SPRING 2022 | MIDWEST CLASSIC
The Grand River helps add magic to downtown Jackson.
Time to Play
hen it comes to size, Jackson ranks as the 33rd largest city in Michigan (32,000plus residents), with the surrounding county of the same name claiming 14th place with a population of roughly 158,400. As a weekend getaway, this classic Midwestern town earns unexpected praise. More than 125 lakes and 200-plus miles of rivers, four wineries, 41 large wall murals, historic sightseeing, and downtown dining top the list of noteworthy todos, as recommended by its residents. WATERWAYS: “Our lakes are picturesque, clean, and livable. Many are all-sports lakes with public access, so the recreation and enjoyment is endless,” says longtime Jackson-area resident Greg Allushuski, who moved there full time after years of living in Ann Arbor. “Wolf Lake is paradise for us. It’s part of a chain of eight lakes in the eastern part 62
of the county that are brimming with fish, have many channels to explore, and aren’t crowded with watercraft or homes,” the Wolf Lake property owner adds. “Country living around our lakes is fairly simple, friendly, unhurried, and peaceful. What could be better?” WINE-MAKING: Jackson surprises with some hidden gems that can be found off the beaten path. “Our wine adventure in January was awesome,” says Jesse Houston, of Sterling Heights. He and his wife, Melissa, have visited the area three times and enjoy the local offerings. “We really like the Chateau Aeronautique winery. It’s our favorite one in the area. They have a Cab Franc high-end that’s $80 a bottle. It’s an amazing experience tasting that wine. Cherry Creek Cellars is also nice. They had an igloo we stayed in for an hour while we enjoyed a very nice bottle,” he says. For visitors, Houston recommends making sampling stops at two of the wineries “and then finish your outing at a very
good (modern American cuisine) downtown restaurant called Veritas.” PAINT THE TOWN: From 15 murals in 2018 to 41 today, the Bright Walls Mural Festival has attracted international artists to Jackson to paint colorful artwork on buildings around town. “The Bright Walls are truly magnificent. When people think about street art, they often think about graffiti or art that’s hastily put up,” explains Jacqueline Austin, owner and event director at Think Jackson and co-event director of the Bright Walls Mural Festival. “Our murals are large-scale pieces of art that reflect not only the artists’ vision, but also represent our community.” Those are only three highlights. The following stories showcase more examples of the adventures awaiting in Jackson, where “It’s time to get out and play!” PLAN IT! Experience Jackson experiencejackson.com
PHOTO BY DALE FISHER
W
Jackson-area waterways, wineries, murals, and more provide fun stepping stones to entertaining weekend getaways Stories by Ron Garbinski
MICHIGAN BLUE
062.TR.Jacksonr.Winter.indd 62
3/9/22 1:36 PM
