MILFORD, Mich. (Michigan Back Roads) – Milford is a place where they have figured it out. After my first visit, I started asking people if they knew about this small village. Nearly every time I mention Milford to someone who has been there, the response is the same. “Yeah, Milford is a beautiful town.”

Milford’s downtown is unique.

The downtown district reflects dedication to an idea. After just a short time there, it is obvious that some real planning was involved. They have kept it local and unique. Downtown Milford is as walkable as it gets, and you will want to pause and enjoy the walk. You won’t find any chain stores or franchises here. There are dozens of shops, galleries and dining establishments and nearly every one of them is locally owned. There are so many unexpected surprises that you wonder what else is just around the corner.

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The community has successfully combined quiet residential neighborhoods, a walkable downtown and close in nature areas, into a wonderful getaway destination. The historic architecture has been renovated in an Old World style. With old fashion lighting, lots of trees, planters and unique shops, the word charming comes to mind. The entire downtown area, while on the National Register of Historic Places, is surrounded by lakes, rivers and parks.

Milford’s history.

To fully appreciate what Milford has accomplished as a modern community, it helps to know a little of their history. Downtown Milford was established in the early 1900s in support of the large number of mills operating in the area. This picturesque village was once a mill town full of industry. Though many of the historic buildings have been lost or transformed, the Historical Society has preserved much of the story. At points scattered all over the village, visitors will find interpretive signs. The Historical Museum is full of unusual exhibits and the tour they give is one of the best I’ve enjoyed at any museum in Michigan. Whatever you do, don’t miss their amazing collection of “Hobo Art”.