Michigan Day Trip Destination: Jackson County
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Nestled in Southcentral Michigan less than 100 miles from the Ohio border, Jackson County Michigan is brimming with history, good food, scenic parks, and no shortage of fun activities.
Jackson is among the oldest counties formed in Michigan and its history can be discovered in the many historic homes, museums, and other places that dot the county landscape.
Not only does Jackson have a rich history and scenic attractions – including the state’s only NASCAR track – but its proximity to other major Michigan cities makes it the perfect destination for a day trip.
Getting to Know Jackson County
Jackson County sits about 90 miles from the Ohio border. The county, one of 10 Cabinet Counties in Michigan, was organized in 1832 and is named for Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States.
Jackson County is home to more than 160,000 people, including more than 31,000 in Jackson, the county seat. Some famous residents of Jackson County include NFL Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy, who was born in Jackson, and former Tonight Show host Jack Paar, who moved to Jackson as a youth.
Popular Towns in Jackson County
Grass Lake
The village of Grass Lake offers a suburban rural mix feel and a picturesque small-town atmosphere. Multiple unique museums fascinate visitors of all ages and the Fairy Forest is a magical place that features whimsical items, plenty of fairy magic, and wonder. Additionally, local restaurants offer delicious, filling meals in a cozy atmosphere.
Concord
The village of Concord has a rich history, dating back to its founding in 1831. It is known for its original historic buildings from the time of its settlement, creating a charming and nostalgic atmosphere. Concord is connected to Jackson via the Falling Waters Trail, which is built on a former stretch of the Michigan Central Railroad.
Spring Arbor
The small community of Spring Arbor is known for its picturesque rural surroundings and is home to Spring Arbor University, a private Christian institution. The community is situated about 15 miles west of Jackson and is recognized for its small-town charm and family-friendly environment.
Jackson
The county seat of Jackson County is known for its rich history offers a blend of urban and suburban living and is situated about 75 miles west of Detroit. Jackson features a variety of cultural and recreational attractions, including museums, parks, and a vibrant downtown area.
Brooklyn
The village of Brooklyn is known for its location in the Irish Hills region and its proximity to several lakes. Brooklyn is recognized for being the home of the Michigan International Speedway nestled on over 1,400 acres in the Irish Hills area. Brooklyn is also just minutes from Hayes State Park, which extends into Jackson County around Round Lake.
Michigan Center
The community of Michigan Center is located in Leoni Township and is situated east of Jackson. Michigan Center is known as the home of Rudy’s Drive-In, which has served up burgers, coneys, and other goodies since 1967. It’s also known for its annual Carp Carnival which raises money for the community and features rides, a fishing contest, and more.
Things to Do in Jackson County
Jackson County offers no shortage of things for residents and out-of-town travelers to do. From unique roadside attractions to impressive museums to fun-filled festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Jackson County Museums
Michigan’s Military Heritage Museum
311 N. Wisner St, Jackson
President Abraham Lincoln once exclaimed, “Thank God for Michigan!” during the Civil War; just one example of how Michiganders have contributed to the military over time.
This shrine to military history and Michigan’s history highlights those who served from Michigan in historic campaigns throughout the nation’s history.
Visitors can gaze at artifacts, and pictures, and gain a sense of history through written and oral histories. The sheer amount of artifacts on display is impressive and includes vehicles, weaponry, historical clothing, wax figures, and more.
The Coe House Museum
371 W Michigan Ave, Grass Lake
Travelers who love historic homes will love this immaculate, Italianate house that’s so historic that it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Historic homes are fascinating and this one was built in 1871. Myrta Coe arranged for the house to become a museum for the Grass Lake Historical Society.
Visitors can tour the Tuscan Vernacular house seasonally to see a barn, bedrooms, a parlor, a kitchen, and more.
Mann House
205 Hanover St, Concord
Something about older, perhaps even simpler times fascinates those who love history and the Mann House in Concord stands as a prime example.
Visitors here can view this 19th-century home that was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970. The home has three entrances with porches and a pyramidal tower in one corner.
The inside of the house features most of the home’s original furnishings and visitors can see multiple bedrooms, a parlor, a kitchen, a dining room, and more.
Ella Sharp Museum
3225 4th St, Jackson, MI 49203
The former home and farm of social advocate Ella Sharp is home to a unique collection of buildings that makes up a charming museum and one of the most popular spots in Jackson County.
The museum is home to the Hurst Planetarium, which allows visitors to enjoy learning about constellations under a starlit dome. Seven museum galleries allow visitors to learn about history, art, and science.
