20 Attractions to Explore Near Timber Ridge

Cheshire Hills Golf Course is truly a golf lover’s paradise. Nestled in the rolling hills of Southwest Michigan, this 18-hole championship course offers a variety of holes that challenge every skill level. From the friendly staff to the well-manicured fairways and greens, Cheshire Hills presents a delightful day of golfing. The Pro Shop provides useful information on instruction and organizes tournaments for members and their guests.

Oshtemo Township Park is a sprawling forty-three acre nature reserve that offers something for everyone. The park has gorgeous walking trails which meander through the forest and open grassy fields - perfect for bird watching and wildlife viewing. There is space for recreational sports as well, with tennis courts, ball fields, and even a dog park for your furry friends. Nature lovers will love exploring the beautiful wetland area where you can find a variety of flora and fauna.

Kal-Haven Trail Sesquicentennial State Park is located at the heart of Kalamazoo County, Michigan. This majestic trail runs along an abandoned rail corridor that passes through 33.5 miles of rural countryside, woodlands, and wetlands between the towns of Kalamazoo and South Haven. The pathways are open to hikers, cross-country skiers, cyclists and horseback riders who can explore gently rolling terrain on paved or crushed limestone.

Kalamazoo Nature Center provides a serene respite from urban life. Visitors can explore over 1,100 acres filled with wooded trails, marshy wetlands, and crystal ponds while learning about local flora and fauna. There's something for everyone at the Nature Center; birders can examine over 230 species of birds and discover relics of past habitats; families can enjoy educational activities and programs to bring nature alive; photographers can capture stunning shots of the region's natural beauty.

Asylum Lake, is an oasis for nature lovers. The lake is surrounded by acres of verdant forests and meadows where birds, deer, coyotes and other wildlife abound. The beauty of the area has been carefully preserved; it is accessible to the public but has no development or commercial activity. Mossy Creek at the west end of Asylum Lake feeds into a tranquil pond ringed by trees that make it a delightful spot for contemplation and relaxation.

Henderson Castle is a fabulous architectural marvel from the 19th century. Built in 1895 by Frank Henderson, it was designed to reflect his love for Greek and Gothic Revival styles. The castle features 8 bedrooms, 4 fireplaces and 7 bathrooms adorned with stained glass windows, elaborate hand-carved woodwork and detailed plaster ceiling designs with cherubs and floral motifs. It also boasts the world's first residential intercom system installed back in 1912!

Richmond Center, offers an array of activities to its visitors. This vibrant center has a variety of shops and restaurants that appeal to diverse tastes and interests. It is also home to Kalamazoo's only outdoor amusement park, Millennium Park. Visitors can try their luck at the park's mini golf course or the batting cages or enjoy a stroll around the lake looping past colorful flower beds and intriguing sculptures. Furthermore, Richmond Center hosts many events throughout the year.

Miller Auditorium is a prime example of modern architecture meets nostalgia. Built in 1960, this state-of-the-art performing arts venue has brought together concert-goers and performers alike since then – domestic and international alike. It has served as a platform for theatre productions, live music performances and lectures by renowned figures across the globe. Patrons rave about its unique ceiling design that includes hundreds of light fixtures creating an amazing lighting effect.

Lawson Ice Arena, is a popular destination for ice skaters and hockey players of all ages. The arena boasts two regulation-sized rinks, practice facilities and an on-site pro shop. The staff provides group and private learn-to-skate lessons for beginners of any age. Weekends often feature public skating sessions or hockey tournaments. Birthday parties are also welcome at the arena, where kids can have fun while exercising with their friends.

The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts is an amazing and creative artistic space located in the heart of Kalamazoo County, Michigan. Made up of a museum, exhibition galleries, a sculpture park, store, and café and bistro, it is dedicated to promoting visual arts from all around the world. It seeks to bring forth a new appreciation for the arts through rotating collections and events for both seasoned art connoisseurs as well as those just discovering the power of art.

The Kalamazoo Valley Museum is a stunning center of science and culture that offers a range of opportunities for educational engagement and discovery. Visitors to the museum can observe artifacts from the region and learn about the history, ecology, and economy of this iconic part of Michigan. Special exhibitions include the Grand Rapids Children's Museum, which offers interactive activities designed to engage children in play-based learning.

Bronson Park is a beautiful and nationally registered historic landmark. The park was initially designed by Beaumont and Uhlrich in 1921 and it stands as a testament to the importance of history and natural beauty. It’s 10-acre space includes two rolling green parks surrounded by native white oak trees. To complement this scenic setting, there is also a pond, two gazebos and lush landscaping, making it an ideal spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.

South Scott Lake is a breathtaking natural destination covers an area of 95 acres and is surrounded by lush greenery and serene forests. The crystal-clear water of the lake is perfect for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings while picnicking on the shore or exploring the trails nearby. The lake also boasts an abundance of wildlife, making it a popular spot for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts.

Kalamazoo State Theatre has been an integral part of the Kalamazoo County since its opening in 1927. Located in the heart of downtown Kalamazoo, this historic theatre provides a unique experience to visitors year-round. From classic movies to live performances and special events, the theatre offers something for everyone including musicals, dance shows, comedy acts, and more. Not only is the State Theatre a great place for entertainment, but it is also a venue for education.

Maple Island is a beautiful spot in Van Buren County, Michigan that boasts picturesque views of the Paw Paw River. Surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife, visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking. The island is also home to a historic lighthouse that has stood for over a century and still stands proudly today. In the fall, the island transforms into a stunning display of autumn colors that attracts many visitors.

Eagle Lake is popular with anglers looking to fish for walleye and perch, while those who prefer dry land activities can take advantage of the hiking trails around the lake or try out some of the fun outdoor recreation options such as canoeing and kayaking. On the shore of Eagle Lake sits a charming little village full of unique shops and eateries. Visitors to the area can also enjoy exploring a nearby wildlife refuge, golfing on one of the nearby courses.

Kalamazoo River Valley Trail, is a 26.5-mile trail running from the city of Augusta to the village of South Haven. This trail provides a safe and scenic path for anyone looking to explore the area by bike or on foot. Along its route, the trail meanders through lush forests, verdant fields and over several local rivers and creeks. It passes by many sights and landmarks, including historical sites such as battlefields and old mills. The trail is free to use and open year-round.

Crooked Lake is truly an oasis of natural beauty and adventure. This secluded lake is surrounded by lush trees and grassy marshes, providing visitors with a peaceful getaway. The perfect spot to break away from the rush of modern life, Crooked Lake provides ample opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, and more. For those looking for an even more adventurous experience, the nearby wooded hills offer miles of trails for exploring.

The Al Sabo Preserve is a magnificent natural area with rolling hills and forests that are home to several species of animals, making it an ideal destination for both avid hikers and wildlife watchers alike. This pristine environment contains a variety of ecosystems including wetlands, meadows, forests and streams. Over six miles of walking trails weave throughout the preserve providing access to many areas that can’t be explored from the roads.

Saddle Lake, is a peaceful and scenic sight to behold. It is a natural lake spanning over 70 acres, offering plenty of opportunities for fishing and water activities. The lake is surrounded by beautiful forested areas that provide the perfect setting for hiking and camping. The community around Saddle Lake is small but welcoming, making it an ideal spot for a quiet getaway.