If you’re searching for a charming town that blends historic appeal, vibrant community events, and abundant natural beauty, Howell, Michigan might just be the perfect place for you. Located between Lansing and Detroit, Howell offers residents a welcoming, small-town feel with plenty of modern amenities and attractions. Whether you’re drawn to its quaint downtown, scenic parks, or local restaurants, Howell has something for everyone. Here’s a look at why so many people are proud to call Howell home.
Howell’s downtown area is packed with character, making it a true gem of the community. From its beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture to its array of local shops, there’s plenty to explore. Stroll down the streets and discover the iconic Howell Opera House, a landmark known for hosting community events, arts performances, and historic tours. Unique boutiques, cozy cafes, and antique stores give downtown Howell a charming feel that’s perfect for a weekend outing or a leisurely afternoon.
For those who love local events, downtown Howell is the setting for community favorites like the Howell Melon Festival, an annual celebration that brings residents together for food, music, and family-friendly activities. It’s a tradition locals look forward to each summer and a great way to experience the community’s welcoming vibe.
(Photo courtesy of the Howell Opera House)
Howell is a vibrant town with a strong sense of community and a calendar filled with events that bring residents together. Whether it’s soaring hot air balloons, festive parades, or bustling farmers’ markets, there’s always something to look forward to in Howell. Here are some of the standout events and traditions that make Howell a great place to live.
One of the most anticipated events of the year in Howell, MI is the Howell Balloonfest. Held each June, Balloonfest fills the skies with colorful hot air balloons, creating a breathtaking spectacle against Michigan’s summer sky. Visitors can enjoy watching balloon launches and the thrilling nighttime balloon glow, where illuminated balloons light up the festival grounds. Beyond the balloons, the event includes live music, craft vendors, a carnival, and plenty of food options, making it a perfect weekend for family-friendly fun. Balloonfest is a proud tradition for Howell, drawing visitors from all over Michigan and beyond.
When the holiday season rolls around, Howell transforms into a festive wonderland. The Howell Fantasy of Lights Parade is a town favorite, held on the Friday after Thanksgiving. This magical parade kicks off the holiday season with brightly lit floats, marching bands, and even an appearance from Santa himself. Following the parade, the downtown area hosts a holiday celebration complete with carolers, hot cocoa stands, and a tree-lighting ceremony. This beloved event is the perfect way to start the season and brings families together in the heart of Howell.
Howell also hosts seasonal celebrations throughout the year, including Easter egg hunts, Halloween events, and Fourth of July fireworks, ensuring there’s always something special for families to enjoy.
The Howell Farmers Market is a weekend staple for locals. Running from May through October, the market offers fresh, locally-grown produce, artisanal products, and handmade crafts. It’s the perfect place to stock up on fresh fruits, vegetables, and baked goods, as well as unique items from local artisans. Vendors at the market often include local farmers, florists, and specialty food producers, giving shoppers a taste of what Michigan has to offer.
Beyond the shopping, the market is a wonderful community space where friends, families, and neighbors gather to catch up and enjoy live entertainment. With activities for kids and occasional cooking demonstrations, the Howell Farmers Market is more than just a place to shop—it’s a lively, social spot that residents look forward to each week.
Howell is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Howell has many parks offering a variety of recreational activities. Whether you’re looking for a day at the beach, hiking trails, wildlife encounters, or simply a peaceful spot to unwind, Howell’s parks provide it all. Here are some of the standout parks in the area.
Thompson Lake Park is a true gem in Howell, known for its scenic lakefront and family-friendly amenities. The park features a beautiful sandy beach, making it an ideal destination for swimming and sunbathing in the warmer months. Families flock to Thompson Lake for its playgrounds, which are equipped with slides, swings, and climbing structures that keep kids entertained for hours.
Picnic areas with tables and shaded spots make it easy to enjoy a lakeside meal, and several pavilions are available for rent, providing the perfect setting for family gatherings or special events. For water enthusiasts, Thompson Lake Park has a boat launch, making it convenient for residents to bring their boats, kayaks, or paddleboards for a day on the water. Fishing is also popular here, with plenty of opportunities to catch local fish species. Thompson Lake Park’s combination of water activities and relaxation spots makes it a versatile destination for all ages.
Located on the shores of Thompson Lake, Howell City Park, also known as Scofield Park, is a favorite spot for both residents and visitors. This park features walking trails that wind through scenic wooded areas, offering the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll, a jog, or a bike ride. The trails are well-maintained and suitable for all fitness levels, making them a popular choice for outdoor exercise.
Howell City Park also includes sports courts for basketball and tennis, providing space for friendly games and community tournaments. There are open green spaces for picnics and relaxation, as well as additional playgrounds for children. The park’s lakefront location offers fantastic views, and there’s even a small dock area for those interested in fishing or just enjoying the water views. With its variety of amenities, Howell City Park serves as a versatile recreational area and a lovely spot to spend a sunny afternoon.
(Image courtesy of Howell Nature Center)
For those who enjoy wildlife and nature-based education, the Howell Nature Center is a must-visit. This unique facility combines outdoor recreation with wildlife conservation and educational programs, making it an enriching destination for families, school groups, and nature lovers. The Wild Wonders Wildlife Park at Howell Nature Center is home to over 70 native Michigan animals, including bald eagles, coyotes, bobcats, and more. Many of the animals here are rehabilitated rescues that cannot be released back into the wild, allowing visitors to observe and learn about native species up close.
Another highlight of Howell Nature Center is Alexandria’s NatureScape, an interactive play area designed to engage children with nature. This area features treehouses, tunnels, slides, and sensory gardens, encouraging children to explore the outdoors in a safe and imaginative environment. The Raptor Center is another educational feature, where visitors can see rescued birds of prey and learn about their conservation.
