20 Best Things to Do in Hillsdale, MI

Hillsdale is a charming city in the state of Michigan.

It has a population of just over 8,000 people, and it's one of the largest cities in Hillsdale County.

The city is in the rolling hills of South Central Michigan, and it borders Indiana and Ohio.

The settler Jeremiah Arnold founded the place in 1839.

He was the first to arrive in the area.

Today, it is still one of the most popular cities to visit in Michigan because it has so many beautiful sights to see and things to do.

Hillsdale has abundant attractions and events that visitors can enjoy during their stay.

The city also offers several opportunities for visitors to get involved in community events and activities, including festivals, fairs, festivals, and more.

If you have never been to Hillsdale before, check out this list of the best things to do in Hillsdale, MI.

Ride a Boat at Baw Beese Lake

If you’re looking for a unique getaway, look no further than Baw Beese Lake in Hillsdale, Michigan.

This small lake is located on the northwest side of Hillsdale.

It's a great place to go swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding.

The lake is a popular destination for many people living in Hillsdale because it provides many fun activities for visitors.

Aside from the recreational activities this lake offers, it has also played an essential role in the city’s history.

There are also some big trees growing along the shoreline, making it an excellent place for bird watching.

If you want to enjoy the outdoors while visiting Hillsdale, then Baw Beese Lake Park may be just what you're looking for.

Surround Yourself with the Lovely Plants of Slayton Arboretum

Slayton Arboretum is a beautiful place to visit in Hillsdale.

It is located along Barber Drive and offers visitors a chance to enjoy nature at its finest.

The Slayton Arboretum dates back to 1922, when Mr. and Mrs. George Slayton donated 14 acres of land to Hillsdale College.

It was a gift to celebrate their 50th anniversary.

Visitors who come to Slayton Arboretum can enjoy many different things there.

Some people like to hike through the woods or walk through some of the gardens for fun or relaxation, alone or with their family or friends.

The arboretum is filled with hundreds of flowering trees, shrubs, hedges, and vines native to Michigan.

It also includes running water and beautiful ponds, making it a great place to bring your family on a walk or picnic.

Slayton Arboretum is the perfect place to walk around and enjoy the area's natural beauty.

Satisfy Your Hunger at Finish Line Family Restaurant

Located at West Carlton Road, Finish Line Family Restaurant in Hillsdale, Michigan, is a restaurant you should visit.

Since 1976, this restaurant has become a favorite for families living there.

The menu at Finish Line Family Restaurant is designed to provide you with an assortment of choices that will delight your taste buds and satisfy your appetite.

The restaurant offers many different types of sandwiches, pasta dishes, salads, and other items that can be eaten alone or with a side order of fries or onion rings.

Finish Line Family Restaurant has some great drinks you'll love with your meal.

They have many different drinks for you to choose from when you're looking for something that suits your tastes and preferences.

Finish Line Family Restaurant is one of the best places in Hillsdale, Michigan, because it has many great things.

If you're looking for something new, this restaurant is worth checking out!

Play with Friends at Hillsdale Golf and Country Club

Golf is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise.

It can also be a great way to meet new people and make lasting friends.

This private golf course first opened in 1904.

It's one of the most scenic in Michigan with its nine holes of championship golf designed by Tom Bendelow.

The golf course at Hillsdale Golf and Country Club is beautiful, well-kept, and challenging enough for experienced players but also enjoyable for beginners.

This golf facility features a pro shop, driving range, rental clubs, and rental cars, so you don’t have to worry if you ever forget something at home.

Hillsdale Golf and Country Club allows you to play golf with other people with similar interests.

Whether your goal is to enjoy some time on the green or compete in tournaments, there's something for everyone at Hillsdale Golf and Country Club.

Buy Fresh Fruits at K’s Acres Orchard

K’s Acres produces everything you expect from an orchard: plums, apples, and peaches.

The orchard also offers a wide variety of fruits and berries, including strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries.

In addition to fruits, K’s Acres Orchard also offers some unique products like maple syrups, fruit-flavored syrups, and vinegar made from their harvest.

You can purchase these products at the shop and bring them home with you.

The farm is open year-round, but visitors can enjoy picking their apples or other fruit during the fall at their on-site orchard.

If you have never visited an orchard, K’s Acres is a great place to start your visit.

Enjoy the Outdoors in Mrs. Stocks Park

Nestled in the downtown area of Hillsdale, Mrs. Stock’s Park serves as an ideal destination not just for recreation but also a venue for weddings, gatherings, and concerts.

Over the years, the park has become the venue for the Summer Concert Series held every July.

Mrs. Stocks Park features MaryAnne MacRitchie Pavilion, which is where people celebrate birthdays, weddings, and other gatherings.

In addition, Mrs. Stocks Park also boasts its award-winning landscapes and gardens, including fountains, ponds, and bridges that add to the park's beauty.

