20 Attractions to Explore Near Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center

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 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.

Rockport State Recreation Area provides outdoor enthusiasts with the perfect place to explore their favorite activities. From swimming and fishing in Lake Huron to hiking and biking over 40 miles of trails, there is plenty to do out in nature in this gorgeous park. Rockport also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year like bird-watching tours and guided hikes, offering something special for everyone wanting to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.

Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox are legendary characters from folktales, who have become an iconic part of Alpena County, Michigan. The two were thought to have been a lumberjack and his trusty ox companion, with Paul Bunyan telling tales of their travels around the Great Lakes region. With both Paul and Babe now standing 40-feet tall in Alpena Town Square Park as a tribute to legends past, visitors can explore the local folklore of this celebrated duo.

Thunder Bay Island Lighthouse has stood as a beacon for Lake Huron sailors for over 160 years. Located four miles off the mainland in Lake Huron, it was first lit in 1832 due to its strategic importance along the trade route. The 70-foot tall tower still stands today and since 1951 the remote island also serves as an important destination for bird watchers and outdoor recreationists alike. It's a popular spot to view bald eagles, cormorants, herons and other migratory birds.

Negwegon State Park, is the perfect destination for outdoor activities and relaxation. This majestic park encompasses over 1,000 acres of hiking trails, paddle trails along miles of Lake Huron shoreline and breathtaking views of pristine forests. Furthermore, with an array of fish and wildlife throughout the area, it makes for an ideal spot to hunt and observe nature. And on top of all of these available activities, Negwegon State Park also offers a beach to relax on.

Negwegon State Park is a hidden gem that many people are missing out on. The park is over 1,000 acres of wild and untouched beauty - perfect for those who seek solace outside the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Campers will enjoy the countless hiking trails winding through the lush hardwood forests and behind rolling sand dunes. If you're more of a water enthusiast, swimming, fishing and paddling on the Lake Huron shore are popular activities here.

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.

The Hubbard Lake Nature Preserve is truly a sight to behold. Opened in the summer of 2020, this sprawling 760 acres of natural beauty offers a rare glimpse into unspoiled wilderness. From sandy beaches and bluffs overlooking the lake, to woodlands and wetlands full of native wildlife, every visit is a unique wonder. Guests can explore miles of trails via foot or by bike and perhaps even spot bald eagles, trumpeter swans and beavers during their travels.

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,

Beaver Lake County Park is a beautiful park perfect for family outings. Located on the shores of Lake Huron, Beaver Lake offers plenty of space to explore, including 11 miles of trails through forests and marshlands filled with local wildlife. Visitors can play close to the lake on the beach or take to their boats and launch from its marina facilities. Golfers will find an excellent 18-hole championship course with breathtaking views.

The New Presque Isle Lighthouse, located in Presque Isle County, Michigan, is a historic landmark that holds a special place in the hearts of many locals and tourists alike. Built in 1870, this iconic structure has stood tall for over a century, guiding mariners safely through the treacherous waters of Lake Huron. The lighthouse is situated on a picturesque bluff overlooking the expansive lake, offering visitors stunning views and a glimpse into the area's rich maritime history.

This 337-acre park on lakeshore habitat provides campers with waterfront recreation opportunities during the summer months and serenity during the winter season. Boating and fishing are just some of the fun ways to relax at this park. Campers can find 50 campsites located across six different loops with facilities ranging from standard tent sites to electric hookups for RV camping. There are plenty of hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views from these rocky bluffs!

Hubbard Lake, is well known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities. From swimming and boating to fishing, camping and hiking, visitors are sure to find something that catches their interest. The area offers a wide expanse of crystal-clear waters for visitors to enjoy - perfect for taking in the views of the surrounding countryside on a sunny day. Moreover, there are numerous public access points around the lake.

The Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary is an amazing area for people to explore. The sanctuary provides visitors with access to the deep underwater environment of Lake Huron as well as terrestrial sites contained within its boundaries. With over 100 known shipwrecks from the 1800s to present day, there is something here for everyone. But it’s not all about history, as the sanctuary also upholds conservation efforts and wildlife protection in the area.

Sturgeon Point State Park is a unique destination that offers many opportunities for outdoor adventure. Visitors can enjoy exploring the sandy beach and hiking trails as they take in gorgeous views of Van Etten Lake and Lake Huron. Beyond swimming, sunset watching, fishing and paddling, the park also provides picnic tables and barbecue grills so visitors have all their needs taken care of. There is plenty to explore with easy access to nearby lighthouses, historical sites and more.

Standing proudly for almost two centuries and marking the entrance to Lake Huron, Sturgeon Point Lighthouse in Alcona County, Michigan is a gem of history and natural beauty. The sandstone building of the lighthouse stands 72 feet tall and the iconic red brick tower extends the structure to 110 feet tall. Built in 1869, from local materials found nearby including part of an old mill dam, attendees can explore its grounds amidst some 6 acres of land surrounding the area.

This 19 acre park offers a gorgeous expanse of sandy beachfront dotted with scenic dunes, all along the shore of Lake Huron. Inland, there's a two-mile hiking trail that passes through forests, wetlands and sandstone glades. Paved biking trails link the campground to picnic areas scattered throughout the park while two separate playgrounds provide plenty of fun for the kids. Boaters will love Harrisville State Park.

Thunder Bay island is a rugged and beautiful location, which has gentle hills winding between beaches and towering cliffs, so it offers a variety of activities for visitors. Boaters can take in the spectacular views that line the shorelines, while nature-lovers can explore the abundant wildlife which inhabits the island including foxes, white-tailed deer and a large variety of birds.