The Garden Peninsula is a beautiful stretch of farm fields and fishing towns in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. There are many things to do on a visit to the Garden Peninsula, including:
Visit Fayette Historic State Park. Fayette Historic State Park is a living museum that recreates life in a 19th-century village. Visitors can explore the village's shops, homes, and schoolhouse, and learn about the history of the region. A Michigan State Recreation pass is required for entry.
Go hiking or biking in the Hiawatha National Forest or the Cooks and Garden Plains. The Hiawatha National Forest and Cooks and Garden Plains showcase a vast and beautiful forest and open spaces that offer many opportunities for hiking and biking. There are marked trails for all levels of hikers, from easy walks to challenging climbs in the Hiawatha Forest, or follow the casual two-track roads of the Cooks and Garden Plains accessible at Valentine's Creek along M-183 north of Garden, MI.
Visit the Garden Peninsula Historical Museum. The Garden Peninsula Historical Museum is a museum that tells the story of the Garden Peninsula and its people. Visitors can learn about the region's history, culture, and natural resources. Open most weekends in the summer.
Go fishing in Indian Lake. Indian Lake is a large inland lake that is home to a variety of fish including perch, walleye, northern pike, muskellunge, rock bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill, sturgeon and brown trout. Visitors can fish from the shore or bring their boat. Indian Lake State Park requires a Michigan Recreation Pass for entry.
Visit the LaTulip Pottery and Tile Works. LaTulip Pottery and Tile Works is a pottery and tile studio that offers tours and classes. Visitors can learn about the pottery-making process and create their own pieces. Call ahead for an appointment (906) 644-7606.
NEW FOR 2024: Enjoy a latte, breakfast, or lunch at Grove Coffee & Cafe. Take a break from exploring at this little bite of heaven located in the lobby of Garden Grove Retreat & Lodging. Yummy coffee, frothy lattes, homemade breakfast goodies, baked goods, soups and sandwiches. Eat in the parlor, or grab and go! Open Fri 7am - 1pm, Sat 9am - 1pm, and Sun 9am - 1pm. See the menu here.
Stay at Garden Grove Retreat & Lodging. This former Catholic Retreat Center is a historic building with a thought-provoking background in the Village of Garden. It is surrounded by 40 acres of cedars, groomed grounds, trails, and gardens for guests to explore. Garden Grove Retreat & Lodging is a popular place for group retreats, destination weddings, and solo getaways. The magical surroundings include a labyrinth encircled by blooming crabapple trees in late May or early June, which creates an aromatic display of bright Fuschia. Call Garden Grove Retreat & Lodging for advance reservations at 231.622.5026, or book online.
These are just a few of the many things to do on the Garden Peninsula. The Garden Peninsula is a great place to explore with its stunning natural beauty and rich history.