THE BRIGHTON HOWELL AREA
An inviting landscape and location that are equally accessible and attractive, the Brighton Howell Area delivers adventuresome experiences that are both rural and urban. Let this magazine serve as your tour guide while you plan your next great getaway. Look for these icons along the way:
ACRES OF PARKS
50,000+ MILES OF TRAILS
123 LAKES
184 PUBLIC GOLF COURSES
19
INSIDER TIP: Conveniently located between Detroit, Lansing, Ann Arbor, and Flint, far away isn’t so far, making it the perfect place for a quick getaway.
TOP 5 LOCAL FAVORITES
1
HIT THE TRAILS AT KENSINGTON METROPARK
Miles of paved trails are perfect for bikes, strollers, or snowshoes. Explore this attraction yearround!
Bonus: Cool off in summer with a stop at Splash ’n’ Blast or Martindale Beach.
2
EXPERIENCE UNIQUE ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS
Get educated on local wildlife at Howell Nature Center or spot real-life kangaroos at Carousel Acres in South Lyon.
For a petting zoo experience, head to Spicer Orchards!
Kensington Splash ’n’ Blast
Carousel Acres
4
TEE OFF WITH A VIEW
Public courses that feel like you’ve been transported Up North. If the weather doesn’t allow, hit the virtual links at Tap‑In’s in Howell.
3
SHOP MAIN STREET BOUTIQUES
Walkable award-winning downtowns mix boutique style with small-town charm. Find Michigan-made favorites at Heart of Michigan in Howell, or shop bold accessories and fun gifts at Wallflower Mercantile in Brighton. The door jingles open, and just like that, you’re treated like a local.
5
GO TO HELL! MICHIGAN, THAT IS
The unique town of Hell, Michigan, offers visitors the chance to say they’ve been to Hell and back. Play a round of Putt‑Putt Mini Golf, lock in your love on the Locks of Love Bridge, and even serve as Mayor for the Day!
WITH KIDS? Keep an eye out for these Rainy Day Castaway Café, The Arcade, or Historic Howell Theater Energy Burners Howell Nature Center or Genoa Township Park Playscapes Brighton Imagination Station or Howell Summit Gardens
Downtown Howell
Chemung Hills Golf & Banquet Center
Hell, Michigan
MOVE AT YOUR OWN SPEED
Trails that awaken your inner naturalist. Days defined by the sun’s blush on your face and the sand’s kiss between your toes.
Take a leisurely stroll on the Mike Levine Lakelands Trail State Park or hop on your bike at Settlers Park in Hartland. Wherever your outdoor adventure takes you, the Brighton Howell Area has the perfect location.
PADDLE, WADE, SPLASH, REPEAT
With over 180 lakes and countless scenic waterways, the Brighton Howell Area is a haven for water lovers.
Cool off with a dip at a serene public beach, like Spring Mill Pond in Island Lake Recreation Area. Or, drop your paddleboard at one of the many access points along the Huron River Water Trail for a scenic float.
No kayak? No problem! The area offers plenty of places to rent a kayak or canoe. Try Hell Canoe & Kayak Rentals for a picturesque cruise down Hell Creek.
TRAIL PICKS BY TYPE
For hikers: The beloved Penosha Trail in Brighton Recreation Area is a must when hiking in the area.
For cyclists: The Potawatomi Trail in Pinckney Recreation Area is the perfect mix of challenging turns and peaceful stretches.
For birdwatchers: Kensington Metropark is the ultimate spot for the best birdwatching and hand feeding.
For horseback riding: Deerfield Hills Nature Area features a peaceful 5-mile riding trail that winds through tranquil woodlands, perfect for a quiet ride.
Best Sunset Spot: Thompson Lake in downtown Howell.
Trails with Water Views: Kent Lake Loop & Wildwing Trail in Kensington Metropark, Trout Lake Loop in Island Lake Recreation Area, and the Mill Pond Trail in downtown Brighton offer scenic water views.
