Growing up, Hastings always held a special place in my heart. It was the town where my father was raised, so we frequently made trips there to visit extended family. Later, it was the city that gave me my first job, at the movie theater on Main Street. And now, after all this time, I still find myself in Hastings an awful lot. Why? Because Hastings offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and city-esque livelihood. It’s a city with a keen progressive edge, gently making itself known to tourists passing through Grand Rapids, located not 40 miles away. It may not be on the beaten path, but this Barry County city really is for the people who go out of their way to find it. And now, for those people, I give my personal list of the top 5 things to do in Hastings, MI.
Top 5 Things to do in Hastings, MI
5. Grab a bite to eat at Walldorff Brewpub
With a building that’s been in near constant use since 1866, the Walldorff, founded in 2006, has become a hallmark of Hastings, with outstanding American cuisine and quality service all around. Family owned and operated, the brewpub also offers premium, hand-crafted ale, brewed daily. The beer flows from 9 taps, with specialty and seasonal brews available year-round. I’ve been coming here for years (it’s a favorite for family wedding receptions), and I highly recommend giving it a shot. If you’re looking to visit, you can find them at 105 E State St, Hastings, MI 49058-1808, or head to their website.
4. Go on a shopping spree
Hasting’s unique position as an up-and-coming destination allows it to play host to a variety of small businesses and enterprising entrepreneurs. The downtown area is home to local shops you won’t find anywhere else, and if you take the time to get out of the car and shop around for a bit, you’ll be struck by the pleasantly old-fashioned feel of it all. Shopkeepers are friendly and conversational, while many of the products they’re selling have a homemade touch. Almost all the bases are covered, from electronics, to trading cards, to furniture, to fashion. And even if you don’t find that one thing you were looking for, you’re sure to enjoy the hunt.
3. Take a canoe ride down Thornapple River
Hastings is located on the banks of the scenic Thornapple River, which influences much of the city’s design and attractions. One such attraction comes in the form of the U-Rent-Em Canoe Livery, which has been renting out canoe, kayak, and tubes since 1966. U-Rent-Em allows you to rent your choice of watercraft for a relaxing trip down the river, and even provides personal shuttles for transportation to a private launch. Rates start at $10 for tubes, $20 for kayaks, and $50 for canoes. Additionally, they offer group camping, and a newly renovated rental cottage. These guys are professionals, and locals have nothing but good things to say. Open Spring, Summer, and Fall, you can visit their location at 805 W Apple St, Hastings, MI 49058-1674, or their website here.
2. Take a walk through the charming downtown
The downtown strip of Hastings, Michigan is truly a slice of small-town Americana. With old-school diners on one corner and bumping bars on the other, you have the freedom to mold your experience to whatever you want it to be. Me, I find that it’s the perfect place for wandering. You don’t need to a goal to find a place that strikes your fancy. And even if you don’t, soaking in the local art on display up and down the street and the ambience in the air is a great way to spend your day. If you’re looking for a recommendation, I’ll point you in the direction of my former employer, Mexican Connexion. First class Tex-Mex, I’m telling you. Give it a shot!
1. Go back in time at Historic Charlton Park
Often referred to as the “jewel of Barry County,” Charlton Park is an open-air museum, offering an up-close look at a turn-of-the-century historic village. Established in 1936 by Irving Delos Charlton, an avid collector of antique objects who originally set out to erect a simple stone museum, the property has since evolved into an 18-building interactive village, depicting the day-to-day lives of early Barry County inhabitants. The tour is traditionally self-guided, but guided tours are available for $4. Beyond this, the park has a slew of educational programs, as well 310 acres of land, with several options for outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, swimming, and fishing. You can visit in-person at 2545 S Charlton Park Rd, Hastings, MI 49058-8102, or check out their website here.
Top 5 Things to do in Hastings, MI – Final Thoughts
Hastings truly is one of my favorite cities in Michigan, so it was difficult to take a list of awesome things to do and pare it down to 5. It should go without saying that Hastings offers a whole lot more to do with your day, including gorgeous walking trails, such as the Hastings Riverwalk, and incredible seasonal celebrations that bring people together from far and wide. If you ever get the opportunity, I suggest that you venture off the beaten path (basic traveler’s instinct) and come discover Hastings for yourself. Whatever you choose to do, you’re bound to have a good time.
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