Paw Paw combines local history with seasonal events and activities on the water. The town sits on the Paw Paw River, which feeds Maple Lake in the heart of the community. You can tailor your visit to different interests: the river and lake, historic buildings in the center, or an event on the calendar.
River, Maple Lake and Activities on the Water
At the north end of Maple Lake is Sunset Park, where visitors can fish. In spring and summer, you can also kayak or canoe on the shady Paw Paw River. Another seasonal option is to paddle around Maple Isle after a picnic. These offerings vary by location and activity: fishing is available at Sunset Park on the lake, while kayaking and canoeing focus on the river or the loop around Maple Isle. If you plan your stay around the water, you can choose between these different experiences.
Local History and Summer Market
In downtown Paw Paw, there is a self-guided tour of historic commercial and residential buildings. The tour is supported by the Historical Commission of the Village of Paw Paw. Another connection to the past is St. Julian: the company opened Michigan’s first tasting room at its winery in Paw Paw.
The Paw Paw Farmers’ Market is a Sunday summer activity in the town center and takes place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Homemade baked goods, specialty handcrafted items and local produce are regularly available there. The market is seasonal; hours and vendors may change. This makes it a distinct focus for a Sunday morning, alongside the historic buildings and activities on the water.
Festivals and Music Throughout the Year
The annual Paw Paw Days take place in July. Listed events include a classic car show, an arts and crafts market, and a kids’ play area. The Wine and Harvest Festival takes place every year on the weekend after Labor Day and lasts three days; the exact date varies from year to year.
Music events are also seasonal: Concerts by the Lake take place on summer Sundays at 6:30 p.m. on the stage at Maple Lake Amphitheater. Concert dates may change. A 2025 festival program lists Sunset Park as the venue for the Grape Lake Kayak Race; dates and plans may vary.
Choosing the Right Time to Visit
If you’re looking for hotels in Paw Paw, first choose your travel dates based on what you’d like to focus on. Spring or summer is best for activities on the water; the market and concerts are seasonal summer offerings. Paw Paw Days is an event in July, while the three-day Wine and Harvest Festival takes place on the weekend after Labor Day. Check current event dates and market and concert times before making specific plans. This helps you tailor your stay to local offerings without confusing the different seasonal dates.
Discover more destinations: Covert, Grand Junction, South Haven, Gobles
Return to the regional travel overview: Van Buren County.