If you’re looking for adventure, Howell Nature Center also offers zip-lining and ropes courses, perfect for thrill-seekers and groups looking for a fun challenge. The center regularly hosts camps, seasonal events, and educational programs, making it a dynamic destination for year-round activities.
Howell has a lively dining scene that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. From cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, the town offers a diverse array of culinary experiences. Here are some notable establishments that highlight Howell’s rich gastronomic landscape.
Black Iron Coffee Roasters: Known for their artisanal coffee blends, Black Iron Coffee Roasters provides a unique coffee experience with a focus on quality and flavor. It’s an ideal place for coffee enthusiasts looking to explore new tastes.
Tomato Brothers: This family-friendly restaurant specializes in Italian-American cuisine, offering a range of dishes from hearty pastas to specialty pizzas. Their warm ambiance and generous portions make it a popular choice for casual dining.
Cleary’s Pub: A staple in Howell, Cleary’s Pub serves classic pub fare in a relaxed setting. With a menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, and a selection of beers on tap, it’s a great spot for a laid-back meal with friends.
Diamonds Steak and Seafood: For those seeking an upscale dining experience, Diamonds offers premium steaks and fresh seafood in an elegant atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for special occasions or a refined night out.
Cello Italian Restaurant: Specializing in authentic Italian cuisine, Cello provides a modern dining experience with a menu that emphasizes fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Their selection of wines complements the dishes perfectly.
2FOG’s Pub: Located in the basement of the Heart of Howell building, 2FOG’s Pub offers a speakeasy atmosphere with a menu featuring classic American fare and craft cocktails. It’s a unique spot for those looking to enjoy a meal in a distinctive setting.
The Silver Pig: The Silver Pig combines a speakeasy-style bar with a menu that includes brick oven pizzas, fresh oysters, and small plates. It’s known for its craft cocktails and lively ambiance.
Education is a cornerstone of the Howell community, and families in the area benefit from a strong public school system, along with a variety of options for younger children and additional academic programs. Howell’s schools are dedicated to fostering student achievement and offering well-rounded educational experiences, with a focus on academic excellence and diverse extracurricular opportunities.
The Howell Public Schools District serves as the primary education provider in the area, known for its commitment to quality education and a supportive learning environment. The district operates multiple schools at each educational level, ensuring that families have access to a variety of programs and resources.
Elementary Schools: The district includes several elementary schools, such as Southwest Elementary, Challenger Elementary, and Voyager Elementary. These schools emphasize foundational skills in reading, math, and science, with programs designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking from an early age. Each school also offers engaging activities, such as music, art, and physical education, to support a well-rounded education.
Middle Schools: The district includes two middle schools, Parker Middle School and Highlander Way Middle School. Both schools offer comprehensive academic programs that build on the foundational skills established in elementary school. Students at this level can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, music programs, and clubs focused on various interests like robotics, art, and environmental science. This helps students explore their passions while developing leadership and teamwork skills.
Howell High School: Howell High School offers a robust curriculum that prepares students for college, careers, and beyond. The high school provides a range of Advanced Placement (AP) and honors courses, along with career and technical education (CTE) programs, giving students opportunities to gain hands-on experience in fields like engineering, healthcare, and digital arts. Howell High School is also home to a thriving athletic department, with teams across multiple sports, and a variety of student clubs, including theater, debate, and environmental conservation groups.
All of Howell Public School’s schools can be viewed here.
(Image courtesy of Homes.com)
Seeking a quality home in a vibrant community? Howell’s real estate market offers diverse options that appeal to a range of tastes and lifestyles. Whether you’re looking to buy new construction homes in Howell, or previously-owned homes, you’re sure to find your perfect home.
Howell’s historic district offers a selection of beautifully preserved homes that capture the architectural elegance of the past. These homes, often built in the early to mid-1900s, feature unique details such as hardwood floors, crown moldings, original fireplaces, and intricate woodwork. Many have been updated to include modern conveniences while retaining their vintage charm, providing the best of both worlds for new homeowners who appreciate history and craftsmanship. Living in a historic home in Howell means being part of a close-knit neighborhood with easy access to downtown shops, cafes, and community events, all while enjoying a property full of character.
For those seeking the latest in design and amenities, Howell has several new developments that cater to the needs of modern families. These homes are built with energy efficiency and contemporary living in mind, featuring open floor plans, high ceilings, and large windows that maximize natural light. Many new homes in Howell’s developments offer customization options, allowing buyers to select finishes, layouts, and other design elements that reflect their personal style. With features such as gourmet kitchens, spa-inspired bathrooms, and spacious master suites, these homes cater to buyers looking for luxury and comfort in a move-in-ready package.
Popular new neighborhoods include developments with community amenities like walking trails, clubhouses, and playgrounds, providing families with convenient access to outdoor activities and social opportunities right outside their door.
Working with a local homebuilder in Howell gives new homeowners the chance to create a property that’s truly tailored to their needs. Local builders understand the Howell market, its architectural styles, and the specific needs of families moving to the area. They offer personalized consultations and can guide you through the process of selecting a floor plan, choosing finishes, and incorporating special features. From energy-efficient upgrades to custom cabinetry, partnering with a homebuilder ensures your home is built to your exact specifications, resulting in a space that’s both functional and luxurious.
Make Howell, MI your home today! Howell offers the ideal blend of small-town charm, modern amenities, and active community life, making it a wonderful place to settle and thrive. With diverse housing options from historic homes to customizable new builds, there’s something to suit every lifestyle. If you’re ready to make Howell your home, reach out to us to learn how we can help you find or build the perfect place tailored just for you.
