Top 20 Things To Do In Cadillac, Michigan - Updated 2024

Nicole
Nicole 
Updated
| 9 min read

Set in the lovely state of Michigan, Cadillac is a growing city in Wexford County. Originally named Kautawabet, it changed its name in 1877 and adopted a title that’s more pleasing to the ears, derived from a prominent Michigan explorer—Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac. The city is a popular tourist hideaway for its gorgeous natural features. During the winter, people enjoy the snow at fantastic skiing sites and nature trails. While in the summer, people book an Airbnb vacation rental and head to the stunning rivers, creeks, and lakes to swim to their hearts’ content. Not only that, this little town also boasts fascinating landmarks and museums that everyone who visits should not miss. For a more in-depth guide, feel free to browse this list of fantastic things to do in Cadillac, Michigan.

1. Spend the day outdoors in Adventure Island

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

It's time to make your weekend plans! Check out our new summer schedule: Thursday - 2 for 1 Go-Karts and Mountain Golf,...

Posted by Adventure Island Family Fun Park on Friday, June 28, 2019

Family fun is what Adventure Island offers to the table. It is a family-owned fun park that includes attractions such as an 18-hole mountain golf course, go-karts, batting cages, waterslides, arcade, and playground. Among the highlights of its amenities are the racetrack, an invigorating avenue for riders of all ages, and the gold course, an upscale landscape with waterfalls, streams, and caves.

From its humble beginnings in 1989 as a miniature golf course, it has expanded into a multi-acre complex that provides family-oriented adventure to the kids and the young in spirit. It also hosts group parties and business events through its range of custom packages for any group size.

Adventure Island

Address: 6083 M-115, Cadillac, MI 49601

Website: Adventure Island

Opening hours: Thu: 10am - 10pm; Fri: 10am - 12am; Sat - Sun: 10am - 10pm (closed from Mon - Wed)

Price: 7 USD

Visited this place?

2. Take a serene stroll at Keith McKellop Walkway

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Lakeside strolling in Keith McKellop Walkway is another way to explore public outdoor areas of the city. This walkway is a 1.6-km (1-mi) path along the eastern bank of Lake Cadillac. Things to do include jogging, walking, inline skating, and sunset viewing. It is a whole stretch of pavement with benches and picnic facilities fixed along the route.

Rotary Performing Arts Pavilion, a venue for summer concerts and productions, is down the walkway’s course and, if lucky, lively concerts can be enjoyed there as well. The park welcomes leashed pets but their owners are required to pick up after their fur babies. Public restrooms are available at the southeastern end and by the boat launch.

Keith McKellop Walkway

Address: 01 N Lake St, Cadillac, MI 49601

Website: Keith McKellop Walkway

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Visited this place?

3. Explore the Cadillac Pathway

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


Cadillac is a paradise of natural wonders. If you are a nature lover and an adventure seeker, you will surely have a wonderful time in this beautiful city. While in Cadillac, you might want to explore the Cadillac Pathway and immerse yourself in nature while enjoying scenic views. This trail is ideal for walking, jogging, biking, and other cardio exercises. Aside from that, it also has excellent hiking routes and winter sports trails. There’s so much to do here, whether you’re exploring alone or with your adventure buddies.

Cadillac Pathway

Address: 3736 S Seeley Rd, Cadillac, MI 49601, United States

Website: Cadillac Pathway

Visited this place?

4. Marvel at the beauty of nature at Friends Of The White Pine Trail


Another gorgeous natural wonder in Cadillac is Friends Of The White Pine Trail. Just like the Cadillac Pathway, it features excellent trails for biking and jogging. This site is adorned with lush greens and scenic views, so you will surely have the peace and quiet that you much desire. When you visit during the winter, this place turns into a fantastic skiing and snowmobiling destination. Dogs are even welcome to explore with you as long as you keep them on a leash.

Friends Of The White Pine Trail

Address: 6093 M-115, Cadillac, MI 49601, United States

Website: Friends Of The White Pine Trail

Opening hours: 12pm - 12am (daily)

Visited this place?

