Between Detroit And Lansing Is A Family-Friendly Town With A Charming Downtown And Several Scenic Parks

It has been said that the Great Lakes State does small-town magic best, but that's obviously a bit subjective and unprovable. Saying Michigan is overflowing with charming small towns you've probably never heard of is closer to an absolute truth. Places like Hartland, Michigan, are easy to overlook or drive past on your way somewhere else, but slowing down and taking a closer look reveals the unique history and charming aspects of each place. Sandwiched between Detroit (an hour east) and Lansing (an hour west), Hartland Township has quite a few residents (16,000) and a decent number of restaurants and shops. But the town of Hartland is the tale of two pieces. Most restaurants and services are centered around the commercial developments five minutes south of downtown at the intersection of US-23 and M-59. The older part of Hartland is a short drive away and has remained a quiet sort of time capsule.

Hartland has a population of less than 1,000, and the charm comes in its scenic green spaces, mixed with the historic downtown and rural, old-school character. Places like the Cromaine Library, with its preschool story times and tween nights, or the historic Hartland Music Hall are very quaint and small-town America. Add in the family-friendly Settlers Park or nearby attractions like the Parshallville Cider Mill, and Hartland is the perfect stop to add to a southern-Michigan itinerary.

It's ideal for a wander downtown and a hearty meal when traveling north along US-23 from Brighton, Michigan's underrated city, packed with lakes, trails, and a buzzing downtown. Or stay in the lakeside campground down the road, and Hartland could serve as a rural escape for a chill weekend 'off the grid' in a laid-back Michigan town. 

For overnight stays in Hartland, there aren't any hotels on the quiet downtown streets, but there are a few options a short drive away. The Best Western of Hartland is 2 miles south, at the aforementioned crossroads of US-23 and M-59. The ultimate summer escape, however, can be found at Waldenwoods Family Recreation Resort. It's a five-minute drive down the road on Lake Walden and has camping, cabins, and family-friendly amenities, like a beach, pool, and recreational activities.

Wherever you stay overnight, a day visit to wander Hartland's charming streets is a must. Stop by the Historic Hartland Music Hall (pictured above), and maybe you'll be lucky enough to catch a show. Then check out the Florence B Dearing Museum, which showcases the history of the area (check ahead, though; the hours are a bit scattered). And finally, a pleasant afternoon could be spent with a book at the Cromaine Library. Built in 1927 and named by combining the last names of its benefactors, J. Robert Crouse (Cro) and his uncle, Henry A. Tremaine (Maine). It's the type of treasured public space that makes a community, and it hosts events for children and adults alike, from LEGO nights to yoga classes.

More family-friendly fun or peaceful afternoon hangs can be found at one of the many Hartland parks. Don Epley Park is a quiet green space in town, while Settlers Park at the south end is highly rated. It's a 100-acre park with a large playground and miles of well-marked paths for hiking or biking. They are kid-friendly, but some are more challenging, like the elevated "Cat Walk" ramps. If the weather turns cold, Hartland Caroselli Aquatic Center is located in the high school, offering open swims to the public on weekends.

Most dining establishments in Hartland are around the commercial area south of downtown. There are most of the standard American fast-food chains, as well as some lesser-known favorites. La Marsa (4.9/5 rating with almost 600 Google reviews) has multiple locations in Michigan and serves Mediterranean cuisine, while The Black Rock Bar and Grill (4.5 rating and over 4,000 reviews) has guests cook their own steaks on a sizzling volcanic stone. In the evening, the Hartland Brewing Company is a great spot to kick back with a pint.

A great summer Saturday morning activity is checking out what's on offer at the Hartland Farmers Market. It goes from mid-May until mid-October in the parking lot of farm-supply store Rural King and is the place to get some fresh produce, flowers, or artisanal goods. If you're looking to hit the links, the area is also brimming with golf courses. The Majestic at Lake Walden Golf Course, literally three minutes down the road from historic Hartland, has 27 holes with a Northwoods vibe, while the Hartland Glen and Dunham Hills courses are both a short drive away.

Another seasonal and historic attraction near Hartland is Tom Walker's Grist Mill, commonly known as the Parshallville Cider Mill. Located in the neighboring town, this mill is 145 years old, is an official historic site, and is one of the last water-powered mills in the state. In autumn, visitors come for fresh-baked goods washed down with apple cider and live music on Sundays. It's the perfect end-of-the-season spot and has the historic charm that makes Hartland Township and southwest Michigan worth checking out. Up the road, Fenton, a quaint Michigan town with friendly vibes and scenic lakes, could be the next stop on your tour.