Lenawee County Travel Guide

Explore the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Lenawee County. Discover its history, culture, and natural beauty.


Introduction to Lenawee County

Lenawee County is a hidden gem located in Southeast Michigan, boasting a rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. The county is named after the Lenawee Native American tribe and is known for its rolling hills, picturesque countryside, and small-town charm. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing getaway, Lenawee County has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Lenawee County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lenawee County Historical Museum

The Lenawee County Historical Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the local history of Lenawee County, spanning over 200 years. The collection includes artifacts, displays, and exhibits that chronicle everything from the county’s Native American heritage to its role in the Civil War.

Adrian College Robinson Planetarium and Observatory

The Adrian College Robinson Planetarium and Observatory is a state-of-the-art facility that offers visitors an opportunity to experience the wonders of space. The planetarium features a 360-degree immersive dome theater that showcases stunning visuals and breathtaking simulations of the universe. The observatory houses a powerful telescope that provides a closer look at the stars and planets.

Natural Attractions of Lenawee County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Hidden Lake Gardens

Hidden Lake Gardens is a stunning 755-acre botanical garden situated in the scenic Irish Hills. The gardens are home to an impressive collection of native and exotic plants, trees, and flowers from around the world. Visitors can explore the gardens on foot, bike, or car and enjoy beautiful vistas of nature.

Devils Lake

Devils Lake is a natural lake located in the heart of the Irish Hills. The lake offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic on the beach while admiring the stunning views of the lake and its surroundings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lenawee County

Lenawee County offers miles of scenic trails, perfect for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The county is home to several state parks, nature preserves, and forests, providing opportunities for outdoor activities for all skill levels. Some of the notable trails include:

  • The Kiwanis Trail
  • The Border-to-Border Trail
  • The Tecumseh Trail

Best Things to Do in Lenawee County: Activities and Tours

Wolf Creek Habitat and Rescue

Wolf Creek Habitat and Rescue is a unique attraction that offers visitors an opportunity to interact with wolves in their natural habitat. The sanctuary is home to several wolf packs and offers educational tours that give visitors insight into the wolf’s behavior, lifestyle, and conservation.

Artalicious Arts Fair

Artalicious Arts Fair is an annual event that takes place in downtown Adrian. The fair showcases the work of over 70 artists and vendors from across the country, offering visitors an opportunity to browse, buy, and appreciate the arts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lenawee County

Day 1: Adrian

Explore the quaint town of Adrian, known for its beautiful historic buildings, art galleries, and cafes. Start your day with a cup of coffee at the downtown coffee shop, take a stroll along the brick streets, and visit the Croswell Opera House.

Day 2: Irish Hills

Spend a day exploring the picturesque Irish Hills, home to Hidden Lake Gardens, Devils Lake, and other scenic wonders. Enjoy a picnic lunch, rent boats or paddleboards for the lake, or visit the Mystery Hill attraction.

Day 3: Tecumseh

Tecumseh is known for its small-town charm and historic architecture. Spend a day discovering its unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Be sure to visit the Tecumseh Brewing Company for local craft beer and live music.

Day 4: Hudson

Hudson is a quaint town that offers visitors a chance to experience its rich history and culture. Explore museums and historic buildings like the Hudson Museum, and take a stroll along the town’s charming streets.

Day 5: Morenci

Morenci is a small town that offers a big experience with its fantastic farms, markets, and orchards. Take a tour of local farms such as Spotted Cow Creamery and buy fresh produce at the Morenci Farmer’s market.

Food and Drink Scene of Lenawee County

Must-Try Dishes

Lenawee County is known for its delicious food and drink scene, featuring farm-to-table restaurants, wineries, and breweries. Some must-try dishes include:

  • Coney dogs at Sauce on the Side
  • Artisan pizzas at Hooligan’s Grill
  • Hand-crafted beer at Cotton Brewing Company
  • Freshly baked goods at The Daily Grind Bakery

Local Beverages

Lenawee County is home to several wineries, breweries, and distilleries, offering visitors the chance to taste local beverages. Some must-visit places include:

  • JTree Cellars
  • Black Fire Winery
  • Round Barn Brewery and Public House
  • Flying Otter Winery

Where to Stay in Lenawee County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lenawee County offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from hotels to bed and breakfasts. Some of the best places to stay include the historic hotels like the Adrian’s St. Charles Hotel, Baker’s Bed and Breakfast and the Tecumseh Inn Motel.

What to Buy in Lenawee County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lenawee County is renowned for its local products such as cheese, orchard fruits, and wine. Some recommended souvenirs include:

  • Artisanal cheese from LaClare Family Creamery
  • Gourmet popcorn from The Mucky Duck
  • Maple syrup from Doodle’s Sugarbush

Local Culture and Customs of Lenawee County

Lenawee County has a rich culture and heritage, shaped by the land itself and the traditions of the Lenawee Native American tribe, who first called this area their home. The local customs and traditions can be seen in the county’s crafts, food, music, art, and festivals.

Best Time to Visit Lenawee County

The best time to visit Lenawee County is during the summer months, from May to October, when the weather is warm, and there are plenty of outdoor events and activities. The fall season is also a great time to visit the county, offering a spectacle of vibrant colors of the changing leaves.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lenawee County

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and wildlife
  • Explore small towns and support local businesses
  • Embrace the local culture and traditions

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment
  • Be disrespectful or insensitive to the local customs and traditions *Overstep boundaries at Wolf Creek Habitat and Rescue

Safety and Health

Safety in Lenawee County

Lenawee County is a safe place to visit, and the crime rate is relatively low. Visitors should exercise common sense and caution while exploring the county, especially at night and in remote areas. Always keep your valuables safe and secure.

Health in Lenawee County

Lenawee County has several hospitals and healthcare facilities that provide quality medical care. Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage before traveling to the county.

Getting to Lenawee County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lenawee County is conveniently located within a two-hour drive of major cities like Detroit, Toledo, and Ann Arbor. The best way to get to the county is by car, as it offers a scenic drive through Michigan’s beautiful countryside. Some other transportation options include:

Airports Near Lenawee County

The closest airports to Lenawee County are:

  • Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), approximately 80 miles northeast of Lenawee County.
  • Toledo Express Airport (TOL), approximately 30 miles southeast of Lenawee County.

Bus Stations Near Lenawee County

Several bus services operate in and around Lenawee County, including the Indian Trails Bus Service and the Greyhound Bus Service. The closest bus station is located in Adrian.

Other Options

Rental cars and taxis are also available in Lenawee County. Some popular rental car companies in the area include Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise.

How to Get Around in Lenawee County

The best way to get around Lenawee County is by car or bike, as public transportation is limited, and many attractions are located in remote areas. Visitors can rent a car or bike from several local providers or opt for guided tours that include transportation.

Where to Go Next from Lenawee County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lenawee County is located in Southeast Michigan and is surrounded by several neighboring counties that offer exciting attractions and destinations. Some nearby destinations and excursions include:

  • Ann Arbor, Michigan
  • Toledo, Ohio
  • Jackson, Michigan
  • Detroit, Michigan

Conclusion

Lenawee County is a place that offers visitors a unique and authentic experience, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, the county has something for everyone. From scenic trails to farm-to-table restaurants, Lenawee County is a destination that should be on every traveler’s list.



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