and artifacts that tell the story of Howell and its residents. In addition, visitors can explore the history of the city’s early settlers, learn about the important events and figures that shaped its development, and discover the unique cultural traditions that make Howell such a special place.
Howell Depot
The Howell Michigan Depot is a historic railway station in Howell, Michigan, that played a significant role in the town’s development and growth. Built in the late 1800s, the depot was a hub of transportation and commerce, connecting the town to major cities and supporting the local economy by transporting goods and passengers. The depot also served as a gathering place for the community, hosting events and meeting spots for friends and neighbors. Today, the Howell Michigan Depot has been restored to its original splendor. It serves as a museum and cultural center, showcasing the town’s rich history and preserving its heritage for future generations.
Outdoor Activities Near Howell
Howell, Michigan, is an excellent destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, birdwatching, and boating at Thompson Lake Nature Sanctuary and the Park of Pines. These scenic locations offer stunning views and opportunities for relaxation and recreation.
Howell Nature Center
The Howell Nature Center is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. For over 60 years, this beautiful park has covered over 230 acres of rolling hills, forests, and wetlands and is home to diverse wildlife and plant life. Visitors can walk on the park’s many trails, which wind through the beautiful natural scenery and offer stunning views of the lake and the countryside. The park is also a great destination for birdwatching, with over 200 species of birds known to live in the area.
Brighton Recreation Area
The Brighton Recreation Area is a beautiful park that offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. This park covers over 4,947 acres of rolling hills and mature forests and features a range of amenities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields. Visitors can have a peaceful picnic, walk around the beautiful grounds, or play a fun game of basketball or volleyball with other visitors. The park also features a scenic lake, where visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, or relaxing by the water’s edge.
Howell Michigan’s Food and Drink
Howell, Michigan, offers diverse food and drink options for visitors to enjoy. From classic American diners to upscale farm-to-table restaurants, the city has something to suit every taste and budget. One of the city’s most popular dining experiences is Howell’s Sunday Farmers Market, which takes place every weekend and features fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products from local farmers and vendors.
For those looking for a more relaxed dining experience, many cozy cafes and coffee shops offer a range of specialty drinks and baked goods. Finally, if you’re in the mood for a drink, there are several breweries, wineries, and distilleries where you can sample the local craft brews, wines, and spirits.
Craft Breweries:
Howell, Michigan, is a stone’s throw from all the great historical breweries in Detroit. However, it is home to two of the city’s most popular breweries, Cleary’s Pub and Brewery and Blue Tractor BBQ & Brewery. Locals love Cleary’s Pub and Brewery because it has a variety of handcrafted beers and a menu of pub classics. Visitors can eat a casual meal in the brewery’s taproom with a friendly vibe or try one of their signature beers on the patio.
Blue Tractor BBQ & Brewery, on the other hand, is a family-friendly brewery near Ann Arbor known for its farm-to-table cuisine and handcrafted beers. Visitors can try a variety of beers, from lagers that are light and refreshing to stouts that are full-bodied and made with the freshest ingredients. Cleary’s Pub and Brewery and Blue Tractor Brewery are two places everyone who goes to Howell, Michigan, should go to. They have a cozy atmosphere, serve delicious food, and make great beers.
Dining Scene
From juicy burgers to authentic Italian cuisine, Howell has diverse dining options for foodies.
Diamonds Steak and Seafood is a popular restaurant in Howell, Michigan. It is known for its delicious food and elegant atmosphere. Diamonds is an excellent place for a special occasion or a night out on the town. The menu has a wide range of steak and seafood dishes cooked to perfection. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of premium cuts of meat, expertly grilled and seasoned, and a range of fresh, sustainably-sourced seafood options. Diamonds has great food and an elegant, high-end atmosphere, which makes it an excellent place for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
The Silver Pig Bar & Oyster Room: The Silver Pig Bar & Oyster Room is a popular restaurant in Howell, Michigan. It has a lively, upbeat atmosphere and serves various delicious food. The restaurant is best known for its huge selection of fresh oysters, which are shucked to order and served with various sauces and sides. The Silver Pig’s menu has a lot of classic American dishes like burgers, sandwiches, salads, and items from the raw bar.
