Let’s be fair: as a traditional small town, Allegan might not be the most popular vacation destination out there. However, that does not mean that it does not retain a certain traditional and old-school charm that speaks to the savviest traveller. The quiet life, after all, is one that we all wish to escape to when we plan a vacation away from the bustle of our daily lives.
So whether you find yourself in Allegan by chance or by choice, make the most of this opportunity by opening your heart to a small town and its quaint establishments. Delve into its rich, albeit fairly unknown history, and walk its uncrowded streets. Talk to the locals here, and let them regale you with their tales. So if you are looking for ways to fill up your itinerary on your next trip to Allegan, keep reading as we explore the best things to do in Allegan, Michigan.
1. Take a trip to the past at Allegan County Historical Society
Posted by Allegan County Historical Society on Monday, 5 March 2012
Also known colloquially as the Old Jail Museum, this huge museum features over 10,000 interesting artefacts and exhibits on display that create a fascinating visual story of Allegan’s rich past. Originally built to be a jail as well as the sheriff’s residence, the architecture of this old building is also a window into the history of buildings. You will be guided by helpful docents about the meaning and significance of each artefact, making this the perfect afternoon tour.
Allegan County Historical Society
Address: 113 N Walnut St, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Website: Allegan County Historical Society
Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed from Sun - Thu)
2. Try your hand at disc golf at Jaycee Park
Posted by Max Streeter on Sunday, 16 August 2015
Jaycee Park is a well-known park in Allegan that has a variety of activities for you and your family. Whether you want to take your kids to the playground to play, take a walk with your spouse or play some outdoor sports, Jaycee Park has you covered. There are tons of events hosted at this place, so if you are lucky, you might catch one. You can even try your hand at some disc golf, which is a very popular sport at this park.
Jaycee Park
Address: 200 Monroe St, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Website: Jaycee Park
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
3. Check out the Christmas tree farm at Leber Trees
Posted by Leber Christmas Tree Farm on Sunday, 22 October 2017
In the months leading up to Christmas, if you find yourself at Allegan, check out this sprawling and grand farm lined with Christmas trees just waiting to be taken home to families across Allegan and beyond. You can experience a short wagon ride through a small forest until you reach the tree farm, where you will find a tree for yourself. There is also an attached gift shop where you can purchase little trinkets, Christmas decor and tree ornaments as well as wreaths.
Leber Trees
Address: 2439 36th St, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Website: Leber Trees
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
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4. Enjoy a vintage movie-watching experience at The Old Regent Theatre
The only thing scarier than another day of closure due to projector issues is It ??The Regent Theatre is OPEN. It...
Posted by The Old Regent Theatre on Friday, 20 September 2019
This beautiful art deco theatre is the pride of Allegan, and it features a one-screen experience that has been showing movies since 1919. There is seating for 350 people and amazing acoustics lend a grand feel to the movie-watcher. In addition, you can purchase snacks and popcorn at affordable rates. There is an arcade adjacent to the theatre where you can play a variety of games, including the classic arcade ones. So take yourself or your partner to an old-school movie date, like the olden times!
The Old Regent Theatre
Address: 211 Trowbridge St, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Website: The Old Regent Theatre
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7pm - 11pm; Sat - Sun: 2pm - 11pm
5. Go shopping for antiques at Allegan Antiques Market
Come see us at the Allegan Antique Market tomorrow 8am-4pm
Posted by Dan Guile on Saturday, 27 June 2015
Featuring one of the largest exhibitions of antiques and vintage artefacts on sale, the Allegan Antiques Market is frequented by people from outside Michigan. If you are a collector or simply someone who wants to find something cool for their home, head on over to this magical place to find collectables of all kinds, from pottery, jewellery, old furniture and repurposed home decor elements. This is the best place to shop if you are into shabby chic or rustic decor elements, whether it be a wedding or your living room. Sadly, this market only opens about six times a year, so check the schedule online while planning your vacation!
Allegan Antiques Market
Address: 150 Douglas St, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Website: Allegan Antiques Market
Opening hours: Sun: 8am - 4pm
6. Go on a camping adventure at Dumont Lake Park
Posted by Dumont Lake Family Campground on Tuesday, 3 April 2018
If you have kids, this is a great activity for the whole family. Dumont Lake Park offers camping sites for one or more days, where you can set up your own tents and get away from the urban jungle for a while. The park also offers other activities at an affordable fee, such as kayaking, fishing, boating, and paddle-boarding. There are walking trails available if you like hiking, and the campsite will provide ice and firewood.
