5 Amazing Day Trips to Take Near Howell, MI

June 03, 2022 · 3 min read

From lakeside parks and winter skiing to fall-friendly cider mills, Michigan offers endless options for road trippers. And the southcentral location of Howell, MI makes it an ideal home base when planning day trips.

1. Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids, which is located a little over 90 minutes from Howell, offers a little something for everyone. Young visitors will enjoy the John Ball Zoo and the Grand Rapid Children's Museum. For adult visitors, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum is an interesting stop. Grand Rapids has a great selection of art galleries and performing arts venues. And those who drink responsibly will enjoy the dozens of breweries in the city.

2. Belle Isle State Park

Belle Isle State Park is another terrific option. This massive state park located 90 minutes from Howell has three lakes, picnic areas, athletic courts, and bike and watercraft rentals. Home to the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, Dossin Great Lakes Museum, and the Belle Isle Aquarium, this park also offers amazing views of the Detroit skyline. Belle Isle is an 80-minute drive from Howell.

3. Frankenmuth

Frankenmuth is a charming city about an hour from Howell that is known for its Bavarian-style architecture. Don't miss the Frankenmuth Historical Museum, and thrill-seekers will want to check out Frankenmuth Aerial Park. For shopping, head to the Frankenmuth River Place Shops. Zak and Macs Chocolate Haus offers terrific fudge. And for adventure, check out the Frankenmuth Aerial Park.

4. Mt. Brighton Skin Resort

A little less than an hour from Howell is Mt. Brighton Ski Resort. Mt. Brighton is known for its ski and snowboarding school, and more experienced skiers will appreciate the variety of terrains available. Mt. Brighton offers lodging, an onsite restaurant, and a grab-and-go grill. There are more than 20 trails spread out over 130 acres of skiable land.

You'll probably be transporting skis and other outdoor equipment to Mt. Brighton, and your Ford F-150 Lightning can accommodate all of that gear while still allowing plenty of room for passengers in the cab. In fact, the F-150 Lightning boasts the largest front truck of any all-electric pickup.

5. Ann Arbor

This college town, located less than an hour from Howell, boasts dozens of art galleries and independent bookstores. The culinary scene in Ann Arbor is buzzing, so you won't leave hungry. And garden lovers will want to stop by the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum. The University of Michigan Museum of Natural History offers the state's largest display of dinosaurs and a state-of-the-art planetarium and dome theater.

And for those who drink responsibly, the Ford Maverick is the perfect vehicle for tailgating at university games. With built-in bottle openers, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and Apple CarPlay, you're all set for the next big game!

If you're ready to get out and explore Michigan, you'll want to have a safe and comfortable vehicle to travel in. Go to Bob Maxey Ford-Howell and pick out your next car or truck today!

Image by maksmuno from Pixabay

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Oct 29, 2024 in Places in Howell, MI

4 Fun Autumn Events near Howell, MI

Image via Bob Maxey Ford of Howell. Autumn is our favorite time of year, especially with all the fun events that are happening around the town of Howell in Michigan. Mark your calendar for these four community gatherings scheduled for November. more 1. Michigan Bright Water Storytelling Festival Back for its second year, the Michigan Bright Water Storytelling Festival features workshops, music, readings, and an open mic event. The event also has a family track with versions of its workshops and events designed for kids of all ages. It's scheduled for Saturday, November 9, from 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Storytelling Festival events will take place at the town's library at 314 W Grand River Ave and the opera house at 123 W Grand River Ave. General admission costs $30, or you can attend the family track of the festival at no charge. 2. Fantasy of Lights The Chamber of Commerce welcomes the holiday season with this annual event, the Fantasy of Lights, traditionally held the day after Thanksgiving. This year, festivities will occur on Friday, November 29 starting at 4 p.m. You'll witness a dazzling display of floats in the holiday parade. Participating vehicles must be adorned at least 5,000 holiday lights. The event also features cookie decorating, a visit from Santa and his reindeer, and an evening 5K run. The parade will proceed down W Grand River Ave through the downtown area. The tree lighting takes place outside the Livingston County Courthouse, 200 E Grand River Ave. We recommend finding a parking spot for your Ford early so you can find a premium seat for the festivities. Don't forget to register in advance if you plan to run in the race or drive a float in the parade. 3. Winter Market Get your holiday shopping started early and grab a treat for yourself at the annual Winter Market at the opera house. This year's event will take place on Sunday, November 3 and Sunday, November 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 123 W Grand River Ave. Browse for handmade items from local vendors including jewelry, home goods, bags, baked goods, fine art, and much more. 4. Hunger Hoot Enjoy live music from talented local folk artists while raising money for the community at this opera house benefit. The Hunger Hoot is held at 123 W Grand River Ave from 7 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, November 23. Bring a suggested $20 donation or nonperishable food items for Gleaners Community Food Bank. Performers will include Wanda Degan, Annie and Ron Capps, and William Wyatt. While you're enjoying fall in this beautiful part of Michigan, stop by to find your next great Ford car, truck, or SUV. Visit Bob Maxey Ford of Howell, MI today to test drive any of the exceptional models on our lot.