Accessible Option: Mike Levine Lakelands Trail is the perfect spot for an easy hike with its straightforward path through serene nature.
Pet‑friendly? You bet. Just pack the leash.
TRAIL ETIQUETTE
Stick to the trail to help protect plants and wildlife.
Be kind and share the path—let others go first when needed.
Keep right, pass on the left, and say a quick “hello” or “on your left!”
Take only memories, leave no trash— even crumbs matter!
Keep pets close and clean up after them so everyone enjoys the trail.
@meghanterbush15
FROST & FAIRWAYS
PLAY ALL YEAR
WINTER DOESN’T SLOW THINGS DOWN—IT JUST CHANGES THE GEAR
The Brighton Howell Area becomes a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts when winter rolls in. Skiing and Snowboarding lovers enjoy the 25 downhill trail runs at Mt. Brighton Ski Resort, which covers 130 acres.
Trek through the snow on snowshoes at Kensington Metropark, go cross-country skiing at Huron Meadows Metropark, or hit Island Lake Recreation Area’s fat tire biking trails. Whatever adventure you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it here.
Jimmy Banish
GREENS THAT GO THE DISTANCE
Known as giving Up North vibes without the long drive, the golf courses throughout the Brighton Howell Area offer a golfer’s paradise.
The 19 public courses in the area are your chance to reconnect and unwind, featuring rolling hills, scenic views, and the ultimate serenity.
Hit The Majestic at Lake Walden, a 27-hole course spanning 1,400 acres of meadows, forests, and wetlands, where one of the holes requires you to take a pontoon to the green. For the ultimate rustic course, check out The Links at Hunters Ridge in Howell.
2‑DAY TRIPS
TWO DAYS, THREE WAYS TO EXPLORE
STEP INTO YOUR PERFECT DAY
Morning light on Bishop Lake, kayaks skimming quiet water, trails unwinding under tall trees. By afternoon, think street tacos and a biergarten toast before the sun leans low.
Families find gentle animal hellos, a playground that makes kids fly, sweet treats in sticky hands, pizza picnics, and a lake that begs one more splash.
Date days linger over hand-warming coffee, a classic marquee, a lakeside walk that slows the world, and a candlelit table to finish strong.
Choose your kind of day: fresh air, easy fun, or time to recharge.
FOR THE OUTDOOR CROWD
Day 1
• Have breakfast at Cheryl’s Place
• Kayak and hike in Brighton Recreation Area
• Devour street tacos from El Arbol
• Grab a German-inspired beer at Brewery Becker’s Biergarten
Day 2
• Bike Settler’s Park in Hartland
• Get lunch + a brew at Hartland Brewing Co.
• Tee off at Dunham Hills Golf Club
• Wrap up with dinner at Mackle’s Table & Taps
FOR FAMILIES
Day 1
• Snag a quick breakfast from Bagels & Bites
• Explore Kensington Metropark Farm Center for animal encounters
• Hit Brighton Imagination Station 10,000square-foot playground and Jackie’s Custard
• End the day with a delicious dinner at Log Cabin
Day 2
• Wander Howell Nature Center’s Wildlife Park and Alexandria’s NatureScape
• Grab Gus’s Carry Out for a pizza picnic at Scofield Park
• Lounge and splash at Thompson Lake
FOR COUPLES
Day 1
• Begin with an energizing drink from Black Iron Coffee Roasters
• See a movie at Historic Howell Theater
• Head to Kensington Metropark for a lakeside walk
• Grab dinner from Brighton Bar & Grill
Day 2
• Take a crafty class at the Ceramic Studio
• Quick sandwich at The Crunchy Pickle
• Hit the [virtual] links with craft cocktails from Tap-In’s Range
• Stroll and shop downtown Howell boutiques
• Have a candlelit dinner at Diamonds Steak and Seafood
SLOW SIPS, FULL FLAVOR
FROM COZY CAFÉS TO BOLD BREWS, LOCAL FLAVOR SHINES ALL DAY
The ultimate adventure begins with a delicious cup of joe. Start your day with a handcrafted latte paired with a tasty, freshly made pastry at Brighton Coffee House & Theater in downtown Brighton.
