Relax, Explore, Repeat: A Hidden Gem Getaway in the Hillsdale Area
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If you’re looking for a hidden gem getaway, tucked in a corner of Michigan you probably haven’t explored yet, I found the perfect place for you.
Picture this: a scenic canopy walk, a fresh farm market, friendly local cafes, and a fascinating park with 17 unique bridges – all within minutes of a cozy cottage on a flower farm.
Thank you to Northfarthing Farm and Getaways for partnering with Awesome Mitten to share this hidden gem Michigan getaway!
Northfarthing Farm and Getaways
Right toward the end of October, my family and I had an unexpected weekend open. We had just returned from a trip up north, so I started looking for somewhere more centrally located in Michigan. That search led us to Northfarthing Farm and Getaways in Jonesville, a cozy property surrounded by quiet countryside, rolling fields, and just enough small-town charm to fill a weekend without feeling rushed.
Family Dinner at Saucy Dogs
When we got into town, it was dinner time, and we knew it was smart to eat before settling in. After glancing at the menu at Saucy Dogs, I knew it was going to be a hit for the whole family. This local favorite serves up comfort food with a smoky twist and has a laid-back, family-friendly feel. The walls were filled with local memorabilia, and the smell of barbecue instantly set the tone for a relaxed weekend.
The kids ordered their go-to chicken tenders, while I sampled a few appetizers; definitely try the fried pickles. The portions were generous, the service was friendly, and it was clear this was the kind of spot locals love coming back to.
A Quiet Evening at the Cottage
After dinner, we made the short drive to Northfarthing Farm and Getaways. The kids immediately ran off to explore the open space, and I appreciated how easy the stay felt. The cottage had everything we needed. A fully stocked kitchen, a washer and dryer, and plenty of room to spread out. It was nice to travel without having to pack the whole house.
Once we settled in, we took our time to unwind. The kids played yard games like Connect Four and corn hole, which were provided by our hosts, while we enjoyed the quiet evening air. It was the kind of simple, easy night that makes you realize how much you’ve missed slowing down.
Morning on the Farm
The next morning, we wandered out to the on-site flower farm to see if any blooms were left from the season. We managed to gather a small cupful—late-season marigolds and a few stems that had braved the cool nights. My daughter loved meeting the farm cat, Pepper, who happily followed us around the field.
Back inside, I made breakfast while everyone got ready for the day. There’s something grounding about making coffee in a new place, the windows open to the cool fall air. Having a kitchen to cook in made it easy to start the day at our own pace before heading out to explore.
Rough Draft Coffeehouse
Hillsdale was about fifteen minutes away, making it easy to explore without a long drive. Our first stop was Rough Draft, a cozy coffeehouse where you can find espresso drinks, cocktails, and fresh-baked goods. The space blends old brick and modern touches, with shelves lined with books and games. After a latte and a few rounds of tic-tac-toe, we were ready to stretch our legs.
Toasted Mud Pottery Studio
We walked down to Toasted Mud, a paint-your-own pottery studio that’s become one of our favorite family activities. Each of us picked out a piece to paint, something fun for the kids and a gift for grandma, and spent an hour just chatting and creating.
Toasted Mud also offers classes, kids’ events, and themed storytime sessions. When you finish painting, your pieces are glazed and fired, ready for pickup in about a week or two.
St. Joe’s Cafe
For lunch, we stopped at St. Joe’s Café, a bright and minimal space that feels both relaxed and a little elevated. The menu is simple but well done; we each ordered a slice of pizza and watched the downtown streets through the big front windows. It was the kind of local find that we were happy to stumble on and will definitely return.
Hiking the Skywalk at Hidden Lake Gardens
After lunch, we made our way to Hidden Lake Gardens in Tipton. It’s one of my favorite spots in Michigan year-round, but in the fall, it’s truly something special. The trees surrounding the lake glow in deep reds and golds, and catching the reflection is such an incredible view. There are tons of ways to enjoy this park, but we were there to walk the suspension bridge.
We hiked to the Skywalk, a suspended bridge that offers views of the canopy below. The kids loved spotting bursts of color in the distance, and I loved how quiet it felt even on a busy fall day. It’s a spot that always reminds me why Michigan shines in every season.
Evenings at Northfarthing
Back at the cottage, we made dinner together, something simple and easy, and settled in as the sun began to set. The golden light over the open fields was beautiful, and the night ended with a bonfire in the side yard.
Sweet and Savory S’mores with a Side of Stargazing
The kids made s’mores, both traditional and savory versions, while I sat nearby, enjoying the warmth and quiet of the countryside. It was the perfect ending to a full day.
Northfarthing offers thoughtful touches like a stargazing bundle with a telescope, blanket, and book, as well as s’mores kits and other cozy add-ons (some available at an additional cost).
Trails at Northfarthing
The next morning, after a cup of coffee, we took one last walk along the property’s trails. The air was cool and crisp, and we stopped to listen to the birds before heading back to pack up. It felt good to start the day outside, surrounded by that early morning calm.
McCourtie Park
On our way home, we stopped at McCourtie Park in Cement City, about ten minutes from Northfarthing. The park has rolling hills, open green space, and 17 concrete bridges designed to look like wood. Built in the 1930s, they’re a fascinating piece of local history and make the park one of the most unique places in the Hillsdale area My kids loved running up and down the small hills and exploring each bridge.
Meckley’s Flavor Fruit Farm
Just down the road, we wrapped up our trip at Meckley’s Flavor Fruit Farm, where we grabbed cider and donuts and warmed up by the fire. If you plan a visit, check their calendar; there’s almost always something happening, from music to food trucks and seasonal festivals.
We visited during a fall festival, where everyone picked their own lunch from the food trucks. My son and I shared loaded fries, and my daughter picked out a grilled cheese. It was the perfect last stop before heading home.
The Perfect Place to Enjoy the Simple Moments
We left The Cottage at Northfarthing Farm and Getaways feeling recharged and refreshed. Our weekend was filled with simple moments, local spots, and just the right balance of relaxation and adventure. There was no rushing from one place to the next, just time to explore, play, and enjoy the season together.
The Hillsdale area captured everything I love about exploring Michigan: welcoming communities, cozy stays, and plenty of space to slow down and reconnect with what matters most.
