Livingston County Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, eat, and drink in Livingston County. Get tips on where to stay, cultural customs, safety, and transportation options in Southeast Michigan.


Introduction to Livingston County

Located in Southeast Michigan, Livingston County is a gem in the Midwest region of the United States. This county boasts abundant natural beauty, charming small towns, and unique cultural attractions. Perfect for weekend getaways or longer vacations, Livingston County has something for everyone. If you are planning to visit Livingston County, this guide will help you make the most of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Livingston County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Livingston County has a rich history and cultural background. You can explore this heritage by visiting the following museums and historical places:

  • The Howell Opera House: Constructed in 1881, this iconic building was the cultural hub of Livingston County for decades. Today it is a center for performing arts that draws visitors from around the world.
  • The Pinckney Community Historical Society Museum: This museum showcases the history of Pinckney and the surrounding areas, including its indigenous people, early settlements, the Pinckney and Hamburg railroads, and more.
  • The Livingston Centre Historic District: This district comprises several historic buildings, including the Livingston County Courthouse, Bishop Bagley Mansion, and The Opera House (now known as the Historic Howell Theater).

Natural Attractions of Livingston County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Livingston County has a diverse range of natural attractions, from stunning lakes and rivers to lush forests and picturesque parks. Some of the most popular natural attractions in Livingston County include:

  • The Brighton State Recreation Area: This 4,947-acre park is perfect for hikers, bikers, hunters, fishermen, and swimmers. It offers 16 miles of trails and a beach on Chilson Pond.
  • The Huron River: This river offers some of the best canoeing and kayaking opportunities in Michigan, with over 27 miles of beautiful scenery and rapids ranging from Class I to Class IV.
  • The Island Lake Recreation Area: Located in Brighton, this 4,000-acre park features miles of trails, picnic areas, a beach, and opportunities for boating, fishing, and hunting.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Livingston County

Livingston County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and has some of the best hiking and biking trails in Michigan. Some of the most popular trails include:

  • The Lakelands Trail State Park: This trail spans 26 miles from Hamburg Township to Stockbridge and is perfect for hiking and biking.
  • The Brighton Recreation Trail: This is a 4.1-mile trail that connects Brighton to Island Lake State Recreation Area. It is ideal for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing.
  • The Pinckney Recreation Area: This park comprises more than 11,000 acres of forest, lakes, and streams, and offers over 40 miles of hiking and biking trails.

Best Things to Do in Livingston County: Activities and Tours

Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an adrenaline junkie, Livingston County has plenty of activities and tours to keep you entertained. Some of the best things to do in Livingston County include:

  • Tasting local wines at Spicer Orchards Farm Market and Winery or Howell’s Diamondale Farm Market.
  • Skydiving or indoor rock climbing at Michigan’s Adventure Skydiving or Planet Rock Climbing Gym.
  • Booking a hot air balloon ride with Balloon Quest Inc., Michigan Balloon Corporation, or Sky Adventures.
  • Learning to paddleboard, kayak, or canoe with SUP Michigan or The Kayak Store Paddlesports Company.
  • Taking a tour of the Hell Hole Diner, a Hell-themed restaurant that serves delicious burgers and hand-dipped shakes (open the first Friday of every month, year-round).

Week-Long Itinerary for Livingston County

A week-long itinerary for Livingston County could include:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Howell and explore the downtown area
Day 2 Spend a day at Brighton State Recreation Area
Day 3 Take a walking tour of Fowlerville and indulge in some local shopping
Day 4 Drive to Pinckney and enjoy a picnic at Pinckney Recreation Area
Day 5 Check out the local wineries or take a hot air balloon ride
Day 6 Visit the Howell Nature Center or tour the Hell Hole Diner
Day 7 Take a kayak or canoe trip down the Huron River

Food and Drink Scene of Livingston County

Must-Try Dishes

One of the best things about visiting Livingston County is getting to try the local cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Coney dogs: A Michigan classic, served with chili, onions, and mustard on a hot dog.
  • Pasties: A pastry filled with savory ingredients like meat, potatoes, and vegetables.
  • Cherry pie: A sweet and tart dessert made with Michigan’s famous cherries.
  • Barbecue: Livingston County is home to several excellent barbecue restaurants, including Lady Louisa’s Place and Simply Smokin’ BBQ.

