Rockport State Recreation Area - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Grand Lake, located in Presque Isle County, Michigan, is a serene and picturesque destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 5,000 acres of water surface, it offers plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and stunning natural landscapes that are perfect for hiking and biking. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic drives, golf courses, and quaint shops in the nearby towns of Alpena and Rogers City.

Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary is both a unique geological feature and home to an array of marine life. Along the rugged coastline of Lake Huron, this sanctuary encompasses an area of 448 square miles where one can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking and more. Four permanently moored historical shipwrecks are present withinis sanctuary: Pride of Baltimore II , Monoho and two wooden barges.

The Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center offers unique and exciting experiences for those interested in exploring the maritime history of the Great Lakes area. Here, visitors can learn about coastal shipwrecks and artifacts, as well as view art exhibits that highlight local culture and traditions. Several nautical museums feature ship models, glass cases filled with salvaged items from hundreds of ships, a navigation chart room and a 12-bell carillon tower.

The Alpena Lighthouse stands tall in the beautiful northern Michigan city. Built in 1876, during part of a regional movement to make the Great Lakes safer for boats and shipping, it is an iconic part of the local scenery. It's red-brick facade rises three stories skyward and its light still flashes out across the lake at night. Over the years it has served as a beacon for sailors returning home and a reminder to local residents that they are part of a larger history stretching back centuries.

Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary is a unique and captivating attraction covers over 4,000 square miles of Lake Huron and is home to over 200 shipwrecks. From schooners to steamboats, the sanctuary preserves the diverse maritime history of the Great Lakes. Visitors are invited to explore the museum exhibits, take a glass-bottom boat tour, or even dive into the crystal clear waters themselves to experience the beauty of the sanctuary firsthand.

The Old Presque Isle Lighthouse is a stunning piece of architectural history. Built in 1840, it was the first lighthouse in the Great Lakes to be constructed of brick. This magnificent tower served as a beacon of hope, guiding sailors through the turbulent waters of Lake Huron for over a century before being decommissioned in 1870. Today, it stands as a cherished symbol of Michigan's rich maritime heritage, attracting visitors from all over the world,