Exploring Barry County's Hidden Gems: Nature Trails, Local Eats, and Community Events
- Chase Coughlin
- Feb 20
- 7 min read
Barry County offers a refreshing escape for residents and travelers who want to experience the charm of small-town life mixed with the beauty of nature. Whether you enjoy hiking through peaceful forests, savoring home-cooked meals, or joining lively community events, Barry County has something special to offer. This post highlights activities that showcase the county’s natural beauty, local flavors, and vibrant community spirit.
Discover Nature on Barry County Trails, Museums, and Parks
Barry County is home to several parks and nature preserves that invite visitors to explore scenic trails and enjoy outdoor activities. Here are some top spots to visit:
The Paul Henry – Thornapple Trail, when complete, will be a 42 mile multi-use recreation trail, from Grand Rapids to Vermontville, Michigan. The trail is being constructed on or near a former railroad corridor. Some sections of the trail are completed, some are in development and some are in the proposal or conceptual stage The route of this trail passes through farmlands, woodlands and small towns, along and over rivers and creeks. The scenic highlight of the trail is its close proximity to the Thornapple River. The trail is a four season adventure for the outdoor enthusiast, living healthy and having fun. It passes through a safe and natural environment for individual, family, and organization use. This trail is enjoyed by bikers, joggers, rollerbladers, cross-country skiers, wheelchair travelers, hikers, and nature lovers. We hope that you will come, enjoy it with us and help us with its completion.
Yankee Spring's terrain, punctuated by bogs, marshes and tranquil lakes, offers a haven for outdoor adventure. Hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails wind through the park, catering to explorers of all abilities. Two buoyed swim areas invite relaxation, while picnic shelters and accessible fishing piers provide comfort and convenience. The park's 10 lakes beckon anglers, boaters and paddlers to enjoy their waters.
For a unique experience, visit Devil's Soup bowl, a captivating glacial formation, or enjoy the breathtaking views from Graves Hill Overlook. The park is home to a modern campground and dedicated campgrounds for equestrian groups and youth organizations.
The park is steeped in history, as it was once the hunting grounds of the Algonquin Indians and the famous chieftain Chief Noonday. The site was established in 1835, and the village was made famous by Yankee Bill Lewis, who owned and operated a hotel along the stagecoach run from Kalamazoo to Grand Rapids.
The Gilmore Car Museum started in the early 1960s when Donald S. Gilmore began collecting vintage automobiles. Some of the first vehicles in his collection included a 1927 Ford Model T, a 1913 Rolls Royce, and a 1920 Pierce Arrow. Restoring that classic Pierce-Arrow at his home on nearby Gull Lake ignited a passion. Over the years that followed Donald continued collecting some of the world’s most renowned automobiles.
To accommodate his collection he acquired 90 acres of land in southwestern Michigan in a small town known as Hickory Corners. It was his wife Genevieve who had the idea of turning the collection into a museum, providing future generations access to Donald’s one-of-a-kind collection. They established a non-profit foundation and opened the museum to the public for the first time on Sunday, July 31, 1966.
Today, the Gilmore Car Museum is North America's largest auto museum with over 400 vehicles on display and over 209,100 square feet of exhibit space. The Museum’s 90-acre Historic Campus features numerous vintage structures including a restored and fully-functioning 1941 Silk City Diner, a recreated 1930s Shell Station, seven onsite Partner Museums, and so much more.
Savor Local Flavors at Barry County Eateries
After a day of exploring, enjoying a meal at a local restaurant or café is a must. Barry County’s food scene features a mix of cozy diners, family-owned spots, and unique eateries that highlight regional ingredients and friendly service.
Tucked into the historic heart of downtown Hastings, Walldorff Brew Pub & Bistro has been a local staple since it opened in 2006. Housed in a beautifully restored building with roots stretching back to the 19th century, the brewpub blends classic small-town charm with serious craft-beer cred and a lively community vibe. This family-owned and operated spot isn’t just another bar: it’s a destination where guests can enjoy handcrafted ales poured fresh from a lineup of rotating taps — from easy-drinking blondes to rich oatmeal stouts and inventive seasonal creations — alongside a menu of wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers, salads, and specialty sandwiches that make dinner worth the trip.
What really sets Walldorff apart is the way it balances quality with a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere that draws both local regulars and visitors exploring America’s Top 100 Small Towns. The brewpub’s commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients shows in every bite, and its full bar, pub side/lounge, and bistro dining area give guests options whether they’re stopping in for a pint or settling down for a meal. With friendly service, seasonal features, growler fills to take home, and a community-centric spirit woven into every corner of the space, Walldorff has become a go-to stop for craft beer lovers and foodies alike in Barry County.