5. Have a barbecue picnic with your loved ones at Kenwood Heritage Park

Posted by Tammy McKeown Lewis on Friday, 17 October 2014

Can’t get enough of nature? Worry no more because Cadillac has overwhelming natural parks that are waiting for you to explore. A testament to that is Kenwood Heritage Park. Located in front of a stunning lake, close to a gorgeous beach, this place is a popular summer destination among locals and tourists alike. Visiting families can take advantage of the picnic area, where they can set up a little BBQ party with their loved ones and make lasting memories. Additionally, there is a disc golf field where you can run around and play.

Kenwood Heritage Park & Beach

Address: Cadillac, MI 49601, United States

Website: Kenwood Heritage Park & Beach

Visited this place?

6. Spend a relaxing day at Big Manistee River


If you have such a big love for the waters and exciting water sports, Big Manistee River is a paradise that you should not miss while in Cadillac. This lengthy and stunning river attracts people from all over the city. It is an excellent place to enjoy picnicking and kayaking. Not only that, but the river offers various areas with varying paddling levels for tourists. Though mostly smooth flowing, there are segments with a rougher flow. Getting to the river is easy as it has lots of access points, namely, Veterans Memorial Community Park, Glengary Bridge, Fire Lane, Harvey Bridge, and others.

Big Manistee River

Address: N Mitchel St, Cadillac, MI 49601, United States

Website: Big Manistee River

Visited this place?

7. Ski with your friends at Caberfae Peaks


Maximize your vacation experience in Cadillac by trying out the attractions at Caberfae Peaks. Located on Caberfae Lane, this vast natural landscape is a popular golfing site. During the summer and spring seasons, the place turns into a wide and gorgeous green space with scenic views. Lots of people enjoy some games of golf here. When the winter comes, and the ground gets covered with snow, it turns into a fantastic skiing site where you can play all day, sliding and gliding. To top it all off, there are delightful lodges for tourists who want to stay on-site, close to the attractions.

Caberfae Peaks

Address: 1 Caberfae Ln, Cadillac, MI 49601, United States

Website: Caberfae Peaks

Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)

Visited this place?

8. Learn more about Cadillac at Wexford County Historical Society Museum

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Wexford County Historical Society on Monday, 7 March 2016

If you like touristy stuff and learning about the culture of the places you visit, you should swing by Wexford County Historical Society Museum on your Cadillac vacation. Formerly known as Cadillac Carnegie Public Library, this marvelous property is a historic site that showcases stunning neoclassical architecture. It features old photographs, vintage items, old clothing, valuable equipment, and other things that help tell the story of the lifestyle in Cadillac throughout history.

Wexford County Historical Society Museum

Address: 127 Beech St, Cadillac, MI 49601, United States

Website: Wexford County Historical Society Museum

Opening hours: Wed & Fri: 10am - 5pm; Thu: 10am - 8pm; Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun - Tue)

Visited this place?

9. Try the mouthwatering Coyote Burger at Coyote Crossing Resort Restaurant

things to do in cadillac mi | try the mouthwatering coyote burger at coyote crossing resort restaurant
Source: instagram

Done with all the touristy stuff? What to do next in Cadillac, Michigan? Delight your taste buds with local food. An excellent place to eat would be nice after days of sightseeing or swimming in the lake and basking in the sun. If you agree with the idea, you might want to check out the vibes and the food at Coyote Crossing Resort Restaurant. Coyote Crossing Resort is a luxurious hideaway in Cadillac. It has a fantastic restaurant that offers a signature dish that draws locals—the Coyote Burger. The restaurant is a stunning rustic lodge with well-organized seating and cool and airy ambiance. Swing by for some breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and have a taste of delicious food you’ll find only in Michigan.

Coyote Crossing Resort Restaurant

Address: 8593 S 13 Rd, Cadillac, MI 49601, United States

Website: Coyote Crossing Resort Restaurant

Opening hours: Thu - Sat: 11am - 11pm; Sun - Mon: 11am - 9pm; Wed: 4pm - 9pm (closed on Tue)

Visited this place?

10. Have a beer at After 26 Depot & Café

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by After 26 Project on Wednesday, 5 December 2018

Whether you’re in the mood for some hot coffee or cold beer, After 26 Depot & Cafe is a fabulous hangout that you should try while in the city. It features a gorgeous and elegant interior design with rustic decor and expansive windows that allow lots of natural light. This well-visited restaurant and cafe in Cadillac is a popular venue for special occasions and banquets. Not only does it feature a stunning indoor dining space, but it also has a laid-back patio with outdoor seating where you can enjoy your food while marveling at the views.

