10 Reasons to Visit the Brighton Howell Area in 2026

Housing 50,000 acres of parks, engaging events, unique attractions, delicious cuisine, and bustling downtowns that you can only find here, the Brighton Howell Area is a must-visit destination this year. Don’t just take our word for it. Check out these ten reasons to visit the Brighton Howell Area in 2026.

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1. Outdoor Recreation

The Brighton Howell Area offers endless outdoor recreation opportunities in every season. Explore 123 miles of scenic trails perfect for hiking, biking, and immersing yourself in Michigan’s natural beauty. Cool off at any of the 8+ public beaches, where you can swim, paddle, or relax by the water. When winter arrives, the adventure doesn’t stop, and you’ll find skiing, ice skating, ice fishing, and sledding throughout the area.

What truly sets the Brighton Howell Area apart is its blend of sparkling lakes and well-maintained parks, all just a short drive from major cities. It’s an ideal getaway for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility, variety, and year-round fun.

Shopping

2. Michigan Challenge Balloonfest

📍: Howell

Michigan Challenge Balloonfest is the must-experience event of the summer. Happening in Howell from June 26-28th, this event features three entertainment venues with family activities and attractions. On Saturday night, watch as 20 hot air balloons glow against the night sky during the Balloon Glow. Come out to see the carnival, balloon launch, art festival, fireworks, and more!

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3. Hartland Polo Classic

📍: Hartland

The Hartland Polo Classic Classic is your chance to witness a live Polo Match! Watch as the Detroit Polo Club goes head to head in a classic polo match where you can come dressed in your best garden party attire. Don’t forget to wear your most fabulous polo hat for a chance to win the Best Hat Contest. Enjoy a delicious dinner and snacks and a bar equipped with locally brewed craft beer, bourbon, and wine.

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4. Cider Mills & Pumpkin Patches

Home to some of the state’s highest-ranked cider mills, the Brighton Howell Area is the perfect fall getaway spot. Spicer Orchards, ranked by USA Today readers as one of the top cider mills in the country, offers handcrafted donuts, fresh-pressed cider, homemade wine, and every fall activity imaginable. When thinking about where to go this fall, check out the Brighton Howell Area!

Area Attractions

5. Golf

In the Brighton Howell Area, there is no shortage of beautiful golf courses perfect for any level golfer. With 21 golf courses, the Brighton Howell Area is the ultimate golfer’s destination. From the roaring hills of Chemung Hills Golf & Banquet Center to the pristine greens of the Majestic Golf Course, there is a facility for golfers of any level.

Brighton Howell Area Golf Courses

6. Walkable Downtowns

📍: Brighton & Howell

The specialized offerings and walkable downtowns of the Brighton and Howell communities are anchoring the area. Both showcase reputable Main Street-style boutique shopping, relaxed dining, and welcoming central outdoor gathering spots for impromptu sunset strolls or a casual summer concert.

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7. Equestrian

Saddle up and experience the beauty of the Brighton Howell Area on a scenic horseback riding adventure. All skill levels are welcome to enjoy the unique way to indulge in the serenity of nature. Take peaceful rides through wooded landscapes for a relaxing way to reconnect with nature.

Brighton Recreation Riding Stables allows you to explore Brighton Recreation Area with your horse on a guided tour.

Equestrian

8. Six Local Breweries

The Brighton Howell Area boasts six local breweries, each serving unique craft beers. In Howell, you’ll find Aberrant Ales and Block Brewing Company, where you can enjoy weekly trivia, in-house yard games, and outdoor patios. Head to Brighton to experience the historic Brewery Becker, Four Circles Brewery, and a second Block Brewing Company location. In Hartland, enjoy the laid-back vibe at Hartland Brewing Company with weekly trivia and tasty food!



Area Breweries

9. Mt. Brighton

📍: Brighton

Mt. Brighton – the Brighton Howell Area’s very own Vail Resort is the ultimate place in Southeast Michigan to hit the slopes. Grab your skis or snowboard and plan a trip for the best winter getaway. Don’t worry; you can learn how to ski and snowboard directly from the in-house instructors if you don’t already know how! Mt. Brighton houses a coffeeshop, full-service restaurant, and a gear shop, making it a one-stop shop for your next trip.

Area Attractions

10. Howell Nature Center

📍: Howell

When you visit Howell Nature Center you can explore 230 rolling acres of woods and wetlands. Your kids will love the Nature Scape, a fenced-in area with a kid-sized waterfall and pond, sand dunes, stump jumps, natural forts, trails, and life-sized spiderwebs. The Wild Wonders Wildlife Park houses native, permanently injured wildlife with habitats mimicking animals’ habitats. You’ll find foxes, porcupines, hawks, and more. The kids can also enjoy the adventure park, which includes a rock climbing wall and zip lining.

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If you’re looking for new adventures this year, the Brighton Howell Area is certainly the place to go. From shopping extravaganzas to the beautiful outdoors, there’s something for everyone. Sign up for our newsletter to keep up-to-date on all events, new restaurants or shops, attractions, and other happenings in the area! Don’t forget to tag @explorebrightonhowellarea and use #ExploreBHA on your next getaway.

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