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Howell

Howell, Michigan, United States

Welcome to Howell, Michigan, a charming city located in the United States that offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Situated in the heart of Livingston County, Howell is a delightful destination …

#Small town#Rural#Historic#Close-knit community#Outdoor activities

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Howell.

Top Hotels in Howell

Top Flights to Howell

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Howell.

Tours

Howell Historic Walking Tour

A self-guided walking tour of Howell's historic sites and buildings, rich in local history.

Howell Farmers Market Visit

Experience the finest local produce and handmade goods at the Howell Farmers Market.

Historic Howell Theater Visit

Watch the latest films in a charming historic theater setting.

Shopping

Downtown Howell Shopping Experience

Explore unique shops and boutiques in historic downtown Howell.

Antique Mall Exploration

Discover unique antiques and collectibles at Howell’s premier antique mall.

Outdoor

Howell Nature Center Exploration

A scenic exploration of the Howell Nature Center with opportunities for hiking and wildlife sightseeing.

Outdoor Adventure at Howell City Park

Engage in various outdoor sports and leisurely activities at Howell City Park.

Golfing at Chemung Hills Golf Club

Play a round of golf on the picturesque Chemung Hills Golf Course.

Howell Balloon Festival

Witness vibrant hot air balloons ascend, presenting an extraordinary view.

Cycling Along Grand River Avenue

Experience a scenic cycling route along Grand River Avenue.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Howell.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Howell, Michigan, is 10,000.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Howell

Jan

0°-7°

Feb

2°-6°

Mar

7°-2°

Apr

14°3°

May

20°9°

Jun

26°15°

Jul

28°17°

Aug

27°16°

Sep

23°12°

Oct

16°6°

Nov

8°1°

Dec

2°-4°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Howell.

What people love

Howell, Michigan, located in the United States, offers several advantages for travelers. Here are some pros of traveling to Howell:

Small-town charm: Howell is a quaint and charming town that provides a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere while exploring the town.
Historic downtown: Howell's downtown area is rich in history and features well-preserved architecture, including historic buildings and charming storefronts. Visitors can stroll through the streets, shop at local stores, and dine at cozy restaurants.
Outdoor recreation: Howell is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including parks, lakes, and trails. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and boating in the area.
Events and festivals: Howell hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the Howell Melon Festival, the Balloonfest, and the Fantasy of Lights Parade. These events offer a fun and lively atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.
Proximity to attractions: Howell is conveniently located near popular attractions such as the Michigan International Speedway, Hell, Michigan, and several wineries and breweries. Visitors can easily explore these nearby destinations during their stay in Howell.

Overall, traveling to Howell, Michigan, offers visitors a chance to experience small-town charm, outdoor recreation, historic sites, and exciting events. It is a great destination for those looking for a relaxing and enjoyable getaway.

What to know

Traveling to Howell, Michigan, United States can have some cons that visitors should be aware of:

Limited Public Transportation: Howell is a small town in Michigan, and as such, public transportation options may be limited. This could make it challenging for visitors to get around the town and explore the surrounding areas without a car.
Weather Extremes: Michigan experiences all four seasons, which means that Howell can have cold and snowy winters and hot and humid summers. Travelers should be prepared for weather extremes depending on the time of year they visit.
Limited Nightlife and Entertainment Options: Howell is a smaller town, so the nightlife and entertainment options may be more limited compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a vibrant nightlife scene or a wide variety of entertainment choices may find Howell lacking in that aspect.
Distance from Major Cities: Howell is located about an hour's drive from Detroit, Michigan's largest city. Travelers who are looking to explore major cities or cultural attractions may find the distance to be a drawback.
Limited Accommodation Options: While Howell does have a range of accommodation options, including hotels and bed and breakfasts, the selection may not be as extensive as in larger cities. Visitors looking for specific amenities or luxury accommodations may have fewer choices in Howell.

Overall, while Howell, Michigan has its charms and attractions, travelers should be aware of these potential cons before planning a trip to the area.

Howell, Michigan, is a city in the state of Michigan, located in Livingston County. Established in the 19th century, Howell has a rich history characterized by its development as a small Midwestern town. Here's a detailed history of Howell, Michigan:

Founding and Early History:

1835: Howell was first settled, and in 1836, it was officially laid out by Flavius J.B. Crane and Edward Brooks. The town was originally named "Livingston Center."
1836: The name was changed to Howell, after Thomas Howell, a friend of the town's founders.

Development and Growth:

1838: Howell became the county seat of Livingston County, which contributed to its growth and development. The selection of Howell as the county seat was crucial in its early growth as it attracted businesses, professionals, and government offices.
Mid to Late 1800s: Like many towns in Michigan, Howell benefited from the timber industry and the arrival of the railroad, which facilitated trade and movement of goods.

Significant Events:

1870s: The railroad reached Howell, boosting its economy and accessibility. This period saw Howell becoming a hub for agricultural trade.
1960s: Howell experienced suburban growth as people moved away from larger cities like Detroit. The construction of I-96 made Howell more accessible, further encouraging residential and commercial expansion.

Historical Figures:

Thomas Howell: The city is named after him, although he was not a resident. He was a friend of the town's founders.
Flavius J.B. Crane and Edward Brooks: Founders of Howell who contributed significantly to its layout and early development.

Important Landmarks:

Howell Carnegie District Library: Built in 1906, this library is a classic example of the numerous Carnegie libraries built across the United States and is a central community resource.
Historic Howell Theater: Established in 1928, it is a significant cultural landmark offering a glimpse into the historic entertainment avenues of Howell.
Livingston County Courthouse: An architecturally significant building that has served as a hub of legal and county activity since the 19th century.

Cultural and Historical Events:

Howell Melon Festival: A long-standing local tradition that celebrates the agricultural heritage of Howell, particularly its famous melons.
Balloonfest: This annual event features hot air balloons and draws visitors from across the region, highlighting Howell's community spirit and hospitality.

Overall, Howell, Michigan, exemplifies the growth pattern of many small Midwestern towns, with its roots in agriculture and later expansion due to improved transportation links and suburban development. It remains a vibrant community with a rich historical legacy and active cultural life.