Grayling MichiganATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Grayling, Michigan.
1. Hartwick Pines State Park
MAJESTIC OLD GROWTH FOREST
Hartwick Pines State Park offers visitors a rare glimpse into Michigan's old growth forest with towering white pines that have stood for centuries. The park features well-maintained trails, a logging museum that preserves the area's rich timber history, and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities throughout its expansive grounds. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and seasonal activities like cross-country skiing in this pristine natural setting.
2. Hanson Hills
YEAR-ROUND OUTDOOR RECREATION
Hanson Hills Recreation Area provides visitors with exciting outdoor activities throughout all four seasons of the year. In winter, guests can enjoy snow tubing, downhill skiing, and snowboarding on family-friendly slopes, while summer brings opportunities for mountain biking, hiking, and disc golf. The well-maintained facilities and reasonable prices make this a favorite destination for both locals and tourists seeking active recreation near Grayling.
3. Mason Tract Pathway
SCENIC WILDERNESS TRAIL
Mason Tract Pathway offers hikers a serene journey through pristine Michigan wilderness with trails following the scenic South Branch of the Au Sable River. The pathway winds through diverse ecosystems, providing opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of northern Michigan's forests. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the well-marked trails and peaceful atmosphere that makes this area a perfect escape from everyday life.
4. Wellington Farm
LIVING DEPRESSION-ERA HISTORY
Wellington Farm Park transports visitors back to the Great Depression era through its 60-acre living history museum showcasing rural American life during the 1930s. Guests can explore historic buildings, watch demonstrations of period farming techniques, and interact with knowledgeable interpreters dressed in period clothing. The immersive experience provides valuable insights into how Americans persevered through one of the nation's most challenging economic periods.
5. Grayling Fish Hatchery Museum Project
HISTORIC AQUATIC CONSERVATION
The Grayling Fish Hatchery Museum Project preserves an important piece of Michigan's conservation history while educating visitors about aquatic ecosystems and fish management. Visitors can tour the historic facilities, learn about the crucial role the hatchery played in maintaining fish populations in Michigan's rivers and lakes, and even feed fish in the raceways. The combination of history, education, and hands-on activities makes this a fascinating stop for visitors of all ages.
6. Crawford County Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE PRESERVED
The Crawford County Historical Museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the rich story of Grayling and the surrounding region through carefully preserved items and informative displays. Visitors can explore collections highlighting early settler life, military history, and the development of the area from its logging heyday to the present. The museum provides an intimate look at the people and events that shaped this northern Michigan community over generations.
7. Au Sable River
PREMIER WATERWAY ADVENTURE
The Au Sable River flows through Grayling offering world-class recreational opportunities on its crystal-clear waters that wind through scenic forests. Visitors can enjoy peaceful canoeing, kayaking, or tubing trips with multiple access points and rental services available throughout the area. The river's calm current and beautiful surroundings make it perfect for both experienced paddlers and families looking for a relaxing day on the water.
8. Rialto Theater
HISTORIC CINEMA EXPERIENCE
The Rialto Theater brings classic movie-going charm to downtown Grayling with its nostalgic atmosphere and affordable entertainment options. This historic venue screens both current films and special features while maintaining the character and community spirit of traditional small-town theaters. Visitors appreciate the reasonable prices, friendly service, and the opportunity to experience cinema in a setting that recalls simpler times.
9. St. Mary's Catholic Church
SPIRITUAL ARCHITECTURAL GEM
St. Mary's Catholic Church stands as a beautiful place of worship in Grayling with its distinctive architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors of all faiths can appreciate the craftsmanship of the building, the historical significance to the community, and the tranquil environment perfect for reflection. The church represents an important cultural and spiritual landmark in the area's development and continues to serve both residents and visitors.
10. W.J. Beal Tree Plantation
HISTORIC FORESTRY EXPERIMENT
The W.J. Beal Tree Plantation represents one of America's oldest experimental forest projects, established to study reforestation techniques and tree species adaptation. Visitors can walk through living history as they observe the results of scientific forestry experiments that have been growing for generations. The plantation offers both educational value for those interested in conservation and a peaceful natural setting for casual exploration.
11. Shopping
LOCAL RETAIL THERAPY
Shopping in Grayling offers visitors a charming small-town retail experience with locally-owned boutiques, gift shops, and specialty stores scattered throughout the downtown area. Visitors can browse for unique souvenirs, outdoor gear, artisan crafts, and Michigan-made products not found in typical chain stores. The friendly atmosphere and personalized service create a relaxed shopping environment that complements the other recreational activities available in the region.
12. Dining
FLAVORFUL LOCAL CUISINE
Dining in Grayling presents visitors with a variety of culinary options ranging from casual family restaurants to cozy cafés serving hearty northern Michigan fare. Local establishments pride themselves on friendly service, reasonable prices, and dishes that often feature regional ingredients like freshly caught fish from nearby waters. After a day of outdoor adventure, travelers can refuel at eateries that capture the welcoming spirit of this small town while enjoying satisfying meals.
13. Hiking
WILDERNESS TRAIL EXPLORATION
Hiking around Grayling offers outdoor enthusiasts access to miles of scenic trails winding through diverse natural landscapes including old-growth forests, river valleys, and rolling hills. Trail systems like those found in Hartwick Pines State Park and the surrounding Huron-Manistee National Forests accommodate hikers of all experience levels with clearly marked routes and varying degrees of difficulty. Nature lovers can enjoy seasonal displays of wildflowers, fall colors, and opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitats.
14. Fishing
LEGENDARY ANGLING WATERS
Fishing in Grayling has earned a world-class reputation, particularly for fly fishing on the famous Au Sable River with its healthy trout population and crystal-clear waters. Anglers can also explore numerous lakes and streams in the area, each offering unique fishing experiences for both novice and experienced sportsmen throughout the seasons. Local outfitters provide equipment, guides, and valuable knowledge about the best fishing spots, making this an accessible activity for visitors even if they didn't bring their own gear.
15. Camping
NATURAL OVERNIGHT RETREATS
Camping near Grayling delivers an authentic northern Michigan outdoor experience with numerous state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds offering sites amid beautiful natural settings. Options range from rustic tent sites for those seeking a primitive experience to full-service RV parks with modern amenities and everything in between. The camping locations provide convenient access to recreational activities like hiking, fishing, and paddling while allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the peaceful atmosphere of Michigan's forests.