Carleton Travel Guide

Explore the cultural and natural attractions of Carleton, Michigan, hike and bike routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay and how to get there.


Introduction to Carleton

Carleton is a small village located in Monroe County, Southeast Michigan, in the United States of America. The city was founded in 1830 and has a population of just over 2,000 people. It is known for its natural beauty and its rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore its numerous museums, parks, and scenic routes. In this comprehensive travel guide to Carleton, we’ll explore all the attractions that make this village a must-visit destination.

List of Places to Visit in Carleton

If you’re planning a trip to Carleton, here are some places you shouldn’t miss.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

1. Carleton Branch Library

The Carleton Branch Library is a small but charming library that has been serving the village since 1919. It houses a collection of books, DVDs, and audio books, as well as a digital library accessible with your library card. It also has a children’s section with various educational activities.

2. Carleton Farm Museum

The Carleton Farm Museum showcases the history of farming in the area. It has various tools, equipment, and machinery used on farms in the early 1900s. Visitors can also see how the farm’s animals are raised, fed, and cared for.

3. Estral Beach Historical Society Museum

The Estral Beach Historical Society Museum is a small museum that showcases the history of the region. Visitors can see photographs, artifacts, and documents chronicling the village’s past. The museum also holds regular events and activities.

4. Gerald Gohlke Memorial Field

Gerald Gohlke Memorial Field is a baseball field located in the village. It is named after a local baseball player who passed away in 1984. Visitors can attend games and watch local teams play.

Natural Attractions of Carleton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

1. Oakwood Metropark Golf Course

The Oakwood Metropark Golf Course is an 18-hole golf course with beautiful views of the Huron River. The course is well-maintained and welcoming to both beginners and more experienced players.

2. Ash-Carleton Park

Ash-Carleton Park is a beautiful park located along the Huron River. It has numerous trails for hiking and biking, as well as picnic areas and playgrounds for families and children.

3. Oakwoods Metropark

Oakwoods Metropark is an enormous park with over 70 different species of trees. Visitors can explore the trails, take in the scenic views, and enjoy bird-watching in the park’s wetlands.

4. Sterling State Park

Sterling State Park is Michigan’s only state park located on Lake Erie. Visitors can swim, fish, boat, and hike, as well as explore the park’s historic lighthouse.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Carleton

Carleton has numerous hiking and biking routes that visitors can explore. Here are some of the best.

1. Iron Belle Trail

The Iron Belle Trail is a massive hiking and biking path that stretches all the way from Ironwood to Detroit. In Carleton, the trail runs along the Huron River and offers beautiful views of the water and the surrounding natural beauty.

2. Detroit River Heritage Trail

The Detroit River Heritage Trail is a 5.5-mile trail that runs along the Detroit River. In Carleton, the trail runs through Estral Beach and offers stunning views of the water and the surrounding landscape.

3. Lower Huron Metropark Trail

The Lower Huron Metropark Trail is a 3.5-mile trail that runs through Lower Huron Metropark. The trail is ideal for hiking and biking and offers beautiful views of the park’s natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in Carleton: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Carleton for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the best.

1. Wine Tasting at J Trees Cellars

J Trees Cellars is a winery located about 20 minutes from Carleton. Visitors can sample a variety of wines, enjoy the scenic views, and even buy a bottle to take home.

2. Fishing at Lake Erie

Lake Erie is home to a variety of fish, including perch, walleye, and bass. Visitors can rent a boat or go fishing from the shore.

3. Visit the Village Shops

The village shops in Carleton offer a variety of unique and interesting items, including handmade jewelry, antiques, and vintage clothing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Carleton

Here’s a sample itinerary for visitors who want to spend a week in Carleton.

Day 1: Visit the Carleton Farm Museum

Day 2: Hike Along the Huron River

Day 3: Kayak down Huron River

Day 4: Wine Tasting at J Trees Cellars

Day 5: Spend the Day at Sterling State Park

Day 6: Golf at the Oakwood Metropark Golf Course

Day 7: Explore the Village Shops

Food and Drink Scene of Carleton

Carleton has a small but vibrant food and drink scene. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

1. Pizza at SplatZ Brew Ha Ha

SplatZ Brew Ha Ha is a local pizzeria that serves up delicious pizzas, with a variety of toppings and crusts to choose from.

2. Breakfast at Jake’s Joint

Jake’s Joint offers a variety of breakfast dishes, including pancakes, eggs, and bacon.

Local Beverages

1. Beer at Downriver Brewing Co.

Downriver Brewing Co. is a brewery located about 20 minutes from Carleton. Visitors can sample a variety of beers, including IPAs and stouts.

2. Wine at J Trees Cellars

J Trees Cellars is a winery located about 20 minutes from Carleton. Visitors can sample a variety of wines, including reds, whites, and sparkling wines.

Where to Stay in Carleton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Carleton doesn’t have many options for accommodation, but there are a few places to stay.

1. Super 8 by Wyndham Monroe Hotel

The Super 8 by Wyndham Monroe Hotel is located about 15 minutes from Carleton. It offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price.

2. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Monroe

The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Monroe is located about 20 minutes from Carleton. It offers comfortable rooms, a gym, and an indoor pool.

What to Buy in Carleton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home, here are some suggestions.

1. Handmade Jewelry

Several local shops in Carleton offer handmade jewelry that makes a great souvenir or gift.

2. Vintage Clothing

Carleton’s village shops offer a variety of unique and interesting vintage clothing items.

Local Culture and Customs of Carleton

Carleton has a friendly and welcoming community. Visitors should be respectful of the locals and their customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Carleton

The best time to visit Carleton is during the summer months when the weather is warm and pleasant. Visitors can enjoy the many outdoor activities the village has to offer, such as hiking, biking, and swimming.

Do’s and Don’ts of Carleton

Do:

  • Explore the scenic hiking and biking routes.
  • Visit the local museums and historical sites.
  • Sample the local food and drink.

Don’t:

  • Disturb the local wildlife.
  • Litter or pollute the natural environment.
  • Be disrespectful to locals or their customs.

Safety and Health

Carleton is a safe and healthy place to visit.

Safety in Carleton

Visitors should take normal precautions when exploring the outdoors.

Health in Carleton

There are no major health concerns in Carleton.

Getting to Carleton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Carleton is located about 40 miles south of Detroit. Visitors can get there via car or public transportation.

Airports Near Carleton

The closest airport to Carleton is the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, located about 20 miles north of the village.

Bus Stations Near Carleton

The closest bus station to Carleton is the Greyhound station in Monroe, located about 10 miles north of the village.

Other Options

Visitors can also get to Carleton via taxi or rideshare.

How to Get Around in Carleton

The best way to get around Carleton is by car or bike. Public transportation is limited in the village, but there are several bike rental shops.

Where to Go Next from Carleton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time in the area, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider.

Toledo, Ohio

Toledo, Ohio is located about 30 minutes south of Carleton. It is home to several museums, galleries, and historical sites.

Detroit, Michigan

Detroit, Michigan is located about 40 miles north of Carleton. It is home to numerous museums, galleries, and world-renowned restaurants.

Conclusion

Carleton is a small but charming village filled with unique cultural and natural attractions. Visitors can explore its many museums, parks, and scenic routes, as well as enjoy the local food and drink scene. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re sure to have all the information you need to plan your perfect trip to Carleton.