[http://www.arbor.edu Spring Arbor University] is located 8 miles from Jackson and is a small, Christian liberal arts university. There are frequent musical, theatrical, and athletic events at Spring Arbor University, many of them free.
[http://www.marshallmi.org Marshall], 32 miles west of Jackson, is the quintessential American hometown. It is full of lovely Victorian homes and shops that have been beautifully restored. In addition to being home to a number of small museums and antique shops, it hosts the [http://www.marshallmich.com/hometourbro02.html Historic Home Tour] every September. Other festivals are held throughout the year.
Lansing, the capital of Michigan, is located 38 miles north of Jackson.
Ann Arbor, home of the University of Michigan, is located 37 miles east of Jackson.