Beaverton, MI offers a charming small-town experience with plenty of fun attractions and activities for visitors. Located in the heart of Michigan, this quaint community provides the perfect home base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty, family fun, and cultural experiences.
From hiking and boating to historical sites and local dining, there are a lot of things to do in Beaverton MI. Even the surrounding areas have something to delight travelers of all ages and interests. Keep reading to discover the best things to do near Beaverton, MI in 2023!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Hike scenic nature trails at Mount Pleasant Nature Park and Dow Gardens
- Paddle down the Chippewa River or go fishing
- Have family fun at Beaverton Bowl and Beaverton Township Park
- Learn history at the Historical Society Museum and Beaverton Dutch Barn
- See art exhibits at the Charles H. Gallery
- Try local flavors at restaurants like Beaverton Cafe
- Attend community events and festivals
- Go camping, boating, or cycling along local rivers and trails
- Shop at downtown boutiques like Trendz and Pat’s Pickins
- Stay overnight at cozy lodging like the Beaverton Inn
Enjoy Beaverton’s Scenic Nature and Parks
One of the top attractions near Beaverton is the abundance of beautiful scenery and outdoor recreation.
Mount Pleasant Nature Park
It offers over 90 acres to explore, with hiking trails that wind through prairie, forest, and wetland environments. Bird watchers will love spotting songbirds and waterfowl from the park’s observation platforms. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the pavilions after working up an appetite on the trails.
The Chippewa River
Provides plenty of scenic views and recreational opportunities near Beaverton. Book a kayaking or canoe trip to paddle down the gentle river and take in the wooded banks. Stop to swim at Riverfront Park or cast for trout and salmon during the run seasons. Anglers of all skill levels will enjoy the excellent fishing on the Chippewa River.
Dow Gardens
Outdoor enthusiasts will find more natural beauty nearby at Dow Gardens, spanning over 100 acres in Midland. Stroll through diverse botanical gardens, polished green spaces, and unique structures honoring the history and art of the region. Visit in November to catch the fall foliage at its peak.
| Category | Attractions & Activities |
|---|---|
| Nature & Parks | – Mount Pleasant Nature Park, Chippewa River, Dow Gardens |
| Family Fun | – Beaverton Bowl, Beaverton Township Park |
| History & Culture | – Beaverton Historical Society Museum, Charles H. Gallery, Beaverton Dutch Barn |
| Food & Dining | – Beaverton Cafe, Beaverton Family Restaurant, Yummy House |
| Entertainment | – Live music at O’s Pub & Grill, Movies at Beaverton Twin Theatre |
| Outdoor Recreation | – Kayaking/tubing on Chippewa River, Pathway Rail Trail, Camping at Chippewa River Family Campground |
Have Family Fun at Beaverton Attractions
Beaverton offers several family-friendly attractions that will entertain kids and adults alike.
Beaverton Bowl
groups can play rounds of bowling, arcade games, and enjoy tasty food and drinks in the lounge area. This is a popular spot for birthday parties and weekend family fun.
Beaverton Township Park
also provides a great place for families to spend the afternoon. Kids will love the modern playground equipment, baseball fields, picnic pavilion, and fishing pier overlooking the lake. Bring your own lunch or reserve the pavilion for a group barbecue.
Beaverton Historical Society
On rainy days or for a dose of culture, check out the Museum to learn about the history of the area through interactive exhibits and artifacts. The hands-on displays really bring history to life for younger visitors.
Discover Historic and Cultural Sites
In addition to the Historical Society Museum, several other cultural attractions are worth visiting near Beaverton.
- Art lovers can browse the latest exhibits at the Charles H. Gallery, which showcases works by local artists in an intimate gallery setting. Check their event calendar for opening receptions and art classes.
- For live performances, see what’s playing during your visit to the Beaverton Activity Center. This versatile venue hosts concerts, theater productions, and other entertaining events year-round.
