Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Brighton, Michigan and Canton Charter Township, Michigan
Overview
Brighton, Michigan and Canton Charter Township, Michigan are two beautiful places to start a road trip. Located just east of the capital city of Lansing, the two towns offer an array of captivating attractions and breathtaking scenery. Whether you prefer a leisurely drive through picturesque landscapes or a thrilling adventure, this road trip has something for everyone.
As you embark on this journey, the halfway point of Ann Arbor, MI, will provide a charming stopover. Known for its vibrant arts scene and prestigious university, Ann Arbor offers a plethora of opportunities to explore its rich cultural heritage.
Top Five Things to do
1. Visit the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village
Located in nearby Dearborn, the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village offer an immersive experience that takes visitors back in time to the birth of American innovation. The museum showcases a vast collection of artifacts, including the bus in which Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat, while Greenfield Village allows visitors to explore historic homes, workshops, and farmland.
Interesting Fact: The Henry Ford Museum is home to the very chair Abraham Lincoln sat on when he was assassinated.
2. Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts
Detroit, the largest city in Michigan, is just a short drive from Brighton and Canton Township. The Detroit Institute of Arts is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts. With a collection spanning over 65,000 works of art from around the world, including masterpieces by renowned artists such as Van Gogh and Rembrandt, the museum offers an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
Interesting Fact: The Detroit Institute of Arts is home to Diego Rivera's famous mural "Detroit Industry," which depicts the city's industrial heritage.
3. Take a Stroll in Downtown Ann Arbor
A visit to Ann Arbor is incomplete without exploring its vibrant downtown. Main Street is lined with a colorful array of shops, restaurants, and art galleries, offering a delightful experience for visitors. With its cosmopolitan vibe and unique charm, downtown Ann Arbor is the perfect place to relax, people-watch, and indulge in some retail therapy.
Interesting Fact: Ann Arbor's Main Street was once voted one of the "Top 10 Streets in America" by the American Planning Association.
4. Experience the Beauty of the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum
Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the serenity of the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum. Located in Ann Arbor, this 700-acre oasis boasts a diverse collection of plants and breathtaking landscapes. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens or embark on one of the many scenic trails, allowing you to reconnect with nature's beauty.
Interesting Fact: The Nichols Arboretum is home to the iconic "Peony Garden," the largest collection of heirloom peonies in North America.
5. Explore the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing
On your return journey, make a stop at the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing. This stunning neoclassical building houses the Senate and the House of Representatives. Visitors can take guided tours to marvel at the magnificent architecture, learn about Michigan's political history, and even witness legislative debates in action.
Interesting Fact: The famous cast-iron dome of the Michigan State Capitol was inspired by the dome of the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C.
Conclusion
This road trip from Brighton, Michigan to Canton Charter Township, Michigan offers an enticing journey through history, art, nature, and culture. With the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village, the Detroit Institute of Arts, downtown Ann Arbor, the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum, and the Michigan State Capitol, there is something for every traveler's interest. The trip takes approximately two hours, making it an ideal weekend getaway for locals and tourists alike. So pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare to be captivated by the diverse wonders that await you on this memorable road trip.