Belleville is a historic small town in southeast Michigan with charming attractions. Here are my top picks for things to do in Belleville Michigan, from museums and parks to shops and restaurants. This guide covers all the best activities Belleville has to offer. Please join Let’s save Michigan to learn more through this article.
1. Belleville Area Museum
Address: 405 Main St, Belleville, MI 48111
The Belleville Area Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the town. Exhibits cover Native American life, pioneers, the railroad, and more using artifacts, photos and displays.
I always enjoy seeing vintage items like an 1890s kitchen, old timey classroom, and historic fashions. Admission is free.
2. Belleville Lake Park
Belleville Lake Park sits on the shores of Belleville Lake and is a popular spot for recreation. Activities include playgrounds, hiking trails, fishing, kayaking and more.
On warm days you can swim at the beach or rent paddleboats and canoes. There are also picnic shelters and grills if you want to enjoy a meal with a lake view.
3. Belleville Downtown
Downtown Belleville along Main Street has maintained its historic small town charm. You’ll find cute boutiques, antique shops, and restaurants housed in Victorian storefronts.
Make sure to stop for a sweet treat at Sanders Candy or Say Cheese Cheesecake. The Belleville Farmers Market takes over Main Street on Thursdays from June to October.
4. Fourth Street Square
In the heart of downtown, Fourth Street Square is a lively public space with a performance pavilion. On weekends, there are often concerts, craft fairs and community events held here.
The Christmas tree lighting also takes place annually at the square, along with car shows and art fairs throughout the year.
5. Wayne County Lightfest
Just 10 minutes from Belleville, the Wayne County Lightfest is a spectacular drive-thru holiday light display open from November to December.
Over 100 animated and stationary displays light up Hines Park, synchronized to holiday music you can tune to on your radio. It’s a beloved local tradition for getting in the Christmas spirit.
6. Belleville Chili Cook-Off
Each September, the Belleville Chili Cook-Off brings together amateur and professional chefs vying for the People’s Choice and Judge’s Choice awards.
For a small fee, you can sample a wide variety of chilis and vote for your favorite. There is also live music and family activities. Chili competitors battle it out using meat and vegetarian chilis of all heat levels.
7. Belleville Area Council for the Arts
The Belleville Area Council for the Arts promotes arts and culture in the community through classes, workshops, live performances, gallery shows and more.
Check their calendar of events to find opera nights, quilt shows, art sales and other happenings during your visit to Belleville.
8. Victory Park
Victory Park has athletic facilities like tennis and basketball courts, baseball diamonds, and a skate park. On weekends you’ll often find community sports games happening.
There are also playgrounds, picnic tables, grills, and a veterans memorial. It’s a nice spot for an outdoor gathering.
9. Belleville Area District Library
Address: 167 Fourth St, Belleville, MI 48111
In addition to books, movies, and other lending materials, the Belleville Area District Library hosts free programs and classes for all ages.
Kids can attend storytimes and crafting while adults can go to technology lessons and guest lectures. Examine the library’s event calendar for enrichment activities during your trip.
10. Belleville Road Bridge
Crossing over Belleville Lake, the blue Belleville Road Bridge is an iconic local landmark. There is a pedestrian walkway so you can stroll above the water while admiring views of the lake and surrounding wetlands.It’s especially lovely at sunset when the bridge is illuminated. Be sure to snap a photo!
11. Belleville National Strawberry Festival
Each June, Belleville holds its National Strawberry Festival where the community celebrates the region’s strawberry harvest.
Highlights include strawberry treats, cooking contests, craft vendors, carnival rides, live music and a grand parade. The Strawberry Princess Pageant also takes place during the four-day event.
12. Denton FarmPark
Kids will enjoy the hands-on activities at Denton FarmPark, just 15 minutes from Belleville. This working farm has tractor rides, farm animal encounters, pony rides, toy tractors and more. Seasonal events include hayrides and cider pressing. It’s a great way to experience farm life.
13. Belleville Area Chamber of Commerce
Stop by the Belleville Area Chamber of Commerce to pick up brochures, maps and advice about things to do from knowledgeable local staff.
The office housed in a historic Victorian building that’s worth a peek. They also organize community events like the ice fishing tournament and car show.
14. Belleville Road Coffee and Conversation
For delicious coffee drinks and pastries in a cozy atmosphere, Belleville Road Coffee and Conversation is my go-to morning spot.
Their combos like the honey cinnamon latte and ham & cheese croissant are top-notch. It’s located right downtown, so you can refuel between visiting shops.
15. Belleville Kayak Adventures
For some outdoor adventure, join a kayak tour along the Huron River with Belleville Kayak Adventures. They offer leisurely paddles tailored for beginners as well as more challenging trips for experienced paddlers.
It’s a serene way to enjoy views of wildlife and wetlands. Rentals are also available if you want to venture out solo.
16. Public Fishing Sites
Belleville offers convenient public access fishing areas along the Huron River, Belleville Lake, Phoenix Lake and Rawsonville Drain.
Species you may catch include walleye, northern pike, bass, panfish, catfish and more. Stop by a local bait shop to get tackle and advice! Popular shore fishing spots include Horizon Park and Oakland Hills County Park.
17. Detroit River cruises
Hop aboard a Detroit River boat cruise departing from Metropark Marina, just 15 minutes from Belleville.
Narrated cruises showcase Detroit landmarks along the vibrant riverfront. Specialty cruises include tiki bar nights and fireworks viewing. It’s a fun outing while visiting the area.
18. Hillside Cemetery
Address: 46795 Denton Rd, Belleville, MI 48111
Take a quiet walk around Hillside Cemetery to admire the landscape and historic grave sites, including many elaborate Victorian monuments. Notable burials here include soldiers from the Civil War. Maps locating veteran graves are available in the office.
19. Crosswinds Marsh Wetland Park
Operated by The Nature Conservancy, Crosswinds Marsh Wetland Park is just 6 miles from Belleville.
The accessible boardwalk trail winds through cattail marsh inhabited by threatened species and migratory birds. Interpretive signs teach about the local habitat and creatures.
20. Belleville I-94 Truck Stop – Things To Do in Belleville Michigan
Truck enthusiasts will enjoy the Belleville I-94 Truck Stop which features semi trucks on display, trucker merch, and a diner serving home-style meals.
You can park and watch the big rigs roll in off the highway. They host truck shows and touch-a-truck events for kids too.
Belleville’s small town charm makes it an appealing place to visit. From lakeside parks to a lively downtown district lined with shops and eateries, you’ll discover all kinds of attractions.
Belleville is also conveniently located near larger cities like Ann Arbor and Detroit if you want to explore beyond the town itself. With this list of recommendations, you’re sure to have a fulfilling and memorable trip in Belleville, Michigan.
