20 Attractions to Explore Near Lake St. Clair Old South Channel Front Light

The Selfridge Military Air Museum is a fantastic place to learn about the history of aviation. Visitors can explore more than 40 historic aircraft, some maintained by volunteers and others on loan from branch services. From German biplanes to an F-86A Saberjet -- the first airplane to simultaneously break the sound barrier in two directions -- there’s a variety of fascinating military airplanes on display. As you make your way through the museum you can see aircraft that survived World War II.

Ford House serves as the former home of Edsel and Eleanor Ford. This grand estate stands on 22 acres of lush land that offers stunning views of Lake St. Clair. The residence was designed by famous architect Albert Kahn and features a spacious showroom for Mr. Ford's classic car collections; an inviting living room decorated with fine art and antiques; six bedrooms featuring lavish furnishings; as well as an array of other details that make this house unlike any other.

The Michigan Transit Museum, offers an interesting look at how people got around in the early to mid-1900s. Explore a variety of unique and vintage transit vehicles from different eras. From horse drawn streetcars to electric interurban cars to an antique school bus, each vehicle has a special place in Michigan’s transportation history. The museum also offers guided tours to learn more about the hardworking men and women who operated the carriages, trolleys and buses.

Algonac State Park offers visitors a chance to explore the great outdoors in a stunning natural setting. With over 1,500 acres of land to roam, visitors can hike along the park’s many trails, paddle out onto the pristine waters of the St. Clair River, or simply relax and take in the serene surroundings. Camping is also available, with options for both tent and RV camping. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great destination for nature lovers.

Stahls Automotive Foundation, was founded in 2016 with a goal of making a positive impact on the community. The foundation has funded multiple initiatives to develop youth programs and educational opportunities for young people throughout the region. This organization has also helped fund scholarships for college-bound Macomb County citizens to help them finance their postsecondary education.

The Peche Island Rear Range Light, situated in St. Clair County, is a beautiful beacon that has been guiding sailors since 1908. This impressive lighthouse stands tall at 63 feet and is nothing short of striking, with its bold red bricks and sparkling lantern room. The light was built to guide vessels through the often treacherous waters that surround Lake St. Clair. Though it is no longer a functional lighthouse, it continues to be an important historic landmark in the area.

The General Motors Heritage Center is a popular spot for those who love cars and enjoy the sights of automotive history. Originally built to house GM’s corporate vehicle collection, today the center also serves to commemorate General Motor’s accomplishments since its founding in 1908 throughout their expansive exhibit galleries. Visitors can locate artifacts from many of the different era's that GM has left its mark on ranging from 1930, right up to the 2000s.

Jimmy John’s Field is a state of the art baseball stadium and is home to the Utica Unicorns of the United Shore Professional Baseball League. It features 2,200 fixed seats as well as additional lawn seating for up to 4,000 people. The stadium offers traditional ballpark favourites like hot dogs and beer plus locally sourced foods from local farms and purveyors. Unique features include a full size batting cage and a Super 8 video scoreboard, each the largest of its kind in minor league baseball.

The William Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse, situated in Wayne County, Michigan, is a true sight to behold. With its classic white and red stripes, it reminds us of the quintessential lighthouse image that we've all grown up seeing on postcards and movies. It stands tall, proud, and unyielding against the powerful waves of the Detroit River. But let's get real here, the real charm of this lighthouse is its stunning views - the city skyline on one side, and the vast open water on the other.

Pewabic Pottery is one of those hidden gems you never knew you needed in your life until you stumble upon it. Located in Wayne County, Michigan, this place is a pottery lover's dream come true. Their unique glazes and designs are a testament to the creativity and skill of the artists that work here. And let's not forget about the history - Pewabic Pottery has been around since 1903! That's before sliced bread. Okay, maybe not quite that old, but you get the point.

The Belle Isle Nature Center is an oasis of calm in the midst of bustling city life, and the perfect spot to kick back and enjoy the sights and sounds of the great outdoors. From the gorgeous trails that wind through lush forests to the interactive exhibits that teach visitors about local wildlife, there's something here for everyone. Not to mention the way that the staff really go out of their way to make sure that visitors have an unforgettable experience.

The Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site is an awe-inspiring location where automobiles were tested during the early 20th century. The Rolls Royce of that period, Packard Motor Co., used the sprawling 3,500 acres of land as a testing facility for engines and chassis designs. With a network of roads that comprised more than 20 miles, these grounds enabled engineers to effectively test out new innovations.

Belle Isle is a little slice of paradise in the middle of the city. Its lush greenery and sweeping views of the Detroit River make it a cherished gem for locals and tourists alike. The island offers a plethora of activities for all ages, including a zoo, aquarium, conservatory, and multiple picnic areas. And let's not forget the giant waterslide that promises to launch your inner child straight into blissful oblivion.

Ford Field is an impressive sports and entertainment venue that is home to the Detroit Lions of the NFL. It opened in 2002 and has set a standard for other stadiums in the area since, with its modern design with plenty of high-tech features, seating over 65,000 people. When it's not hosting football games, Ford Field is also used for concerts and other events. Some recent events include Taylor Swift’s Reputation World Tour, as well as appearances by Garth Brooks and Maroon 5.

Belle Isle Beach boasts of pristine sandy shores, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views of the Detroit skyline. Despite its beauty, it remains relatively unknown to tourists and even locals. But don't let that stop you from visiting! Not only is it a perfect spot for a lazy day of lounging, but it's also great for water sports enthusiasts. Plus, the atmosphere is a great mix of laid back beach vibes and big city energy. Take my word for it;

Rockport State Recreation Area, boasts a network of scenic hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of Lake Huron and its coastline. Visitors can also explore the park's unique geological formations, including sinkholes and fossil beds. The park's shoreline provides opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. And for those looking for a little more adventure, kayaking and scuba diving are popular pastimes in the park's crystal-clear waters.

The Wolcott Mill Historic Center is a celebrated jewel of 19th century industrial history. Located on a 400 acre historic park, the mill was once a thriving grain grist and saw mill that operated until World War I. Today visitors can tour the restored water-powered mill, wander through time honored buildings like the barn and blacksmith shop, take a stroll on the boardwalk along the Clinton River, visit with chickens and other farmyard animals.

Belle Isle Aquarium, located in Wayne County, Michigan, is a hidden gem that truly deserves more recognition. Not only is it one of the oldest aquariums in the United States, but it also boasts a diverse collection of aquatic life that will leave you awestruck. From the colorful fish that swim gracefully in their tanks to the sassy octopus that loves to show off its personality, there's something for every animal lover to enjoy.

This stunning indoor garden houses a collection of plants from all over the world, including towering palms, vibrant blooms, and even a carnivorous plant exhibit. But what really sets this conservatory apart is its striking architecture - the conservatory's central dome is a sight to behold. And let's not forget about the koi fish pond, which is home to some seriously impressive fish. Overall, the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory is a must-visit for anyone who loves plants, architecture.

The Dossin Great Lakes Museum, is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the Great Lakes region. Filled with fascinating exhibits and artifacts that will keep you entertained for hours. From interactive displays that allow you to simulate steering a ship to exhibits that explore the cultural significance of the Great Lakes, there's something here for everyone. And let's not forget about the humor - you'll find plenty of quips and jokes throughout the museum.