You can sit down on one of the benches around the park and read your favorite book while enjoying the tranquil environment.

If you want to exercise and stretch your muscles, there are paved trails around the park where you can enjoy a peaceful walk or jog for a while.

The best way to enjoy your stay in Hillsdale is to attend the concerts in Mrs. Stocks Park and have a wonderful time with your family and friends.

Browse the Racks of Hillsdale Antiques

In the heart of downtown Hillsdale is a beautiful shop that will make you feel like you've traveled back in time.

Hillsdale Antiques is one of the best places in Michigan to find unique antiques and collectibles.

They specialize in vintage furniture, art, jewelry, and collectibles.

The shop has a fantastic selection of items from all eras, including antique furniture, art glass, fine china, and sporting goods.

If you're interested in buying an antique but aren't sure where to start, Hillsdale Antiques will help you narrow down your options.

Check out all the different antiques they carry.

They can also help you buy an antique if that's what you want.

Have Fun in Lewis Emery County Park

For those who enjoy nature, the Lewis Emery County Park is the place to be.

It's a beautiful park with many things to do and see, including activities for all ages.

It is a great place to visit if you are looking for fun activities with your family or friends.

The park offers many activities such as fishing, hiking, bird watching, and picnicking.

There are also several picnic areas where you can eat lunch or dinner.

A nature trail also takes you through a forested area with lots of trees and wildlife.

You can also reserve this place for special occasions such as weddings, reunions, outings, meetings, and other activities.

Lewis Emery County Park is an excellent place for those who like nature and want to spend quality time in the woods.

Buy Local Crafts in Toasted Mud

With their gorgeous selection of hand-crafted pieces, it's no wonder Toasted Mud is one of the most popular stores in town.

Located along Howell Street, the store has operated for years, gaining a reputation for being one of the best places to buy custom pottery in Michigan.

You can find just about any art or decor you're looking for in this excellent store.

The store sells a variety of pottery pieces, including everything from vases and bowls to sculptures and platters.

They also have a large selection of unique gifts that will impress someone special in your life.

This might be your best option if you're looking for something special to bring home with you.

See the Latest Movies at Premiere Theaters

Premiere Theaters is a movie theater in Hillsdale that offers an incredible movie experience.

It's not only a place to enjoy the latest movies but also an excellent destination for food and entertainment.

The theater has various movies, including blockbuster hits and lesser-known titles.

Premiere Theater also offers concessions for purchase, such as bottled water or soda pop.

You can rent the theater for your next meeting or celebrate your special day in this spacious venue.

If you're looking for a fun, relaxing atmosphere with great food and drinks, it's time to check out Premiere Theaters.

Unleash Your Inner Child at Silos Fun Park

Whether you're looking for a place to spend the day with family or friends, you'll find something fun and entertaining at Silos Fun Park in Hillsdale, Michigan.

Silos Fun Park offers a variety of attractions for everyone, from young children to adults.

The park features two go-kart tracks, an 18-hole miniature golf course, bumper boats, and more.

Go-karts are very popular among children because they are easy to drive and provide a lot of fun.

There's also a golf driving range and a concession where you can purchase several food options available.

The mini-golf course is also a great attraction for adults who want to spend some time alone or with friends playing a little friendly competition.

This amusement park is an excellent destination for families who want to spend quality time together while enjoying exciting rides and attractions.

Do All Sorts of Activities at Owens Park

If you’re already going to Baw Beese Lake, Owen Memorial Park is a great addition to your itinerary as it’s right by it.

It’s famous for a lot of family-oriented activities, spearheaded by its fishing areas that’s a hit among serious anglers.

There are also others you may want to check out here, such as their 9-hole disc golf course and their open gym that even the young ones can enjoy.

Besides these, Owen Memorial Park is simply a great place to hang out; they have a ton of green space with lots of shade for walking.

You can access Owens Park by driving along Waterworks Drive.

Go Bowling with Friends at Hillside Lanes

Hillside Lanes is an exciting addition to your itinerary because it’s one of the more well-known bowling alleys in the Hillsdale area.

Reputable because of its service and amenities, this is a modern facility that’s a perfect place for celebrations or reunions with friends and family.

Hillside Lanes has top-notch bowling facilities, but they’re also famous for their food that’s a hit among locals.

Try their burgers and pizzas as you enjoy a round of bowling.

You can find this awesome bowling alley along West Carleton Road.

Play Disc Golf at Hillsdale College Hayden Park

Hillsdale College Hayden Park is a great place to play disc golf, as it’s full of hazards and challenges that’ll even make a seasoned veteran sweat.

The terrain here is a bit rustic, making the park a great place to test your skills.

However, you can also simply do some light trekking at College Hayden Park; there are a lot of greenery and a few critters here and there as you walk through it.

