13 Best Things to Do in Owosso, MI

Come along for a virtual trip through the best things to do in Owosso, Michigan, a place that warmly embraces everyone as one of its own.

Explore the Hidden Gems of Owosso - Curwood Castle

Some places are so close to home that you tend to overlook them.

One such treasure in my hometown is the Curwood Castle, a stunning riverside castle with a watchtower in Owosso's heart.

It's not just any castle - it was built in 1922, serving as the writing studio for the renowned novelist James Oliver Curwood.

I often wander around the castle, soaking up the peaceful atmosphere and imagining how Curwood might have penned his novels in this serene environment.

The castle is closed on Mondays, but that doesn't deter my occasional visits.

Likewise, the castle grounds are open to the public, and informational boards around the property provide insight into Curwood's life and work.

Seeing the castle standing tall against the backdrop of the flowing river is a visual treat in itself.

As if the castle wasn't captivating enough, the surrounding park is a sight for sore eyes.

Maintained with utmost care, the park hosts a festival filled with art vendors and reenactors, bringing the place alive with history and culture.

Each visit to the Curwood Castle leaves me with a newfound appreciation for the history of my town.

Unwind in Owosso at DeVries Nature Conservancy

There’s magic in the air when you enter DeVries Nature Conservancy.

Nestled in the heart of Owosso, this place is my little slice of heaven right here on earth.

It’s become a tradition for my family and me to hop onto the horse-drawn carriage every October, immersing ourselves in the splendor of autumn.

The journey is made even more memorable with a campfire, donuts, and cider - the quintessential fall experience.

If you're interested in hosting an event, DeVries Nature Conservancy has a hall you can rent.

We've celebrated many family events here, and the ambiance has never failed to impress.

But DeVries is an adventure playground with a fun zip line for the little ones.

Seeing the kids’ faces light up as they zoom through the air is a delight.

There’s also an element of learning here.

My niece had her graduation party at DeVries, and she was fascinated by the small kitchen that doubles as a home for reptiles.

You could see her and her friends huddled around the window that shows a bee hive view.

The outdoor area is enchanting, with chickens you can feed and a beautiful garden as a backdrop for countless photos.

To me, DeVries Nature Conservancy is Owosso's heart and soul.

It’s a place where you can escape daily life's hustle and bustle, and immerse yourself in nature's beauty.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat, a playful adventure, or a beautiful event location, DeVries has got you covered.

Discover Green Delights at Nash Nurseries

I wish I could bottle up my joy whenever I visit Nash Nurseries.

The moment you step into this quaint little oasis, you're greeted by absolutely kind and helpful folks who guide you through the nursery's unique assortment of plants.

I remember how thrilled I was when I found berry varieties I couldn't find elsewhere.

The excitement of bringing home frozen paw fruit for my family to try was unforgettable.

Their prices are pretty reasonable, too, making each visit a fruitful shopping experience.

The thrill of picking up apple trees for our home was an adventure.

Thanks to Nash Nurseries, there's an honest joy in anticipating the sweet sixteen and Granny Smith apples that will soon adorn our garden.

I find myself recommending Nash Nurseries to every plant lover I meet.

Visit Foster Coffee Company

Every neighborhood has that one spot that embodies the spirit of the community.

For me, that spot is Foster Coffee Company.

It is a perfect blend of cozy and chic, with an atmosphere that invites you to pull up a chair and stay awhile.

Whether looking for a place to work remotely or just craving a delicious cup of joe, I always gravitate towards their comforts.

Their tiled lobby area has become my unofficial office, providing a calm and inspiring backdrop to many a productive workday.

But it's not just the coffee that keeps me coming back.

Their food menu, especially the Mediterranean avocado toast, is a gastronomic delight that perfectly complements their artisanal beverages.

But don't take my word for it; try it yourself!

You'll find yourself becoming a regular, just like me.

Their original spot is in Owosso, but they also have East Lansing and Flint locations.

I've enjoyed visiting all three and assure you that the warmth and quality are consistent across all areas.

Trust me, you can't go wrong with Foster Coffee Company!

Enjoy Unforgettable Experiences at The Curwood House

Every visit to The Curwood House is like stepping back in time.

This charming, historic property has been my go-to for everything from a quiet weekend getaway to a large event venue.

Each room is uniquely beautiful, with an elegant air reflecting its rich history.