Dumont Lake Park
Address: 2417 31st St, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Website: Dumont Lake Park
Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)
7. Play a game of volleyball at Littlejohn Lake County park
Posted by John H Clark III on Saturday, 6 July 2019
Situated right beside the picturesque and beautiful Littlejohn Lake, this lovely little park is a great place to check out on a lazy evening. Spread out over 13 acres (5.2 hectares), this park has everything you might need to have a good time, including volleyball nets, disc golf, picnic tables and grills, a children’s playground, a hiking trail and even a huge gazebo! So grab a volleyball and get into a bit of healthy competition with your family or friends, or even invite a stranger to your game.
Littlejohn Lake County park
Address: 3540 113th Ave, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Opening hours: 6am - 10pm (daily)
8. Enjoy horseback riding with Wild West Ranch
great way to go on a date.
Posted by Wild West Ranch LLC on Tuesday, 9 October 2012
Have you ever wanted to go horseback riding, but never got the chance? Grab this opportunity by the reins at Allegan, with the Wild West Ranch, as they offer horseback riding for people of all experience levels. If you are a beginner, they will offer very gentle horses along with a guide who will help you get the hang of this sport. Let your horse take you through beautiful scenic trails as you explore nature in a new angle. If you have little kids, they can go for the pony rides as well!
Wild West Ranch
Address: 2855 36th St, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Website: Wild West Ranch
Opening hours: Sun - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat: 9 am - 8pm
9. Play a round of golf at Cheshire Hills Golf Course
Another beautiful day on the links.
Posted by Tobias Hutchins on Saturday, 20 July 2019
This huge 27-hole golf course is a must-visit for any golf enthusiast. This makes for the perfect early morning activity, as you can finish off your game with a hearty breakfast at the on-site restaurant. The course is extremely well-maintained, and the multiple terrains make your game very interesting.
Cheshire Hills Golf Course
Address: 3829 102nd Ave, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Website: Cheshire Hills Golf Course
Opening hours: 7am - 8pm (daily)
10. Try skydiving with Skydive Allegan
There’s nothing better than closing the week with your skydiving fam. Thank you everyone who came out this weekend!
Posted by Skydive Allegan on Sunday, 25 August 2019
Skydiving is an adventure that shows you the absolute potential of human technology. The simple feat of jumping off an aeroplane 11,000 feet (3352 metres) above sea level, and landing safely on the ground as a sport, is a testament to the human spirit. Experience this addictive fix at Skydive Allegan, that offers skydiving lessons for beginners and allows expert skydivers their flying fix. As a beginner, you will be able to jump with an instructor who will adhere to all the safety norms so that you are worry-free.
Skydive Allegan
Address: 740 Grand St, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Website: Skydive Allegan
Opening hours: Wed - Fri: 3pm - 7pm; Sat - Sun: 9am - 7pm
11. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Something Sweet
Posted by Something Sweet For You on Saturday, 24 August 2019
If you are looking for little souvenirs to take home to your loved ones, why not opt for a box of candies or chocolates? As a universally appealing gift for all ages, Something Sweet offers beautiful and photogenically wrapped candies, chocolate covered fruits, caramel toffees and more. You can even get themed gifts for festivals such as Halloween, Christmas or Easter. The most popular sweets that get sold out quickly are the caramel apples, the Halloween-themed gift basket that is given in a pumpkin-shaped bag, and the liquorice sweets.
Something Sweet
Address: 109 Locust St, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Website: Something Sweet
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5:30pm; Sat: 10am - 2pm (closed on Mon)
12. Go camping at Giles Campground
Much needed relaxation going unplugged! Good day
Posted by Ronda Ann Stevens on Saturday, 3 August 2019
If you happen to vacation in Allegan around camping season, you simply cannot miss the experience curling up at your camping site before your tent, roasting marshmallows before a roaring bonfire as you regale your loved ones with stories. With all the camping amenities you might need such as RV parking, trailer parking, camping site, clean drinking water, fishing area and special activities and events. You have WiFi, electricity access, a fire ring for setting up a fire, as well as a children’s playgrounds. In addition, there are multiple sports grounds for playing volleyball, basketball, badminton croquet and more, as well as indoor sports equipment for foosball, air hockey etc!
Giles Campground
Address: 697 44th St, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Website: Giles Campground
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
13. Spend an afternoon at Hanson Park
Hanson Park is another small park where you can take a walk or let your kids play about if you have a free evening and happen to be in the vicinity. However, the highlight of this park is the splash pad facility that is completely safe and perfect if you have younger kids. Your kids will be able to frolic about in the spray and shower areas, such as the mushroom showers and rainbow pipe showers. The water used is treated to swimming pool standards to make it extremely safe if accidentally consumed by children.
Hanson Park
Address: 401 Hubbard St, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
14. Have a charming picnic in Rossman Park
Rossman Park is another beautiful location, perfect to bring a warm blanket and set up a picnic. With lush green well-maintained lawns and trees offering their shadows throughout the day, this park is great if you want to spend some alone time. Just bring a picnic basket filled with snacks and goodies, an engaging book to read or a friend to chat with, and you are all set for a few hours at least. The weather in Allegan makes picnics the perfect daytime activity, so make the most of it while here!
