Built around the shores of the sparkling Lake Cadillac, Cadillac Michigan is a natural paradise and an all-seasons destination that attracts visitors of all ages.
From its connection with one of history’s most famous rock bands to its unique blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm, Cadillac offers a wealth of experiences for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and those simply looking for a getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Special thanks tothe Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau for partnering with Awesome Mitten to bring you this ad-free Michigan destination guide.
Enjoy Hundreds of Special Events in Cadillac Michigan All Year Long
Self-described as a recreational wonderland, Cadillac is best known for its picturesque outdoor spaces. But it has also earned a reputation as a charming historic town with a welcoming atmosphere hosting hundreds of amazing events throughout the year.
Given its location in the heart of Northern Michigan, Cadillac enjoys four distinct seasons, with each season providing new reasons to visit.
Mark your calendar for all of Cadillac’s biggest events of 2024!
Popular Spring Activities & Events in Cadillac
With comfortable temperatures and emerging greenery and flowers, spring is a wonderful time of year to visit Cadilac.
- Enjoy family-friendly activities and forage for treasured morel mushrooms during the Mesick Mushroom Festival (May 10-12, 2024).
- Immerse yourself in music and nature at Hoxeyville Spring, the Midwest’s premier Americana and Roots Festival (May 31-June 2, 2024).
- Check out hundreds of classic cars as they roll through Cadillac on the Back to Bricks Promo Tour (June 8 & 9, 2024).
Summer in Cadillac
With abundant sunshine and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, Cadillac is bustling with activities and events in the summer months.
- Celebrate Fourth of July festivities including a new drone light show during the Cadillac Freedom Festival (July 4-6, 2024).
- Broaden your horizons and experience a variety of art, music, and food at the Festival of the Arts (July 19-20, 2024).
- Visit Cadillac during the Northern District Fair for classic fair food, entertainment, and animals (August 12-17, 2024).
Must-Do Cadillac Fall Activities & Events
During the fall, the community’s dense forests come alive in shades of red, orange, yellow, and brown, and temperatures are cool yet comfortable.
- Explore Cadillac’s Fall Color Tours by foot, bike, car, or off-road vehicle.
- Taste locally crafted brews and eats at the lively Cadillac Craft Beer Festival (September 28, 2024).
- Compete in the Bear Claw Epic Mountain Bike Race at the Cadillac Pathway (October 12, 2024).
Winter in Cadillac
The winter months in Cadillac bring colder temperatures and a whole host of new seasonal activities to enjoy.
- Take a lantern-lit hike on the Heritage Nature Trail.
- Celebrate the annual Christmas tree lighting at Christmas in the Park (November 29, 2024).
- Go on a winter paddling adventure on the Pine River.
Outdoor Things to Do in Cadillac
No matter what time of year you visit Cadillac, there is an abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy. These are some of the best outdoor activities and attractions in Cadillac:
Play a Round at a Cadillac Golf Course
Within 20 miles of downtown Cadillac, golfers will discover 9 magnificent golf courses, including two stay-and-play resorts. That means there are over 150 holes of golf to play, making it easy to create a local golfing vacation.
Eldorado Golf Course
Consistently ranked as one of the best golf courses in Cadillac, Eldorado Golf Course is considered one of the premier courses in Northern Michigan. This course is known for its challenging greens and panoramic views through 18 holes. Golfers often dine at the Cadillac Grill after they complete their round.
Cadillac Country Club
Established in 1910, this exclusive, semi-private country club helped establish Cadillac as a Michigan golf destination. For over a century, this golf course has provided avid golfers with a challenging, enjoyable, and picturesque round.
Most golf courses in Cadillac open in the late spring and close by the middle of fall, giving visitors plenty of time to take advantage of the nicer weather in Michigan.
Enjoy Year-Round Fun at Caberfae Peaks
Nestled in the Manistee National Forest, Caberfae Peaks offers residents and visitors alike wonderfully scenic views and year-round recreation opportunities.
In the winter, Caberfae Peaks offers a range of skiing and snowboarding activities with 34 ski runs and two terrain parks. With a vertical drop of 485 feet, the Caberfae ski area provides plenty of opportunities for beginners and experienced skiers and snowboarders to enjoy the slopes.
