Summer weather in Jackson has gone from zero to one hundred, literally. It’s been boiling hot out there, and with no warning. Luckily, there are plenty of places to keep you cool in Jackson County.
Take a dip into one of Jackson County’s many lakes. Did you know we have over one hundred? That means miles of sparkling freshwater calling your name to cool off on in on a hot day. Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Quiet World Sports on Vandercook Lake, then eat some Detroit-style deep-dish pizza at Klavon’s Pizzeria and Pub, after a long day on the water. There’s nothing like the feeling of being submerged from a cannonball after baking in the sun. Get some sun and sand at the beach at Lime Lake or spend a casual summer afternoon on Gillet’s Lake. Portage Lake at the Waterloo State Recreation Area is a great spot for paddleboarding on glass-like water. Download our lake guide for public beaches, and the best fishing in town.
For smaller fins, pack up a picnic and take the family to the Splash Pad at Cascades. Enjoy the feeling of a light sprinkle to cool you and the kids off altogether. For a bit more adventure, head to Nixon Water Park for slides, splashes, and sun, opening June 19!
If you’re more of a night owl, consider dining lakeside at the Eagle’s Nest. Take in views that will make it hard to seem like you aren’t on vacation. If you’re tired of spending your summer days lounging, join the fun for band night at the Beach Bar. The fun doesn’t end over there, so ditch your flip-flops and be prepared to wear comfortable shoes to dance in.
What is summer without ice cream? Here, stops for ice cream are a regular thing. Enjoy a local classic at Cascades Ice Cream Co. before a fireworks show, or as a pitstop during your afternoon in the park. Cool off with a crazy milkshake from RJ’s Metropolitan Ice Cream Co. or go one step further with a sundae as tall as you at The Parlour. Grab your spoon and dive into something so decadent, you’ll be thinking about it again and again till summer returns.
What’s your favorite summer activity? In Jackson, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy a vacation in your hometown.
