It was a hot summer day, as we set off to explore our first Michigan city. Barely a pinprick on a map, Alden is tiny. Alan and I had often passed right through on our way to somewhere seemingly more exciting. With a population of just 125 people, it is easy to believe that there is not much there. Opening the atlas we decided this was the nearest “A” themed location, to our home. Determined to find something of interest in this sleepy little town we traveled for nearly an hour, specifically to see it. Entering the four block long town, colorful signs announce that you have arrived, but blink and you will have traveled beyond the few stores and restaurants that reside in the restored buildings, dating from the 1800’s.
Nestled beneath a canopy of trees, Alden is a perfect example of small town U.S.A. It warmly welcomes you to slow down, enjoy an ice cream cone and savor a warm summer day in Michigan. Continuing at an unhurried pace, it is an easy stroll down to the nearby harbor. The crystal clear, Caribbean blue colored waters of Torch Lake call to visitors and residents alike. Described by National Geographic to be the world’s third most beautiful lake in the world, it is an ideal place to fish, boat, swim and stay a while.
A bit more research reveals that there is plenty to do here. Housing a museum, a miniature railroad display, restored train cars and a picnic area, the newly restored Alden Depot and park will entertain little ones and railroad buffs alike. Or, perhaps as we chose to do, bird watching and hiking at the nearby Grass River Natural Area would be more to your liking.
However you choose to spend the day, be sure to stop at this little haven, called the Mill House. Appropriately, there is a non functioning water mill attached to the side of the building. Located on the curve, heading out of town, this special place is a combined garden center and kitchen store. Quickly we dubbed this one of our favorite stores, when upon stepping Inside we found an eclectic mix of items for sale, including the famous Pepper Mill Spices, which are packaged and distributed right here. As we exited the building, our only decision to make for the remainder of this day was which flower lined path we would choose to walk along or which adjoining garden we wanted to stroll through. Alden is the kind of place you want to keep a secret. It is a place that once you discover its beauty, you will return again and again.