Additionally, the resort features a cozy lodge, ski-in/ski-out accommodations, ORV trails, and various dining options, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts and families looking for a fun and relaxing getaway.
This resort is also one of Cadillac’s most idyllic summertime golf spots. This course has a reputation for having some of the most meticulously maintained holes, with golfers appreciating the stunning wetland views while they play.
Experience the Tranquility of Clam River Greenway
The Clam River Greenway is a pristine trail that began as a community clean-up project and quickly transformed into one of the city’s best assets. With the mouth of the Clam River in the heart of downtown, residents and visitors alike routinely find themselves drawn to the shore.
Stretching for 1.6 miles along the Clam River, the Greenway connects Lake Cadillac with a sports and recreational park, winding through residential areas along the way. In addition to being a mixed-use trail, it includes a wooden boardwalk, a fishing dock, a sound garden, and a sundial.
While this is a popular spring and summertime destination in Cadillac, it is enjoyed year-round as locals love cross-country skiing along the path in the winter.
Shop Local at the Cadillac Farmer’s Market
The Cadillac Farmer’s Market is the best place to shop locally in the city and one of the largest farmer’s markets in the region. Vendors from around the area come to the market to sell their freshly harvested produce, warm baked goods, and artisan products.
The market is open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., from the middle of May until the end of October.
In addition to the market vendors, there are often food trucks and live music on the scene, giving the market a lively atmosphere. The market also includes a Kid’s Corner, providing youngsters with a fun craft or activity to enjoy.
See the Wonders of Mitchell State Park
This beautiful 660-acre park between Lake Cadillac and Lake Mitchell is a paradise for those who love being outdoors.
Not only is the park one of Cadillac’s prime destinations for boating, camping, and fishing, it also provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and includes access to two nearby park areas.
The Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park on the east side of Lake Cadillac allows Mitchell State Park visitors to traverse a trail network along the shoreline.
The Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center includes archery and gun ranges, scheduled shooting programs, and interpretive displays detailing the state’s rich history of hunting and fishing.
Visit the Famed KISS Monument
KISS fans worldwide travel to Cadillac to visit the only free-standing monument dedicated to the band. The KISS Monument is a 4,300-pound granite monument that details the iconic moment when the band made history in Cadillac.
During the 1974 high school football season, Cadillac High School’s team adopted K-I-S-S or Keep It Simple Stupid as its mantra and played KISS music in the locker room. The band’s music kept the team moving forward, leading them to seven straight wins.
When the band heard about the football team’s dedication and success, they became Cadillac Vikings fans. It all culminated with a KISS concert in the high school auditorium during the Homecoming Dance in 1975. The monument was dedicated in 2015 and KISS gave Cadillac a shoutout during a Grand Rapids concert in 2019.
Today, visitors can enjoy more than just a photo opportunity at the monument. A Cadillac Kisstory walking tour takes visitors to all the most iconic spots in the city the band visited.
Surround Yourself in the Cadillac Scenery
With the Huron-Manistee National Forest in its backyard, Cadillac is one of the most picturesque places in Northern Michigan to enjoy a hike. Some of the most popular trails in Cadillac include:
Fife Lake Loop
This 21-mile loop includes a path through two state forest campgrounds and the Trail Town of Fife Lake. Visitors can enjoy scenic views, dense forests, and the peacefulness of the Manistee River.
Cadillac Pathway
This all-season, multi-use trail covers 11 miles and is perfect for a leisurely bike ride, an exhilarating run or hike, or a breathtaking trek on cross-country skis.
MacKenzie Trail
Nestled in the foothills of Caberfae Peaks, the MacKenzie Trail covers 10 miles of multi-season terrain. Adventurers can meander through the Manistee National Forest as they hike, bike, or cross-country ski surrounded by incredible views.
Keith McKellop Walkway
Winding along the eastern shore of Lake Cadillac, the McKellop Walkway is a one-mile path that’s perfect for inline skating, strolling, walking, and jogging.
