Distance: 36 miles (driving)
Travel Time: 57 minutes (driving)
If you’ve ever heard of a Coney Dog, then you probably haven’t heard of Jackson, Michigan. Detroit gets the credit for being the birthplace of this particular creation; however, Jackson historians place the birth of the Coney Dog to their very city three years before Detroit opened its own Coney Island. Way back in 1914. So when you visit this Michigan town, you simply have to stop by one of the coney islands to choose something off the menu for yourself. While you’re in and around Jackson, explore these other locations.
Stop #1: Start your day off exploring the largest state park in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Waterloo State Recreation Area (map) covers a vast 20,000 acres and includes 11 inland lakes for fishing and swimming, 80 miles of trails for bikers and hikers, and the Eddy Discovery Center (which is closed until July 2025 as of this writing for renovations).
Stop #2: After all that outdoor exploration, it’s time for some libations. Just 10 miles away is Sandhill Crane Vineyards (www.sandhillcranevineyards.com) on Walz Road. This vineyard started as a hobby back in the early 2000s, but now it’s a thriving family business. You can try a wine tasting flight or a craft beer, or perhaps embark on a cellar tour. The winery is a popular spot for regular community events such as music and art and game nights as well as being available for private bookings. The schedule changes by the season, so make sure to double-check the website before deciding to visit. And yes, there is a light menu available as well, a perfect complement to your wine.
Stop #3: A 15-minute drive brings you to the door of the Michigan Military Heritage Museum (https://mimhm.org) at N. Wisner Street. The mission of this museum is to “tell the stories of our state’s members through interpretive displays of artefacts, pictures, and written and oral histories…the average service member who sacrificed and endured so much for our freedoms.” Honor the few who fought for us all. The museum is open Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and by appointment (hours vary).
Stop #4: Have you heard of a rail-trail? A stretch of the old Michigan Central Railroad, stretching nearly 11 miles, has been transformed into a 12-foot-wide paved trail for walking, running, and biking. The Falling Waters Trail connects Jackson with the Village of Concord and leads you through wetlands, over the Kalamazoo River, to the shore of beautiful Lime Lake, and more. Complete the entire trail, or go point to point. Visit https://www.co.jackson.mi.us/1218/Falling-Waters-Trail for more information.
Stop #5: End the day by making an easy 12-minute drive to view The Cascades within Sparks Foundation County Park. This particular destination is best visited at night, as Wednesday through Sunday (Memorial Day to Labor Day), the man-made waterfall is illuminated with colors and fireworks. This has been a favorite for more than 85 years and is Jackson’s most famous landmark. Live music can also be enjoyed every summer on Saturdays in the nearby Rotary Bandshell. According to the website, “the Cascades Falls are 500 feet in length, a vertical height of 64 feet, and a total width of 90 feet. There are 6 fountains, 16 Falls (11 are illuminated), and thousands of LED lights.” Admission rates are modest, and there are a variety of events including holiday celebrations; craft markets; and Family Fun Night with themes, characters, and entertainment (typically every Wednesday).
MARVAC members nearby…
Holiday RV Campground, Grass Lake (Four miles south of Waterloo)
Apple Creek Campground & RV Park, Grass Lake
Larry’s RV Service Center, Jackson (Mobile service available to local campgrounds)