Around the World in Albion Michigan

Albion Michigan is home to Albion College and will be rich in global exploration during the month
of April. Several educational events are scheduled at various locations during April.

On April 10 two local residents will present their trip to China at the Albion District Library at 12:15. As an emerging world power in manufacturing and trade plus an ancie
nt civilization with an impressive documented history, the presentation promises to be a local traveler's insight into the exotic Far East.

On April 17, there will be a presentation on Beaver Island Michigan held at the Albion District Library at 12:15. The entire Midwest and possibly the entire country is aware of the very touristy vacation spot on Mackinac Island. However, even many Michiganders are unaware of an equally impressive settlement in Lake Michigan on Beaver Island. The island is the largest land mass on Lake Michigan that has become a popular traveler and tourist destination. This presentation should be very interesting and enlightening.

On April 18, Albion College is host to a talk by Alexander McCall Smith. Smith is a Scotsman who is author of "The #1 Ladies Detective Agency" series. The collection of mystery stories is set in Botswana and will highlight the differences and similarities in the detective styles of Africa vs America.  This speaking engagement will be held at the Goodrich Chapel on the Albion College campus at 7:00.

World Book Night will be celebrated on April 23 in Albion. There will be brief readings in various stores all around downtown. World Book night is celebrated around the globe with the message that books are fun—and they can be life-changing. Publishers give away books to encourage reading for fun. All of the above events are free and open to the public.

Two B&Bs in Albion have great locations as headquarters for an overnight trip to Albion. Albion Heritage Bed and Breakfast is located near the campus of Albion College. The Palmer House Inn is located on the edge of downtown Albion. Both inns feature small town hospitality for a visit to Southern Michigan

Garden Getaways in Southwest Michigan

It’s almost Spring in Southwest Michigan, and that means color everywhere! Carpets of little blue and white flowers will appear in lawns, the daffodils and tulips will pop up, and forsythias will sprout their brilliant yellow coats.  What better time to plan a trip that includes some of the best gardens in the state? Now is the time to seize the opportunity and discover the diversity of plants as you sample the greening "season" of Michigan.

Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Center, located in Niles, features 105 acres in the beautiful St. Joseph River Valley.  Fifty native species of wildflowers bloom in spring for a glorious celebration of the season. In Kalamazoo, the beautiful W.K. Kellogg Manor House on Gull Lake includes a 32 acre estate with green house, and authentic Dutch windmill, and several beautiful gardens. The entire estate in now part of the Kellogg Biological Station. Guided tours are available.

Voyager's Inn is an intimate Bed and Breakfast in Three Rivers Michigan that is centrally located to these blossoming gardens. Voyager's is a showcase of the Victorian Era's fine elegance (with modern amenities). Bouquets of roses or seasonal flowers can by added to your overnight getaway.

Tulip Time is coming to Holland May 4-11, 2013. Over four million tulips are expected to be in bloom and lining the streets of downtown Holland for this annual 8 day celebration of Spring. The popularity of this event makes it one of the 20 best attended festivals in the world.

Lodging is at a premium during Tulip Time, so make your arrangements early. J Paule's Fenn Inn in nearby Fennvile is very near the festivities and offers pet friendly accommodations. The DeLano Mansion Bed and Breakfast in Allegan offers a superior lodging experience near Lake Michigan.

Innkeepers of Southern Michigan.

 

Things to Do in Hudson Michigan

Southern Michigan small town charm can be found in the rural community of Hudson. Located about a half hour South of Jackson Michigan, small businesses and tourism flourish in this history-rich city. The entire downtown of Hudson Michigan is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  It was founded by Irish settlers in the mid 1800’s. The history and location makes a perfect fit for a quiet weekend getaway.

Main Street is peppered with a variety of unique stores and beautifully restored store fronts. Look for the ‘fairy house’ tucked away in one of the store front facades. Dining choices include Chinese, Mexican, fast food and American fares. Check out Rumors on Main Street for a casual dining experience (oysters to burgers), completely refurbished from the original front doors to the original flooring. ‘Like’ them on Facebook to be notified of daily specials and tasting events.

Looking for family fun? Hudson Cinema Plaza features family fun activities on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. First run movies can be viewed on the big screen at the movie theater. Be adventurous with a game of laser tag or glow in the dark miniature golf. Saturday night features Cosmic Bowling at Hudson Lanes. For a more quiet time, walk the Findlay Trail or let your imagination take you to the days of trains as you stroll along the trestle trail.

