20 Attractions to Explore Near Harbor Island National Wildlife Refuge

Built in the 1860s, DeTour Reef Lighthouse has been guiding ships and visitors along the Straits of Mackinac ever since. Located just off the northern tip of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, this square tower stands 48 feet tall and is surrounded by stunning views of Lake Huron. Although the lighthouse is no longer used as a navigational aid, it continues to draw tourists who come to admire its warmly lit interior and panoramic lake vistas.

Caribou Lake is a pristine lake located in Chippewa County, Michigan. It is surrounded by lush forests and beautiful streams. The lake serves as the perfect spot for hikers to enjoy the tranquility and serenity of nature. The banks of the lake provide places for campers to set up their tents, as well as for anglers looking for an ideal spot to cast their lines. The calm waters are crystal-clear blue and provide plenty of opportunities to explore its depths by canoe or kayak.

Spectacle Reef Lighthouse is an iconic landmark that stands tall over Lake Huron. Built in 1874, the lighthouse has been used since then to provide safe passage for mariners travelling the straits of Mackinac. The spectacular view of the hundreds of islands and sand dunes along the shoreline make it a popular tourist destination. Standing 41 feet tall with 88 steps inside, it's visible for 15 miles across Lake Huron - making it one of Michigan's best lighthouses.

Cedarville Bay, part of the magnificent Lake Huron, is located in Mackinac County in northern Michigan. It offers beautiful views of the Great Lakes, including towering limestone bluffs, secluded beaches, rustic lighthouses and lush forests. Perfect for all types of recreational activity and exploration, visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing and boating all along this breathtaking coast. Spectacular sunsets over the crystal-clear waters are a regular sight here.

Kewadin Casinos is a Native American owned and operated casino in Mackinac County. Located close to the Michigan-Canada border, Kewadin Casinos offers guests a wide range of gaming options and amenities. A variety of popular slots machines, table games like blackjack and roulette, video poker, live keno events plus bingo are all on offer. Guests can also take advantage of several different promotions throughout the year that provide extra chances for winning big.

Bois Blanc Island Lighthouse, is an iconic spot for many visitors to the beautiful Great Lakes State. Standing sturdy for more than 150 years, this impressive red-roofed tower stands 39 feet tall and contains a spiral staircase that takes you up a mere 55 steps to get you to the top of the lighthouse where remarkable views of Lake Huron await. Constructed in 1854 by order of President Franklin Pierce, this landmark was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Poe Reef Lighthouse is a remarkable sight. Constructed in 1877, it marks the dangerous reef just off of Hammond Bay and the northern tip of Bois Blanc Island. The lighthouse is an octagonal brick structure connected to an attached dwelling. From its distinctive red and white bands to its impressive shingled roof, the lighthouse stands tall - despite many storms that have battered it throughout the years.

The 40 Mile Point Lighthouse & Historical Marker in Presque Isle County, Michigan, is a sight to behold. This towering structure has been guiding ships to safety since 1896 and continues to be an important part of the region's maritime history. Visitors are welcome to explore the museum inside the lighthouse, which showcases artifacts and memorabilia from years gone by. Additionally, the on-site historical marker provides valuable insight into the area's cultural heritage.

Hammond Bay is a small unincorporated community located in Presque Isle County, Michigan. It lies on the shores of Lake Huron and is home to a beautiful beach, the Hammond Bay Biological Station, and the largest artificial harbor on Lake Huron. This quaint community is perfect for those who love outdoor activities, such as fishing and boating. It also offers breathtaking views of the lake and is surrounded by pristine forests, providing opportunities for camping and hiking.

Hoeft State Park in Presque Isle County, Michigan is a hidden gem that deserves more recognition. This 301-acre park boasts over a mile of sandy beach along Lake Huron, making it a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water activities. The park also offers several hiking trails that wind through the forests and along the shoreline, providing stunning views of the lake. Visitors can also enjoy camping, fishing, and picnicking at Hoeft State Park.

Museum Ship Valley Camp is a one-of-a-kind experience located in the Chippewa County area of Michigan. This unique museum ship takes visitors on an intriguing journey through time, with hundreds of historical displays telling the story of the steam freighter Valley Camp's more than 70 year history. From amusing stories of life aboard the ship to old images taken from Detroit’s golden age, there is something within this museum for every eager explorer.

The site of the Sault Ste. Marie which was the first permanent settlement in the state and was founded by French Canadian Missionaries in 1668. Other historical sites include Fort Brady which was built during the War of 1812 to protect Sault Ste. Marie from possible British attack and later served as a base for fighting against indigenous tribes; the Nledo Zip Line, used by Native Americans to send messages between local congregations.

Soo Locks Park is a sight to behold. Located on the St. Mary's River, the park doesn't just feature one of the most impressive engineering feats in history - the Soo Locks themselves - but also offers a wide array of recreational activities for the whole family to enjoy. Enjoy a picnic under towering hardwoods and evergreens, take a leisurely stroll along paved trails, or just enjoy watching airplanes soar overhead from the local airfield.

Soo Locks is a historic marvel of engineering. This complex network of locks and canals allows freighters and other vessels of different sizes to travel between Lake Huron and Lake Superior - waterways that differ by 21 feet in elevation. A total of four locks stretches for one mile along the Saint Marys River, with each equipped with gates that open to allow passage from one lake to another. Operated by the U.S Army Corps of Engineers since 1881.

Cheboygan State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities for travelers and locals alike. A scenic spot near Lake Huron, the park features many miles of hiking trails, as well as cycling paths, fishing spots, and camping grounds. There are even boat launch areas if visitors want to get out on the water. For those looking to unplug and relax, the nearby beach is ideal for swimming or simply lounging in the sun.

The Sault Ste. Marie International Railroad Bridge is an impressive achievement of engineering and construction. Constructed in 1957, the bridge spans a staggering 4,075 feet across the St. Marys River between Michigan's Upper Peninsula and the city of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. It's not only used for train traffic but also snowmobiles each winter - making for a thrilling ride! Spanning two different countries and an expansive body of water was no small feat.

Duncan Bay is a beautiful area in the northeast corner of Michigan's Cheboygan County. It stretches for about 11 miles along the coast of Lake Huron and boasts gorgeous views and wildlife. Visitors to Duncan Bay love to take advantage of stunning sunsets and picturesque walks on its peaceful beaches, as well as all the opportunities for watersports throughout the bay. Boating, sailing, kayaking, fishing, and swimming are all popular activities in Duncan Bay.

Arch Rock is a natural beauty rising around 40 feet high and 58 feet wide, the arch was naturally carved by Lake Huron’s waters for over 500 centuries. This captivating rock formation serves as an entrance to the north channel of the lake. Visitors of Arch Rock will marvel at its majestic views and be mesmerized by its unique limestone composition. Despite its beauty, wind and waves have caused numerous birds and animals in the area to be injured or killed.

Michigan 185 is a county in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It encompasses the southeastern edge of Lake Michigan and stretches outward to include the Grand Traverse Bay, the Straits of Mackinac and Beaver Island. As far as attractions are concerned, there are many lakes, rivers and waterways to explore by boat or canoe. The area is also filled with plenty of forests perfect for hiking and camping, while there are also four distinct state parks highlighting this picturesque corner of Michigan.

The Historic Mission Church is a truly remarkable sight. Built in 1895 and now set amongst the trees, the church is a classic example of the Gothic Revival style. Every detail speaks to its elegant yet rustic beauty; from the eight-sided steeple bell tower with wood shingles to the pointed arches of the windows and doors. Inside, you can find exposed wooden beams, beautifully crafted original pews, and a marble altar from Spain.