Get In The Holiday Spirit At Ada Village Winter Wonderland
The holiday season is fast approaching and many Michiganders have taken advantage of the lack of snow and pleasant temperatures, decorating their houses as early as a few weeks ago. Ada Village has also gotten a jump on festive decorations, as downtown is now part of a light display that is both a great family attraction and a perfect social distancing activity. The Ada Village Winter Wonderland includes a mile long route that can be walked or (partially) drive through, and it incorporates holiday lights, trees, and even reindeer as it winds through the village and across the historic Ada Covered Bridge. Things already look great, and we can’t wait to see what the village looks like once we actually get some snow!
The Winter Lights Trail begins and ends at Ada General Store, though you can pick it up anywhere on its route and follow it. There is a map outside of the store. The Ada General Store is located in an 1859 schoolhouse and offers ice cream, coffee, and other treats in addition to its merchandise. Find out more at https://www.theavgs.com/.
From the store, the Winter Lights Trail heads out on Settlers Drive for a block then turns and follows Ada Dr. out to M-21., passing local businesses like The James Boutique, To & Fro Activewear, and Gravel Bottom Craft Brewery. As you cross ross Ada Dr. at the light you can also see the light display at Amway headquarters. As the route follows Ada Dr. you will see many of the beautifully lit Fraser fir trees and life-size grapevine reindeer. The walking tour turns at Bronson St. and heads toward its highlight – the Ada Covered Bridge.
The Ada Covered Bridge dates back to 1867. Originally open to vehicles, it was closed to everything except pedestrian use in 1930s. It was repaired in the 1940s by the Kent County Road Commission, and again in the 1970s after the roof collapsed due to heavy snow. The bridge was destroyed by a fire after that, but was rebuilt with the help of the Amway Corporation and local citizens. This 125 foot long bridge is 14 feet wide and crosses the Thornapple River. The addition of brightly colored holiday lights here will surely make this a popular photo spot during the next few months!
The Winter Lights Trail then returns across the bridge, before following River St. back to the Ada General Store. There is plenty of free public parking as well as restrooms. Stay up to date with Winter Wonderland events on the Ada Village Facebook page. What a great way to get out and enjoy the holiday spirit while also maintaining social distance and staying safe!