If you’re looking to carbo-load before your big day of adventuring, the bakeries in the area have you covered. Indulge in handmade breads from Oh Crumbs! Bakery in downtown Howell or dive into delicious baked goods at Cinnamon Lane Bakery!
Whether you’re fueling up before a big hike or winding down on a window seat with a book, good coffee is always close by.
COFFEE & CRAFT
BOLD POURS, LAID‑BACK VIBES
Indulge in the vibrant and diverse craft beverage scene perfect for beer lovers, wine enthusiasts, and cider sippers alike. Home to eight breweries, two wineries, and a cidery, the Brighton Howell Area is a craft lover’s paradise.
Spend the day hopping between taprooms and beer gardens like Brewery Becker to taste German-inspired ales.
BREWERIES
ABERRANT ALES | Howell
BLOCK BREWING | Brighton & Howell
BREWERY BECKER | Brighton
FOUR CIRCLES BREWERY | Brighton
HARTLAND BREWING CO. | Hartland
WINERIES
HOWELL MAINSTREET WINERY
Howell
SPICER’S WINERY & BREWERY
Hartland
WILSON ESTATE VINEYARDS
Stockbridge CIDERY
ORE CREEK CRAFT CIDERY & TAPROOM
Pinckney
SMALL TOWNS, BIG FLAVOR
PLATES WORTH THE TRIP
A TASTE OF THE BRIGHTON HOWELL AREA
Here, comfort food comes crafted with care. Chefs turn locally sourced ingredients into time-honored favorites and inventive twists that turn local inspiration into something unforgettable. Every plate celebrates Michigan flavors and the hands that bring them to life, inviting you to slow down, savor, and enjoy every bite.
LOCAL FAVORITES
A trip to the Brighton Howell Area can’t be complete without trying the awardwinning breadsticks paired with handcrafted pasta at Tomato Brothers in Howell or the legendary burger at Champ’s Pub in Brighton, a local favorite for more than 40 years. It’s the kind of welcome that makes arriving hungry feel like a good decision.
SAVOR THE NIGHT
Cozy up at The Silver Pig Bar & Oyster Room in Howell for small plates, oysters, brick-oven pizza, craft cocktails and wine by candlelight.
Craving pasta? Cello Italian Restaurant serves house-made Italian in a romantic dinner for two.
MORNINGS MADE BETTER
Start your day the delicious way with a hearty, hometown breakfast from Lynn’s on First, a local favorite known for its warm atmosphere and classic comfort food. Wrap up your weekend with an upscale brunch at The Reserve Steak‑ house where elevated flavors and craft cocktails come together.
FLAVORS TO SHARE
Sushi Zen in downtown Brighton brings Japanese, Korean, and Asian fusion to life. Signature dishes include the Hometown Roll, a Brighton nod, and the Sushi Love Boat for two, paired with sashimi, garlic bombs, or chicken wings in a cozy, inviting space.
PATIO SEASON, PERFECTED
Overlooking the lake, Whitmore Lake Tavern is a local favorite that pairs fresh perch sandwiches and hearty wraps with panoramic water views and a sunny patio made for lingering.
In Pinckney, Zukey Lake Tavern is a favorite stop after exploring the chain of lakes. Refuel with a juicy burger or crisp flatbread, then relax on the patio with sweeping lake views.
LOCAL PICKS
PERFECT DAYS, LOCAL STYLE
HERE’S HOW LOCALS SPEND THEIR TIME
@artistry_and_aesthetics
Ease into the day with a fresh-roasted blend at Good Sense Coffee. Then, head to Island Lake Recreation Area for a hike or bike. Browse the Howell’s Sunday Farmers’ Market for just-picked produce, handcrafted items, and more.
In the colder months, stop at the Howell Opera House, Home of the Livingston Arts Council, for the Winter Market, or catch a performance at the Brighton Center for the Performing Arts.
