Warm weather and water go hand in hand, and Michigan’s Coldwater Country is the place to be to get on, and in, the water! Located in south central Michigan, along the US-12 Heritage Route, the area is brimming with outdoor recreation, unique attractions, quaint downtowns, stunning architecture, and a whole host of family fun. 

Soak in summer on one of the area’s more than 100 freshwater lakes. One of the unique experiences in the area is the ability to travel from one lake to another through the chain of lakes. Coldwater Country is home to not only one chain of lakes but two – North Chain of Lakes and South Chain of Lakes. Reel in the catch of the day, enjoy a leisurely pontoon ride, or kayak the Union City Heritage Water Trail, just one of nine water trails in Michigan. 

Hang out at the beach at The Aqua Pit, home of an inflatable aquatic playground featuring a multi-tiered obstacle course in the water, kayaking, paddle boarding and more. It’s tons of fun for the entire family!

Things to do in Michigan’s Coldwater Country

Adventure Zone

For more family fun, head to the Adventure Zone for mini golf, go-carts, laser tag, and a virtual reality lounge. Great additions when you need to get out of the sun. Kids will delight in the play, and learning, at the Children’s Museum of Branch County. Children and their families can paint a masterpiece at Picasso’s Art Studio, dig for dinosaur fossils, become a dentist, put on a play and more! Take a ride on the rails with the historic Little River Railroad’s 110-year-old steam engine train.

Enjoy nature with a visit to the Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary. Observe amazing animals and their tropical habitat during guided tours and animal interactions. Walk through the swamp and feed the alligators, or just watch them bask and swim at this reptile paradise.

Shop ‘til you drop at the many unique boutiques and shops throughout the area. Treasure the local antiques, enjoy homemade baked goods, one-of-a-kind accents, and jewelry. Coldwater Country is also home to Michigan’s Antique Capital – Allen, with the largest concentration of antique dealers in the Midwest. The area is home to five stately antique malls including the Allen Antique Barn, boasting two floors of more than 25,000 square feet of treasures.

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The beautiful architecture of the Tibbits Opera House makes it a treat to visit year-round. Tibbits offers a diverse selection of arts and entertainment throughout the year. Or make your way to Southern Michigan’s 1,000 car, twin screen drive-in movie theater, the Capri Drive-In. Family owned and operated since 1964, the Capri Drive-In offers the unique, and often nostalgic, drive-in experience.

For a magical experience head to Colon to learn magic tricks and how to entertain a crowd. Home to the big three magic shops, countless activities, and events, it’s no wonder they call Colon the Magic Capital of the World.

Grab a bite to eat at one of Coldwater Country’s locally owned diners, restaurants, or pubs. Enjoy the flavors, local scene, and hospitality of the area’s many destination restaurants. At the end of your fun-filled day, and exciting night on the town, check into one of the many hotels to rest and relax. The hotels are just minutes from all the excitement and attractions. 

For additional information on things to see and do, and where to stay, in Michigan’s Coldwater Country visit ColdwaterCountry.com.