20 Attractions to Explore Near John C. Blanchard House

Ionia State Recreation Area is a stunning open-air park located in Ingham County. This sprawling location offers countless opportunities for outdoor recreation, with picturesque hiking trails, plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities, family-friendly beaches and more. For camping enthusiasts, the well kept grounds feature dozens of camp sites, pavilions for large groups, and even primitive tent camping along the river. Fishing is also popular on site or nearby Frog Pond's Lake Saint Helen.

Scheid Park is a wonderful park with many attractions to explore. Among its highlights are several covered pavilions for picnics and gatherings, two boat launches for kayaking and fishing, grills for barbecues, benches and trails for a leisurely stroll or serious hike, and two softball fields for those looking for some outdoor fun. There is even an area specially designated as a dog park. Overall a great spot to enjoy the outdoors and to communicate with nature.

I-96 Speedway is a bucket list destination for ambitious racers and fans alike. Located in Lake Odessa, the ¼ mile banked clay oval provides a thrilling and spectator friendly racing environment. Offering five weekly divisions, this lightning quick track produces action packed and competitive racing that spectators can view from multiple angles. In addition to the driving excitement, I-96 Speedway also features a great family atmosphere with affordable prices and concessions.

Jordan Lake, is a beautiful natural sight. Spanning 300 acres with a maximum depth of 38 feet, this all-sports lake is truly majestic. Every year anglers come to fish for the lake's largemouth bass, bluegill, yellow perch and black crappie. The lake also makes for a great spot for swimming or boating in the summertime. Whether you're out fishing, picnicking with friends or just appreciating the natural beauty of the area, Jordan Lake has something to offer everyone.

The Portland Riverwalk is an incredible place to take a walk and get close to nature. From the boardwalk lined path, visitors can observe plenty of scenery along the way including views of the river, multiple species of birds, and native foliage. Visitors who want more of a challenge can access the mountain biking trails that wind through canopies of trees located off the main path. Don’t forget to take some time to sit on one of the many benches available along.

Morrison Lake is a popular destination for vacationers and nature lovers alike. It has crystal clear water and is surrounded by stunning forests, making it a tranquil oasis off the beaten path. Local fish species include yellow perch, bluegill, largemouth bass and northern pike. There is also an abundance of wildlife grazing around the lake, including beavers and other small mammals. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, fishing, camping and hiking opportunities throughout the area.

Whites Bridge was built in 1927, and has been a part of the county ever since. This bridge has two highway crossings that are locally known and is listed under the National Register of Historic Places. It once connected to Bippley Avenue where locals used to go for Sunday drives to watch the sunset. Today, it stands as a reminder of the local beloved history and traditions that were once typical of the area.

The North Country Trailhead offers stunning views of the countryside and an excellent opportunity to explore. Miles of paths stretch through a forest of native trees, including maples and oaks, with bits of wetland interspersed here and there inviting hikers to stop and observe. Wildflowers bloom in the spring, while colorful fall foliage appears come autumn. Wildlife is abundant. Camping is allowed on site and take in more of the natural beauty this area has to offer.

Fallasburg Park located at the base of the picturesque rolling hills of Kent County, this beautiful park features a variety of activities for all ages. From camping to picnicking or just exploring, you’re sure to find something to keep everyone busy. The scenic 8-acre pond is a peaceful spot where you can canoe and fish while taking in the scenery. There are also more than 3 miles of walking trails that lead through old growth oak forests, wetlands and meadows alongside the river.

Jordan Lake is a hidden gem within the area, offering visitors and locals alike breath-taking views of the lake surrounded by trees and wildlife. Whether you're an avid fisherman looking to catch a variety of fresh water fish or simply looking to enjoy some time away from city life, Jordan Lake has something for everyone to enjoy. Boating and swimming are popular activities here as well as camping and picnicking in the surrounding areas.

The Fred Meijer Heartland Trail is a perfect trail for hikers of all levels. Stretching from Cedar Springs to Alma, the 33-mile trail follows the Flat River and passes through lush woods, agricultural fields, streams, and ponds. While taking in views of rolling countryside and historical sites, travelers have 18 access points along the way that provide amenities such as parking lots, restrooms, water fountains and benches. This trail also serves as a safe route for cyclists and joggers.

Derby Lake offers the perfect destination for a leisurely getaway. Located near Lake Michigan, it is an idyllic spot surrounded by lush, green forests and tranquil waters that make it ideal for fishing, paddling and boating. The lake can be found within the Manistee National Forest, which provides plenty of opportunity to explore and also features 65 campsites with accessible amenities like running water and electricity.

Seidman Park is a scenic spot that families have been enjoying for more than 50 years. Covering an area of 97-acres, Seidman Park is home to plenty of bikeways and picnic areas, as well as jogging trails and several shelters. For those who want to spend some time outdoors while still being close to nature, the park boasts a pond where one can catch panfish, largemouth bass, and even trout with a valid permit.

Townsend Park is a perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of life while still being close enough to go visit Grand Rapids and enjoy a day shopping or dining downtown. This park is 81 acres of natural beauty that can be enjoyed year-round. Well-kept trails weave around forested creeks, open meadows, historic remains of an old cemetery, and two lovely ponds. Whether spending the day hiking or fishing, there are plenty of activities for all ages to enjoy.

Cooper Creek County Park is truly a stunning place to visit. Located on a remote lake, the park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, canoeing and camping. Its rustic beauty is exemplified by the miles of trails that weave through picturesque forests and tall grass meadows. The calm waters of the lake make it a perfect spot to observe wildlife and if you're lucky, you may even spot eagles soaring above.

Fitzgerald Park is a prime destination for outdoor entertainment. With 300 acres of stunning land boasting tranquil hiking trails and idyllic camping spots, this park offers something to everyone. It features scenic terrains of lush greenery, multiple picnic areas with grills, and breathtaking views of the surrounding natural landscape. Visitors can also enjoy half-mile long paths for horseback riding and a 27-hole disc golf course for those who want something more rigorous.

Pickerel Lake Park is a truly remarkable place. Nestled among ten acres of natural beauty, the park borders over five miles of the winding Grand River. Visitors can experience nature by taking in vibrant wildflowers and thickly wooded forests along three miles of hiking trails looping around the lake. Well-maintained picnic and play areas create an idyllic setting for families and friends to spend time together in the outdoors.

Ada Covered Bridge, is a piece of history that has withstood the test of time. Dating back to 1867, it is the only remaining covered bridge in Michigan and one of three in all of the Great Lakes region. Sited on a scenic 115-acre park near an expansive evergreen forest, Ada Covered Bridge can be described as an architectural marvel that seamlessly unites old world charm with modern convenience.

The Maple River State Game Area is renowned for its incredible natural beauty and diverse wildlife. On its 10,000 acres of dense hardwood forest, it offers an abundance of recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike. Hunting game such as deer, squirrels and hares is popular, while those looking to explore the area can do so on any of the numerous trails that run through it. Fishing and boating enthusiasts will find their paradise at the two lakes situated within the State Game Area.

Cannonsburg Ski Area is a popular mountain for winter activities. It has something for all ability levels, from beginner to advanced terrain. With evening lights on select trails and a snow-tubing hill, it’s also a popular spot for night skiing or snow tubing. It boasts 20 slopes with 2 terrain parks and 2 mini-parks plus 6 chair lifts that whisk visitors up the 300 foot vertical drop. From Freestyle Fridays to monthly Railslides, stop by on any given day to participate in fun seasonal events.