Jackson is a city in Michigan that was established in 1829 and named after President Andrew Jackson. This city is popular as the place where the Republican Party originated. The first official meeting of a group who called themselves “Republicans” was held here in 1854. Jackson is still a city of many firsts, with the establishment of the first state prison in Michigan in 1838–1934, and also the popular Coney Island hot dog in 1914. Jackson is an important tourist destination in Michigan, with several attractions, parks, and recreational activities. Some of the parks include Blackman Park, Bloomfield Park, Loomis Park and William Nixon Memorial Park, among others. Read this article to learn more about the top things to do in Jackson, Michigan.
1. Discover the creative community on the Jackson Historic Prison Tours
Explore the fascinating history of Michigan’s First State Prison, which was once the largest prison in the world. You can take a tour of the old prison and learn about its fascinating history, from horrid punishments to hilarious amusements, and riots to reforms. The tour “From Historic Prison to Artistic Vision” includes visiting the old solitary area, admiring murals painted by two resident muralists that depict the prison’s unique history, and exploring the Grand Gallery, built entirely by prison labor and still featuring prison bars on its windows. After the tour, you can purchase souvenirs, arts, crafts, and jewelry from resident artists.
Jackson Historic Prison Tours
Address: 100 Armory Court #107, Jackson, MI 49202
Website: Jackson Historic Prison Tours
2. Experience the vibrant colors at Bright Walls Mural Festival
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Looking for a unique and artistic experience during your travels? Look no further than Bright Walls, a public art and mural festival held in Jackson and run by a dedicated team of volunteers from the Jackson Young Professionals. You will have the chance to enjoy the stunning creative works of artists from all over the world, while also experiencing live music, exhibitions by local artists, and engaging programs by various community organizations. Be sure to take plenty of photos to capture the essence of this one-of-a-kind festival.
Bright Walls Mural
Address: 160 W Cortland St, Jackson, MI 49201, United States
Website: Bright Walls Mural
Opening hours: Open 24 hrs (daily)
3. Discover the wonder of science at Imagine Planet
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you’re looking to spend some quality time with your family while also teaching your kids valuable lessons, then a visit to Imagine Planet is a must during your trip to Jackson. Imagine Planet was established to offer a safe and enjoyable space for families to explore science through interactive exhibits and live animal encounters. From the moment you step into the museum, you’ll be greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The best part? Imagine Planet is completely free, allowing families the freedom to explore the museum without the burden of high admission fees. With engaging activities and exhibits for all age groups, there’s something for everyone at Imagine Planet.
Imagine Planet
Address: 730 Tomlinson St, Jackson, MI 49203, US
Website: Imagine Planet
Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 12pm - 5pm; Thu - Sat: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Wed & Sun)
Price: Free Admission
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4. Explore the Ella W. Sharp Park
Nestled on the bank of the Grand River in the scenic Jackson, the beautiful landscape of the Ella Sharp Park makes for a perfect destination to unwind. The park is home to many recreational activities enough to fill your day with lots of fun. These include a golf course, stunning flower meadows, excellent hiking trails, soccer pitches, basketball courts, a large swimming pool, and spaces for athletic activities. With many attractions on offer, the park makes for a perfect location to enjoy the outdoors, where fun is easily blended with many forms of exercise to keep you fit and healthy.
Ella W. Sharp Park
Address: 2800 Fourth St, Jackson, MI 49203, United States
Website: Ella W. Sharp Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
5. Enjoy family day out at Sparks Foundation County Park
Sparks Foundation County Park is full of wonderful attractions. If you love teeing off, you will find an excellent 18-hole golf course. This is a perfect destination for a family day out, where everyone will get to enjoy the fun all day. The kids will no doubt enjoy water fun at the flash pad. Here, the fun is unlimited and includes biking, running and even just strolling on the well-maintained paths as you absorb the beautiful scenery around you, beginning with the stunning illuminated waterfall called The Cascades. The family can have an unforgettable picnic experience in the park and perhaps end the fun by going fishing in the Urban Fishery within the park. As the fun continues, grab something from the Cascades Ice Cream Company, especially their amazing “Frozen Dome Malts”.