A couple boxes of produce from a farmer's market

Oct 06, 2023 in Places in Howell, MI

3 Fall Activities You Can Drive to Near Howell, MI

Image via Pixabay. Howell, MI is a beautiful city year-round, and it seems like the city is always putting on fun events for its residents. However, our favorite time of year in the city is autumn. Today, we're looking at our favorite fall activities that you can drive to in the area. more 1. Browsing Howell's Sunday Farmers' Market One fun fall activity you can enjoy is browsing Howell's Sunday Farmers' Market on the corner of Clinton Street and State Street. The market is open from 9 AM to 2 PM on Sundays from May 7 through October 29. If you want delicious, nutritious fall produce, we highly recommend going early in the morning for the best selection. You can also support local business owners by purchasing: Flowers Bedding plants Crafts Homemade goods Baked goods Meat You can also pick up lunch for your family at this market. From the Fire & Rice Paella food truck, you can purchase chicken and sausage or vegan tapas. 2. Taking Your Kids Trick-or-Treating Another fun fall activity you can enjoy in Howell is trick-or-treating with your kids. This event will take place on October 28 from 3:30 to 5:30 PM on Clinton, Court, and Church. Besides knowing that your kids will be able to get candy safely, there are plenty of things to enjoy during this special fall event. For example, on State Street and the lawn of the Howell Courthouse, there will be many fall- and Halloween-themed activities. There will be crafts for your kids to make, inflatables to play on, and kid-friendly games. Additionally, there will be food vendors, so you can take the night off from cooking. 3. Running the Fantasy 5K We also recommend running the Fantasy 5K. This race will be held from 6 PM to 10 PM the day after Thanksgiving, and walking is allowed. Additionally, there will be a one-mile walk/run starting at 6:05 in the evening at 323 W Grand River Ave. If you're not passionate about racing, consider going out to support your partner or competitive friends. At 7 PM, the Fantasy of Lights Parade kicks off, and you won't want to miss it. Additionally, you should come out for this fun fall event to check out the costume contest at the library at 5 in the evening. Howell hosts a wide range of fall events and activities. However, you can't rely on public transportation to get you where you want to go. If you need a dependable vehicle, a 2023 Ford Escape may be ideal for you and your family. To take one for a test drive, swing by and see us today at Bob Maxey Ford of Howell.

A fish on a hook being pulled out of the water

Sep 15, 2023 in Places in Howell, MI

Five Great Fishing Spots in Driving Distance of Howell, MI

Image via Pixabay. Michigan is known for its lakes and ponds, so it's no wonder fishing is a favorite outdoor activity for locals. But if you're tired of your current fishing spot, you may want to find a new one. Fortunately, Howell, MI has many fishing spots so you can snag the catch of the day. Jump in your eco-friendly 2023 Ford Escape Active to check out some of these fishing places today. more 1. Brighton Recreation Area The Brighton Recreation Area, located at 6360 Chilson Road, is one of the most beloved natural spaces in the Howell area. The Brighton Recreation Area covers a whopping 4,947 acres of land and includes several lakes, such as Appleton Lake, Bishop Lake, and Murray Lake. Bishop Lake is a particular favorite for local anglers. Along with fishing, there are many other things you can do at the Brighton Recreation Area, such as equestrian trails, hiking trails, and mountain biking trails. This recreation area is pet-friendly, has sheltered picnic areas, and offers cabins for rent if you want to plan a weekend fishing trip. 2. Kensington Metropark Kensington Metropark is one of the most popular fishing locations in the area. Located at 4570 Huron River Parkway, this 4,486-acre park offers several convenient fishing nooks on Kent Lake and along the Huron River. With rowboat, kayak, and canoe rentals, you can hope to catch fish such as yellow perch, bass, or bluegill. 3. Huron Meadows Metropark The Huron Meadows Metropark is a small slice of fishing heaven. The park has 1,560 acres of wonderful scenic views, as well as a golf course and other amenities. The best place to fish at this park is along the Huron River and at Maltby Lake, which is where you can catch smallmouth bass. Huron Meadows Metropark is located at 8765 Hammel Road 4. Island Lake Recreation Area Located at 6301 Kensington Road, the Island Lake Recreation Area is a gorgeous stretch of 4,000 acres of land that includes four large lakes and a portion of the Huron River. All the fishing areas in this park are on the shore, which means this is a great place to practice your fly-fishing skills. 5. Pinckney Recreation Area The Pinckney Recreation Area sprawls over 11,000 acres and includes fishing areas such as Patterson Lake, Halfmoon Lake, Bling Lake, Crooked Lake, and Silver Lake. Whether you're a fan of lake fishing or shore fishing, this recreation area is a dream getaway for avid anglers. You can find the Pinckney Recreation Area at 855 Silver Hill Road. Visiting a new fishing lake is a good way to spice up your favorite hobby. Before you plan your next fishing trip, make sure your Ford can go the distance. Schedule service at Bob Maxey Ford-Howell today.

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