After 26 Depot & Café

Address: 127 W Cass St, Cadillac, MI 49601, United States

Website: After 26 Depot & Café

Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 7am - 2pm; Sat - Sun: 8am - 2pm (closed on Mon)

Visited this place?

11. Check out Carl T. Johnson Hunt and Fish Center


If hunting is a cherished family tradition for you, invite your siblings or your cousins for some exciting hunting at Carl T. Johnson Hunt and Fish Center. Located in Mitchell State Park, this popular hunting ground offers lots of activities for everyone, hunter or not. It has various facilities, such as a pellet-gun range, an archery site, a hunting auditorium, and more. It also has hiking routes that lead to breathtaking views of nature. Plus there is an excellent fishing spot where you can test out your fishing skills and make memories with loved ones.

Carl T. Johnson Hunt and Fish Center

Address: 6087 M-115, Cadillac, MI 49601, United States

Website: Carl T. Johnson Hunt and Fish Center

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Visited this place?

12. Explore downtown Cadillac


The attractions in Cadillac are not only found in ski resorts, campgrounds, and majestic natural wonders. Downtown Cadillac is an attraction on its own. Filled with excellent restaurants, laid-back cafes, retail shops, souvenir stores, and other well-visited businesses, this area is a must-explore for tourists. You can go on a bar-hopping experience with friends or bag home some excellent finds from the marketplace. It is also a fantastic location to make friends with locals and get some useful travel tips and interesting facts about the city.

Downtown Cadillac

Address: N Mitchell St, Cadillac, MI 49601, United States

Visited this place?

13. Reconnect with Mother Earth at William Mitchell State Park

things to do in cadillac mi | reconnect with mother earth at william mitchell state park
Source: instagram

Another breathtaking place that you should visit in Cadillac is William Mitchell State Park. This stunning recreation area is adorned with towering pine trees, picturesque scenery, and the dramatic Lakes Mitchel and Cadillac. That being said, you’ll have a clue that this paradise is for tourists who like swimming in freshwater and basking in the warmth of the sun till they achieve their desired tan. A lot of people also come here to go fishing and boating with their loved ones. Everyone is welcome to stay overnight and set up camp too.

William Mitchell State Park

Address: 6093 M-115, Cadillac, MI 49601, United States

Website: William Mitchell State Park

Visited this place?

14. Set up camp at Huron-Manistee National Forests

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by U.S. Forest Service Huron-Manistee NFs on Monday, 16 September 2019

Huron-Manistee National Forests is composed of two adjoining forests in Cadillac. Here you’ll find the breathtaking Lake Huron and the picturesque Lake Michigan. This place is often visited and explored by nature lovers and adventurers. Lots of lush greenery and exotic flora can be found through the woods. Not only that, but a glimpse of wildlife in its natural habitat is common in this majestic forest. Also, visitors are allowed to set up camp. Being one with nature, gazing at the starry night skies, and waking up to the cool morning breeze equate to a fun thing to do in Cadillac, Michigan.

Huron-Manistee National Forests

Address: Michigan 49601, United States

Website: Huron-Manistee National Forests

Visited this place?

15. Book a cozy accommodation at Evergreen Resort (from USD 116)

Take a page from the life of the rich and famous and maximize your Cadillac vacation by booking a stay at Evergreen Resort. This lovely three-star hotel has delightful amenities and lots of attractions to offer. Located in a vast green land, this place has excellent golf courses, fantastic hiking and biking routes, snowmobiling and skiing sites, and more. Also, you will be fed with sumptuous meals at two exquisite on-site restaurants. There is an inviting indoor pool as well, where you can spend hours swimming and relaxing to your heart’s content.

Visited this place?

Evergreen Resort

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 7880 Mackinaw Trail
4.43 km (2.8 mi) from Mitchell State Park

Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court Sauna

16. Chug some premium beers at Clam Lake Beer Co.


Nestled in an old building, Clam Lake Beer Co. is a popular hangout on South Mitchell Street. Whether you are in the mood for some hardcore drinking session with your best friends or you just want a chill night with a bottle or two, Clam Lake Beer Co. is a fantastic place to enjoy some quality time. It features a charming interior design with a friendly vibe. You can choose from a wide variety of beers from different brewing companies or opt for some fruity mixed drinks. Not only that, this establishment is also known for its delicious food.

