Discover Newaygo: A Hidden Gem on the Banks of the Muskegon River
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Nestled less than an hour north of Grand Rapids and less than an hour east of Muskegon, Newaygo Michigan is a charming West Michigan town.
With picturesque landscapes, a vibrant community, and rich history, Newaygo offers a delightful escape for anyone who visits. From the tranquil shores of the Muskegon River to the lush forests of the Manistee National Forest, Newaygo’s natural beauty is simply breathtaking.
Step back in time and explore a historic downtown area, where quaint shops, cozy cafes, and local art galleries beckon you to wander and discover. Outdoor enthusiasts can find endless opportunities for adventure, from hiking and biking along scenic trails to fishing and boating on the crystal-clear waters of nearby lakes and rivers.
Getting to Know Newaygo Michigan
Long before it was a quaint West Michigan community, the area that became Newaygo was frequented by trappers and fur company voyagers via the Muskegon River during the 1600s. The city’s name originates from two possible sources: An Algonquian word meaning much water or after Ojibwe leader Chief Nuwagon.
Newaygo is the oldest community in Newaygo County and its proximity to the river made it a hotspot for floating logs to Muskegon mills during the late 1800s lumber boom. Following that, mining marl beds (calcium carbonate) increased cement production. Newaygo’s natural geography along the river helped facilitate the industry and its transportation.
Outdoor Activities & Attractions in Newaygo
With its proximity to the Muskegon River and historic downtown, Newaygo Michigan offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all who visit.
Historical Walking Tours
History buffs and visitors alike can lace up a comfy pair of walking shoes and take a fascinating tour of Newaygo. The tours take walkers by iconic landmarks, magnificent architecture, and plenty of hidden gems as a tour guide shares stories about Newaygo’s history.
Marshall Memorial Park
Located on State Road (M-37) in downtown Newaygo, the park is named for Trooper Kevin Marshall, who is honored with a memorial statue there. The park includes a pavilion and a lookout deck on Brooks Creek, allowing scenic views.
Fishing on the Muskegon River
Access to fishing spots is easy in Newaygo and visitors can spend hours in the middle of the river surrounded by incredible scenery as they cast for steelhead, salmon, and trout. The diverse waterways around Newaygo County also provide chances to fish year-round in local rivers and lakes.
Waterfalls and Old Dam Ruins
Newaygo sits at the southern end of the Manistee National Forest and was once home to the Rowe Manufacturing Company, built on the Muskegon River’s banks in the early 1900s. A visit to the riverfront park on M-37 treats visitors to views of ruins and a small waterfall that cascades into the river.
Tubing on the Muskegon River
There’s nothing better on a warm day than tubing down the river. Pinky’s Tubes offers several tube options for exploring the Muskegon River and two trip options — a 2.5-hour trip to Anderson Flats and a 4-hour trip to Henning Park.
Concrete Fish Sculptures at Riverside Park
A visit to Riverside Park might have you scratching your head at the fish heads coming out of the ground. They’re actually six concrete fish sculptures made by Lori Hough. The park also includes swings and other playground equipment, so it’s perfect for a family trip.
Memorial Weekend Arts, Crafts & Vendor Show
The annual two-day Arts, Crafts & Vendor Show is held at Brooks Park in downtown Newaygo and features handmade crafts, one-of-a-kind resale items, live music, and a variety of food trucks over Memorial Day weekend.
Quilt Retreat at The Crop House
Opened in 2018, The Crop House can be the ultimate getaway for a family trip or a girls’ weekend. It overlooks Hess Lake, just a few minutes from downtown Newaygo, and provides plenty of space for an overnight stay as well as an exciting scrapbooking adventure.
Disc Golf at Muskegon River Bluffs
Michigan has plenty of great disc golf courses and Newaygo has one of its own — Muskegon River Bluffs, a new 18-hole dual-dual course (36 baskets & and 36 tees). The course is a dual-dual setup with two tee pads and two baskets at each hole, giving golfers four ways to play each hole.
Indoor Activities & Attractions in Newaygo Michigan
Flying Bear Books & Creperie
Avid readers will be in heaven at this used bookstore with thousands of titles. The children’s section includes over 6,000 children’s books as well as best sellers, teen books, westerns, art books, and more. Visitors can also enjoy comedy shows and open mic nights with local musicians, book signings, and seminars.
Newaygo-area Thrift Stores
Shopping enthusiasts who love combing racks of vintage clothes and looking for other treasures have no shortage of options in Newaygo. Local thrift stores include:
- Market 41: 41 W. State Rd, Newaygo
- Upscale Resales Furniture: 8425 Mason Dr, Newaygo
- Old Like Me Antique & Resale Shop: 47 N. State Rd, Newaygo
- Finders Keepers of Newaygo: 40 Quarterline St, Newaygo
- Goodwill: 8143 Mason Dr, Newaygo
- Full Circle Resellers: 75 S. Front St, Grant
Haunted Tours of Finders Keepers
Fearless visitors to Newaygo can tour the Finders Keepers building and explore the thrills and chills of this former Masonic lodge. Visitors can hear local lore and legends attached to the building and explore the paranormal in the building’s darkened halls.
New Ewe Yarn & Fabric Store
Quilting and knitting enthusiasts can find all their needed supplies within this historic Newaygo building. The store specializes in exquisite yarns for knitting and crocheting projects and plenty of fabrics for crafting and quilting.
Heritage Museum of Newaygo County
Newaygo and Newaygo County have a fascinating history and this Fremont museum is the perfect place to learn about it through 3-D objects, interactive exhibits, photos and documents, and more. Featured exhibits include a look at Gerber, the baby food giant based in Fremont, and a Stitch in Time, which looks at fashion through the decades.
Places to Eat in Newaygo Michigan
After a day (or a few days) spent exploring the city, residents and visitors have plenty of options to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites. Some of our favorite Newaygo eateries include:
- The River Stop Cafe: 52 State Rd. Specializes in fresh local food, coffee drinks, craft beer, and wine, and features rotating menus.
- Heavenflow Coffee Co.: 41 State Rd. Serves classic coffee favorites and specialty drinks like seasonal lattes, New Orleans cold brew, and cafe miel.
- Smuggler’s At North Shore: 864 E. 88th St. Features smash burgers, sandwiches, tasty apps, salads, soups, and more.
- Tiny’s Tasty Treats: 98 State Rd. Features classic ice cream treats and a fun mix of new seasonal creations.
- OPE, It’s Ice Cream: 230 Adams St. Features savory treats like cheesy tots and elephant ear bites, along with ice cream goodies.
- Sportsman’s Bar: 30 State Rd. The menu has something for everyone, including burgers, burritos, and basket meals.
- Jerkies Jerky Factory: 48 State Rd. Features a tasty variety of smoked meats and jerky.
- Newaygo Brewing Company: 19 State Rd. This microbrewery and restaurant features cold beer, pizza, sandwiches, apps, entrees, and more.
Explore Every Nook and Cranny of Newaygo Michigan
Newaygo may be located in the shadow of bigger cities like Grand Rapids and Muskegon, but one visit will show you why this quaint community is a West Michigan favorite. Lose yourself in outdoor fun along the banks of the Muskegon River or find the best deals at local thrift stores.
Even if you’re taking a day trip, Newaygo has much to offer no matter your interests. With a variety of activities and restaurants to choose from, Newaygo just may become your new favorite hidden gem in Michigan.