Heritage Nature Trail at Mitchell State Park
The 3.5-mile Heritage Nature Trail surrounds a 235-acre preserve and offers trekkers a chance to enjoy scenic nature trails that are ideal for wildlife viewing. Guided tours are offered along a 2.6-mile woodland loop and Heritage Marsh.
White Pine Trail
The White Pine Trail — which spans 92 miles — is one of the state’s biggest rail-to-trails and connects Cadillac to Grand Rapids. Visitors can access the trailhead from the Cadillac Commons, which includes kiosks, a drinking fountain, and picnic tables.
Lake Cadillac Foot & Bike Path
This vibrant 7.5-mile path hugs the Cadillac shoreline and carries visitors through parks, neighborhoods, and beaches just a stone’s throw from downtown.
Waldeck Island Nature Preserve
This 11-acre preserve on Stone Ledge Lake is just south of Cadillac on M-115. Visitors can enjoy forest views, hiking, snowshoeing, and wildlife viewing from the Hansen Memorial Wildlife Viewing Platform.
Spend a Day at the Adventure Island Family Fun Park
Adventurers looking for a day of summertime family fun in Cadillac should look no further than the Adventure Island Family Fun Park.
This seasonal amusem*nt center includes all the activities visitors need for a day of fun-filled memories, including go-karting, mini-golf, batting cages, and an arcade. There’s even a playground for the littlest visitors to enjoy.
This seasonal attraction is open from Thursday through Sunday between Memorial Day and Labor Day, making it a favorite option for those quintessential summer vacations.
Indoor Things to Do in Cadillac
Whether it’s a rainy day or residents and visitors simply want to spend the day indoors, you will find that these are some of the best indoor things to do in Cadillac:
Enjoy Live Entertainment at The Venue
The Venue is the place to be in Cadillac for live entertainment. Conveniently located next to The Truck Stop restaurant, this event center hosts a variety of entertainers all year round including comedy acts and rock, country, and hip-hop concerts.
Catch a Movie in Cadillac
GQT Cadillac is the place to be on a rainy day. This 4-screen theater is known for its larger-than-life screens, cutting-edge sound system, comfortable seats, and mouthwatering popcorn.
Shop at One of Michigan’s Largest Toy Stores
There’s nothing quite like the magic of browsing endless aisles of toys, and Toy Town in Cadillac keeps that magic alive. Considered one of Michigan’s largest independent toy stores, this is one of the best places to go souvenir shopping, especially for those with little travelers in tow.
Go Bowling at a Local Alley
With two alleys to choose from, bowling is a local favorite in Cadillac. Whether visitors choose Parkview Lanes Cadillac or The Pines Sports Bar and Bowling Center, they’re sure to enjoy an afternoon or evening of knocking down pins with family and friends.
Learn at the Wexford County Historical Museum
History buffs of all ages can learn about the fascinating history of Wexford County at theWexford County Historical Museum. The museum covers more than 5,000 square feet, visitors can peruse documents, paintings, maps, photos, and other artifacts depicting the community’s daily life and history since the 1870s.
Indulge Your Sweet Tooth at The Sweet Shop
Visitors with a sweet tooth will have a hard time staying away fromThe Sweet Shop. This Cadillac institution makes candies the old-fashioned way and features an array of goodies that includes milk, white, and dark chocolate, roasted nuts, gourmet popcorn, fudge, caramel apples, and much more.
Have Fun at Skeggox Axe Throwing
Those seeking a more unique indoor activity can try their hand at axe throwing atSkeggox Axe Throwing. Whether you’re a regular or you’ve never done it before, Skeggox has the instruction and equipment needed for everyone in your party to have a good time.
Explore the Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center
Outdoor enthusiasts of all ages who love hunting and fishing will love a visit tothe Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center.
The facility is open on weekends from Labor Day to Memorial Day and visitors can buy fishing and hunting licenses on site.
All of the center’s exhibits feature displays that celebrate the area’s fishing, hunting, and trapping heritage. Entering the facility, visitors are welcomed by a 500-gallon aquarium full of fish from Lake Cadillac and Lake Mitchell. Another 200-gallon aquarium sits in the fishing exhibit hall.
Those who want to further their fishing and hunting skills and knowledge of the outdoors can visit the center’s classroom for educational opportunities. Visitors can also access the Mitchell State Park Heritage Trail from the center.
