Summer in Washtenaw County: Your Guide to Local Fun
Summer is one of the best times to explore everything Washtenaw County has to offer. From river adventures to family‑friendly parks, our community is full of ways to enjoy the season close to home. We love celebrating the places and experiences that make our county such a great place to live, work, and play.
🌳 Explore the Outdoors: Trails, Parks & Open Spaces
Washtenaw County is home to some of Michigan’s most beautiful green spaces. Whether you’re walking the Border to Border Trail, enjoying a picnic at County Farm Park, or exploring wooded paths near Chelsea, there’s no shortage of ways to get outside.
These parks offer more than scenery — they’re places where families gather, neighbors connect, and our community grows stronger.
🛶 Paddle the Huron River
A summer staple in our region, the Huron River offers kayaking, canoeing, tubing, and paddleboarding for all experience levels. Launch points throughout Ann Arbor, Dexter, and Ypsilanti make it easy to plan a quick afternoon paddle or a full‑day adventure.
It’s one of the best ways to enjoy Michigan sunshine while supporting local outfitters and recreation programs.
🎣 Relax with a Day of Fishing
Many county parks offer accessible fishing spots where you can cast for bluegill, bass, and other warm‑weather favorites. It’s a peaceful way to unwind — and a great reminder of the natural beauty right in our backyard.
🌼 Visit Local Gardens & Historic Green Spaces
Take a stroll through the gardens at County Farm Park, a 127‑acre property with deep local roots dating back to 1836. Today, it’s a vibrant community space filled with trails, gardens, and open fields perfect for summer afternoons.
🦅 Birdwatching Across the County
With diverse habitats and well‑preserved natural areas, Washtenaw County is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Bring binoculars and see how many species you can spot — it’s a fun, low‑cost activity for all ages.
🧺 Family Fun at Local Parks
From playgrounds at Independence Lake and Rolling Hills to wide‑open spaces at Cavanaugh Lake, families have plenty of options for outdoor play. Pack a picnic, bring the sunscreen, and enjoy a day of simple summer fun.
🚴 Bike, Hike & Explore the Ann Arbor Area
Whether you’re biking along the river, hiking wooded trails, or exploring new corners of the county, the Ann Arbor area offers endless ways to stay active. Summer is the perfect time to discover a new favorite spot.
🌿 Give Back Through Volunteer Opportunities
Programs like “Leave It Better” offer hands‑on ways to help maintain local parks and natural areas. It’s a meaningful way to spend time outdoors while supporting the community we all share.
Supporting the Community We Call Home
As a local financial institution, we’re proud to serve a county filled with natural beauty, vibrant neighborhoods, and opportunities to enjoy the season. Whether you’re planning a summer getaway, saving for a family adventure, or simply exploring close to home, we’re here to help you make the most of it.
