Begin your spring getaway by arriving in Mount Pleasant and grabbing a specialized craft latte and light breakfast at Ponder Coffee Company to fuel your morning. Afterward, take a refreshing stroll through Island Park, where you can cross the picturesque bridges over the Chippewa River as the local flora begins its seasonal bloom.
Spend your afternoon browsing the local artisan exhibits and unique Michigan-made gifts at Art Reach of Mid Michigan downtown. Afterward, satisfy your hunger with a gourmet sandwich from the legendary Max and Emily's before winding through the curated shelves of Sleepy Dog Books for a new spring read.
Conclude your first day with a locally crafted brew and seasonal pub fare at Mountain Town Brewing Co., a staple of the city's culinary scene. Afterward, catch a live performance or a classic film screening at the historic Broadway Theatre to immerse yourself in the local community charm.
Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at Stan's Restaurant, a beloved local diner known for its classic homestyle cooking and welcoming atmosphere. After fueling up, head to the Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture & Lifeways to explore immersive exhibits that honor the rich history and enduring spirit of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe and Great Lakes Anishinabek.
Transition from cultural discovery to the vibrant atmosphere of the Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort for a casual lunch at Legends Diner. Afterward, spend your afternoon exploring the world-class gaming floor and testing your luck at the variety of table games or slots available in this premier entertainment destination.
Transition from the high-energy gaming floor to a sophisticated dinner at Midori Sushi and Martini Lounge, where you can enjoy fresh, cosmopolitan flavors and handcrafted cocktails in a chic atmosphere. Cap off your night with a serene evening walk through the budding trails of Mission Creek Woodlands Park, taking in the crisp spring air as the stars emerge over Central Michigan.
Kick off your Thursday morning by savoring a fresh pastry and hot coffee from the local favorite Robaire's Bakery before heading to the lush Deerfield Nature Park. Once there, enjoy a brisk hike along the scenic Wildwood Trail, crossing over the unique covered bridge as the early spring foliage begins to brighten the landscape.
After grabbing a quick bite at Dog Central, spend your afternoon at the Museum of Cultural and Natural History, which features fascinating exhibits on the Great Lakes region and indigenous heritage. Afterward, head to Bundy Hill Preserve to explore its unique glacial topography and enjoy a brisk walk through the awakening spring woods.
For dinner, head to Hunter's Ale House to enjoy their celebrated specialty pizzas and locally inspired brews in a relaxed, rustic setting. Afterward, embrace a quiet moment at Mill Pond Park, following the scenic boardwalks to watch the evening light dance across the water as you reflect on the region's deep natural and cultural roots.
Begin your Friday morning with a fresh donut and a cup of 'Officer Coffee' at the iconic Cops & Doughnuts - Central Michigan Precinct for a nostalgic start to your creative day. Afterward, tap into your artistic side at the Painted Turtle Pottery Studio, where you can spend a few hours painting a unique ceramic keepsake to commemorate your spring getaway.
After a morning of creativity, head over to Vin Trofeo's Pizzeria & Pub to enjoy a hearty lunch featuring their famous Detroit-style deep-dish pizza in a vibrant, atmosphere. Spend your afternoon immersed in contemporary artistic expression at the University Art Gallery on the Central Michigan University campus, where diverse rotating exhibitions showcase both professional regional talent and innovative student works.
Indulge in a sophisticated dinner at The Brass Café, where the seasonal menu highlights locally-sourced ingredients in an artistic, upscale setting. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful twilight stroll through Nelson Park, watching the resident waterfowl on the pond as the golden hour light filters through the budding spring trees.
Wrap up your getaway by diving into the local collegiate energy with a hearty breakfast at The Diner, a community staple famous for its university-town vibe and classic comfort food. Afterward, take a final stroll through the central campus grounds to the Central Michigan University Bookstore inside the Bovee University Center to pick up some maroon and gold gear as a souvenir of your time in Mount Pleasant.
For your final meal, head to The Cabin, a legendary campus-area establishment known for its historic charm and famous deep-dish pizzas. Afterward, spend your final afternoon at Chipp-A-Waters Park, where you can stroll the paved paths and enjoy the interpretive history displays detailing the region's unique ecosystem before you begin your journey home.
Before heading out, enjoy a robust farewell dinner at Summit Smokehouse & Tap Room, where house-smoked meats and local ales provide a perfect final taste of the region. Complete your Mount Pleasant experience with a signature sundae from the iconic Doozies Ice Cream Shop, taking one last look at the evening lights reflecting off the Warriner Hall clock tower as you conclude your spring retreat.
| Place / Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Ponder Coffee Company | $13 |
| Island Park | Free |
| Chippewa River | Free |
| Art Reach of Mid Michigan | Free |
| Max and Emily's | $18 |
| Sleepy Dog Books | Free |
| Mountain Town Brewing Co. | $28 |
| Broadway Theatre | $15 |
| Stan's Restaurant | $15 |
| Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture & Lifeways | $7 |
| Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort | Free |
| Legends Diner | $20 |
| Midori Sushi and Martini Lounge | $45 |
| Mission Creek Woodlands Park | Free |
| Robaire's Bakery | $10 |
| Deerfield Nature Park | Free |
| Dog Central | $12 |
| Museum of Cultural and Natural History | Free |
| Bundy Hill Preserve | Free |
| Hunter's Ale House | $25 |
| Mill Pond Park | Free |
| Cops & Doughnuts - Central Michigan Precinct | $8 |
| Painted Turtle Pottery Studio | $25 |
| Vin Trofeo's Pizzeria & Pub | $15 |
| University Art Gallery | Free |
| The Brass Café | $45 |
| Nelson Park | Free |
| The Diner | $15 |
| Central Michigan University Bookstore | Free |
| The Cabin | $18 |
| Chipp-A-Waters Park | Free |
| Summit Smokehouse & Tap Room | $28 |
| Doozies Ice Cream Shop | $10 |
| Estimated Total (per person) | $372 |