Owosso is a surprising haven of history 40 miles northeast of Lansing. The city is home to Curwood Castle, built in 1922 along the Shiawassee River by then-popular novelist James Oliver Curwood as his writing studio. Today, the writer's sanctuary, inspired by 17th century French chateau architecture, is open as a museum for the public to explore. Curwood wrote many of his novels from the spire overlooking the river.
Steam-era railroad technology and history is preserved at the Steam Railroading Institute — check out their locomotives and passenger cars, or step onto a train and into the past for a historical ride on the rails. Across the river from Curwood Castle, the Shiawassee Arts Center displays works from local, statewide, and worldwide artists.
Throughout the summer, sit on the sprawling lawn before the amphitheater to enjoy open-air performances and entertainment. Savor the beautiful outdoors on the Shiawassee River, home to 59 species of fish with 110 miles of water to kayak or canoe. Or, if you're more of a foodie, head downtown for a bustling farmers market and plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from.
A town ripe for exploration.
On the banks of the Shiawassee river, this small, inviting town has attractions for art lovers, history buffs, and fans of cute downtown scenes.