Even though the bathrooms are shared, it's a detail I've come to overlook, especially given the reasonable cost and the impeccable cleanliness maintained throughout.

The house's proximity to downtown and the castle is a major plus, ensuring there's never a dull moment during my stay.

I've also enjoyed hosting my company's Christmas party here.

However, what sets The Curwood House apart is its unique approach to communication.

Most interactions occur through text or voicemail, which initially took some time.

But once I got the hang of it, I found it a convenient and efficient way to ask questions or request invoices.

I've made countless memories within the walls of this charming property, and I can't wait to make more.

The Curwood House is a place to experience.

See Hidden Gems at New & Old Unique Treasures

They say that great things often come in small packages, and this has never been truer than at New & Old Unique Treasures.

A jaunt down the quaint streets of our town will lead you to this little store full of wonders.

It's the place you might initially walk past, not realizing the treasures within.

You never know what you'll find as you wander its cozy interior.

This place is a goldmine of vintage and new items, genuinely living up to its name. A brand new Atari, a rare vinyl record, or a piece of handcrafted jewelry, the treasures are endless.

But what's more impressive, if you're a movie or game enthusiast like me, is their movie and game room.

It's a veritable Aladdin's cave of goodies that will transport you back to the golden days of VHS and vintage gaming.

You might find that one game or movie you've been looking for forever.

So, next time you're in town, don't just walk past New & Old Unique Treasures.

Take a moment to step inside; you might leave with a handful of unique finds and a big smile.

There's something for everyone in this little store, and every visit feels like a mini adventure.

Visit the Steam Railroading Institute

Take the North Pole Express at the Steam Railroading Institute!

I'd heard the magical stories from friends and neighbors, but nothing could have prepared me for the enchanting experience that awaited me.

I boarded with a group of my pals and our kids.

We were lucky enough to snag seats in the dining cars.

There's something about sipping hot cocoa and nibbling on delicious treats aboard a steam train that adds a dash of adventure to the already magical atmosphere.

When we arrived in Ashley, it felt like we'd entered the North Pole.

The town had been completely transformed with shops, rides, and even a toy shop where kids could make toys.

Their commitment to the holiday spirit was almost Disney-level.

Seeing everyone in character and spreading the holiday cheer was an absolute joy.

But the magic didn't end at the North Pole.

Back on the train, we had the chance to explore the train coaches, ride the mini 7.5" train, and scoop up some unique souvenirs.

Watching the steam train mechanics working on the Polar Express was fascinating.

When you get the chance, I highly recommend embracing the full spirit of the ride.

Pack some snacks and bring along your holiday spirit.

You never know; you might find yourself singing along to Christmas tunes with newfound friends.

The North Pole Express is an annual tradition in our town that's worth every penny.

A Day at Kiwanis Park

I often spend my free time at Kiwanis Park, my favorite local getaway.

The park is a hub for community activities, particularly baseball games.

You have to be cautious about parking your car during these games, though.

With the excitement running high, there's always a chance of a stray ball flying your way.

But that's all part of the fun.

Kiwanis Park has a welcoming atmosphere. You can feel the sense of community here.

Often, during tournaments, food trucks line up on the sidelines.

Their aroma mingles with the cheers from the crowd, making it an exciting place to be.

Treat yourself to a hot dog or a cold drink while you support your local team.

I am also part of a group that organizes regular clean-ups at the park.

And I must say, it's heartening to see how well-maintained the fields are.

On a recent clean-up, we noticed that new covered awnings were installed next to the ball fields.

It's nice to witness these updates that make the park even more inviting.

But the park isn't just for baseball enthusiasts.

You can take a leisurely walk across the beautiful blue bridge, watch the trains pass by, or even get a spot of fishing done.

Kiwanis Park has a little something for everyone.

So, if you're looking for a place to relax or an activity to get your pulse racing, Kiwanis Park is the place to be.

It's a gem in our city; I am proud to call it my local hangout.

Discover the Charm of Hopkins Lake Park

Yesterday, I decided to take a drive and noticed something I had never paid much attention to before.

It was Hopkins Lake Park - a little gem tucked away from the busy roads.

Having driven past it countless times, I never realized its size and potential.

When you first enter the park, you are welcomed by a tranquil lake that is indeed a small one but still charming in its way.

As I continued exploring, I stumbled upon an enclosed dog park.

