Explore Grand Ledge for Small Town Charm in Mid-Michigan
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Just over twelve miles west of downtown Lansing, sitting along the Grand River, you will find the charming town of Grand Ledge, Michigan.
We recently enjoyed a picture-perfect day trip to Grand Ledge, which is an ideal location for anyone who appreciates history, nature, and small-town charm in Mid-Michigan.
Grand Ledge’s Fascinating History
Grand Ledge itself has a fascinating past dating back to the early 1800s. The Anishinaabe people were the area’s first residents, and later, it became a thriving hub for settlers and traders. Grand Ledge’s growth continued with the completion of the Grand River plank road, which connected it to the neighboring towns.
Once a popular resort area popular for its tranquil surroundings and recreational opportunities, today, visitors can explore the city’s historic downtown, lined with shops and restaurants while enjoying gorgeous views of the Grand River and its iconic sandstone formations.
Transport Back in Time at the Iconic “Ledges”
Our visit began at Fitzgerald Park. Here is the perfect place for visitors to Grand Ledge to view the infamous “Ledges”. These sandstone cliffs formed over 300 million years ago and are a can’t-miss if you are visiting the area.
With kid-friendly trails, restrooms, and a playground suited for ages 2-12 makes this stunning park a family favorite. If you are looking for a bit of a longer hike, I highly recommend doing the West Woods Trail and The Ledges. If you are looking for something a bit shorter the West Woods and Acorn Trail Loop will cut your hike in half.
The park is absolutely stunning in every season, but fall is particularly magical, and it’s one of my favorite places to take in the fall colors. The colors that line the river as for this hike are truly magical.
Dine at Flour Child Bakery After Your Hike
Next, we made our way to downtown Grand Ledge to grab a bite to eat after our big morning out. Flour Child Bakery, is the perfect spot to grab a light lunch or special treat while you are in town.
With colorful booths, friendly staff, and award-winning food, this is our favorite spot to fill up and relax. You’ll notice the attention to detail not just in the care of you as a customer but also in the made from scratch food.
It’s a popular spot in town for a reason, but don’t be discouraged by long lines. Behind the counter, they are pros and know how to move the line along quickly.
Take a Photo By the Grand Ledge Postcard Mural
I have always been a fan of the Greetings Tour muralist and photographer duo, which creates postcard murals in cities all around the country. At Bridge Street Plaza, you will find one of their works of art right in Grand Ledge.
What better way to commemorate your trip than a photo together in front of this gorgeous Grand Ledge mural?
Marvel at Sandstone Formations at Oak Park
Oak Park is a place you can’t miss if you are in the Grand Ledge area. It’s a park with sandstone formations similar to Fitzgerald but with fewer amenities. My family prefers this park, and we often pack a lunch to enjoy at one of their picnic tables or near the river.
This is the perfect hidden gem with less foot traffic and is even popular with rock climbers. If you happen to come across a climber, remember never to walk directly below them, distract their belayer, or run near their climb.
End the Day on a Sweet Note at Lick-ity Split
Lick-ity Split in Grand Ledge has been serving ice cream to residents since 1949. This hometown favorite is a great place to grab soft-serve ice cream right on the main road after a day of adventuring.
Once you visit, you can see why it has been a hometown favorite for 75 years.
Explore More of Grand Ledge
Grand Ledge is lined with shops from clothing boutiques to vintage home furnishings, so give yourself extra time to explore the area and see if anything catches your eye.
If you are looking for a morning coffee or an afternoon latte for a pick-me-up, I highly recommend an espresso drink from Toads.
While this just scratches the surface of what makes Grand Ledge an amazing Mid-Michigan small town to visit, I hope that our day in town gives you a starting point for your next adventure.