Fairview sits on the "Grayling outwash plain", a unique habitat. Glaciers shaped the area, creating a unique regional ecosystem. A large portion of the area is the so-called Grayling outwash plain, which consists of broad outwash plain including sandy ice-disintegration ridges; jack pine barrens, some white pine-red pine forest, and northern hardwood forest. Large lakes were created by glacial action.
The community is centered in the Huron National Forest along the Au Sable River. Wildlife are nearby, including bear, deer, eagles, Kirtland's warblers, and turkeys. Local attractions and activities include:
Steiner's Museum of pioneer artifacts is in Fairview.
The Michigan AuSable Valley Railroad is located in Fairview. It is a ¼ scale, gauge ridable miniature railway, which offers rides on a passenger train through of jack pine country. Riders travel through parts of the Huron National Forest, often with Kirtland's Warblers visible. The roadbed, built by Diane and Howard Schrader, includes two trestles and a tunnel, and took almost ten years to build. The train station is the home of Schrader's Railroad Catalog, also run by the Schraders.
Cedar Valley Wild Frontier Park and Golf Course is a good attraction to visit in Fairview, Michigan. It is designed to make guests feel like they are in “pure” northern Michigan. Since its existence, it has been a family operated business. The Cedar Valley Golf Course attracts older people and younger people. The public course consists of 18 holes full of sand traps and ponds. A simulator is also available during the winter months. On the property there is also an amusement park and there soon will be a camp ground as well. The amusement park has 18 rides, plus a miniature golf course and batting cages. A picnic table area is also available for visitors. Visitors can also plan parties or group visitations.
ORV, motorcycle and groomed snowmobile trails, including the renowned Bull Gap.
Every year, Fairview Area Schools puts on Eagle Festival. This festival is in the second week of October, and is a fundraiser for Fairview School's athletic department. The festival includes a parade, soccer games, a silent auction, car shows, kiddie games and more.
