Michigan's Underrated Gem Of Lakes And Trails Is A City Blending Outdoor Thrills With A Charming Downtown

Perhaps rather unfairly, Michigan does not always top travel bucket lists, but this Midwestern state packs a serious punch, especially for nature lovers. It's home to an extraordinary variety of landscapes, from the beaches, parks, and waterways of Little Bay de Noc to the autumnal colored cascades of Tahquamenon Falls in the northern part of the state. Rich in outdoor experiences, Michigan rewards those willing to look beyond the obvious tourist hubs, and Newaygo is no exception to the rule.

Travelers arriving at Gerald R. Ford International Airport will find Newaygo less than an hour's drive north of the big city charm found in Grand Rapids. The city of Newaygo offers a splash of urban vibrancy in its charming downtown, yet this is merely a bonus on top of the incredible natural beauty it's surrounded by. With over 350 miles of rivers and streams, as well as over 230 natural lakes in the surrounding area, Newaygo is a haven for anyone drawn to the water. The peaceful reservoir at Hardy Dam Pond is a popular spot for fishing, particularly for smallmouth bass. For those seeking more dynamic activity, the Muskegon River provides an ideal setting for paddleboarding and kayaking, thanks to its excellent navigability and fast waters.

Newaygo's natural beauty is not just confined to its water attractions. Laced with trails, parks, and woods, the rural city has plenty to explore on land. Marshall Memorial Park is a glorious spot. Upon entering the park, visitors are greeted with a stunning wildflower garden and a memorial statue honoring one of Newaygo's fallen soldiers. From there, the Marshall Trail leads walkers, hikers, and cyclists alike through dense woodland along Brooks Creek, past streams, waterfalls, and mossy wildflower undergrowth in a peaceful natural setting.

Other green spaces include Shaw Park, Brooks Park, and Riverfront Park, which are all family-friendly environments, each offering a perfect place to set up for a picnic. For those planning an overnight stay, Newaygo offers options to suit different tastes. Muskegon River Inn, a beautifully restored 1860s building in the beating heart of downtown, offers boutique rooms from $139, with fly-fishing packages available. Alternatively, the Free Spirit Retreat offers a more homely experience with thoughtful amenities, including a luxury king-size bed.

Summer is when Newaygo truly comes into its own. At the aforementioned Brooks Park, the Newaygo Farmers Market runs from early June to mid-September, offering organic produce, artisan goods, and baked treats every Friday afternoon from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Though the market is an inclusive community hub, it's worth noting that furry friends are not permitted. Summer also marks the return of fan-favorite Hit the Road Joe, a quirky café beloved for its funky décor, including an Alice in Wonderland–themed bathroom, and yummy, home-cooked food. Open for breakfast, lunch, and coffee on Thursday to Monday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., the real highlights of the week take place at its Friday evening dinners and Saturday night wood-fired pizzas accompanied by live music on the café's patio.

For a casual takeaway spot, River Stop Saloon is a local staple known for its hearty soups and rotating list of beers on tap. Shoppers can also explore boutique stores like Downtown Threadz, which specializes in a denim-focused aesthetic, or stock up on a variety of different flavored meat snacks at Jerkies Jerky Factory. Whether drawn by its downtown charm or the natural beauty of its trails and waterways, Newaygo offers a slice of Michigan that many travelers should seek to discover.