Crystal Falls MichiganATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Crystal Falls, Michigan.
1. Bewabic State Park
SERENE NATURE RETREAT
Bewabic State Park offers visitors a peaceful natural setting with beautiful fall foliage and calm waters. The park provides excellent opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and camping in the Upper Peninsula. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere while exploring the park's scenic trails and lakefront areas.
2. Crystal Theater
HISTORIC ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Crystal Theater stands as a charming cultural landmark in the heart of Crystal Falls. This historic venue hosts various performances ranging from plays to musical concerts throughout the year. Visitors can experience the local arts scene while enjoying the theater's classic ambiance and community atmosphere.
3. Paint River Boardwalk
SCENIC RIVERSIDE PATHWAY
The Paint River Boardwalk provides a handicap-accessible path along the beautiful Paint River on the east side of town. Located at the bottom of the hill on highway M-69 in Lincoln Park, this popular spot features benches, barrier-free fishing piers, and an interpretive nature trail. The boardwalk is also a favorite location for weddings due to its scenic views and peaceful atmosphere.
4. Harbour House Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
Harbour House Museum preserves and displays the rich historical heritage of Crystal Falls and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and stories that chronicle the development of this Upper Peninsula community. The museum offers insight into the region's mining history, cultural evolution, and the lives of early settlers.
5. Winks Woods
NATURAL FOREST EXPLORATION
Winks Woods offers a pristine forest environment for nature enthusiasts visiting Crystal Falls. The woods feature well-maintained trails for hiking and wildlife observation in Michigan's scenic Upper Peninsula. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquility of northern Michigan's natural beauty while enjoying outdoor activities year-round.
6. Crystal View Golf Course
SCENIC GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Crystal View Golf Course provides golfers with a picturesque setting amidst the natural beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The well-maintained course offers challenging play for golfers of all skill levels with its diverse terrain and layout. Visitors can enjoy not only the game but also the stunning panoramic views that give the course its fitting name.
7. Iron County Courthouse
HISTORIC CASTLE-LIKE LANDMARK
The Iron County Courthouse, built in 1890, stands as an impressive castle-like structure at the center of Crystal Falls. This historic building is listed on both the State and National Register of Historical Places and houses a mini-museum open on weekdays from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Visitors are encouraged to explore the magnificent courtroom on the second floor and enjoy spectacular views of the main street from its windows.
8. Runkle Lake Recreational Complex
COMPLETE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Runkle Lake Recreational Complex offers a comprehensive outdoor experience with 57 fully-equipped campsites operating from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The city-owned facility features public restrooms, showers, an RV dump station, various sports courts, a playground, and a swimming beach. Visitors can also enjoy the public boat ramp and fishing pier, making it an ideal destination for families seeking diverse recreational activities.
9. Crystella Ski Hill
WINTER SPORTS DESTINATION
Crystella Ski Hill provides winter enthusiasts with sledding, snowboarding, and skiing opportunities in Crystal Falls. The recreational area is maintained by dedicated volunteers through the Crystella Recreation Association, which is working to offer year-round activities. Visitors can enjoy affordable winter fun with daily ski passes available for $8 or season passes for $35.
10. Horse Race Rapids
THRILLING WATER ADVENTURE
Horse Race Rapids offers an exhilarating natural water feature that attracts adventure seekers to Crystal Falls. The rushing waters create a dynamic landscape perfect for photography and appreciation of Michigan's powerful natural forces. Visitors can witness the impressive rapids while enjoying the surrounding wilderness area of the Upper Peninsula.
11. Shopping
LOCAL RETAIL EXPLORATION
Shopping in Crystal Falls provides visitors with a chance to explore charming local businesses and find unique Upper Peninsula treasures. The downtown area features specialty shops offering everything from handcrafted items to outdoor gear and regional products. Tourists can support the local economy while discovering distinctive souvenirs and necessities during their stay in this quaint Michigan town.
12. Dining
TASTY LOCAL CUISINE
Dining in Crystal Falls offers visitors a variety of culinary experiences ranging from casual diners to comfortable pub settings. Local establishments like Curious Pig, Fob's Restaurant, and Paint River Landing serve American favorites, barbecue, and pub fare in welcoming atmospheres. Travelers can savor authentic Upper Peninsula flavors while enjoying the friendly service characteristic of this small Michigan community.
13. Hiking
NATURAL TRAIL ADVENTURES
Hiking around Crystal Falls presents outdoor enthusiasts with scenic trails through the diverse ecosystems of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The area offers paths suitable for various skill levels, with opportunities to discover hidden waterfalls, dense forests, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can enjoy day hikes that showcase the natural beauty of the region while experiencing the therapeutic benefits of northern Michigan's wilderness.
14. Fishing
PREMIER ANGLING DESTINATION
Fishing in Crystal Falls provides anglers with excellent opportunities to catch a variety of freshwater species in the area's numerous lakes and rivers. The Paint River and surrounding waterways are well-known for their abundant fish populations, making this a major recreation area for fishing enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy peaceful days on the water with accessible fishing piers available at locations like the Paint River Boardwalk and Runkle Lake.
15. Camping
OUTDOOR WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
Camping in Crystal Falls offers nature lovers the chance to immerse themselves in the pristine wilderness of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The area features several camping options, including the well-equipped Runkle Lake Recreation Complex with 57 sites providing electric, water, and sewer hookups. Visitors can enjoy starry nights and peaceful surroundings while using the campgrounds as a base to explore the region's many outdoor attractions.