A stroll down Historic Farmlane allows visitors to see many of the buildings that were moved onto the museum property during the 1960s, including the Dibble Schoolhouse, a general store, and the Stillson Loghouse.
The Lost Railway Museum
142 W Michigan Ave, Grass Lake, MI 49240
The Lost Railway Museum opened its doors in 2017 and has become a popular destination in Jackson County.
The museum recreates an early 1900s village when residents used the electric Inter-Urban railway system to get from here to there. The museum added a virtual experience in 2021, the Boland Express, which pairs a train car ride with digital historical footage.
Visitors of all ages will enjoy this museum which helps them understand the importance of railways to Jackson County.
Michigan Whitetail Hall of Fame
4220 Willis Rd, Grass Lake, MI 49240
Nature, wonder, and history all come together at this wonderful museum showcasing the white-tailed deer’s majesty and history.
The white-tailed deer is a prize among hunters in Michigan and the museum features taxidermy displays and artifacts surrounding hunting culture and history.
Michigan State Prison
100 Armory Ct, Jackson
Jackson is well-known among Michigan residents as the home of the Michigan State Prison, but it’s also the home of the state’s first prison, which is open for tours.
The prison began as a makeshift fort in 1839 and offers a fascinating look at daily prison life. The prison walls hold years of history and tales of escape, of everyday prisoners, and notorious criminals.
It’s the perfect tour for history buffs and those who like tourist attractions that are historic, yet a little spooky.
Jackson County Courthouse
312 South Jackson Street, Jackson, MI 49201
One of the most imposing buildings in Jackson is the Claire Allen-designed County Courthouse, which was constructed in the 1920s as the Elk’s Temple of Jackson.
It became the seat of the county government in 1937 and its beautiful interior remains largely intact.
Many of the floors have marble-paneled hallways and beautiful terrazzo floors, two courtrooms have mahogany paneling, and the first floor contains original ornate light fixtures.
More Fun Attractions to Explore in Jackson County
Michigan International Speedway
12626 US-12, Brooklyn, MI 49230
Fans of NASCAR love flocking to Michigan International Speedway (MIS) each year to see some of the best NASCAR drivers in action. The two-mile, D-shaped track is the site of a yearly race and has hosted stock car events since 1969.
Sparks Foundation Park/Cascades
1528 Kibby Rd, Jackson, MI 49203
Sparks Foundation County Park, better known as Cascades Park, is a beloved Jackson County landmark and the ultimate family destination.
Its most distinct feature is The Cascades, an illuminated waterfall, but the park offers so much for families to do. The grounds include a splash pad, a playground, a basketball court, baseball and softball fields, and paved paths for running, biking, and more.
During the summer, the park is undoubtedly the place to be. Cascades Ice Cream Co. is a popular spot to stop for a sweet treat and Cascades Golf Course offers 18 holes of championship-level golf, the Cascades Rotary Bandshell is the sight of summer concerts, and the Sparks Park Urban Fishery is a popular fishing spot.
Ella Sharp Park
2800 4th St, Jackson, MI 49203
This park on Fourth Street in Jackson is another fun family destination along the Grand River. With a challenging 18-hole course, playgrounds, an 18-hole disc golf course, and mini golf, every member of the family can have a blast!
The park also provides several athletic facilities, including tennis and basketball courts along with softball and baseball fields.
Those who enjoy scenery can spend time by the park’s rose garden or walk miles of hiking trails. The Ella Sharp Museum is also on the 562-acre property, providing opportunities for educational experiences.
Jackson County Roadside Attractions
In addition to having fantastic museums, a NASCAR track, and scenic parks, Jackson County has many unique roadside attractions that are perfect for photo ops coming into or leaving Jackson County.
- Big Old Shoe. This Victorian high-top stands seven feet tall and is made of concrete-covered styrofoam. It can be found at the Ella Sharp Museum.
- Birthplace of the Republican Party. While Jackson’s place as the birthplace of the GOP is debated, a plaque with a rock and signage that reads “Here Under the Oaks, July 6, 1854 was born the Republican Party. Destined in the throes of civil strife to abolish slavery, vindicate democracy, and perpetuate the Union. It can be found at 418 2nd St in Jackson.
- The Grave of Mr Chicken the Plastic-Legged Rooster. In 1996, a local rooster had his feet frozen beyond repair during a snowstorm. A local vet subsequently fashioned a pair of acrylic legs and feet to fit over the rooster’s stumps. He died in 1997 and his grave can be found at 3232 N. Dettman Rd in Jackson.