Local Beverages

Livingston County is also known for its local beverages. Don’t miss out on trying:

  • Wine: Michigan’s climate and soil are perfect for growing wine grapes, and Livingston County has a number of great wineries, such as Spicer Orchards Farm Market and Winery, Howell’s Diamondale Farm Market, and the Whispering Winds Winery.
  • Beer: Livingston County has a burgeoning craft beer scene, with several microbreweries and taprooms, such as Eternity Brewing Company, Draught Horse Brewery, and Aberrant Ales.

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

Livingston County has a variety of excellent options for accommodation, including cozy bed and breakfasts, chain hotels, and Airbnb listings. Some of the top-rated options include:

  • The Livingston Inn: A charming bed and breakfast in Brighton, housed in a restored 19th-century mansion.
  • Courtyard by Marriott Detroit Brighton: A newly built Marriott hotel offering modern amenities and comfortable rooms.
  • Hampton Inn & Suites Brighton: A budget-friendly option with friendly staff and a great location.

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

When visiting Livingston County, be sure to pick up some souvenirs to bring home with you. Some of the best things to buy in Livingston County include:

  • Cherry products: Cherry jams, candies, and syrups are all popular souvenir items in this region.
  • Handmade jewelry: You can find unique pieces of jewelry made by local artisans at many of the shops and boutiques in Livingston County.
  • Michigan wine: If you enjoyed the local wine, you can bring home a bottle or two as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Livingston County

A warm and down-to-earth community, the people of Livingston County are welcoming to visitors. Some local customs and traditions include:

  • Saying hello to strangers: It’s not uncommon for people to strike up a conversation with strangers in Livingston County. Don’t be surprised if someone greets you on the street.
  • Respecting the environment: Livingston County takes pride in its natural beauty, and visitors are expected to treat the environment with respect.
  • Supporting local businesses: Small businesses are the backbone of Livingston County’s economy. Visitors are encouraged to shop and dine at local establishments to support the community.

Best Time to Visit Livingston County

The best time to visit Livingston County depends on your preferences. If you enjoy outdoor activities, plan to visit during the summer or early fall when the weather is mild. For winter sports enthusiasts, the snowy months provide endless opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Fall is also a great time to visit, as the leaves change color and the region’s many orchards are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Livingston County

Do:

  • Explore the parks and hiking trails
  • Sample the local cuisine and beverages
  • Experience local events and festivals

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural areas
  • Ignore posted signs and regulations
  • Leave your pets unattended

Safety and Health

Safety in Livingston County

Livingston County is a relatively safe place to visit. However, visitors should take the usual precautions, such as locking cars and valuables, staying in well-lit areas at night, and avoiding unfamiliar neighborhoods.

Health in Livingston County

Livingston County has a high-quality healthcare system, with several hospitals and medical clinics in the area. Visitors should have no problems finding medical care if needed.

Getting to Livingston County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Livingston County

The closest major airport to Livingston County is the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), approximately 40 miles east of the county limits. There are also several smaller airports in the area, including the Livingston County Spencer J. Hardy Airport (OZW) in Howell.

Bus Stations Near Livingston County

The nearest Greyhound Bus Station is located in Ann Arbor, approximately 25 miles south of Livingston County. The nearest Amtrak station is in Ann Arbor, with service to Chicago and Detroit.

Other Options

Renting a car or taking a taxi are the most convenient options for getting around Livingston County. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are also available in the area.

How to Get Around in Livingston County

Visitors can get around Livingston County by car, bike, or on foot. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also available for those who don’t have a car. The county also has several public transportation options, such as the Livingston Essential Transportation Service (LETS) bus system which operates on weekdays and serves all townships and cities in the county except Brighton.

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

If you’re interested in exploring more of Michigan, consider visiting some of the following nearby destinations:

  • Ann Arbor: An energetic college town with a rich cultural scene and home to the University of Michigan.
  • Detroit: The largest city in Michigan, with a vibrant arts, music, and culinary scene.
  • Lansing: The capital of Michigan and home to several interesting museums, parks, and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Livingston County, Michigan, has many amazing attractions, natural heritage, and cultural experiences for visitors. This comprehensive travel guide gives you insider tips for exploring the best of what the county has to offer. So why wait? Plan your next trip to Southeast Michigan and discover the hidden gems waiting for you in Livingston County.