Clam Lake Beer Co.

Address: 106 S Mitchell St, Cadillac, MI 49601, United States

Website: Clam Lake Beer Co.

Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 7am - 10pm; Wed - Thu: 7am - 11pm; Fri: 7am - 12am; Sat: 11am - 12am; Sun: 11am - 10pm

Visited this place?

17. Score some quality finds at City Park - Cadillac Commons


Cadillac Commons is a brainchild and project of the local government of Cadillac with the help of its citizens to turn an available open space into a recreation area. Located on West Cass Street, this recreational center features various businesses that offer a plethora of products, from artisan crafts to souvenir items, home decor, delicacies, and a lot more. Located in the heart of downtown, Cadillac Commons is accessible to everyone. It has picnic spots and public restrooms for visitors’ convenience. Also, a lot of community events, concerts, and festivals happen at the plaza here.

City Park - Cadillac Commons

Address: 190 W Cass St, Cadillac, MI 49601, United States

Website: City Park - Cadillac Commons

Visited this place?

18. Take a souvenir picture with Cadillac's KISS Monument

KISS in concert Boston 2004
Source: Photo by user Flickr user Wok used under CC BY 2.0

Cadillac’s KISS Monument is a historic landmark in Michigan. Nesting on Chestnut Street, this marvelous landmark is an 8-foot-tall (2.4m) symbol that was built in 1975, to commemorate the day when the band KISS came to town. It holds a fascinating story of how the band gave back to the high school athletes in Cadillac by meeting them in person. According to those who know the story firsthand, the football athletes of Cadillac High School played songs of the iconic band to boost their morale during a championship game.

Cadillac's KISS Monument

Address: 501-599 Chestnut St, Cadillac, MI 49601, United States

Website: Cadillac’s KISS Monument

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Visited this place?

19. Witness the fusion of nature and art at Cadillac Sound Garden

Posted by Steve Palmer on Saturday, 14 September 2019

Cadillac Sound Garden is a gorgeous park and a unique attraction that is home to lovely art pieces. Aside from extensive gardens of charming plants and beautiful flora, the park showcases a remarkable sculpture that resembles a musical instrument, a tulip art installation, a stone child collection, and a fantastic playground. Also, a stunning lake adds charm to this marvelous green space.

Cadillac Sound Garden

Address: 398 Chestnut St, Cadillac, MI 49601, United States

Website: Cadillac Sound Garden

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Visited this place?

20. Drop by the historic Charles T. Mitchell House

things to do in cadillac mi | drop by the historic charles t. mitchell house
Source: instagram

When you drive all the way to North Shelby Street, be sure to stop by Charles T. Mitchel’s house and take lots of souvenir pictures of this historic property. It showcases a majestic prairie-style architecture that is built in the 18th century. The place is pivotal in the urbanization of Cadillac as it is one of the first homes in the city. It is also a structure that enchants lots of wealthy businessmen to make a home on this side of Michigan.

Charles T. Mitchell House

Address: 118 N Shelby St, Cadillac, MI 49601, United States

Website: Charles T. Mitchell House

Visited this place?

Explore the enchanting Cadillac

Cadillac is a gorgeous city with lots to offer. For nature lovers and adventurous travelers, this paradise is full of natural wonders. Whether you visit during the summer or the winter, you will never run out of things to do and places to visit. You can enjoy hiking in the mountains or swimming in the lakes, or you can do touristy stuff, visit museums and iconic landmarks, and other things to do near Cadillac, Michigan.

If you are planning to explore this city anytime soon, use our list as your guide in drafting an itinerary. Have a wonderful vacation ahead!

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

History


Get Trip101 in your inbox

Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data

Nicole, a writer and traveler, also identifies herself as a free spirit with a wild heart. She is dedicated to telling authentic stories in a relatable manner. Nicole also enjoys exploring new,...Read more

 Want to contribute as a Local Expert?
Explore Cadillac
Looking for accommodation?
x
Good things are meant to be shared!
Back to top
Visited any of these places? Click this button to activate our "Add a Tip" feature to share your experience.