20 Attractions to Explore Near New Presque Isle Lighthouse

The Old Presque Isle Lighthouse is a stunning piece of architectural history. Built in 1840, it was the first lighthouse in the Great Lakes to be constructed of brick. This magnificent tower served as a beacon of hope, guiding sailors through the turbulent waters of Lake Huron for over a century before being decommissioned in 1870. Today, it stands as a cherished symbol of Michigan's rich maritime heritage, attracting visitors from all over the world,

Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary is a unique and captivating attraction covers over 4,000 square miles of Lake Huron and is home to over 200 shipwrecks. From schooners to steamboats, the sanctuary preserves the diverse maritime history of the Great Lakes. Visitors are invited to explore the museum exhibits, take a glass-bottom boat tour, or even dive into the crystal clear waters themselves to experience the beauty of the sanctuary firsthand.

Grand Lake, located in Presque Isle County, Michigan, is a serene and picturesque destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 5,000 acres of water surface, it offers plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and stunning natural landscapes that are perfect for hiking and biking. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic drives, golf courses, and quaint shops in the nearby towns of Alpena and Rogers City.

This 337-acre park on lakeshore habitat provides campers with waterfront recreation opportunities during the summer months and serenity during the winter season. Boating and fishing are just some of the fun ways to relax at this park. Campers can find 50 campsites located across six different loops with facilities ranging from standard tent sites to electric hookups for RV camping. There are plenty of hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views from these rocky bluffs!

Rockport State Recreation Area provides outdoor enthusiasts with the perfect place to explore their favorite activities. From swimming and fishing in Lake Huron to hiking and biking over 40 miles of trails, there is plenty to do out in nature in this gorgeous park. Rockport also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year like bird-watching tours and guided hikes, offering something special for everyone wanting to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.

Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary is both a unique geological feature and home to an array of marine life. Along the rugged coastline of Lake Huron, this sanctuary encompasses an area of 448 square miles where one can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking and more. Four permanently moored historical shipwrecks are present withinis sanctuary: Pride of Baltimore II , Monoho and two wooden barges.

The Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center offers unique and exciting experiences for those interested in exploring the maritime history of the Great Lakes area. Here, visitors can learn about coastal shipwrecks and artifacts, as well as view art exhibits that highlight local culture and traditions. Several nautical museums feature ship models, glass cases filled with salvaged items from hundreds of ships, a navigation chart room and a 12-bell carillon tower.

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.

The Alpena Lighthouse stands tall in the beautiful northern Michigan city. Built in 1876, during part of a regional movement to make the Great Lakes safer for boats and shipping, it is an iconic part of the local scenery. It's red-brick facade rises three stories skyward and its light still flashes out across the lake at night. Over the years it has served as a beacon for sailors returning home and a reminder to local residents that they are part of a larger history stretching back centuries.

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.

Thunder Bay Island Lighthouse has stood as a beacon for Lake Huron sailors for over 160 years. Located four miles off the mainland in Lake Huron, it was first lit in 1832 due to its strategic importance along the trade route. The 70-foot tall tower still stands today and since 1951 the remote island also serves as an important destination for bird watchers and outdoor recreationists alike. It's a popular spot to view bald eagles, cormorants, herons and other migratory birds.

The Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary is an amazing area for people to explore. The sanctuary provides visitors with access to the deep underwater environment of Lake Huron as well as terrestrial sites contained within its boundaries. With over 100 known shipwrecks from the 1800s to present day, there is something here for everyone. But it’s not all about history, as the sanctuary also upholds conservation efforts and wildlife protection in the area.

Ocqueoc Falls is a beautiful natural attraction located in Presque Isle County, Michigan. This stunning waterfall cascades over limestone ledges and is surrounded by lush forests and serene hiking trails. Visitors of all ages can enjoy the peaceful scenery or take a refreshing dip in the crisp waters during the warmer months. Aside from its natural beauty, the waterfall also has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s when it was used to generate hydroelectric power.

This breathtaking waterfall stands at about 17 feet high, making for a majestic yet powerful water feature that anyone can appreciate. The falls are located in the rustic Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Park, an area of scenic camping sites and tranquil wilderness trails, while the waterfall itself is surrounded by lush greenery and gets even more impressive with an increase in rain. It's also home to a variety of wildlife.

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.

Nestled in the beautiful Presque Isle County of Michigan lies the tranquil Ocqueoc Lake. With its crystal clear water and serene surroundings, the lake offers visitors a much needed escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to relax on the shore or explore the lake's many hidden coves, there's something for everyone at Ocqueoc. And if fishing is your thing, you're in luck! The lake is home to a variety of fish species.

Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox are legendary characters from folktales, who have become an iconic part of Alpena County, Michigan. The two were thought to have been a lumberjack and his trusty ox companion, with Paul Bunyan telling tales of their travels around the Great Lakes region. With both Paul and Babe now standing 40-feet tall in Alpena Town Square Park as a tribute to legends past, visitors can explore the local folklore of this celebrated duo.

Beaver Lake County Park is a beautiful park perfect for family outings. Located on the shores of Lake Huron, Beaver Lake offers plenty of space to explore, including 11 miles of trails through forests and marshlands filled with local wildlife. Visitors can play close to the lake on the beach or take to their boats and launch from its marina facilities. Golfers will find an excellent 18-hole championship course with breathtaking views.

Negwegon State Park, is the perfect destination for outdoor activities and relaxation. This majestic park encompasses over 1,000 acres of hiking trails, paddle trails along miles of Lake Huron shoreline and breathtaking views of pristine forests. Furthermore, with an array of fish and wildlife throughout the area, it makes for an ideal spot to hunt and observe nature. And on top of all of these available activities, Negwegon State Park also offers a beach to relax on.

Negwegon State Park is a hidden gem that many people are missing out on. The park is over 1,000 acres of wild and untouched beauty - perfect for those who seek solace outside the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Campers will enjoy the countless hiking trails winding through the lush hardwood forests and behind rolling sand dunes. If you're more of a water enthusiast, swimming, fishing and paddling on the Lake Huron shore are popular activities here.