Five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Burton, Michigan to Salem Township, Michigan

Driving from one town to another usually means taking the quickest route possible. However, sometimes it's worth taking the time to venture off the beaten path to discover unique and unexpected places. This article will share five unexpected places to visit during a road trip from Burton, Michigan, to Salem Township, Michigan, which takes approximately one hour and thirty minutes.

The Halfway Point: Howell, MI

Before diving into the unexpected places, it's important to note the halfway point between Burton and Salem Township, Howell, MI. Howell is a small city of approximately 9,500 residents, situated in Livingston County. It's known for its historic downtown area, offering an array of antique shops, cafes, and restaurants. Howell is a perfect place to stretch out and explore the downtown area before continuing the journey to Salem Township.

1. Fenton Fire Hall

The Fenton Fire Hall, located in Fenton, MI, is a historic firehouse turned restaurant. The historic building houses an interior with open rafters and a fireplace, which gives a charming and cozy ambiance. Fenton Fire Hall's menu offers a range of dishes, from char-grilled burgers to steaks, pasta, and seafood. It's a highly rated spot, with locals and visitors alike recommending it.

If you're looking for a hearty meal, try Fenton Fire Hall's Filet tips with garlic whipped potatoes, or if you're feeling adventurous, the pizza burger with caramelized onions, mushrooms, and mozzarella.

2. Ann Arbor Farmers Market

The Ann Arbor Farmers Market is a vibrant and lively gathering place in downtown Ann Arbor. The market features local products grown by Michigan farmers, handmade crafts, and baked goods. It's a unique place to shop and dine, with food trucks, coffee vendors, and street performers lined up at the entrance.

Besides buying fresh fruit and vegetables, visitors can also grab some Mexican food from El Manantial food truck or try Happy's hot dogs. A visit to the Ann Arbor Farmers Market can be both a shopping experience and a foodie adventure.

3. Yankee Air Museum

The Yankee Air Museum, located in Belleville, MI, is a hidden gem for aviation enthusiasts. The museum's mission is to preserve and share the history of aviation, specifically, Michigan's aviation industry. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the exhibits, including WWII bomber aircraft, a bomber plant assembly line, and a flight simulator.

After the museum tour, visitors can stop by the Thunder Bay Grill, located adjacent to the museum, for a bite to eat. The restaurant features an industrial theme, a full bar, and outdoor seating if the weather permits. The menu offers barbecue chicken, burgers, sandwiches, and salads.

4. The Cheese Lady

The Cheese Lady, located in Grand Rapids, MI, is a unique cheese shop run by proprietor Kathleen Riegler. The Cheese Lady offers over 150 varieties of domestic and imported cheese, charcuterie, olives, and crackers. The decor in the shop is quirky and charming, with cheese- themed artwork scattered throughout.

The Cheese Lady offers a rotating selection of cheese and grilled cheese sandwiches. The staff will gladly offer cheese tastings and recommendations for cheese pairings. A visit to The Cheese Lady is a feast for the senses and a perfect way to enjoy a cheesy snack.

5. Hell

Hell, MI, is a village with a population of about 70 people. It's a place with a name that anyone would be intrigued to visit. The village operates several small businesses and has a post office that provides a unique selling point- the town's postmark, which reads, "Mail from Hell."

One of the village's most famous attractions is Screams Ice Cream, which offers a range of ice cream flavors, including their most famous flavor- Go To Hell Chocolate, which is a dark chocolate ice cream with chocolate chips. The shop has a horror theme, with some staff members dressing up in costumes.

In Conclusion

Taking a road trip from Burton, Michigan, to Salem Township, Michigan, can be a fun and unique experience. The five places mentioned in this article are unexpected stops that are worth checking out along the way.

Fenton Fire Hall offers a cozy and delicious dining experience, while the Ann Arbor Farmers Market provides opportunities for shopping and sampling street food. The Yankee Air Museum is an ideal place to learn about aviation history, while The Cheese Lady is a must-visit destination for cheese lovers. Finally, Hell Village offers a quirky and unique experience with Screams Ice Cream as the highlight. Regardless of which destination you choose, each provides a great opportunity to break up the drive, learn something new, and fill up on delicious local food.