Rossman Park
Address: 500-598 Marshall St, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Opening hours: 7am - 6:30pm (daily)
15. Catch a sports match in Allegan Sports Complex
The rain stopped. The sun came out and so did the humidity, but we got another great run in!
Posted by Ressie Stranaly on Tuesday, 10 September 2019
If you are into outdoor sports and wish to engage in a few games while on vacation here in Allegan, the best place for you to be in is the Sports Complex. Maintained by the County, this is a great place to get some fresh air, be it by taking a walk with your dog, engaging in some thrilling sports, cycling or taking your kids to play on the playground. The restroom facilities are clean and there is plenty of parking, and you are sure to have a good time with the family.
Allegan Sports Complex
Address: 1451 29th St, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Website: Allegan Sports Complex
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
16. Try some mountain biking along the Allegan Mountain Biking Trail Head
Mountain biking is essentially biking on adrenaline. Rent a bike for your adventure and just set out on this trail one early morning, manoeuvring through difficult terrain, exhausting inclines and most importantly, incredibly picturesque views. You will encounter a few cliffs from where you can take pictures of the horizon, then bike back down to the bottom This is a great activity to do with your partner or friends, but pay attention to safety instructions required for completing this trail.
Allegan Mountain Biking Trail Head
Address: 2850 114th Ave, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
17. Play some indoor games at Iron Bridge Sports Park
Hurricane Florence is on her way, come out and see us before she does. While you're here visit our friends Sandlot Cafe & Catering for some breakfast or lunch!
Posted by Ironbridge Sports Park on Tuesday, 11 September 2018
What better way to spend an evening than by heading over to a sports park with your friends and engaging in some healthy competition as you eat and drink together? The ultimate symbol of having a good time, sports arenas are universally popular. This one in particular features multiple sports activities including mini-golf and go-karting. In addition, there are also batting cages if you want to practise your baseball throws and hits.
Iron Bridge Sports Park
Address: 11400 Iron Bridge Rd, Chester, VA 23831, United States
Website: Iron Bridge Sports Park
Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)
18. Taste different beers at Schaendorf Brewing Company
If you are a beer enthusiast, you have to check out this beautiful family-owned brewery which offers a wide collection of handcrafted beers and other alcoholic beverages for sampling. If you are interested in supporting local establishments, try the food here as well, instead of opting for a chain restaurant. Everything on the menu is prepared lovingly by the owners, and it really shows in the food quality and service provided.
Schaendorf Brewing Company
Address: 412 Water St, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Website: Schaendorf Brewing Company
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 11am - 9pm; Sat: 1pm - 9pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
19. Get your Mexican food fix at Burrito Boss
Wednesday Special: $5.00 Nacho Supreme Call in orders welcome (269) 512-7011
Posted by Burrito Boss on Wednesday, 18 September 2019
If you are a fan of Mexican cuisines, this is a great place to try when you are in Allegan. Burrito Boss prepares some of the best burritos in the area, and guests highly complimented the quantity of food you get for the price you are paying. The burritos are served with pico, lettuce and you can ask for additional salsa and guacamole, which is delicious. If you aren’t a fan of burritos, you can try the delicious nachos or chicken bowl as well as a Taco salad, which is a salad topped with crunchy refreshing taco chips.
Burrito Boss
Address: 1256 Lincoln Rd, Allegan, MI 49010, USA
Website: Burrito Boss
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 11am - 8pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
20. Enjoy a game of bowling at Snowden's Sunset Lanes
Posted by Snowden Sunset Lanes on Monday, 22 October 2018
Bowling is always an American classic, popular with people of all ages. Try your hand at this game while in Allegan, whether you are a beginner or an advanced bowling expert! Whether you are travelling with family, business colleagues or alone, this is a great activity to enjoy pre-dinner. Keep the appetisers coming as the food here is wonderful as well, and don’t forget to try the delicious margaritas. This is a 14-lane bowling arena, with multiple leagues and automatic scoring to create a healthy competitive atmosphere.
Snowden's Sunset Lanes
Address: 504 Western Ave # A, Allegan, MI 49010, United States
Website: Snowden’s Sunset Lanes
Opening hours: Mon & Fri: 3pm - 10pm; Tue - Wed: 4pm - 8pm; Thu: 12pm - 10pm; Sat: 8:30am - 12am; Sun: 12pm - 8pm
Experience the rustic charm of Allegan
With the ever-increasing urban landscapes that we are surrounded by, travelling to a small town can be a welcome respite from the typical vacation destinations that we all grow jaded to over time. Allowing ourselves to need less in life requires us to detach from the excesses of life. When you step foot in Allegan, allow the town’s pride to take over, and explore the city with a welcoming heart. We hope you find our list useful in doing so!
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