Father Marquette National Memorial - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.