Set in south-central Michigan in Branch County midway between Chicago and Detroit, Coldwater is a quaint place with Victorian homes, rich history and an array of attractions for visitors to explore. From a historic opera house to a children’s museum, and guided horse rides, there is something sure to pique travelers’ interest during their stay.
Capri Drive-In Theater
A throw-back to simpler times, the Capri Drive-In Theater is a legendary landmark that opened in the summer of 1964. Set a little west of downtown Coldwater on US-12, the outdoor venue boasts two screens and can accommodate approximately 900 cars. Moviegoers are able to watch new releases with the sound being broadcast over FM stereo to cars and portable radios. Over at the snack bar, guests can purchase popcorn, pizza, nachos, beverages and more. For those who want to save a little money, be sure to drop in on Tuesday for Carload Night, to enjoy a low price for admission.
119 W. Chicago Road, Coldwater, MI 49036, Phone: 517-278-5628
Tibbits Opera House
After an investment of more than $3.4 million following years of neglect, the Tibbits Opera Housee in downtown Coldwater, Michigan, has been restored to its former 1882 glory. Designed by Detroit architect Mortimer Smith, the opera house stands out for distinctive details such as elegant French Second Empire façade and a beautiful balcony in the shape of a horseshoe. Today, the 499-seat theatre, which USA Today recognized as one of the “10 Great Places to See the Lights Way Off-Broadway,” offers dynamic programming spanning theater, dance, music, comedy, film and more.
14, 1907 South Hanchett Street, Coldwater, MI 49036, Phone: 517-278-6029
Wing House Museum
On the list of the National Register of Historic Places, the Wing House Museum is operated by the Branch County Historical Society. An exquisite example of Victorian Second Empire architecture, the museum is open year-round to the public by appointment, while tours are also offered on the third Sunday from April through November. Built by the prominent local Chandler family, the residence provides a glimpse into family life of the 1800s with furnishings, artifacts and fascinating stories.
Children's Museum of Branch County
The brainchild of three local moms, the Children's Museum of Branch County has evolved into a place that inspires wonder with over 25 family-friendly exhibits and engaging, hands-on activities such as Picasso’s Paint Studio with arts and crafts stations, Dinosaur Dig featuring fun things to do for budding paleontologists and Little Tidbits Theater where kids can present their original plays complete with costumes. Throughout the year, the museum also hosts events such as its Annual Princess Tea and the signature Strawberry Festival downtown.
58 W Chicago St, Coldwater, MI 49036, Phone: 517-227-5571
Oak Grove Cemetery
Overlooking the Hodunk-Messenger chain of lakes, the Oak Grove Cemetery is a historic resting place that was established in 1854. Situated on the western boundary of Coldwater, the cemetery is separated by U.S. 12 and features two separate properties. Visitors will encounter a parade of flags at the entrance of the south cemetery as well as a memorial chapel. Each year, many people gather at the serene setting for the cemetery’s annual Memorial Day celebration honoring veterans and fallen soldiers.
809 W. Chicago Street, Coldwater, MI 49036, Phone: 517-279-6957
Cottage Inn Pizza
When it comes to pizza, this Michigan mainstay has been around since 1948 when it opened its first location in Ann Arbor. The Coldwater eatery continues the tradition of serving flavorful Italian dishes, and of course, its signature pizza. The menu offers gourmet pizza selections such as the Roma Pesto, Motor City Meatball, and the Spinach Alfredo on a choice of crust—round, deep dish, thin—along with salads, subs, wings, and other things.
Cottage Inn Pizza, 563 E. Chicago Street, Coldwater, MI 49036, Phone: 517-278-5900
Adventure Zone
Adventure Zone could be considered Coldwater’s leading family entertainment center with an arcade, paintball shooting gallery, two paintball fields, an expansive track for go carts, and two miniature golf courses, both with eighteen holes. The Lazer Tag Arena spans across two stories and 3,400 square feet to provide thrilling fun for any guest six years of age or older. Go Carts offer fun for anyone nine year old and older, as well as 54 inches tall. There are buddy cars for smaller and younger guests, and Adventure Zone features one of the state’s largest go cart tracks.
125 W Chicago Rd, Coldwater, MI 49036, 517-278-9663
Little River Railroad
A not-for-profit organization, the Little River Railroad in Coldwater, Michigan is focused on both restoring and operating historic railroad equipment. Offering a scenic train ride for all ages aboard an antique steam-powered locomotive, the Little River Railroad train travels from Coldwater to Quincy. There are also trips to Hillside, Michigan on occasion. The round-trip train ride to Quincy lasts around ninety minutes and runs on Saturday and Sundays. No reservations are required to ride the train. Guests just need to arrive around thirty minutes before the scheduled departure. There are also themed train rides, such as Halloween, throughout the year.
29 W Park Ave, Coldwater, MI 49036, 517-227-5488
The Aqua Pit
The Aqua Pit is one of the newer destinations for family fun in Coldwater, Michigan. The owners grew up in the area and wanted to create a place where both “young and old” can enjoy a variety of fun activities. Visitors will find opportunities for paddle boarding, kayaking, yard games, corn hole, volleyball, and simply relaxing on the beach. Described as a “jungle gym” on the water, The Hydro Zone is a unique attraction at The Aqua Pit. Flyboarding and scuba diving are also available, however, scuba diving equipment is not included and guests must be licensed for scuba diving.
262 S Michigan Ave, Coldwater, MI 49036
