18 Attractions to Explore Near Mackinac Bridge
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Mackinac BridgeMackinac Bridge, is the fourth-longest suspension bridge in the world. Spanning more than five miles of open water from St. Ignace on the North side to Mackinaw City on the South side of the straits of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, it is hailed as a marvel of modern engineering. It was opened for traffic in 1957 as part of an effort to make travel easier between Michigan’s two peninsulas and has become an iconic symbol for residents throughout the state.
Old Mackinac Point LighthouseOld Mackinac Point Lighthouse, offers a captivating glimpse into the maritime history of the Great Lakes. Built in 1892 to aid ships navigating around Mackinac Island, this landmark structure offers visitors some great opportunities to explore and experience its historic and cultural significance firsthand. Standing proudly on Lake Huron at the doorstep of the Straits of Mackinac, it's a popular attraction for tourists who are often treated to spectacular sunsets from the observation deck.
Colonial MichilimackinacColonial Michilimackinac is a place full of history and cultural heritage. At the center of this charming attraction is Fort Michilimackinac, which was an important fur trading post during the colonial period. Visitors also have the opportunity to explore a museum filled with artifacts collected from archaeological digs, take a tour and browse through an impressive 18th century Great Lakes Fur Trading Village. The area is rugged yet peaceful.
Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime MuseumThe Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum is a great place for anyone interested in the maritime activities of the Great Lakes. Visitors to the museum can explore restored World War II-era work areas and quarters, along with interactive exhibits dedicated to U.S. Coast Guard operations, maritime navigation, navigation equipment, and meteorology on the Great Lakes. There is also a recreation area for visitors to learn about shipbuilding techniques.
Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry Company - Mackinaw City Dock #1Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry Company's Mackinaw City Dock #1 is quickly becoming a popular tourist spot situated directly between the Straits of Mackinac and Lake Huron, offering visitors breathtaking views and incredible experiences. Those looking to hop on a ferry will be delighted to find options ranging from trips across the lake for casino visits and shopping to a narrated tour of the area that allows passengers to take in stunning sights from Old Mackinac Pt. Lighthouse.
McGulpin Point LighthouseMcGulpin Point Lighthouse, has protected the waters of Lake Michigan since 1869. The lighthouse stands an impressive 49 feet tall and was constructed of cut stone with a circular spiral stairway enclosed in its center. The beacon can be seen from up to 15 nautical miles away, protecting vessels that would have otherwise been at the mercy of treacherous waves and hidden rocks. There have been many adjustments over the years to update the century-plus old structure.
Father Marquette National MemorialFather Marquette National Memorial located on the Lake Huron shore, the memorial is an ode to the French explorer Father Jacques Marquette. The site pays homage to his incredible journey by providing detailed educational info on his travels and relentless determination to discover the region of Michigan in 1673-74. The memorial's main pavilion highlights these remarkable adventures as well as housing other helpful related info such as his living quarters.
Headlands International Dark Sky ParkHeadlands International Dark Sky Park is a unique public park that offers visitors unparalleled views of the night sky. With its pristine nighttime darkness, which is free from artificial lighting, Headlands provides astronomers and nature enthusiasts with the ideal environment to observe and photograph astronomical events. In addition, its dark night skies are also valuable habitat for bat species, nocturnal animals such as owls and deer, and other wildlife species adapted to darkness.
Straits State ParkStraits State Park is the ideal destination for anyone looking to explore beautiful, one of a kind sites! Whether it's enjoying the clear, crisp waters of Lake Huron, or taking in the view at the top of Sugar Loaf Rock, visitors to Straits State Park will be left in awe. There are also several trails for those looking for a nice walk or hike! The park offers year-round activities such as fishing and cross-country skiing.
Wawatam LighthouseThe Wawatam Lighthouse has a long and storied history. Located on an island at the northern tip of Michigan's lower peninsula, it was built in 1853 to guide ships along the coast of Lake Michigan. Over the past 167 years, Wawatam has served as a symbol of hope and steadfastness for sailors braving the unpredictable waters around Mackinac County. Today, it serves as both a tourist attraction and an active aid to maritime navigation.
Fort de Buade MuseumFort de Buade Museum offers a truly unique going back in time experience. The museum features rare artifacts and relics from the colonial fort that was built near the Straits of Mackinac by French colonial forces in 1683. Highlights of the visit include displays of period weapons and tools, interactive trips through history, self-guided tours of living quarters, and a breathtaking view of the Straits. Guests can spend hours learning about Native American culture.
Museum of Ojibwa Culture at Old Mission Saint-IgnaceThe Museum of Ojibwa Culture in Old Mission Saint-Ignace, is a unique space featuring traditional objects and artwork that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of its Native American inhabitants. Visitors to the museum can explore exhibits that detail the long relationship between the original people and their land throughout Michigan as well as its significance to modern Ojibwa culture. Visitors also get a look at various artifacts such as clothing, tools, weapons and canoes.
Historic Mill Creek Discovery ParkHistoric Mill Creek Discovery Park is an amazing recreational park that the whole family can enjoy. The park offers many activities such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking and snowshoeing. There's also a campground for overnight stays and shelters for gathering with friends and family. The park itself is filled with history, featuring a dam built in 1873 and a lighthouse built in 1921 - both of which are on the National Register of Historic Places.
Chain LakeChain Lake is a beautiful natural lake that offers unbeatable views for outdoor adventurers. It's located about 30 miles from both Cross Village and Mackinaw City, making it a great backdrop for hikers, campers and boaters who are looking for a quiet corner of nature to explore. The lake is part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and is home to numerous species of native fish, as well as plenty of open space to explore.
Devil's KitchenDevil's Kitchen is a beautiful and breathtaking area where nature thrives. This secluded area is characterized by large rock ridges and small, lush forests that invite you to explore its beauty. It also consists of winding dirt trails and abandoned cabins giving it a mysterious atmosphere. Hiking here allows you to get up close and personal with the diverse native wildlife or climb some of the highest points in all of Michigan for a spectacular view across the lake to the horizon beyond.
Round Island LightRound Island Light, is one of the most well-known and iconic lighthouses. It was first illuminated on June 1st 1842 and is designed with a characteristic red brick lighthouse tower that stands forty-five feet tall at its peak. The landmark remains famous from its prominent appearance in an episode of the classic television show, The Bionic Woman, aired in 1975. It has been lovingly cared for since then, maintained by the US Coast Guard for safe navigation along Lake Huron to this day.
Grand HotelGrand Hotel is a beautiful historic building and resort. This 19th-century establishment houses more than 390 amazing guest rooms with breathtaking panoramic views of the Straits of Mackinac and the Mackinac Bridge. Offering guests a variety of amenities from concierge services to a private island access, it's no surprise that Grand Hotel has become one of the most prestigious vacation destinations in America.
Little Stone ChurchLittle Stone Church is an iconic landmark in Mackinac County, Michigan. The original chapel structure was built in 1882 and still stands today. Located on a small hill on the northern coast of Lake Huron, Little Stone Church serves as more than just a historical marker – it is also an active place of worship. The historic chapel offers religious services to the community throughout the year and is open to visitors who wish to view the grand architecture from the past.
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Mackinac BridgeThe Mackinac Bridge is an iconic sight in Cheboygan County, Michigan. Spanning 8 miles of the Straits of Mackinac, it is one of the longest suspension bridges in the world and was opened to traffic on November 1, 1957. Many visitors make the drive across this awe-inspiring structure each year to take in stunning views of Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. Some come for a day trip while others stay longer to explore the quaint towns along Lake Huron's shoreline.