Grown & Made Local Market is a vibrant community-focused boutique market right in the heart of downtown Hastings celebrating the best of local food and handmade goods. The market spotlights a rotating assortment of locally grown produce, artisanal food products, and specialty items crafted by Michigan makers — from fresh baked treats and small-batch pantry staples to unique gifts and seasonal finds that reflect the region’s agricultural bounty. It’s the kind of place where you can discover a new favorite jam, pick up a handcrafted baking mix, or chat with the makers behind what’s on the shelves, all while supporting small farms and local entrepreneurs.
More than just a shop, Grown & Made has quickly become a go-to destination for neighbors and visitors alike looking to connect with the local food scene in Barry County. Its welcoming, farm-to-table vibe gives downtown Hastings an added dose of community spirit, and the market often serves as a hub for seasonal events, workshops, and collaborations with other local businesses. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick gift, stocking up on house-made goods, or exploring Michigan flavors, Grown & Made offers an authentic taste of what makes this town’s small business culture special.
Local Farmers Markets
The Hastings Farmers Market brings Barry County’s best local produce, baked goods, and artisan products to the courthouse lawn at 231 S. Broadway St. in Hastings each growing season (typically May through October). You’ll find vendors set up Wednesdays from about 11 AM to 4 PM and Saturdays from about 9 AM to 1 PM, making it a perfect midweek and weekend stop for fresh seasonal foods and community connection. Just down the road in Middleville, the Middleville Farmer's Market takes place at 91 E. Main St., usually on selected weekday afternoons from around 3 PM to 7 PM during the same May–October window. Between the two markets, locals and visitors can hit multiple days and times each week to stock up on what's fresh, local, and in season.
Trying these local flavors supports small businesses and gives you a true taste of Barry County’s culinary culture.
Join Community Events and Local Shops
Barry County’s community events bring people together and showcase local talent, crafts, and traditions. These gatherings are perfect for meeting residents and experiencing the county’s welcoming spirit.
Barry County Fair
The Barry County Fair — a long-running celebration of agriculture, community, and summer fun — returns to the Barry Expo Center in Hastings, Michigan from July 18 through July 25, 2026. Held at 1350 M-37, this annual fair features livestock shows, 4-H exhibits, midway rides, grandstand events, and plenty of family-friendly activities that highlight the region’s rural roots and community spirit.
For the full schedule, attractions, ticket info, and updates straight from the organizers, visit the official Barry Expo Center’s fair page: https://www.barryexpocenter.com/fair/
Hastings Summerfest
The Hastings Summerfest is the signature community festival that brings summer to life in downtown Hastings each year, blending family fun with energetic events, local vendors, live music, and classic small-town celebration vibes. While exact dates for the full 2026 schedule haven’t been officially posted yet, the event traditionally takes place in late August and culminates with signature activities like arts and crafts on the Barry County Courthouse lawn, a parade, car shows, youth and adult sports tournaments, live entertainment, food vendors, and community attractions that draw visitors county-wide.
One highlight of the 2026 festivities is the Corewell Health Pennock Summerfest Run, scheduled for Saturday, August 29, 2026, with a 5K run/walk and a kids’ fun run kicking off the day’s celebrations in downtown Hastings at Thornapple Plaza (301 E. State Street). For more complete details, vendor info, and updates as they’re released, check the official Summerfest site at https://www.hastingssummerfest.com
— the best resource for planning your visit and catching all the fun.
Historic Downtown Shops
Downtown Hastings, Michigan is packed with locally owned shops that give the community its character and charm. From boutiques and specialty stores to coffee spots and service businesses, shopping downtown keeps your dollars circulating right here in Barry County instead of sending them to big box corporations. Every purchase supports local families, strengthens small businesses, and helps maintain the vibrant, walkable atmosphere that makes Hastings unique. When you choose to shop downtown, you’re not just buying a product — you’re investing in the people, relationships, and long-term health of our local community.
Plan Your Visit to Barry County
To make the most of your time in Barry County, consider these tips:
Check local event calendars for dates and times of fairs, markets, and special activities.
Bring comfortable shoes and outdoor gear for hiking and exploring parks.
Support local businesses by dining at family-owned restaurants and shopping at independent stores.
Take your camera or smartphone to capture the natural beauty and unique moments.
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