Many of our guests never move their cars after they arrive at the inn. There is so much to do within walking distance in downtown Marshall, Michigan (read the history of Marshall). We will be delighted to help you plan your trip. Here are a few of our favorite attractions and things to see and do.
For a full listing of events and attractions, please visit Choose Marshall.
Walk a few blocks for an exquisite dinner at Schuler’s Restaurant, the favorite dining spot in the area for 100 years! Read more about Schuler’s. There are also many other spots within walking distance for lunch, coffee or ice cream!
Relax in the park at the Brooks Memorial Fountain in front of the Inn. At night see the light show of 96 color variations and its center spray rising to a majestic height of thirty feet (May-mid October).
Experience Marshall from a horse drawn carriage as you escape the hustle and bustle and slow you down to days gone by. Bicycle rentals also available from Marshall Carriage Co. 269-781-8818
Take a leisurely Marshall Ghost Tour by some of Marshall’s most haunted homes and buildings to hear the stories of a past untold until now! April-October. 269-781-8818
A tour of the Honolulu House, next door to the Inn, is a must. This intriguing mix of Polynesian and Victorian architecture was built in 1860. See their Web site.
Stroll about our town in the nation’s largest National Historic Landmark District for a small urban area. Take a walking tour of 144 buildings and 50 markers. National Trust named Marshall as one of their Dozen Destinctive Destinations. See more of historic Marshall.
Our restored Franke Center For the Arts downtown hosts varied and talented entertainment including some of the finest community theatrical productions in the Midwest by the Marshall Civic Players. See the full events schedule at the Center.
Browse through art galleries in downtown Marshall, featuring many local and national artists.
Dozens of specialty shops are steps away from the Inn. Stop by the Mole Hole to see (and listen to) the pipe organ rescued from a Marshall cinema.
Marshall is a popular antiquing destination several antique shops just a couple of blocks from the inn.
Marshall is the home of “The Granddaddy of Historic Home Tours.” It takes place on the second weekend of September and a Candlelight Tour on the second weekend of December. Read more about the tours.
Take a 1.6 mile walk on Marshall’s Riverwalk with scenic overlooks and places for a picnic along the Kalamazoo River.
Journey back to a slower time at Turkeyville USA, nestled on a 400-acre farm where turkey is king. Since 1968, Cornwell’s has been serving turkey many different ways. Visit the Country Junction gift shop and discover unique gifts, the ice cream parlor, restaurant, and general store. Many special events including craft fairs, dinner theatre and more! Read more on their website.
Discover what has been described as “the Smithsonian of American magic” at the American Museum of Magic is just down the street from the National House Inn. Experience the treasures of Houdini, Thurston, and Michigan’s own Blackstone among hundreds of others. Immerse yourself in the largest collection of magic artifacts on display anywhere in the U.S. Read more on their website.
The Gilmore Car Museum welcomes you to enjoy a unique experience among automobile museums in the U.S. The Museum has over 175 antique, classic and collector cars on display. The variety of vehicles, automobilia, antique buildings and pristine rural countryside. Read more on their website.
Binder Park Zoo is located outside of Battle Creek on 433 acres of natural forests and wetlands, with 32 rare and exotic animal exhibits plus 19 domestic animal exhibits. See 600 specimens of over 140 species including one of the largest giraffe herds in the country. Visit their website for more.
Southern Exposure Herb Farm is a must-see for garden lovers. Stroll through various garden areas. And it’s the perfect spot for weddings and special events. Read more about Southern Exposure Herb Farm.
Marshall Historical Society’s archival Center and Military Museum. The majority of the displays are from the Civil War era, and are of or from Marshall veterans. Open June-August on Saturdays, noon to 4:00 p.m
Firekeepers Casino is nearby with Las Vegas-style gambling. Read more about Firekeepers Casino.
Dark Horse Brewing Taproom in Marshall is located nearby featuring a microbrewery with specialty beers, and changing bar menu.
Quilts at the Marshall House is a large store dedicated to helping customers choose the best combination of fabrics for their project. They have more than 4000 bolts of quilting fabric, specializing in Asian, Batik, and 19th century reproduction fabrics.
Our main street is a Michigan Historic Heritage Route since this 14 block area has no fewer than 14 official Michigan Markers. These locations reflect Marshall’s early importance in Michigan history, especially in areas of government, education, abolition, railroads, unionism and architecture.
Check out Grand River Brewing for smoked in house meats, a menu with variety, and Michigan Beer, Wine, and Spirits.
Historic Home Tour
September: The Marshall Historical Society’s Annual Historic Home Tour was chosen by The Michigan Living Magazine as the best in the state of Michigan. Each year on the weekend after Labor Day Marshall opens its doors to thousands of visitors. The visitors come to see the eight historic homes, four museums, a business and a church, that are featured on the tour. While strolling the tree shaded streets choirs, quartets, dulcimers and even brass bands entertain Marshall tour goers! Enticing aromas of delicious food waft through the air. An antique show and a juried art fair tempt the pocket book. Find out more.
Christmas Candlelight Tour
December: The Candlelight Tour is a structured, highly personalized walking tour. Five of Marshall historic homes open their doors to visitors during the Holiday Season. These historic houses are decorated for the festivities and the Homeowners and their friends and family offer a personalized tour of each home. You will walk with a guide from house to house in a group of about 30 people. There are four start times to choose from, and you will receive final details prior to the tour. You should be prepared to walk from each house with your guide. To ensure your comfort and safely, sensible shoes or boots (which can be easily removed), and a flashlight are advised. The streets, parks, and homes are decorated for the Holidays. The shops are filled to the brim for your shopping pleasure and restaurants and inns offer the finest in Midwest hospitality. Find out more.