The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Ann Arbor Charter Township, Michigan and Novi, Michigan
A road trip is a great way to explore local attractions and discover hidden gems in the surrounding area. One of the best road trips to take is from Ann Arbor Charter Township to Novi, Michigan. This scenic journey takes you through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the state and offers exciting activities along the way. The halfway point to Novi is South Lyon, a charming town known for its historic buildings and restaurants. Here are the top five things to do on your trip from Ann Arbor Charter Township to Novi:
Explore Kensington Metropark
Kensington Metropark is a stunning recreational area that offers beautiful views of the lake, hiking trails, picnic areas, and golf courses. Visitors can rent paddleboats or canoes to explore the Grand River, or go fishing from the shore. The park is also host to a nature center that features educational exhibits and live animals. Whether you want to relax by the water or enjoy an active day outdoors, Kensington Metropark is the perfect destination for nature lovers.
(Fun fact: Kensington Metropark is home to the only public sledding hill in Southeast Michigan.)
Visit the Michigan Firehouse Museum
The Michigan Firehouse Museum is located in Ypsilanti and is a must-visit destination for history buffs. The museum showcases firefighting equipment and apparatus dating back to the 1800s, vintage fire trucks, and interactive exhibits. Families with children can enjoy the hands-on activities and educational programs while learning about the history of firefighting in Michigan.
(Fun fact: The museum has a collection of hats worn by firefighters from around the world, including one from a fire department in Thailand.)
Take a Stroll through Mill Pond Park
Located in Brighton, Mill Pond Park is a tranquil green space with a small lake surrounded by a walking trail. Visitors can rent canoes or paddleboats to explore the lake or relax on the grassy areas and soak up the sun. The park also hosts summer concerts in the bandshell, art fairs, and community events throughout the year. A walk in Mill Pond Park is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature.
(Fun fact: The Mill Pond was created in the 1840s by damming up Ore Creek to power two gristmills.)
Go Wine Tasting at the Flying Otter Winery
The Flying Otter Winery is a hidden gem located in Adrian that is worth the detour. The family-owned winery produces a wide variety of wines, from dry reds to sweet fruit wines. Visitors can take a guided tour of the vineyard, cellar, and wine-making process, followed by a tasting of their handcrafted wines. The winery also hosts events throughout the year, making it a fun destination for couples or groups.
(Fun fact: The Flying Otter Winery's vineyard is planted on a 100-year-old dairy farm.)
Take a Ride on the Detroit Princess Riverboat
The Detroit Princess Riverboat is a unique experience that takes visitors on a scenic tour of the Detroit River. The riverboat offers lunch, dinner, and sightseeing cruises that showcase the iconic Detroit skyline and landmarks. Visitors can enjoy the live entertainment, dance floor, and full bar while cruising on the river. The Detroit Princess Riverboat is a memorable experience that should be on every traveler's bucket list.
(Fun fact: The Detroit Princess Riverboat was featured in Denzel Washington's movie "Out of Time".)
Overall, this road trip from Ann Arbor Charter Township to Novi is around 50 miles and takes approximately one hour to complete, depending on how many stops you make along the way. With breathtaking sights at every turn and exciting activities to enjoy, this journey is the perfect way to create lasting memories and explore all that Michigan has to offer.