A Charming Michigan Town With Historic Streets Offers Friendly, Small-Town Magic And Cozy Boutiques

Founded in 1824, the town of Tecumseh celebrated its 200th anniversary in July 2024. This historic town, named in honor of the Shawnee Chief of the same name, lets visitors discover its rich history, charming shops, and exceptional dining experiences. Grab some of the area's best cinnamon rolls at Lev's Bakery, or enjoy authentic local fare at British Tea Garden Cafe and Danley's. As you stroll along Chicago Boulevard, you'll feel like you're in a Norman Rockwell painting come to life. Friendly shopkeepers are waiting to say "hi" as you shop for antiques, decor, quilts, and jewelry. Add the surrounding beauty of Michigan's waterways, and you'll discover a timeless experience.

Tecumseh is an all-season destination with popular events throughout the year, including the annual Ice Sculpture Festival, Art Walk in the spring, and holiday celebrations. Their award-winning annual Appleumpkin Festival celebrates the season every fall with midway rides, bounce houses, an arts and crafts show, live entertainment, and helicopter rides. Check out the city's weekly Farmer's Market, too. 

Located about 60 miles southwest of Detroit, the easiest way to get there is to fly to Detroit and drive. Other nearby airports include Ann Arbor, 25 miles away and Toledo, Ohio, about 40 miles away. If you'd like to linger longer, consider the Inn on Evans, decorated with European flair, right in the heart of downtown Tecumseh. While you're in the area, explore the "Little Venice" of Detroit with its waterfront parks as another vacation destination. 

Imagine the route that thousands of settlers heading to western Michigan in the 19th century took in this historic destination, and you'll get a feel for the history of the area. For a unique experience, board a 1926 South Shore passenger train operated by the Southern Michigan Railroad Society from May through September for a 14-mile ride. In October, you can ride the Fall Color Tours through Michigan's spectacular scenery. 

There are two museums open to share the heritage of the area. The Tecumseh Historical Museum in the Old Stone Church is open on Saturdays from April through December. Through ever-changing exhibits and events, you'll learn more about the history of the town. The Lenawee Historical Society is located in nearby Adrian, housed in an architectural treasure that's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It has exhibits, artifacts, and documents that show how the county developed. 

Other historic sites include the River Raisin National Battlefield Park, the site where parts of War of 1812 took place. Follow the ½-mile Battlefield Loop Trail, and be sure to stop at the Visitor's Center. The park isa great spot for birding and spotting local wildlife. Tecumseh is also recognized for its role in the Underground Railroad. 

The outdoor vibe in Tecumseh offers plenty of opportunities to get your heart pumping. Start in Tecumseh Park, where you'll find walking trails, a playground, and picnic tables. Grab some hearty sandwiches from the Tecumseh Brewing Co., or tasty Mediterranean food from Pita Delight Grill. 

Get ready to for a hearty run in Indian Crossing Trails Park, which features 130 acres of scenic paths for walking, hiking, and biking. Or, take a bike ride along the seven-mile Kiwanis Trail. Fish, canoe, kayak, or rent a pontoon boat along the Raisin River, where you can spot an assortment of wildlife, including muskrats and turtles.

If you'd like to discover the world's largest polar bear exhibit, you can find that in Detroit Zoo. Or, for a world class golf course in an underrated Michigan town, head to Arcadia.