Summer evenings bring Turn Up the AMP! in Brighton, handcrafted cider on the patio at Ore Creek Craft Cidery & Taproom, and catch an outdoor performance from the Livingston County Concert Band.
THE FOODIE’S DAY
from Erin M., Brighton
11:30 AM – Start with freshly made sweet or savory crepes at Culture Beer & Cheese
12:30 PM – Browse Brighton Main Street shops and stop by the CoBACH Center for local art
1:30 PM – Settle in for a Southern-style lunch and cocktails at Bourbons and don’t miss the deviled eggs or shrimp & grits
6:00 PM – Head to downtown Howell for dinner on the patio at 2FOG’s Pub
8:00 PM – Snag a nightcap from a social district restaurant for a casual walk downtown
“Everything’s easy, close, and delicious. You don’t need a plan, just an appetite.”
—Erin M., Brighton
FAMILY FUN IN 12 HOURS
from Jen E., Howell
10:00 AM – See the animals at Carousel Acres Petting Farm
11:30 AM – Pick Your Own Fruit and devour sugary donuts from Blake’s Lyon Township
1:00 PM – Lunch at Coratti’s Pizzeria Bar and Bocce for cheesy pizza
3:00 PM – Laser tag and arcade fun at Rollerama Zap Zone Brighton
5:00 PM – Quick dinner at Jonna’s Bar & Grill in Howell
6:30 PM – Cool off with a cone from the Whistle Stop Ice Cream Caboose
“It’s the kind of day where everyone goes to bed early, with smiles.”
—Jen E., Howell
LOCAL PICKS
LOOK FOR THE PIN!
When you see someone wearing the Certified Tourism Ambassador (CTA) pin, you’ve found a local expert who’s trained and ready to share the best of the Brighton Howell Area. A CTA can help you find the perfect trail, a can’t-miss restaurant, or insider tips for your visit.
LIVE HERE?
Join the team! Becoming a CTA is a great way to share your love for the area, connect with visitors, and be part of a network that’s shaping unforgettable experiences.
MICHIGAN FINDS & LOCAL TREASURES
WALKABLE DOWNTOWNS LINED WITH BOUTIQUE SHOPPING
Howell’s award-winning Main Street and Brighton’s boutique district are at the heart of the area’s shopping scene. Stroll their walkable downtowns for locally owned shops you won’t find anywhere else, where friendly hellos and unique finds go hand in hand.
BEYOND DOWNTOWN
Just minutes away, Green Oak Village Place offers shopping with everyday essentials in a picturesque setting. Kensington Valley Outlets delivers favorite brand name shops, outlet prices, and seasonal sales in a convenient, open-air setting.
SHOP & STROLL
MICHIGAN FINDS
Looking for something one-of-a-kind?
Visit Wood ’N Things in Brighton, a family-owned favorite housed in a historic 1890s home with a rustic, train-like exterior and an attached caboose.
LOCAL TREASURES
Dragonfly Emporium, an iconic gift shop and home décor store in the heart of downtown Howell, offers a magical shopping experience with whimsical gifts and rotating seasonal displays.
Livingston Antique Outlet, a big red barn just three miles from downtown Howell, offers the area’s largest selection of quality antiques. With more than 32,800 square feet of space, plan some extra time to see it all!
SIMPLY STYLISH
Shop for your next designer find at Brass + Oak, where women are given the strength to feel great with fashionable, superior-quality, and individual clothing and accessories.
Coral Sash offers trendy styles for all ages, with fun, comfort, and great value in clothing, footwear, and accessories.
HOME DECOR
In downtown Howell, Simply Home houses an exciting array of home decor and stand-out pieces to compliment an upscale, cozy, chic aesthetic. Peruse vintage restored furniture at Walnut Street Marketplace.
