Free things to do in Michigan
Andrew Norton
Here are just a few ideas for great free things to do in Michigan (besides reading this blog of course ;) ) before summer is over. I picked these from this book, "What's Cheap & Free in Michigan." Deadman's Hill - a great view of the Jordan Valley from one of the higher spots in the lower peninsula. You can reach Deadman's Hill off of 131 11.5 miles north of Mancelona. Take Deadman's Hill road two miles up to the parking area.
Horton Bay General Store - Whether you are on an Ernest Hemingway pilgrimage or just passing through this is a great place to stop. Look over the photos of Ernest Hemingway while waiting for your ice cream cone to be served up from the vintage soda fountain counter. Then, take your ice cream outside and sit on one of the comfortable benches on the porch and watch the world go by.
Take U.S. - 31 north out of Charlevoix and turn onto Boyne City Road which takes you right into Horton Bay.
Wolf Lake Fish Hatchery - This is where the state of Michigan raises trout and salmon for distribution across the state. Here you can view main show pond, DNR Fisheries Lab, antique fishing tackle display, history of fishing here in Michigan, and more.
Located 8 miles west of Kalamazoo on M-43. Open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.