There are also picnic tables here, and because of its beautiful natural scenery, it’s an underrated spot to do some relaxation in Hillsdale.

Located along Barber Drive, Hillsdale College Hayden Park is a great spot for recreational activities or some quiet time.

Go Camping at Six Lakes Campground

If you’re a big fan of the outdoors, Six Lakes Campground is a perfect place to spend a night or two.

It’s located along Hudson Road that stretches out to several lakes that’s found in the southeastern part of Hillsdale.

Because of this location, you can expect a lot of beautiful scenery with tons of aquatic fun in Six Lakes Campground.

Don’t miss out on going fishing when you do decide to camp here, as it’s the best way to experience the lake.

While it’s mostly for seasonal campers, Six Lakes Campground does have overnight sites, perfect if you’re going here on a whim.

Have a Feast at El Cerrito Mexican Restaurant

Hillsdale has a couple of nice local restaurants that you can try, but very few can match the quality of food, service, and ambiance as El Cerrito Mexican Restaurant.

It’s a haven for authentic Mexican food; some of their best dishes here are their chimichangas, fajitas, and chips n’ salsa.

El Cerrito Mexican Restaurant also has a nice selection of beverages such as their margaritas.

One of the most popular restaurants in Hillsdale, this is a can’t-miss if you’re all about food.

You can find El Cerrito Mexican Restaurant along West Carleton Road.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Feel the Adrenaline Rush in Bundy Hill Offroad

Bundy Hill Offroad is an off-road driving area near Hillsdale that offers plenty of excitement for the adrenaline junkie.

You'll find it in Jerome, Michigan, 20 minutes from Hillsdale.

It allows you to explore the beautiful area of Michigan and features many trails for offroading, including some that are open for all to enjoy.

Bundy Hill Offroad offers off-road driving for everyone, from beginners to experts.

You can also enjoy trail riding, ATV riding, and camping at Bundy Hill Offroad.

The terrain here is rocky and hilly, and you can follow many trails if you're interested in experiencing nature.

The best part about Bundy Hill Offroad is that it's relatively easy to reach from Hilldale or any other major city in Michigan.

It only takes about 25 minutes to get there from different parts of Michigan.

If you’re looking for something to fuel your adrenaline rush, hop in your car and drive to Bundy Hill Offroad for some exciting adventure.

Shop Local at Sugar Bush Farm

Sugarbush Farm is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a place to get some fresh produce and local goodies.

The farm's location in Allen, Michigan, makes it easy for visitors to explore if they’re in nearby cities.

It's also 20 minutes from Hillsdale.

From their farm, you can get traditional fruits and vegetables and unique flavors such as strawberries.

If you’re in the mood for ice cream, then you’ll love the selection at Sugarbush Farm.

They have a wide range of flavors, from chocolate to strawberry to vanilla.

In addition to fresh produce, Sugarbush offers fresh meats such as beef, pork, and lamb.

You can also buy other products such as jam, cheese, maple syrup, and others.

This is a one-stop destination for every traveler, so check out all the exciting things Sugar Bush Farm offers.

Tour the Grosvenor House Museum

The Grosvenor House Museum was once the residence of a politician, Ebenezer O. Grosvenor, located in Jonesville, Michigan.

It's nine minutes away from Hillsdale.

Built in 1874, the old mansion has been converted into a museum featuring many artifacts and paintings from the Grosvenor family.

The National Register of Historic Places listed the house on the record in 1977.

It features elegant Italianate architecture with 32 rooms and a squared corner bay, a striking feature of the house.

When you visit, you can view the marble fireplaces of different colors, balustrade staircases, and walnut window valances with carved Egyptian heads.

You can take a self-guided tour around this historic house and see its original beauty.

Buy Vintage Items from Allen Antique Barn

Fifteen minutes away from Hillsdale, this antique barn is in Allen, Michigan.

Notably, Allen is the antique capital of Michigan.

Allen Antique Barn has two malls housed inside one building with more than 25,000 square feet dedicated to antique shops.

It has two levels filled with 300 booths.

The first floor, known as “The Barn,” has over 155 stores, while the second floor, called “The Loft,” is home to more than 145 shops.

You will find something new to look at every day in Allen Antique Barn because the dealers always bring something new to the table.

If you own antiques or vintage things, you can also sell them here in Allen Antique Barn and earn some cash.

Allen Antique Barn has something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for a gift or a new piece of home decor, you can find it all in Allen Antique Barn.

Final Thoughts

The various fun things to do in Hillsdale, Michigan, will make your visit memorable.

This historic city is filled with lots of fun activities, from its arts scene, local restaurants, and quirky little shops, to its historical sites and natural attractions.

No matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, Hillsdale can provide you with the same excitement as other prominent cities in Michigan.

You will never regret visiting Hillsdale once you’ve tasted all the best things to do in the area.

Book your trip today!