SCAN TO FIND A LOCAL TREASURE
SHOP & STROLL
WHERE THE SEASONS COME TO LIFE
HARVEST YOUR OWN ADVENTURE
Spring blooms, summer fields, fall harvests, and winter markets—the Brighton Howell Area serves up farmfresh experiences year-round.
Schell Family Farm in Pinckney is known for its fall-related activities like wagon rides, apple picking, pumpkin patches, and sunflower fields.
Blake’s Lyon Township offers summer cherries, fresh cider, and an autumn pumpkin patch.
Spicer Orchards in Hartland is a local favorite for strawberries, peaches, apples, pumpkins, cider, and donuts— plus family-friendly wagon rides and seasonal fun.
In Howell, Hazen’s Farm, family-run for over 50 years, is celebrated for its u-pick blueberries and raspberries.
FARMERS’ MARKETS
May – October Brighton Farmers’ Market
| 8 AM–1 PM Hartland Farmers’ Market
| 9 AM–1 PM
Howell’s Sunday Farmers’ Market Sundays | 9 AM–2 PM Pinckney Farmers’ Market Sundays | 1 PM–5 PM Whitmore Lake Farmers’ Market Sundays | 10 AM–2 PM
Hazen’s Farm
Hamlett Lavender Farm
Spicer Orchards
Schell Family Farm
ARTS, EVENTS & CULTURE
BIG EVENTS SMALL‑TOWN CHARM
ART AROUND EVERY CORNER
Murals and bike-rack sculptures splash color across downtown Howell, while the Howell Opera House and Community Theatre of Howell keep nights alive with concerts and live performances.
The Oaken Transformations Sculpture & Poetry Walk winds through the woods of Brighton blending art and nature into a free outdoor gallery.
The Brighton Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit showcases 30+ works, and downtown Art in the Alley transforms a walkway into a gallery for local artists. The historic CoBACH Center anchors the scene, organizing exhibits, performances, and a celebration of local history.
In Hartland, the Village Welcome mural fills each letter with stories and landmarks, a colorful invitation to the community.
LIVE MUSIC, LOCAL EVENTS & SEASONAL CELEBRATIONS
All year long, the Brighton Howell Area’s calendar is filled with a variety of events. In summer, experience hot air balloons as they drift over Howell during the Michigan Challenge Balloonfest. Feel the midway buzz of the Fowlerville Family Fair, with a full carnival, animals in the show ring, and the thrill of a rodeo cheer.
Summer evenings are made for live outdoor music at Brighton’s Turn Up the AMP! and Concerts at the Courthouse in Howell.
Find beautiful handmade art at Pinckney Art in the Park, taste the sweetness of homegrown Howell Melons and melon ice cream at the Howell Melon Festival, or sip bourbon in your derby best as hooves thunder across the polo field at the Hartland Polo Classic.
During the fall, flavors come alive at Brighton Smokin’ Rock‑N‑Blue’s Festival where smokers line the streets to offer your taste buds something delicious. Explore the sights and sounds of the season at the Kensington Met‑ ropark Fall Festival through hayrides, pumpkin patches, animal meet and greets, and live entertainment. Don your best lederhosen and lift your stein high at Howell’s can’t-miss Rocktoberfest.
The holiday season comes alive as the downtowns sparkle under twinkling lights with Howell’s Fantasy of Lights parade. Witness the warm glow of flames from hot air balloon baskets as pilots head through downtown Fowlerville at Christmas in the Ville. Shop local vendors during Brighton’s Holiday Glow with Christmas Market.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
SPRING
Farmers’ Markets Open
Pinckney Art in the Park
SUMMER
Hamburg Family Fun Fest
Michigan Challenge Balloonfest
Fowlerville Family Fair
Howell Melon Festival
Brighton Street Art Fair FALL
hARTland Art Walk
Brighton Smokin’ Rock-N-Blues Festival
Destination Stars Hollow
Legend of Sleepy Howell
WINTER
Fantasy of Lights Parade
Brighton’s Holiday Glow with Christmas Market
Christmas in the Ville
WHERE TO STAY
STAY YOUR WAY
Check in with ease, drop your bags, and splash in the pool—your adventure starts right here. Mornings begin with freshly brewed coffee paired with deliciously warm waffles, while evenings end with an intimate experience near a fireplace in a relaxed setting.
