Michigan's Underrated Riverfront City Features Vibrant Arts, Unique Shops, And Serene Trails

Michigan has so much more to offer than just its large cities, and if you're looking for a slower-paced escape where you can find a bit of serenity, get out in the great outdoors, and explore a new-to-you thriving arts scene, don't count this state out. With so many gorgeous lakes, like Higgins Lake and its miles of scenic shoreline, Michigan has plenty of waterfront options to offer its visitors for a peaceful getaway. Owosso, which is about a 90-minute drive northwest of the Detroit Metro Airport (DTW), should be at the top of your list. Not only does it check off the waterfront box, but it also offers beautiful natural landscapes beyond its river, as well as locations for both learning about the past and ones for finding unique goods from the past.

With nearly half the population density as Detroit, you can rest easy knowing that Owosso will be a nice place to, well, rest. But that doesn't mean you'll be bored or without things to do. The downtown area sits along the Shiawassee River, providing lovely views as you experience the city's vibrant visual and performing arts culture, local shops for finding both antiques and newer pieces, and community events. The city's features also include walking trails through various terrains and unique museums, including the enchanting Owosso Curwood Castle.

Michigan's most underrated museum may be Fayette Historic Townsite, with its iconic lake views, but Owosso's Curwood Castle is also very high on that list. What makes this landmark so special is that it was built by best-selling action-adventure author James Oliver Curwood, who wrote more than two dozen novels. Not only were readers able to experience his works, though, as many of his books were also adapted into films. He replicated the architecture of a Norman chateau for his yellow stucco Curwood Castle, which he built as a writing studio and to entertain guests. After his death, it became a year-round museum for fans to explore.

For vehicle enthusiasts, the DeVries Historic Carriage and Sleigh Museum is where you'll want to be. The center holds a collection of more than 25 old vehicles — from carriages and buggies to sleighs and surreys — in varying degrees of restoration. The museum is named after Dr. Jack DeVries, to whom the collection once belonged. This institute sits within the larger grounds of the DeVries Nature Conservancy, which is free for all visitors and features almost five miles of serene trails to explore. Be one with the natural world as you walk through all kinds of landscapes, including forests, grasslands, and river floodplains. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled throughout your hike, as these trails are ideal for birdwatching.

Continue your day of fun learning with a visit to the Shiawassee Arts Center, where a packed calendar of exhibits awaits. The center also offers art classes for all ages, a unique artisanal gift shop, and galleries. Switch over from visual arts to performance works with a trip to the Owosso Performing Arts Center, where you can catch a professional show.

Wandering through a charming castle, taking in the history and beautiful landscape of The DeVries Historic Carriage and Sleigh Museum, and enjoying an exhibit at the arts center will burn through a lot of your energy. Refuel with the dining scene in downtown Owosso, so you're ready to either continue with your exploration of the riverfront city the next day or travel to check out Portland — another scenic Michigan city with its two rivers.

For a caffeinated pick-me-up, head to an outpost of the regional chain Biggby Coffee. The company now has stores in more than 10 states across the United States, but it all started with its first store just 30 miles southwest of Owosso in East Lansing, Michigan, in 1995. As Michigan borders Canada, you'll also be able to grab a cup of joe from Canadian chain Tim Hortons, which has a shop right by the river off of Main Street. When it comes to food, there's a good mix of fast food chains like McDonald's, Wendy's, and Domino's alongside local haunts like Rainbow Bar, Barrister Brewing Company, and Wrought Iron Grill. After getting some grub, it's time for the best course: Dessert. Grab a delicious scoop of ice cream from Prescott's Cone Zone, which offers different Dole Whip flavors each week.

With your stomach now full, it's time to get your shopping on! Bring home a special keepsake from one of Owosso's unique shops. Search through the antique store, New & Old Unique Treasures, to see what hidden gems catch your eye. If a deep dive sounds like too much, head over to Aviator Jayne, a home goods store, where you'll find a more curated selection of new and vintage finds.