Grand Mere State Park - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Lookout Park, is the perfect place for a picnic or a summer day adventure. The park offers spectacular views featuring rugged cliffs that plunge into the expansive Lake Michigan. Visitors can cool off in the crystal clear water at the beach or explore the numerous trails to discover wildflowers and wildlife. Additionally, there are several covered pavilions throughout where people can stop and enjoy lunch or an outdoor event before continuing along their trek.

Kiwanis Park is a nature-lovers paradise. Located on 35 acres of rolling hills and bubbling creeks, the park provides recreation for both people and wildlife. Visitors can hike along trails that meander through meadows and vast forests while they take in stunning aerial views of the lake. There is also plenty to do within the park such as fishing, canoeing, camping, and picnicking. The park also offers an 18-hole disc golf course, a playground, athletic fields, restrooms and more.

The Krasl Art Center is an exciting and vibrant place to visit. It showcases works from some of the best contemporary artists throughout the region. The exhibits feature pieces inspired by local landscapes and cultures, giving visitors a chance to experience the true spirit of Michigan. Krasl also offers a variety of educational and dynamic art programs, like hands-on workshops for children and adults, classes for aspiring artists and public lectures about emerging art trends.

Warren Dunes State Park offers a breathtaking experience for outdoor adventurers. Upon arriving, visitors are overwhelmed by the beauty of its rolling sand dunes and the clear blue waters of Lake Michigan that surround it. Set on 1,952 acres and lined with miles of pristine sandy beaches, it's an ideal destination for swimming, kayaking, and sunbathing. The park also features several trails that wind through the forest-covered dunes offering spectacular views along the way.

Lake Bluff Park is a scenic stop along the shores of Lake Michigan. The park offers a beautiful view of the lake, as well as a beach area for swimming, hiking trails, and picnicking. There is also a playground and a pavilion available for rent.

The Whirlpool Compass Fountain is an iconic and historic point of interest. Located near the narrows of the Saint Joseph river, it is one of the most photographed spots in Southwest Michigan. The fountain belongs to the family-owned and operated Pere Marquette Beach amusement park right down the road. The structure dates back to 1929 when it was originally built for a Detroit department store. At sixty-feet tall and three feet wide, it has become a signature landmark along the waterfront.