20 Attractions to Explore Near Orchard Beach State Park

The S.S. City of Milwaukee provided a fascinating chapter in the local area's maritime history. Built at the beginning of the 20th century as a passenger and freight ship, it traveled through lake Michigan until 1942 when heavy storms damaged its mechanical system. The ship then became an auto carrier, operating between various ports around Lake Michigan until 1971. After that, it was left abandoned at the Manistee County Harbor for years.

The USCGC Acacia has a long and important history in Manistee County, Michigan. First launched in 1931, USCGC Acacia was used primarily for environmental protection on the Great Lakes. She was commissioned to control pollution and to protect the environment from transmittable diseases that may be found within water sources. Today, this vessel is preserved as one of the many shipwrecks within the Manistee County Waters Maritime Heritage Preserve.

Manistee Lake has become an increasingly popular tourist destination over the years. The lake is well-known for its spectacular natural beauty and vast array of outdoor recreational opportunities. The area is a great place for fishing, kayaking, canoeing and bird-watching. The surrounding lands are home to lush forests filled with diverse wildlife. In recent years, there have been numerous developments on the banks of the lake, including cabins and vacation rentals.

The Manistee North Pier Lighthouse is a National Historic Landmark was first constructed in 1916 and stands 42 feet tall, painted with classic black and white stripes. It utilizes a fog signal which consists of a bell to alert ships of hazardous conditions. The beacon's light reaches more than 11 miles out into Lake Michigan.The lighthouse still stands as a monument to the past when lighthouses were critical aids for navigating treacherous sea routes.

Portage Lake is a 2.5-mile long inland lake located in Manistee County, Michigan. With a maximum depth of 71 feet, this serene and picturesque lake serves as a popular destination for boaters and fishermen alike. Known for its great food, breathtaking views and peaceful atmosphere, it offers hiking trails that wind around the shoreline and numerous opportunities to take in the natural beauty of the area. Fishing is also popular here.

Onekama Village Park is a great place to take your family and make wonderful memories. This impressive park offers something for everyone. With two tennis courts, a basketball court, an open-air pavilion with picnic tables, large fields for sports and gathering, and even a playground area, literally all ages are welcome to enjoy the park. And don't forget about the one-of-a-kind observation tower that overlooks 200 acres of lakefront property!

Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club located on the shores of Lake Michigan, it offers 18 holes of stunning and diverse terrain. A treasure for golfers, the course features dramatic elevation changes and paths cutting through indigenous sand dunes, giving golfers spectacular views from nearly every hole. With a wide variety of tee boxes to accommodate any skill level and scenery fit for a postcard, it's no wonder that Arcadia Bluffs continues to be one of the most sought after golfing destinations.

Arcadia Lake, is a picturesque vacation spot for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers alike. Tucked away in the forests of northwest Lower Michigan, this lake features 75 acres of sparkling blue water surrounded by rolling hills, sand dunes and tall forests. The lake is perfect for boating and fishing, with plenty of nearby hiking trails and recreation areas offering a range of activities for people of all ages.

The Bottle House Museum is a unique destination that promises a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Constructed with thousands of bottles, the museum building is an incredible sight to behold! Once inside, visitors are taken on a journey through time, as the interior of the building is filled with artifacts and displays chronicling the history of Manistee County. Speaking tours are offered at no additional cost, providing guests with an insight into the items on display.

Pine Lake is the perfect place to spend your summer. you can enjoy swimming, fishing and boating as well as lounging on one of the beautiful beaches along its shores. It is a wonderful spot for soaking up some sunshine and having a picnic with friends or family. Nature enthusiasts will also love exploring the area, with miles of hiking and biking trails to explore. If you're looking for something fun to do during those hot summer days, Pine Lake is the perfect spot for recreation and relaxation.

Hamlin Lake is one of the top recreational areas in the US. It is a popular destination among families seeking a quiet and serene getaway. The lake boasts 9 miles of shoreline with plenty of opportunities for swimming and fishing. Boaters have easy access to two boat launch ramps as well as several marinas along the lake's perimeter. The area also offers numerous campgrounds, so visitors can relax and soak up the sun after a day out on the water.

This Lighthouse has been illuminating the Lake Michigan coastline since 1867. Standing 112 feet tall, with 119 winding steps to the top, it is a beacon of adventure and exploration. Not only is an experience of historic and natural beauty offered while visiting this lighthouse, but also hospitality from the Harbor Lights Club who look after it lovingly. Adorned in its traditional brick color, this iconic structure is bound to leave lasting impressions for visitors for generations to come.

Tippy Dam is an impressive example of engineering and construction. Built in 1940, the dam impounds the Big Manistee River and spans over 950 feet long and 44 feet high. Its reservoir holds nearly 22 billion gallons of water, making it one of Michigan’s largest dams. Not only does Tippy Dam provide a substantial amount of hydroelectric power to the surrounding area, but is also a popular spot for recreation including fishing, boating and camping.

This is a special area known as one of the state's best-preserved natural areas. This sprawling 3,436-acre site features a variety of ecosystems, including sand dunes, wetlands, rivers, meadows, and forests - all perfect for exploring! In addition to its fascinating landscapes, the preserve is home to numerous bird species and wildflowers. It also offers miles of trails throughout the preserve which you can take to see rocky bluffs and freshwater marshland.

This five miles of sandy beach make it ideal for walking and exploring. The North Breakwater Light, a landmark navigation aid on the beach, serves as a beacon for tired swimmers back to the shore. There are also plenty of opportunities for water sports such as kayaking, sailing, fishing and more. Visitors can also put their feet up and enjoy a picnic on the shore or explore inland along any of the woodland trails winding through the parks 5300 acres.

Lower Herring Lake is an absolute hidden gem located in Benzie County, Michigan. This serene lake stretches over 280 acres and is surrounded by lush woods and rolling hills, creating a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, and swimming. In the summer months you can hear the call of hundreds of birds from all around the lake as well as see a wonderful array of wildlife including beavers, white-tailed deer, otters, and several species of fish.

The Huron-Manistee National Forests in Crawford County, Michigan offer visitors a beautiful landscape for outdoor activities. Spanning over almost 1 million acres of forests and lakes, the area is paradise for campers, hikers, hunters, anglers and many other avid outdoors enthusiasts. From the Pine River to the Au Sable river, these prime environments provide diverse ecosystems that are home to countless species making it a haven for wildlife lovers as well.

Green Point Dunes is a place of natural beauty and tranquil serenity. Located just off Lake Michigan, it offers breathtaking views of the lake and its crystal clear waters. The dense forests and rolling dunes surrounding the area give visitors an opportunity to enjoy the sounds of nature and gain insight into the region's rich history and ecology. There are miles of trails to explore, as well as several picnic tables that offer ample seating while you take in the stunning sights.

Crystal Mountain, is a popular vacation destination. From skiing and snowboarding during the winter to hiking, golfing, and mountain biking during the summer months, Crystal Mountain has something to offer for everyone. There are plenty of options when it comes to dining and lodging with restaurants ranging from on-site casual eateries to fine dining establishments as well as numerous accommodations for visitors.

The Pere Marquette River is a vibrant and breathtaking river that provides recreation opportunities for individuals of all ages. Whether it’s fishing, boating, or wildlife viewing such as beavers, herons and geese - there is something for everyone. Its sandy beaches make it a perfect place to kick back and relax after a long day on the river. The Pere Marquette has around 70 miles of fishable water surrounded by natural beauty.