Discover Branch: Lakes, History, and Recreation

If you’re looking for a hotel in Branch, start by choosing a theme: are you most interested in lakes and landscapes, architecture and local history, or activities? The verified places and offerings have different points of focus. Use this guide to tailor your search to what matters for your stay.

Lakes, parkland, and trails

Coldwater Lake State Park encompasses 400 acres of largely undeveloped parkland. Branch County has more than 100 lakes used for fishing; fish caught there include sunfish, bass, pike, and walleye. These offer two different starting points for planning a trip: the character of a large, largely undeveloped parkland and the fishing opportunities on the county’s lakes.

The Coldwater Chain of Lakes is described in more detail: it consists of eight lakes connected by canals and lies south and east of the city of Coldwater. Those interested in exploring by water can also visit the Union City Heritage Waterway Trail, which can be traveled by kayak. Coldwater Country can be explored on a variety of self-guided trails and tours.

Coldwater and historic places

Downtown Coldwater is located along the historic Heritage Route US-12 and west of I-69. The Downtown Coldwater Local Historic District encompasses 13 city blocks. Public art, public parking, and public outdoor spaces where you can spend time are also part of the downtown experience. The Capri Drive-In is located on US-12 west of downtown Coldwater, in southwest Michigan. The information about downtown and the drive-in therefore offers two distinct points of reference along US-12.

Museums and architecture

The Wing House Museum is a unique example of 19th-century Second Empire architecture. The house contains furnishings and artifacts from the Chandler and Wing families. From April through November, the museum is open on the third Saturday of each month from noon to 4 p.m., as well as by appointment. Check the current schedule before your visit.

The Quincy Historical Museum is located in a building erected in 1874 by a Seventh-day Adventist congregation. It is one of the oldest structures in the village of Quincy and displays donated artifacts and memorabilia. The building’s history is thus connected with the objects the museum displays today.

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 came west from Smyrna County, New York, in 1836. The Little Red School House has different visiting conditions: it is open during the Branch County Fair in the first full week of August. Check the current fair dates and visiting arrangements before your visit.

Activities and exhibits

The Children’s Museum of Branch County has several exhibit areas to explore and learn in. Heritage Park has paved paths for walking and biking, as well as three pavilions; two can be reserved for family events. This makes a museum visit and the paths or event spaces distinct options to consider.

Adventure Zone has two 18-hole miniature golf courses and offers go-karts, an arcade, laser tag, and duckpin bowling. Adventure Zone is open year-round; check operating details before setting out. Miniature golf, go-karts, and other games are another option for planning a trip, alongside museums and historic places.

Discover more destinations: Coldwater, Gratiot County, Wexford County, Roscommon County, Mecosta County, Ontonagon County, Crawford County, Muskegon.

For the broader travel overview: Michigan.