Conveniently located near major highways, Brighton Howell Area hotels make it effortless to catch an early tee time, head to a tournament, or explore the region.
The perks that matter most will be found here. Enjoy reliable Wi-Fi, free parking, and fitness rooms for when you need a quick workout on the go.
No matter why you’re traveling, the area offers the perfect accommodation to fit all your needs.
POOLSIDE BREAKS
Grab your suit to unwind after a full day of exploring the area. Make a splash at hotels like Candlewood Suites in Brighton and Courtyard by Marriott Detroit Brighton along with many other area places to stay. Each offer their own inviting indoor pools and hot tubs for refreshing, all-season fun.
EASY STARTS
Many Brighton Howell Area hotels offer complimentary hot breakfast featuring eggs, waffles, coffee, and fresh fruit to fuel you for a day full of adventures. And yes, those signature cinnamon rolls at Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Brighton or Howell are warm, gooey, and worth the wake-up.
ADVENTURES WITH YOUR PET
You don’t have to leave your four-legged friend at home on your next great getaway. Some pet-welcoming stays include Hampton Inn Brighton and Homewood Suites by Hilton Brighton, with more plenty more options across the area.
WOODLAND RETREATS
For the ultimate outdoor adventure, book the Glenbrook Yurt nestled in the serene woodlands of the Pinckney Recreation Area situated on a ridge that overlooks the Portage River, along with Halfmoon Lake. Just steps away from the Potawatomi trail and conveniently located just one-mile from Hell, Michigan. This unique spot offers a romantic getaway for two in the woods or the perfect trip for the whole family.
AREA MAP
FAR AWAY
ISN’T SO FAR
Quick Drive Times from Downtown Howell
Brighton — 12 min
Hartland — 14 min
Fowlerville — 15 min
Whitmore Lake — 18 min
Pinckney — 20 min
The Brighton Howell Area is perfectly positioned for easy access, centrally located near four major airports
Detroit (DTW)
55 min / 53 miles
Flint (FNT)
40 min / 34 miles
Grand Rapids (GRR)
1 hr 30 min / 98 miles
Lansing (LAN)
50 min / 47 miles
Pinckney State Recreation Area
FOWLERVILLE
THE SEASON YOU MISSED IS WAITING
THERE’S ALWAYS ANOTHER REASON TO VISIT
Maybe it’s spring flowers blooming in downtown Howell, a glassy paddle across Silver Lake in Pinckney Recreation Area, or a late-summer round at one of the 19 public golf courses. Autumn might tempt you with back roads lined in trees painted in reds, yellows and oranges, cider mills working overtime, and farmers’ markets at their fullest.
Winter brings skiing and snowboarding at Mt. Brighton, lantern-lit hikes at Island Lake Recreation Area, and year-round reasons to come back again and again.
SEASONS THAT CALL YOU BACK
Lake Day + Small Town Night
Float, paddle, or cast a line on Kent Lake, then head to downtown Brighton for craft cocktails and steak from The Reserve Steakhouse. End the evening on the rooftop patio at 120 West.
Trail + Taproom
Explore Blue Loop at Island Lake Recreation Area, and follow it with a delicious wood-fired pizza paired with a craft beer from Four Circles Brewery in downtown Brighton.
Fall Color + Cider Mills
Take in the fall splendor with a drive through Kensington Metropark, where hiking and biking trails wind through woodlands glowing in fiery reds and golds.
Continue on to Parshalville Cider Mill to savor fresh-pressed cider, warm donuts, and caramel apples before heading home with a trunk full of fall flavors and memories worth sharing.
Winter on the Slopes + Live Music
Cross-country ski at Huron Meadows
Metropark, then cap the day with an intimate concert at Ciao!Jazz at Ciao Amici’s in downtown Brighton.