- Mail Pouch Sign. An old-time Mail Pouch Tobacco advertising sign can be seen at 115 Homer Rd in Concord with an anti-smoking message.
- Paul Bunyan Statue. Paul Bunyan is a larger-than-life figure in Michigan and a 20-foot fiberglass “Muffler Man” Paul Bunyan statue stands in front of Knutson’s Sporting Goods at 151 Wamplers Lake Road in Brooklyn.
Festivals in Jackson County
Jackson County is the site of several annual fun-filled festivals that offer a delightful mix of cultural experiences, activities, and entertainment.
- Jackson County Fair: Located in the heart of Jackson, the county fair takes place each August. It features exciting rides, fun games, livestock events, fair food, and more.
- Hot Air Jubilee: Jackson’s annual balloon celebration is held each July in Ella Sharp Park. It’s one of the oldest ballooning events in Michigan and features color balloons, night glows, and rides.
- Civil War Muster: One of the longest-running and largest Civil War events in the Midwest takes place each summer at Cascade Falls. This full-scale reenactment draws audiences from across the nation and is a family-friendly event with historically accurate interactive installations from the Civil War era.
- Michigan Shakespeare Festival: Fans of The Bard enjoy this annual festival which features live performances and educational opportunities to learn about William Shakespeare and his work.
- Southern Michigan Winter Beer Festival: This annual festival features more than 150 beers and games, ice carving, and other activities to help stave off the cold.
Best Restaurants in Jackson County
There are more than 150 restaurants in Jackson County, so residents and visitors have plenty of options. From signature coney dogs and pizza to sushi and sweet treats, there’s something for every appetite.
Knights
Fans of traditional American fare will love coming to Knights, which has served its signature steak dishes, burgers, chicken, seafood, and more since 1952.
Hinkleys Bakery
Customers who love baked treats will have a hard time choosing at Hinkley’s Bakery. This family-owned business has made homemade doughnuts since 1913 and offers delights like fritters, long johns, glazed doughnuts, and other favorites.
West Texas Barbecue Co.
This no-frills BBQ spot offers authentic Texas-style pit barbeque favorites on the south side of Jackson. A rustic dining room and outdoor picnic tables give customers options for enjoying their meals.
Beach Bar & Restaurant
This family-friendly restaurant on Clark Lake offers something for every appetite, including made-to-order sandwiches, salads, pizzas. Make sure to sample out of their famous soups, including the tomato soup!
Klavon’s Pizzeria & Pub
Klavon’s is one of if not the place to watch a sporting event in Jackson County with a full-service bar and walls of TVs. It also serves delicious pizza, including Chicago-style, Detroit-style, and wood-fired pies.
Bone Island Grille
This Vandercook Lake eatery is a favorite watering hole for Jackson residents because of its drink variety and stock of Michigan beers. The menu includes Tex-Mex, burgers, sandwiches, soups, and more.
Veritas
Locals and travelers looking for a fine dining option can reserve a table at Veritas, which offers soup, salad, and delicious entrees for lunch, and steak, seafood, and sushi for dinner.
Jackson Coney Island
While coneys are a Detroit staple, this historic Jackson eatery has been serving coney dogs by the dozen since 1914. It’s a great spot to grab lunch on-the-go and experience a part of local history.
International Dog House
Hungry customers searching for a larger variety of hot dogs can visit International Dog House, which has been slinging dogs since 1980.
Jackson Coffee Co.
Jackson Coffee Co. takes coffee very seriously and brews small batches to offer customers the freshest cup of joe possible. With couch and booth seating available, customers can relax and enjoy some tranquility before starting their day.
Fortress Cafe
Nestled within the Lean Rocket Lab in downtown Jackson, Fortress Cafe offers shakes, smoothies, blended bowls, healthy grab-and-go options, and of course, delicious coffee.
Jackson Ice Cream Trail
Summertime pairs so well with ice cream, and when warm weather arrives, Jackson County has lots of delicious ice cream shops to explore. Locals and visitors can follow the ice cream trail to enjoy their favorite flavors or try some new and sweet creations.
Come and Explore Jackson County
Whether you’re a history buff who adores museums, a die-hard NASCAR fan, or someone who enjoys a fun festival, Jackson County Michigan offers something for everyone.
Jackson County is uniquely located for traveling to different cities for day trips and offers plenty to do and see within its own borders. Come experience the uniqueness of Jackson County for yourself, whether you tour the former Michigan State prison, spend the day at the Cascades, or drive around checking out different roadside attractions.