Sparks Foundation County Park
Address: 1528 Kibby Rd, Jackson, MI 49203, United States
Website: Sparks Foundation County Park
Opening hours: 6am - 11pm (daily)
6. Spend the day skating at Optimist Ice Arena
Are you ice skating enthusiasts, but wondering where to enjoy your beloved sport? Well, the Optimist Ice Arena is the place to head to and your day will be complete with unparalleled fun. The Optimist Ice Arena, home of the Jackson Optimist Figure Skating Club, features a skate rental, skate conditioning, and two indoor ice rinks. Many recreational activities are hosted here, ranging from figure skating to public skating, and ice hockey games. In case you have no skating skills or experience, don’t worry as there are skating classes where you can learn skating skills. With public skating hosted throughout the week, you are welcome to the arena any day of your convenience.
Optimist Ice Arena
Address: 1300 W North St, Jackson, MI 49202, United States
Website: Optimist Ice Arena
Opening hours: 10am - 9pm (daily)
7. Groove to the tunes of blues at Jackson Blues Festival
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Jackson Blues Festival welcomes you to Jackson in style and pomp. Do not lock yourself in your room while the whole region is in a celebratory mood. Join thousands of revelers in the celebration of great music, food and lots of summer fun. This is an annual blues event that is usually held in the mid of the year to celebrate and showcase Jackson as a great destination in Michigan. The famous Jackson Blues Festival features many artists, including renowned and upcoming artists, who take to the stage to entertain the many revelers in the warm, vibrant summer nights.
Jackson Blues Festival
Address: Jackson County Airport, 3601 Wildwood Ave Jackson, MI 49202
Website: Jackson Blues Festival
8. Discover the historic Jackson Candy & Fudge Factory
The Jackson Candy & Fudge Factory, boasting of beautifully decorated ceilings, unique wooden floors, historic clay walls, beautiful mirrors, and amazing lights, is a beautiful destination to discover and explore in Jackson. Housed in a building that is more than 100 years old, the historic factory is a real gem that is undoubtedly worth discovering in Jackson. Here, you will even have an opportunity to learn how the old Toledo scales work and get to see the antique brass cash register that is still in use at the factory. No fee is charged for touring the factory and you will be given lots of free gifts of fudge. You are sure to enjoy their Rocky Road or the sweet Coconut Crème Pie.
Jackson Candy & Fudge Factory
Address: 1522 E Michigan Ave, Jackson, MI 49202, United States
Website: Jackson Candy & Fudge Factory
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm; (closed on Sun)
9. Feel the need for speed at Jackson Speedway
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Do you enjoy driving at breakneck speeds? If yes, then you only need to locate the Jackson Speedway to put your skills into practice and enjoy the thrills that come with high-speed driving. The speedy way is designed for fun for everyone, whether experienced or just a beginner. Get out with your friends for competitive racing on the track or perhaps you would want to bring your family to introduce them to the art of speed driving. Whatever your choice, there is unlimited fun at the Jackson Speedway that you will keep on talking about for many days to come.
Jackson Speedway
Address: 3363 Page Ave, Jackson, MI 49203, United States
Website: Jackson Speedway
10. Shop for souvenir at Jackson Antique Mall
Jackson Antique Mall is arguably the biggest antique mall in the city. Spend your day exploring the mall, which features three floors and you might just find that Michigan souvenir you have been looking for or perhaps a perfect gift to take back home for your loved one. The shopping outlets here offer lots of varieties, ranging from jewelry and clothes to furniture and other housewares.
Jackson Antique Mall
Address: 201 N Jackson St, Jackson, MI 49201, United States
Website: Jackson Antique Mall
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5:45pm; Sun: 12pm - 4:45pm
Explore the scenic city of Jackson
The beautiful Jackson awaits you with lots of indoor and outdoor recreational activities for all ages. When it comes to fun in Jackson, no one is discriminated against regardless of your age. This well-researched article lists the top things to do in Jackson, Michigan.
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