Milan Travel Guide

Milan travel guide including places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.


Introduction to Milan

Milan, located in Monroe County, in Southeast Michigan, is a charming city with a rich history and culture. The city is known for its flourishing arts scene, stunning architecture, and delicious food. From contemporary art galleries to classic architectural landmarks, Milan offers plenty of fun activities for tourists.

List of Places to Visit in Milan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Milan Art Museum: This museum has a collection of American art from the 19th and 20th centuries. It features a variety of art styles such as realism, impressionism, and modernism.
  • Indian Creek Museum: The museum is dedicated to preserving and telling the story of Milan’s rich history dating back to the 1800s.
  • Marblehead Lighthouse: This is the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on the Great Lakes. Visitors can climb the lighthouse to take in stunning views of Lake Erie.

Natural Attractions of Milan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Milan Canal Trail: This trail is perfect for hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts. The scenic path follows the old Erie Canal, and stretches for about 10 miles with plenty of wildlife and scenic landscapes.
  • Erie Nature & Wildlife Area: Explore the natural beauty of the Great Lakes region at this nature reserve. Hiking, fishing, and hunting are popular activities here, with plenty of opportunities to see native Ohio wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Milan

  • The Huron River: Those who are into kayaking, canoeing, or just love scenic river views, the Huron River is a great option. This beautiful river is perfect for an afternoon paddle and picnic lunch along the shore.
  • Milan Canal Trail: As mentioned above, the Milan Canal Trail is perfect for both hikers and bikers. The trail is easy to navigate and offers a scenic and peaceful route for all skill levels.

Best Things to Do in Milan: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Milan Wine Post: This historic building was once a railway station and now houses a wine and gift shop. Sample some of the local and imported wines, and leave the place with a special souvenir to remember your visit.
  • Catch a show at the Milan State Theatre: This nearly 100-year old theater offers a variety of performances throughout the season and is a must-visit for theater enthusiasts.
  • The Milan Village Arts School: Art-lovers can enroll in a variety of affordable classes like oil painting, pottery, and quilting.

Week-Long Itinerary for Milan

Day Activity
1 Visit the Milan Art Museum and have dinner at the Milan Wine Post
2 Explore Marblehead Lighthouse and go hiking in the Erie Nature & Wildlife Area
3 Take a stroll on the trails of Milan Canal Trail and visit Indian Creek Museum
4 Day trip to nearby Toledo, Ohio (only 20 miles away) to explore the arts scene
5 Take in a show at the Milan State Theatre and have dinner at a fine dining restaurant
6 Visit the Milan Village Arts School for a pottery or painting class
7 Enjoy a relaxing day by the Huron River, take a kayak for a paddle, and have a picnic lunch

Food and Drink Scene of Milan

Must-Try Dishes

  • Potato Leek Soup: This delicious soup is made with red potatoes, leeks, bacon, and cream. It’s a perfect comfort food for cooler weather.
  • Pierogi: Of Polish origin, pierogi are stuffed dumplings filled with meat, vegetables, cheese, or fruit.

Local Beverages

  • Michigan craft beer: There are over 300 craft breweries in Michigan, and Milan is home to the popular Milan Brewing Company which is known for its unique flavors and high-quality beers.
  • Milan Wine Post: The Milan Wine Post has a wide variety of wines, both local and imported to choose from, making it the perfect place for wine-lovers.

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

  • Night Stay Inn: This charming inn is a perfect place to stay for those interested in seeing historic landmarks like Marblehead Lighthouse.
  • Vacation rentals: For longer stays, Milan offers a variety of vacation rentals that cater to families with children and groups of friends.

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

For souvenirs and local products, head to stores like Applewood Trading Post and Milan Wine & Post.

Local Culture and Customs of Milan

Milan is a small town and people here are friendly and welcoming. The town holds several community events throughout the year, from art shows and cultural festivals to food and wine tastings. Residents are proud of their town’s rich history and heritage, and love to share it with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Milan

The best time to visit Milan is during spring and autumn. The weather is mild, and attractions will be less crowded with tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Milan

Do:

  • Visit Indian Creek Museum
  • Explore Milan Canal Trail
  • Attend a show at Milan State Theatre

Don’t:

  • Ignore local customs and traditions
  • Litter on nature trails

Safety and Health

Safety in Milan

Milan is a safe town, and crime rates are low. However, visitors should still exercise standard safety precautions, such as keeping valuables out of sight, locking doors, and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Milan

For medical emergencies, visitors can go to Milan Medical Clinic or St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Ann Arbor, located about 25 minutes away.

Getting to Milan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Milan

The nearest airport to Milan is Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), which is about a 45-minute drive away.

Bus Stations Near Milan

There are no bus stations in Milan. However, visitors can take a bus to the nearby city of Ann Arbor and take a taxi to Milan from there.

Other Options

Milan is easily accessible by car, and visitors can rent a car at the airport. Another option is to take an Uber or taxi from the airport to Milan, which will take about 50 minutes.

How to Get Around in Milan

Milan is a small town, and most attractions are within walking or biking distance. Taxis are available for longer trips.

Where to Go Next from Milan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Toledo, Ohio: A 20-mile drive from Milan. Known for its art museums and Toledo Zoo.
  • Ann Arbor, Michigan: Located about 25 minutes from Milan. Famous for the University of Michigan and a vibrant arts and cultural scene.

Conclusion

Milan, Michigan, is a charming town with a rich history and beautiful scenery. Visitors can indulge in a wide range of activities, such as hiking, biking, exploring historic landmarks and museums, and sampling local food and beverages. Overall, Milan is a great destination for those seeking a small town feel and exploring the natural wonders of the Great Lakes region.