Howell

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Howell's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Downtown Howell
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the famous Howell Diner, where you can indulge in their renowned pancakes and fresh coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic downtown area, admiring the charming architecture and unique boutiques. Be sure to stop by the Howell Historical Museum to learn about the rich local history and culture.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, grab a light lunch at a local café before heading to the Howell Main Street for some shopping. Explore the various shops offering handmade goods, antiques, and local art, perfect for finding a unique souvenir. As you wander, keep an eye out for seasonal events or festivals that might be happening.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant like Cleary's Pub, known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious comfort food. After dinner, consider catching a live performance at the Howell Opera House, where you can experience local talent in a beautifully restored venue. Cap off your evening with a relaxing walk along the streets, soaking in the small-town charm.

day 2
Outdoor Adventure at Howell City Park
morning
:

Begin your day with a picnic breakfast at Howell City Park, surrounded by beautiful greenery and serene lakes. After breakfast, take a leisurely walk or rent a bike to explore the extensive trails within the park. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views and vibrant wildlife.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, enjoy some outdoor activities like frisbee, kayaking, or paddleboarding on the lake. If you're traveling with family, let the kids play at the park’s playground while you relax on a bench with a good book. For lunch, pack a picnic or visit a nearby food truck for some delicious street food.

evening
:

As evening approaches, settle in for a peaceful time by the water, perhaps fishing or enjoying a sunset over the lake. After the sun sets, head back into town for dinner at a local steakhouse, savoring a hearty meal. To end your day, consider a nightcap at a local bar, mingling with friendly locals.

day 3
Art and Culture Day
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Livingston County Art Gallery, where you can appreciate a variety of local art pieces and perhaps participate in a workshop. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café while discussing your favorite pieces with fellow art lovers. This morning is all about immersing yourself in creativity and inspiration.

afternoon
:

For lunch, visit a local restaurant that features farm-to-table options, indulging in the flavors of the region. After lunch, head to the nearby Brighton Recreation Area for an afternoon of hiking or nature walking, taking in the beautiful landscapes. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, and enjoy the tranquility of the great outdoors.

evening
:

In the evening, return to Howell and enjoy dinner at a bistro that features live music, creating a delightful atmosphere. After dinner, check out the schedule for any local theater productions or art shows you can attend. End your night with a stroll through the town, enjoying the vibrant nightlife and perhaps stopping for dessert at an ice cream parlor.

day 4
Family Fun at the Howell Nature Center
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at home or a nearby café, then head to the Howell Nature Center for an adventurous morning. Spend time at the interactive exhibits and learn about local wildlife, especially the rescued animals that call the center home. Don’t forget to participate in any scheduled educational programs or guided tours.

afternoon
:

For lunch, pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds or visit a local eatery nearby. In the afternoon, explore the various trails around the nature center, taking in the sights and sounds of nature. Engage in fun family activities like the ropes course or zipline, ensuring an adventurous spirit throughout the day.

evening
:

As evening falls, head back to Howell for a family-friendly dinner at a restaurant that offers a kids' menu. After dinner, enjoy some ice cream at a local shop, discussing the highlights of your day at the nature center. End your day with a movie night back at your accommodation, reminiscing about your adventures.

day 5
Culinary Exploration Day
morning
:

Kick off your culinary adventure with breakfast at a local bakery, where you can savor fresh pastries and artisan coffee. After breakfast, join a cooking class offered by a local chef to learn how to make traditional dishes from the region. This interactive experience will not only teach you new skills but also connect you with fellow food enthusiasts.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy the fruits of your labor from the cooking class, or visit a local restaurant to sample more of Howell's culinary delights. Spend the afternoon visiting local farms or markets to understand where your food comes from, perhaps even participating in a farm tour. Engage with local farmers and learn about sustainable practices in the area.

evening
:

In the evening, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at a restaurant known for its local cuisine and seasonal menus. Enjoy a multi-course meal paired with local wines, enhancing your appreciation for the region's flavors. After dinner, stroll through downtown Howell, perhaps stopping at a cozy café for a nightcap or dessert.

day 6
Adventure at the Lakeland Trail
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local eatery, fueling up for an adventurous day ahead. After breakfast, head to the Lakeland Trail for a morning of hiking or biking along the scenic route. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful landscapes as you navigate through the well-maintained trails.

afternoon
:

For lunch, pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the many scenic spots along the trail or head back into town for a casual dining option. After lunch, continue your adventure by renting a kayak or canoe on a nearby lake, enjoying the peaceful waters and surrounding nature. Take time to relax, drink in the sights, and perhaps even do some birdwatching.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Howell for dinner at a lakeside restaurant, relishing the view as the sun sets. Consider attending a local community event or festival if one is happening during your visit, immersing yourself in the local culture. Wrap up your day with a cozy evening by a fire pit if available, sharing stories and enjoying the night air.

day 7
Shopping and Pampering Day
morning
:

Begin your day with a soothing breakfast at a chic café, enjoying a leisurely meal before a day of relaxation and shopping. After breakfast, visit the local boutiques and shops in downtown Howell, exploring unique clothing, accessories, and handcrafted items. Take your time to enjoy the quaint atmosphere and perhaps pick up a few special items.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy a delightful meal at a local eatery that specializes in fresh, local ingredients. Afterward, indulge in some pampering at a local spa, where you can book a massage or facial treatment to rejuvenate your body and mind. Take advantage of the calming environment and let your worries melt away.

evening
:

In the evening, enjoy a casual dinner at a relaxed restaurant that offers a wide variety of dishes to satisfy your appetite. After dinner, consider visiting a local wine bar to sample some regional wines and unwind. End your day with a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of Howell, enjoying the ambiance and perhaps stopping for dessert.

day 8
Exploring Local History and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a historic café that reflects Howell's charm, enjoying a menu filled with local flavors. Afterward, visit the Howell Historical Museum for an immersive experience in the town's past, featuring exhibits about its founding and growth. Take your time to absorb the rich history and significance of the area.

afternoon
:

For lunch, head to a nearby restaurant that features dishes inspired by the region’s heritage. Spend the afternoon exploring other historical sites in the area, such as the Old Livingston County Courthouse, learning about the architectural styles and stories behind these landmarks. Don’t forget to photograph the beautiful surroundings.

evening
:

As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that offers a taste of Howell's culinary evolution, perhaps trying a dish that is a modern interpretation of a classic recipe. After dinner, attend a local music or cultural event to connect with the community and enjoy the arts scene. Finish your day with a reflective walk around the downtown area, appreciating the blend of history and modern culture.

day 9
Nature and Wildlife Observation
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local café known for its fresh ingredients and friendly atmosphere. After breakfast, head to the nearby Brighton Recreation Area, where you can walk the trails and observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. Bring along binoculars to enhance your wildlife-watching experience.

afternoon
:

For lunch, pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots within the recreation area, surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon hiking deeper into the park or participating in a guided nature walk led by local experts to learn more about the flora and fauna. Take time to relax, appreciating the tranquility and beauty of the area.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to Howell for dinner at a rustic restaurant that focuses on local ingredients and comfort food. After dinner, consider heading to a local park for stargazing, where you can enjoy the night sky away from city lights. Conclude your day with a sense of peace and connection to nature.

Discover Howell

Read more in our Howell 2025 Travel Guide.

Howell Travel Guide