Branch offers a variety of ways to enjoy a trip: largely undeveloped parkland, lakes, local history and recreational activities. Would you like to spend time by the water, explore architecture and regional history, or plan a range of activities? If you’re looking for accommodation in Branch, it helps to first choose the themes you want to shape your stay.
Lakes, parkland and outdoor activities
Coldwater Lake State Park encompasses 400 acres of largely undeveloped parkland. The Coldwater Chain of Lakes lies south and east of the city of Coldwater; eight lakes there are connected by canals. Branch County also has more than 100 lakes used for fishing. Fish caught include bluegill, perch, pike and walleye. For planning, it helps to make a distinction: the Chain of Lakes is a specifically located group of connected lakes, while the fishing information applies to lakes throughout Branch County.
The opportunities for outdoor activities also vary. The Union City Heritage Waterway Trail can be explored by kayak. Heritage Park has paved paths for walking and cycling. Two of its three pavilions can be reserved for family events. Coldwater Country has various self-guided trails and tours. Adventure Zone has two 18-hole mini golf courses and also offers go-karts, an arcade, laser tag and duckpin bowling. Check operating details before your visit. The Children's Museum of Branch County has several exhibit areas to explore and learn in.
Architecture and local history
Downtown Coldwater is located on the historic Heritage Route US-12, west of I-69. The Downtown Coldwater Local Historic District covers 13 blocks. Public art, public parking and public outdoor spaces where visitors can linger add to the amenities in the downtown area. The Capri Drive-In is on US-12 west of downtown Coldwater in southwestern Michigan. This makes it easy to distinguish their locations: downtown is on the historic route, while the drive-in is west of downtown.
The Wing House Museum is a unique example of 19th-century Second Empire architecture. It contains furnishings and artifacts from the Chandler and Wing families. The Quincy Historical Museum is housed in a building erected in 1874 by a Seventh-day Adventist congregation. The building is among the oldest structures in the village of Quincy; the museum displays donated artifacts and memorabilia. The Hammond House Museum is a Greek Revival-style building and was one of the first prominent homes in Union City. It was built by Deacon Chester Hammond, who moved west from Smyrna County, New York, in 1836.
Plan your visit
Visiting hours differ among the historic homes: The Wing House Museum is open from April through November on the third Saturday of each month from noon to 4 p.m., as well as by appointment. The Little Red School House opens during the Branch County Fair in the first full week of August. Check opening hours and event dates before your visit so you can account for the Wing House’s monthly hours and the Little Red School House’s Fair-related opening in your plans.
Discover more destinations: Coldwater, Kalkaska County, Antrim County, Berrien, Macomb, Ingham, Benzie County, Presque Isle County
For the main travel overview: Michigan.
