Ford Center and Forest

Ford Center and Forest is a distinctive conference and retreat venue in Michigan’s western Upper Peninsula, set within a large working forest and the historic Alberta village. Operated by Michigan Technological University, the centre provides a practical setting for organisers planning conferences, business workshops, training sessions, seminars, reunions, leadership programmes and special events.

The venue offers several flexible spaces for different group sizes. The Danis Conference Room accommodates more than 80 guests, while smaller conference rooms, classrooms, breakout rooms, a computer lab and a technical training room support workshops, presentations and team-based sessions. Room layouts can be arranged in classroom, lecture, U-shape or other formats, with complimentary Wi-Fi and audiovisual equipment available for presentations and meetings.

Organisers can also arrange food service for groups, including breakfasts, lunches, dinners, banquets, barbecues, picnics, box lunches, snacks and special dietary options. On-site accommodation is available for groups of up to 100 overnight guests, with dormitory rooms, houses and a converted schoolhouse providing a convenient base for multi-day programmes.

The surrounding 3,700-acre forest gives event planners opportunities to combine indoor business activities with outdoor recreation and educational experiences. Guests can enjoy hiking, canoeing, snowshoeing, fishing, a sauna and a recreation hall with games and fitness facilities. The historic setting, natural landscape and residential facilities make the centre particularly suitable for focused retreats, professional development programmes, environmental education, family reunions and company gatherings that benefit from a quiet location away from the city.