Visit historic William G. Thompson House Museum & Gardens. It is a "must see" for people interested in the fashion of 19th Century America. The Queen Anne home is an excellent example of style from the 1890s. An extensive collection of English, Continental, and Oriental art is featured in this home listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Check out the Hudson Library built in early 1900's from hand cut, local farm field stone. This Carnegie Library was built with money donated by American businessman, Andrew Carnegie. Most of the library buildings were unique, constructed in a number of styles chosen by the local community. Hudson Library is one of very few buildings built using these stones

While visiting Hudson, be sure to stay at Quigley's Log Home Bed and Breakfast – a comfortable, relaxing and friendly place to call home for the weekend. While there, start the day with Jack's Stuffed French Toast ("Mmm..this is wonderful!”), and enjoy Choyce's Buttermilk Cinnamon Bread - alway  a favorite! Hudson has it all - You will want to return here, or to another Southern Michigan Inn.

February Valentines Getaway in Southern Michigan

Valentine’s Day is approaching quickly.  While you are getting busy with this romantic holiday season, remember to plan an exciting romantic getaway with your special someone in Southern Michigan.  If you are looking for a relaxing, fun, and romantic experience, look no further than the spectacular inns of Southern Michigan Bed and Breakfast Association for creating a long lasting memory.

The Palmer House Inn Bed and Breakfast in downtown Albion has put together the 'Sweetest Package' that is the perfect choice for you and your lover!  Choose any day(s) in the month of February and they’ll take care of the rest to make it absolutely unforgettable for you.  This special package offers everything lovers will love:

1.  One or two nights--stay in one of our luxury rooms or suites
2.  One-hour full body massage for each person
3.  Fresh floral arrangement
4.  Decadent chocolates
5.  Gourmet dinner for two at the world-renowned  Schuler’s Restaurant in nearby Marshall
6.  Complimentary bottle of wine
7.  A scrumptious full breakfast each morning

You will be amazed by Scott’s tasty Black Forest French toast with cherry and chocolate syrup, which will certainly brighten up your whole morning and get you ready for the next day.  Prices range from $300-$530.  So come relax, be pampered, and enjoy a romantic evening or two with someone special!  Please don’t wait. Call now at (517)629-0001 or book online. We look forward to helping you celebrate.

Munro House B&B in Jonesville offers a similar Valentines Getaway in Jonesville with or without massages. Dewey Lake Manor in the gorgeous Irish Hills has their own 'really romantic' special with flowers sweets and wine. Check out the other Southern Michigan Inns for romantic getaway ideas.

Shipshewana Indiana Bed and Breakfast Headquarters

Shipshewana is the heart of Amish Country in North East Indiana. This Amish community is very organized and diverse. It may take more than a day to fully enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of this trip back to a simpler time. So when you plan your getaway, 2 nights or more may be needed to discover all the things to do in Amish Country.

Whether your getaway is romantic or adventurous, relaxing time with your getaway companions should be incorporated with seeing the sights. The McKenzie House B&B in Middlebury, Indiana, is conveniently located to Amish Country with knowledgeable hosts who can help you enjoy all there is to see and do. This bed and breakfast offers all of the comforts of home with someone else taking care of all the details.

A favorite eatery is the Rise & Roll Bakery & Deli in Middlebury. The locals enjoy their signature item--a cinnamon caramel doughnut--so much that is known as "Amish Crack" because of its instant addiction. It is only one of may tasty items to sample and take home. Their staff donates a portion of their day to the production of gluten-free baked goods, offering homemade white bread, cinnamon bread, pies, angel food cakes, sugar cookies, granola bars, and muffins. Traditional breads, cookies, pies, homemade crunches, and bulk foods are specialties.

The Midwest's largest flea market is at the Shipshewana Flea Market. Thousands of shoppers come each season to purchase fresh produce, flowers, and other plants as well as attending the antique auction. Local artists spend their workdays talking with tourists as they show off their talent. Special shows include livestock, art, guns, and quilts.

Nature and culture can also be part of your stay. The Ruthmere Mansion & Bearsley House are indoor historic sights in nearby Elkhart, Indiana. Part historic house museum, part world class art collection, and part performing arts venue makes this a cultural and historic part of your getaway. Guided tours are available in season beginning April 2, 2013.


Bicycle rentals are available at Pumpkinvine Cyclery to ride the local bike trails. Choose a street bike or a mountain bike to take on one of several routes recommended by the staff. Rent a canoe or kayak from Lazy Dayz Canoe Rental to take a ride down your choice several rivers and lakes including the St. Joseph and the Elkhart River. Trips range in length from 4 to 30 miles. Whatever your choice, beautiful scenery and picturesque places along the way are ideal for a picnic or photo opportunity. This slow pace is another way to enjoy the landscape and culture. 