The restaurant is also known for its large selection of craft beers and cocktails, which makes it a great place for a night out with friends or a casual dinner. The Silver Pig Bar & Oyster Room is a great place to eat in the Howell area because of its lively atmosphere, fresh, delicious food, and large selection of drinks.
Shopping Around Howell
Howell, Michigan, has many unique and popular places to shop, from vintage and antique shops to artisanal boutiques and modern shopping centers. One of the most popular places to shop in the area is Historic Downtown Howell, which has a variety of small shops, antique shops, and specialty shops. Here, visitors can find handmade artisanal products, vintage finds, and one-of-a-kind gifts, all in a charming, historic setting. For a more modern shopping experience, the Tanger Outlets in nearby Brighton offer a range of well-known brands, designer labels, frequent sales, and special promotions.
Vintage and Antique Shops
Browse unique items from vintage clothing to artisanal goods at Howell’s many vintage and antique shops.
The Livingston Antique Outlet: This vintage and antique shop is located in Howell and offers a vast array of unique and exciting items, ranging from vintage furniture and home decor to rare collectibles and antiques. The shop is known for its expertly curated selection, and visitors can spend hours exploring the rows of fascinating items, from vintage kitchenware to rare books and artwork.
Like Mother, Like Daughter Vintage Treasures: This charming vintage and antique shop is located in a historic building in Howell and features a carefully curated collection of vintage home decor, furniture, and collectibles. Visitors can browse the shop’s carefully curated selection of vintage finds, including hand-picked pieces from local estate sales, antique markets, and flea markets. With its charming atmosphere and carefully curated selection, shop is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for vintage and antique treasures in the Howell area.
Sunday Farmers Market is a popular and unique shopping destination for residents and visitors to the area. This outdoor market, held on Sundays during the growing season, is a hub of activity and offers a wide range of locally grown produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts. Local farmers sell fresh, in-season produce, and visitors can try a variety of baked goods and look at items made by local artists and craftspeople.
The market is also a lively gathering place where visitors can chat with vendors, listen to live music, and enjoy a range of food and drink offerings. With its vibrant atmosphere, unique shopping opportunities, and fresh, locally-sourced products, the Howell Sunday Farmers Market is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in sustainable, community-focused shopping in the Howell area.
Entertainment In Howell
Howell, Michigan, offers many popular and unique entertainment opportunities for visitors and residents alike. One of the area’s most popular destinations is the Parker Playhouse, a historic theater that hosts a variety of live performances, including concerts, plays, and comedy shows.
Movie theaters: The Historic Howell Theater is a landmark in Howell, Michigan, and offers visitors and locals alike a unique way to have fun. Built in the 1920s, the theater has been brought back to its original beauty and now hosts concerts, plays, and comedy shows, among other things.
The Howell Theater is a great place to go for a truly immersive entertainment experience. It has beautiful Art Deco architecture, state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, and comfortable seats. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, the Howell Theater is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves live theater and performance. With its rich history, beautiful design, and exceptional programming, this historic venue is a true gem of the Howell area.
Arcade and Entertainment Center: Enjoy a fun night with family and friends at the Pinball Pete’s Arcade and Entertainment Center.
Video: TOP 5 MUST SEE Attractions In Howell Michigan
Things To Do in Howell, Mi This Weekend
Final Thought On Things to Do In Howell Michigan
Howell, Michigan, has something for everyone, from historical sites to outdoor adventures. So add these ten must-do activities to your itinerary and discover all these charming city offers. With its friendly people, great food, and fun things to do, your time in Howell will be one you’ll never forget.