Local Cadillac Restaurants
Residents and visitors can find many locally-owned restaurants offering fresh dishes and flavorful fare. Within each dining locale, customers will be greeted by residents and business owners committed to preserving the beauty of Cadillac and welcoming visitors to town.
This cozy and inviting atmosphere keeps visitors coming back for another meal and some of our recommendations include…
The Timbers Restaurant
5535 M-115, Cadillac, MI 49601
Featuring a rustic atmosphere and known for its commitment to excellence, the Timbers has become one of the most iconic restaurants in Cadillac. It’s been open for over 25 years, and it’s best known for its mouthwatering burgers, simmering pizzas, and made-from-scratch daily specials.
Blue Heron Cafe
304 N Mitchell St, Cadillac, MI 49601
The Blue Heron Cafe is a perfect spot to meet a friend for coffee or treat yourself to a tasty meal. The cafe uses high-quality organic and locally grown items to offer daily made-from-scratch breakfasts, lunch, and baked goods.
After 26 Depot Cafe
127 W Cass St, Cadillac, MI 49601
Located in the historic Ann Arbor Railroad Depot building, the cafe employs local adults with cognitive impairments and developmental disabilities with the help of support staff. These staffers help serve atasty mix of breakfast and lunch options — all with a smile.
Burke’s Waterfront Restaurant
2403 Sunnyside Dr, Cadillac, MI 49601
Visitors can stop here any time — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — for a delicious meal pulled from a delicious, diverse menu. The restaurant overlooks Lake Cadillac and is the perfect spot for outdoor dining when the weather permits.
Duane’s Family Restaurant
456 E Prosper Rd, Falmouth, MI 49632
Nestled just west of Cadillac, Duane’s is a fantastic all-meal stop for home-cooked goodness in downtown Falmouth. Duane’s offers a Saturday breakfast buffet and a dinner buffet on Friday and Saturday nights. Duane’s is also known for its homemade goodies, including cookies and loaves of bread.
Mr. Foise’s Pasties
154 Leisure St, Cadillac, MI 49601
The Upper Peninsula isn’t the only place to dig into a pasty — that classic Michigan delicacy where beef, potatoes, rutabagas, and onions are packed into a golden flaky crust.
The choices here are simple – beef, chicken, and veggie – but locals swear by the crust and the cozy atmosphere is hard to beat.
Uncover the History of Cadillac
While local Native American tribes inhabited the area and navigated the region’s tribal trails, the community that would eventually become Cadillac began forming in the aftermath of the Civil War.
As the nation continued to rebuild and redevelop following the Civil War, Michigan’s natural resources took center stage — and those who settled in Cadillac became key players in this burgeoning industry.
In the mid-1860s, a new road between Grand Rapids and Traverse City made it easier for pioneers, settlers, and land surveyors to unearth the region’s potential. In a land enveloped by sparkling lakes and dense forests, travelers quickly saw that the abundant natural resources in this region were ideal for the current economic demands.
By 1872, it is said that 60 families — or about 300 residents — called the community home. At the time, there were two hotels, several general stores, a hardware store, a blacksmith shop, and a wagon shop, showing the community’s residents were ready to meet the country’s needs.
In 1877, Cadillac was officially incorporated as a city. The lumber industry anchored the Cadillac economy for decades and growth continued in the community throughout the 20th century. Today, Cadillac is a quiet tourist town, yet manufacturing still plays a pivotal role in the local economy.
Begin Your Cadillac Adventure Today
Cadillac is an iconic destination that’s perfect for those who are looking to experience the pristine beauty of Northern Michigan.
From quick weekend getaways to extended stays near the waters of Lake Cadillac, residents and visitors will find it easy to build a Cadillac itinerary that is both exciting and inviting.
So get away from the bustle of the big city and head north to discover the charm of Cadillac. Once you’ve visited the KISS Monument, enjoyed a meal at the Blue Heron Cafe, or completed the entire McKenzie Trail, you may find that Cadillac is your new favorite Northern Michigan destination.
To make your trip complete, Cadillac offers a variety of lodging options from resorts and hotels to cozy cabins and campgrounds.