- Don’t miss the Beaverton Dutch Barn, an authentic barn transplanted from The Netherlands and rebuilt in Beaverton. Today, it stands as a symbol of the area’s Dutch heritage and hosts community events and tours on occasion.
Treat Your Taste Buds at Local Restaurants
After a day of exploring Beaverton, reward yourself with a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants. The town offers everything from casual diners to upscale eateries serving American and international cuisine.
- For classic diner fare, stop by Beaverton Cafe for freshly made soups, sandwiches, and homemade pies. Enjoy the friendly, retro atmosphere for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
- At Beaverton Family Restaurant, savor homestyle dishes like pot roasts, meatloaf, and other comfort food classics. It’s one of the most popular gathering places in town for dinner.
- For a touch of global flavor, check out Yummy House for fresh sushi rolls, rice bowls, and bubble tea. Their diverse pan-Asian menu has something new to try with each visit.
Cheer on Sports Teams and Enjoy Nightlife
Although a small town, Beaverton still offers plenty of nightlife and entertainment options. Sports fans can cheer on the Beaverton High School Beavers at home football, basketball, and volleyball games during the school year.
For live music, look up who’s playing at O’s Pub & Grill, where you can catch local bands while enjoying pub fare and drinks. Comedy shows and open mic nights also liven up the nightlife scene.
End the evening with a show at the Beaverton Twin Theatre, a classic twin cinema that shows new releases. The affordable tickets and retro setting make for an enjoyable movie night.
Get Outdoors for Recreation and Adventure
The rivers, forests, and open spaces surrounding Beaverton provide the perfect playground for outdoor recreation. One of the most popular activities is kayaking or tubing down the Chippewa River. Rent gear or book a guided trip for a relaxing paddle past scenic banks and wetlands.
The Pathway Rail Trail offers a flat, paved trail ideal for cycling between Beaverton and Midland. Pack a picnic and make stops along the pretty Chippewa River overlooks.
For overnight trips, book a campsite at Chippewa River Family Campground to enjoy fishing, tubing, and camping under the stars. Their wooded sites deliver both privacy and easy river access.
Peruse Local Shops and Boutiques
A stroll down main street reveals Beaverton’s charming collection of locally owned shops selling gifts, fashion, and more. Trendz offers stylish clothing and accessories for women. Beaverton Floral creates beautiful custom floral arrangements for all occasions.
At Pat’s Pickins, treasure hunters will love browsing the eclectic antiques and home goods. You’re sure to find unique vintage decor and one-of-a-kind collectibles. After shopping, refuel at one of the cute cafes downtown.
Celebrate at Upcoming Events and Festivals
One of the best ways to experience the Beaverton community is by attending a local event or festival. The summer months bring free Concerts in the Park, featuring live music in the gazebo downtown.
To ensure you make the most of your visit to Beaverton in 2023, keep an eye on the upcoming events in the area. Check out local websites, event calendars, and social media for updates on festivals, fairs, and community gatherings. Beaverton often hosts exciting events, and you wouldn’t want to miss out on the fun.
Where to Stay in Beaverton
With so much to do in the area, consider booking an overnight stay or weekend getaway in Beaverton. The downtown area offers several charming lodging options to choose from.
For those planning to stay in Beaverton overnight or for an extended period, there are various accommodation options available. You can choose from hotels, motels, vacation rentals, or even campgrounds.
Be sure to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your stay.
Wellness Activities for Mind and Body
Taking care of your health and well-being is important, even while on vacation. Beaverton offers opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. Consider scheduling a spa day, attending a yoga class, or exploring alternative medicine practices during your stay. It’s a chance to unwind and prioritize your well-being.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Beaverton, MI, is a delightful town with a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty, family-friendly activities, cultural attractions, and more. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Beaverton has something for everyone. Don’t forget to explore the local food scene and check out the upcoming events to make the most of your visit in 2023.
