Akron Michigan ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Akron, Michigan.
1. Akron Village Park
COMMUNITY GREEN SPACE | AKRON MI
Akron Village Park serves as the central recreational hub for the village, featuring open lawns, a playground, picnic shelters, and sports courts. The park is a gathering place for local events, family outings, and seasonal celebrations. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it a favorite spot for both residents and visitors looking to enjoy outdoor activities.
2. Akron Park
LOCAL RECREATION AREA | AKRON MI
Akron Park offers residents and visitors a well-maintained space for relaxation and play, with amenities such as walking paths, benches, and shaded areas. It is commonly used for community picnics, youth sports, and casual strolls. The park’s peaceful setting provides a pleasant escape within the village.
3. Tuscola County Courthouse
HISTORIC LANDMARK | CARO MI
The Tuscola County Courthouse in Caro is renowned for its striking Art Deco architecture and a massive stained glass window designed in 1932. The window depicts a significant scene from the region’s history, adding a unique artistic and historical element to the building. Visitors can appreciate both the courthouse’s exterior and its rich local heritage.
4. Caro Post Office Wall Mural
NEW DEAL ART | CARO MI
The Caro Post Office features a vintage 1941 mural titled "Mail on the Farm," created as part of the Federal Art Project. This artwork captures a slice of rural Tuscola County life and is a notable example of Depression-era public art. Visitors can view the mural in the main lobby and learn about its historical context.
5. Vassar City Hall Wall Mural
HISTORICAL ARTWORK | VASSAR MI
The Vassar City Hall displays a large mural painted in 1952, depicting a historic scene from Vassar’s early days. The mural features local figures and is an important piece of community heritage, donated by the National Bank of Detroit. It is prominently installed in the council chambers for public viewing.
6. Millington-Arbela Historical Society
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM | MILLINGTON MI
The Millington-Arbela Historical Society Museum is housed in a former bank building and showcases artifacts from the area’s early businesses, schools, and military history. Visitors can explore rotating exhibits and learn about the community’s development over time. The museum’s mission is to preserve and share the region’s rich past.
7. Mayville Museum
SMALL-TOWN MUSEUM | MAYVILLE MI
The Mayville Museum, located in the heart of Michigan’s Thumb, is open seasonally and features local artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia. The museum is situated in a historic house and offers insights into the daily life and history of the Mayville area. It is a welcoming stop for those interested in small-town heritage.
8. Caro Roadhouse Museum
COMMUNITY HISTORY MUSEUM | CARO MI
The Caro Roadhouse Museum is a public museum that hosts annual open house events with displays of local collections and artifacts. The museum is housed in a historic building and is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors. Its exhibits cover a variety of topics relevant to Caro’s history and development.
9. Thumb Octagon Barn
AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE SITE | GAGETOWN MI
The Thumb Octagon Barn is an iconic agricultural museum and educational center, open for tours and community events. The barn complex includes historic buildings and exhibits on farming practices, rural life, and local history. It is a unique destination for families and history enthusiasts interested in Michigan’s agricultural roots.
10. Fish Point State Wildlife Area
NATURE & WILDLIFE | UNIONVILLE MI
Fish Point State Wildlife Area is a sprawling preserve along Saginaw Bay, known for its excellent birdwatching, hunting, and wildlife observation opportunities. The area features wetlands, trails, and observation platforms, making it a haven for nature lovers. Seasonal migrations attract birders from across the region.
11. Dining Attractions
RESTAURANTS & PLACES TO EAT | AKRON MI
Tuscola County offers a variety of dining experiences, from classic American diners in Akron to family restaurants and pizzerias in nearby Caro and Vassar. Local favorites include hearty breakfasts, homemade pies, and friendly service in a welcoming, small-town atmosphere. For broader options, visitors can explore farm-to-table eateries and cozy cafes throughout the county.
12. Shopping Attractions
PLACES TO SHOP | AKRON MI
Shopping in Tuscola County centers around unique local businesses, antique stores, and specialty shops, especially in Caro and Cass City. Visitors can browse for handcrafted gifts, vintage finds, and regional products that reflect the area’s heritage. Farmers markets and seasonal fairs also provide opportunities to purchase local goods.
13. Hiking
HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE | AKRON MI
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore scenic trails in the Tuscola State Game Area and Murphy Lake State Game Area, both offering miles of paths through forests and wetlands. These areas are ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying Michigan’s natural beauty. The Southern Links Trailway also provides a multi-use path connecting several communities.
14. Fishing
PLACES TO FISH | AKRON MI
Anglers will find abundant fishing opportunities at Murphy Lake, the Cass River, and Fish Point State Wildlife Area. These waters are home to bass, bluegill, perch, and seasonal runs of other species. Public access sites and quiet lakes make the county a relaxing destination for fishing.
15. Camping
PLACES TO CAMP | AKRON MI
Vanderbilt Park and Campground, located along the Saginaw Bay shoreline, offers tent and RV camping with scenic views and modern amenities. Murphy Lake State Game Area also provides rustic camping options for those seeking a more natural experience. Both locations are popular with families and outdoor adventurers looking to enjoy the region’s landscape.