Whitefish Point Lighthouse - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

The Edmund Fitzgerald Memorial is a solemn reminder of the courage and strength of those on board the famous vessel. Located in Whitefish Bay, the memorial was dedicated in 1995 as a way to honor the 29 crewmembers of the vessel that tragically sank in 1975. It also serves as an inspirational landmark for visitors to learn about and contemplate on the heroic actions taken prior to its sinking.

The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum is a great place for the whole family to explore the rich history of the area. The museum offers visitors a chance to dive into stories about 19th and 20th century shipwrecks in the Great Lakes, with exhibits and artifacts from notable wrecks throughout the series of lakes. There are also interactive elements such as life-size recreations that put guests at the center of exciting accounts from disaster on Lake Superior - both educational and entertaining.

The Whitefish Point Bird Observatory provides one of the most tranquil bird watching spaces in the world. Located on Lake Superior’s rocky shoreline, this expansive observatory serves as a stopover for birds that migrate through its lands each year. From May to July, the Observatory offers weekend bird-banding demonstrations where visitors can get up close and personal with our feathered friends. The Observatory also offers fun educational days for youth.

Vermilion Point Nature Preserve, protected area spans 499 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes and bald eagles. Covering a full mile of shoreline along Lakes Huron and George, the area can be explored on a series of boardwalks that wind through the well-maintained trails. The preserve offers spectacular views and scenery no matter where you turn; its vibrant wetlands host a wide selection of birds and plants that change with each season.

Crisp Point Lighthouse, is a picturesque structure with a powerful past. Built in 1904, it was utilized to warn ships of the treacherous shoals that surrounded Lake Superior. The beloved lighthouse has been preserved with careful renovations throughout the years and changed from manual operation to automation in 1971. Today, visitors can enjoy striking views of Lake Superior from atop the 128-foot tower and learn French River's lighthouse history through guided tours.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a breathtaking sight that must be seen to be believed. Spanning 50,000 acres of land and featuring nearly 4 miles of the Upper Tahquamenon River, the park is home to a set of colossal waterfalls over 200 feet wide and more than 20 feet high. Not only does it offer spectacular views; there are plenty of hiking trails for visitors to explore as well as a multitude of opportunities for recreational fishing, camping and exploring nature year-round.