You’re coming to visit, right?

Founded in 1830, Marshall, Michigan is a small town with a rich history. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark District, Marshall boasts over 850 historically significant houses and buildings, and more than 40 historic markers. Our self-guided walking tour map allows you to stroll the district and the scenic Kalamazoo Riverwalk at your own pace and learn about the architectural styles and importance of numerous venues throughout town. You can even get a close-up view of the “Cronin Mansion,” the home that inspired Marshall’s own John Bellairs to write The House with A Clock in its Walls, which became the movie of the same name in 2018.

Marshall is home to eight museums, including the American Museum of Magic, the largest private collection of magic artifacts in the U.S., The Honolulu House Museum, built in 1860 as a private residence, is a wonderful blend of Italianate, Gothic Revival, and Polynesian architecture and has been restored to its true glory. Visitors are welcomed to all Marshall’s museums each May for “Free Museum Day.”

Kicking off summer is the annual Marshall Blues Fest, a free family-friendly day-long music and entertainment festival. Each June, the main street is closed for hours of live music, food vendors and a beer tent. Thousands of tourists and residents alike visit shops downtown and set up chairs to enjoy the acts.

There’s no shortage of happenings in the fall. For over 50 years, the Marshall Historical Society has organized the Historic Home Tour, attracting visitors from all over the state and Midwest. Other events include the Donut Roll, a 12-mile bicycling “slow roll;” and Skeleton Fest, a display of over 30 life-sized skeletons costumed and staged in whimsical positions throughout town. Or, take in the beautiful fall foliage or even a ghost tour by horse-drawn carriage.

As winter approaches, Marshall transforms into a classic Christmas town with specialty shopping, a mile-long holiday lights display at the Calhoun County Fairgrounds, and the Christmas parade. Marshall’s Christmas decoration tradition started modestly in the 1950s and grew into the spectacular display it is today. Attend the annual historic homes Candlelight Walk or see live ice sculpting while enjoying wine and beer tastings downtown during Ice, Wine, Beer & Blues.

Whether looking to stay, play, shop or eat anytime of the year, Marshall is the place to visit. Find out more by contacting the Marshall Welcome Center at 269-781-5163 or visit choosemarshall.com.

Posted in West Michigan News, Things To Do, Area Info