It was a delight to see dogs of different breeds and sizes running around and having the time of their lives.

As a dog owner, I can't wait to bring my pet here next time.

Further into the park are picnic benches perfectly placed for a delightful outdoor meal.

The park has so much space, making it ideal for a pleasant picnic or a relaxing day out in the sun.

Next time you drive by, I highly recommend taking a detour and checking out Hopkins Lake Park.

It's worth the visit and offers a peaceful retreat from the daily hustle and bustle.

Visit Harmon Patridge Park

At Harmon Patridge Park, I feel like stepping into my sanctuary.

Nestled beautifully in our town, this park serves as the perfect retreat away from the hustle of everyday life.

Trust me when I say this is where you can lose yourself in nature.

The park has seen many of my celebrations. It's almost become a tradition in our family to host our birthday parties here.

Nature has its allure here.

The park is right by the riverside, providing a fantastic spot for fishing on those lazy summer afternoons.

Once, I found the biggest fishing spider on my arm right in this park. It was huge but thrilling nonetheless- a testament to the diverse wildlife that thrives here.

You can also enjoy a quiet, peaceful afternoon, watching the river flow through the park.

The park's beautiful trees add to the serenity, making it an excellent place for a quiet reading session, a picnic, or a meditative stroll.

And the best part? Thanks to our conscientious community, it's always clean, with hardly any trash around.

So, whether it's celebrating with family, enjoying some fishing, or simply basking in the tranquil beauty, Harmon Patridge Park is the go-to place in our town.

Grab a Meal at Greg & Lou's Family Restaurant

I love starting my weekend mornings at Greg & Lou's Family Restaurant.

This place is magical; it's a haven for those who crave comfort food.

The extensive menu offers a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options that never fail to satisfy those pesky cravings.

When I say they have a plethora of options, I mean it.

Their homemade pie slices and cookies are dangerously good and a must-try for any sweet lover.

And let's not even get started on their gigantic cinnamon rolls - they're the stuff of legends in our small town.

One thing that sets Greg & Lou's apart is their impressively generous portions.

Their dishes are hearty and filling, perfect for mending a hangover after a lively weekend.

Once, I tried their corned beef hash and eggs, and I was pleasantly surprised by how well-cooked and flavorful it was.

Trust me, Greg & Lou's food is a bang for your buck. It's not the healthiest, but every bite is worth it.

And they maintain the area well - it is always clean, including the bathrooms.

Greg & Lou's Family Restaurant is a charming little spot that has become a favorite of many in our community, including me.

It's the place that makes you feel right at home with its good food and cozy ambiance.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Enjoy the Shiawassee River

I can tell you, there's nothing quite like spending a day on the Shiawassee River.

With a kayak or canoe, you can soak in the beauty of the place.

The river is perfect for a spring or early summer paddle.

You can glide along the water, enjoying the serene views and tranquil environment.

The water levels get a bit low towards the end of summer, but that doesn't detract from the experience.

You can adjust your plans, maybe go for a leisurely boat ride. I try to make the trip a couple of times a year.

The tranquility of the ride, the gentle lapping of the water against the sides of the boat - a feeling that never gets old.

And it's not just about the water activities.

The area around the Shiawassee River has its charm.

I remember the time I went for a horse show in the vicinity.

The combination of the thrill of the show and the picturesque surroundings made it a day to remember.

So, if you're looking for a peaceful getaway or a fun day trip, I highly recommend you check out the Shiawassee River.

It's nature at its best and an experience you won't want to miss.

Visit Owosso Farmers Market

If there's one thing about Owosso that brightens my weekends, it's undoubtedly the Owosso Farmers Market.

This place is a cornucopia of diverse products, a blend of new and established businesses, which has become a staple in our community.

My favorite activity is bringing my little girl for the kids' days.

Her eyes light up at the vibrant stalls and the fascinating trinkets they sell.

The market also offers a chance to connect with people, especially when we bump into familiar faces.

It feels like a community gathering where you can support local businesses and enjoy a sunny day out.

The Owosso Farmers Market holds a piece of my heart.

Final Thoughts

Owosso is a charming community with history, culture, and outdoor beauty.

Every visit to Owosso, Michigan, is an adventure.

So here's to the joy of discovery, the charm of small-town life, and the endless adventures in Owosso that await us.