A nearly 200-year-old Michigan estate that has been transformed into one of the state’s most recognizable event venues is now on the market for $3.3 million.
Set on 27.61 acres in Washtenaw County, Zingerman’s Cornman Farms traces its roots to the 1830s and blends historic preservation with modern amenities. The property includes an 1834 Greek Revival farmhouse, an iconic red barn dating to 1894 and several other restored structures that have been adapted for weddings, corporate gatherings and special events.
The Dexter Township property is being offered and includes a liquor license, transferable special-use permit, commercial kitchen equipment and furnishings associated with the venue.
Exterior of Zingerman’s Cornman Farms in Dexter Township, a 27.61-acre property listed for $3.3 million. The estate includes an 1834 Greek Revival farmhouse, an 1894 red barn, and restored buildings used for weddings and special events.
Listing agent Brent Flewelling of Reinhart Realtors said that the seller plans to continue operations through fall 2026 to help provide a smooth transition for the next owner.
Cornman Farms, which opened in 2014, announced earlier this year that it plans to conclude operations after the 2026 season.
“I feel honored to have the opportunity to showcase a legacy property and help find the right fit for the community and the sellers,” Flewelling said. “We’re really passing the torch to the next chapter of this property.”
The farmhouse underwent a comprehensive renovation in 2014 as part of a larger restoration effort that modernized the property’s historic buildings while preserving their original character.
Interior of Zingerman’s Cornman Farms in Dexter Township, a 27.61-acre property listed for $3.3 million. The estate features restored historic buildings used for weddings, corporate gatherings and special events.
The campus also includes a dedicated bridal suite, multiple fireplaces and a dairy barn that was built as a Grade A dairy barn and a goat parlor supporting agritourism and farm operations.
One of the property’s most recognizable features is its red barn, a timber-frame structure built in 1894. The building retains exposed hand-hewn beams and original siding while serving as the centerpiece for many of the events held on the property.
The venue has also received national attention for its historic setting and rustic elegance. In 2023, Wedding Chicks included Cornman Farms among the world’s best garden venues, while Modern Luxury Weddings Chicago highlighted it as one of several drivable destinations from Chicago for celebrations.
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Beyond its current use, the estate could potentially be adapted for other purposes. The farmhouse could be converted back into a private residence, while the property may also offer opportunities as a boutique bed-and-breakfast, private retreat or lodging destination.
Located at 8540 Island Lake Road in Dexter, the property is about 10 miles from Ann Arbor and minutes from downtown Dexter. It offers a rare opportunity to acquire a historic Michigan estate with nearly two centuries of history and multiple potential future uses.
Brendel Clark writes about real estate and other topics for the Detroit Free Press. Contact her at bclark@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Zingerman’s Cornman Farms hits the market for $3.3 million in Dexter