A farm tour is another outdoor activity for couples and families. Buggy Lane tours offers a horse and buggy tour of the area with a real Amish driver. Complete the tour and add on a tour of a working Amish farm. Feed the animals, watch or assist in doing barnyard chores, talk with your hosts while they sew, make quilts, or prepare food in the Amish fashion. Then share a real Amish meal in a real Amish home with a real Amish family.

 

At the end of the day, your family and friends will return to enjoy the comforts of the McKenzie House Bed & Breakfast where you can recap the events and adventures of the day. Then relax in the pool, hot tub, or your large comfortable suite and have a great breakfast the next day with friendly conversation at the inn.

You will find Shipshewana and the surrounding communities to be relaxing and refreshing.  Picking up a copy of the Heritage Trail CD will act as a guided tour and will add to your adventures in Amish Country.  Many of the places mentioned are on that CD. All activities are within 30 minutes of the McKenzie House.

Irish Hills of Michigan Christmas Season Events

The Irish Hills, an area in Southern Lower Michigan, once settled by the Irish during the potato famine, is an area of quaint towns, scenic drives, sparkling lakes, Christmas tree farms ,and botanical gardens. Tthe weekend of November 30-December 2, is being promoted as “Holidays in the Hills”.



Hidden Lake Gardens, a 755 acre botanical garden and arboretum, is having their “evening of lights” November 30 & December 2 from 5-8pm. Enjoy a winter walk through over 2,000 luminaries. Saturday December 1^st 4-8pm, is their Holiday Festival, with music, crafts, Santa, and of course, the 2,000 luminaries. The gift shop and Conservatory will be open with holiday decorations and refreshments.

On Saturday December 1, 2012, Michigan International Speedway will host a charity track and toy drive. Donate a nonperishable food item or new unwrapped toy and take a lap around the track in your own vehicle--no motorcycles--from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.. Refreshments will be available.

Oh These Irish Hills! will have their Christmas Gala December 1 & 2, showcasing Holiday Trees (some to be auctioned Dec 2) and displays provided by Business, Organizations and Families. Holiday music and refreshments Saturday Dec 1.

And, remember, there are Christmas tree farms in the area, so you can take home a live Christmas tree.

There is also a Christmas Open House at Cherry Creek Schoolhouse Winery. Saturday December 1, 11-5:30 . Wine tasting, snacks, music.

Southern Michigan Inns within and near the Irish Hills include Dewey Lake Manor in Brooklyn, The Brickhouse in Somerset, Quigley's Log Home B&B in Hudson, and Munro House in Jonesville.

Innkeepers of Southern Michigan Inns

Things to do in Southern Michigan along Highway 99

Travel along M-99 between Lansing and the Ohio border for a day trip into southern Michigan.  At the historic Miller Dairy Farm in Eaton Rapids, enjoy home-made ice cream served at a historic counter every weekend. The Legend Inn in Dimondale is a centennial farm located near Eaton Rapids that serves as travel headquarters for visitors to the area.

In Albion, the Purple Gang Walking Tour is another unique stop telling the story of the infamous Detroit Purple Gang during the Prohibition era. They were known for smuggling labeled liquor across the Detroit River from Canada. Albion was the distribution point for gangs in Chicago and St Louis.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Whitehouse Nature Center in Albion features several walking trails in lengths from 1-5 miles.  Albion Heritage B&B is located adjacent to the campus of Albion College. The Palmer House Bed and Breakfast in downtown Albion has easy access to shops, restaurants, and the AmTrack train station. Innkeepers serve as concierge to the community in recommending interesting things to do when visiting the area and staying at the inn.

Great restaurants can be found in the village of Jonesville, located at highways 12 and 99. Whether the mood is for fast, diner, ethnic, casual, or fine dining, all of these food options are available in this town of 2,400 people. Saucy Dog's Barbeque serves excellent ribs, pulled pork, pulled chicken, brisket, and sandwiches. Olivia's Chop House offers the best fine dining experience in the county.

The Baw Beese Trail is a hiking and biking area that serves Jonesville and Hillsdale. This former railroad bed has been paved for a comfortable walk or ride during all seasons. Several parks along the trail include a disc golf course and Sandy Beach swimming area. Munro House B&B in downtown Jonesville provides comfortable lodging and easy access to area sights.

For wilderness hiking, the Lost Nation Trail between Osseo and Pittsford winds through a hardwood forest, brushy areas, and wetlands along the St. Joseph River bottomlands, and hosts 2,500 acres for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Innkeepers of Southern Michigan Inns