20 Attractions to Explore Near Frenchman Lake

The Cut River Bridge is an iconic part of the county's heritage. This 1930s bridge is the only remaining example of a "Camelback" bridge in the Lower Peninsula, and has withstood more than eighty years' worth of storms and wear-and-tear. With its two pointed arches connecting to piers of rusting iron reinforcing bars, it could very well be a scene out of a history book. it still incorporates modern features like sidewalk railings and a guardrail system for maximum security and safety.

Garlyn Zoo Wildlife Park is an incredible destination for all ages. The family-friendly park allows visitors the chance to observe some of the most beautiful and diverse animals from around the world up close. Here, guests can take a guided tour through the winding trails in search of creatures such as elk, mountain lions, timber wolves, black bears, bald eagles and turkeys. Other activities include a petting zoo with farm animals that are sure to be a hit with visitors to the park.

Castle Rock is an unincorporated community of roughly 400 people. Much of the area maintains its rustic charm, with many historical sites, antique shops and eateries nearby. Outdoor activities such as fishing, boating and camping are quite popular in this area, making it a great destination for those looking to escape the bustle of modern life and reconnect with nature. There are also nearby state parks that feature bridle paths and hiking trails for visitors to explore.

St. Helena Island Lighthouse offers a stunning view of the Straits of Mackinac. The original lighthouse was built in 1862, with a two-story wooden structure framed around an octagonal tower that provided visibility for ships traveling through the straits. As time went on and ship technology changed, it became clear that the light could not be seen from certain angles. In 1903 a new tower was built adjacent to the old one, with a higher-powered electric beacon.

The St. Hellena Island Lighthouse is a classic example of lighthouse architecture from the 1900’s. This white brick structure emphasizes its distinctive brick tower, which stands 54 feet and was rebuilt more than once since the original construction in 1877. Inside the lighthouse is a set of winding stairs that leads to the light gallery with fantastic views of the surrounding Great Lakes.

This can truly be called a beacon of beauty in the Great Lakes. Standing tall against the horizon at 80-feet and outlined with red brick, it's a structure that often takes your breath away. Constructed in 1910 to ensure safety of ships passing through Lake Michigan, White Shoal features both a light tower plus an adjoining keeper's house. The lighthouse lens, fueled by oil and electricity intermittently throughout history, guided hundreds of vessels safely along its journey each year

Chain 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.

Grand Sable Lake is situated within the Hiawatha National Forest. The crystal-clear lake is teeming with fish, wildlife and many species of vegetation, making it a popular destination for anglers, hikers and nature lovers alike. Grand Sable Lake offers picturesque views throughout the year with its rocky shoreline; visitors can spend hours exploring the surrounding woods and searching for rare plant life. Swimming is also a popular activity at this tranquil location.

The 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.

Fort 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.

The 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.

Father 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.

Straits 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.

The Tahquamenon Logging Museum is a must-visit destination for any fan of the state’s industrial history. Here, visitors can get an intimate look at life in the Upper Peninsula’s bygone logging era, along with its tools, clothing and culture. With interactive exhibits highlighting different aspects of logging work, a recreated lumber camp and the museum’s sawmill and shingle mill preserved from the 1800s, there’s plenty to learn and see here.

Point Iroquois Lighthouse built in 1870, it was originally lit with an iron-framed, fourth-order Fresnel lens made of 1,008 hand-cut prisms and silvered glass panels that displayed a white light every 12 seconds. Since then the lighthouse has withstood the surges of Lake Superior year after year while faithfully protecting passing ships. It was fully automated in 1933 and then featured various colors of lenses over the years before the current white lens was installed in 2012.

Wawashkamo Golf Club offers a unique golfing experience to all level of players. This picturesque course located on the stunning island of Mackinac offers sweeping views of the lake, lush fairways and strategic bunkers. It is one of the few true links courses, with pot bunkers and native grasses offering a challenging test for both amateurs and professionals alike. With classes that focus on etiquette and proper style from professionals who have mastered the course.

Mackinac Island is an impressive destination with a unique atmosphere. A hub of shopping and dining experiences, as well as horse-drawn carriages and bike rentals, make the island a fun spot for travelers. Those looking to relax and take in the scenery have plenty of options - taking a walk around the historic downtown area or visiting iconic landmarks such as Arch Rock are great ways to spend your time.

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.

Waugoshance Lighthouse is a 102-foot wooden tower built in 1851 and one of the first lighthouses on Lake Michigan. Located at the most dangerous location on the lake, Waugoshance stands as an iconic reminder of early efforts to ensure safe navigation between Lake Michigan ports. Although it sustained heavy damage from ice during numerous winters, Waugoshance continued to be staffed until 1924 when an automated light was established.

Mackinac 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.