20 Attractions to Explore Near Thumb Octagon Barn & Agricultural Museum

The Sanilac Petroglyphs Historic State Park is a hidden gem located in Sanilac County. The park is home to ancient carvings or petroglyphs that were created by Native Americans over 1,000 years ago. The petroglyphs depict a variety of images, including human figures, animals, and abstract shapes. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park to learn about the history and significance of the petroglyphs. The park also features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a small museum.

Fish Point Wildlife Refuge is a stunning ecosystem that's home to more than 200 species of birds and waterfowl. The refuge spreads across 1000 acres of land in Tuscola County, Michigan, and includes wetlands, marshes, and even three miles of shoreline along Saginaw Bay. Birdwatchers and nature lovers alike will find plenty to admire in Fish Point Wildlife Refuge. The refuge also offers a diverse range of activities for visitors, such as fishing, hunting, and hiking.

Shay Lake, nestled in the beautiful Tuscola County of Michigan, is a serene and picturesque destination. With crystal clear waters and an abundance of wildlife, it is the perfect place to relax and unwind. The lake offers ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming during the summer months, while the winter season brings snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. Take a walk along the quaint shoreline, or simply sit back and admire the stunning views.

Rush Lake is situated in Huron County,and serenely rests 75 feet above sea level. Surrounding its calm waters are incredible views of untouched marshes, rolling terrain, and an abundance of wildlife amongst a plethora of vegetation. This alluring lake presented an opportunity for recreational fishing and blissful summer days swimming with family. It also has access to pontoon boat cruises and social gatherings at the on-site restaurant located right on the lake’s edge.

Sleeper State Park, is a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts to visit. The park is filled with plenty of activities such as camping, fishing, boating, and horseback riding. Nature lovers can explore the trails that take them through expansive forests and grasslands filled with local wildlife. For those looking to cool off in the summer months, swimming is allowed in many different areas within the park. Other recreational activities include basketball courts and playgrounds.

Port Crescent State Park is a stunning natural landscape overlooking Lake Huron's Saginaw Bay. Visitors flock to the park for its beautiful sandy beach and breathtaking sunsets. Other outdoor activities include camping, biking, hiking, boating, swimming and fishing. You can go to the historical lighthouse or explore the large wetlands teeming with wildlife. The park also has a small marina for those who are interested in trying their hand at sailing activities.

The Pinnebog River is a peaceful, meandering waterway that brings life and beauty to the surrounding landscape. The lower reaches of the river are wide and have areas of open water with accompanying wildlife. As it twists its way around bends, with shallow rapids breaking the glassy surface, anglers can be seen dotted along its banks hoping to catch some bass or walleye. Higher up the river narrows and enters swampy marshland where deeper pools hide large mouth bass.

Charity Island is a small island only accessible by boat, the scenic beauty and wildlife make it an excellent location for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors to the island often come here for bird watching, fishing, and swimming. The natural harbor of Charity Island also makes it a popular destination for boaters in need of docking or anchoring. Historically, the area has been used by governments and militaries as the base of operations into Lake Huron.

The Michigan Welcome Center is a great place to visit for anyone passing through the area. This center offers a wide variety of amenities, from helpful travel information to souvenirs from Michigan locales. Visitors can find detailed road maps and brochures, discover interesting facts about the landmarks they may encounter throughout their journey, or purchase gifts and memorabilia to remember their trip.

Bird Creek Park is a 37-acre wooded area of nature sanctuary that features three diverse ecosystems, rugged hills, and dramatic wetlands, offering something for everyone. Visitors can explore the numerous walking trails leading to the shores of Huron River, nature blinds to observe local birds and mammals, a fishing pier built into the river, multiple picnic areas for outdoor family activities, and various classes and learning opportunities about natural resources available.

The Gravelly Shoal Light, is a historic reminder of bygone days. On the shores of Saginaw Bay, this lighthouse has stood since 1872 and served to provide safe harbor for passing ships for decades. Its unique design features a square tower lined with vertical red brickwork, with a black lantern at the top. Just a short distance away from the shoreline, it is still visible to this day and serves as an iconic landmark in Michigan’s maritime history.

The Pointe Aux Barques Lighthouse is a beacon of maritime history on Lake Huron. Established in 1848, it was the third lighthouse built along the Great Lakes, serving as a navigational aid to ships and their crews. Standing at 50-feet-tall, the limestone tower is an impressive sight with its two black lanterns shining brightly. This white painted beacon was automated in 1933, but was decommissioned in 2002.

The Frank Murphy Memorial Museum celebrates the legacy of former Governor Frank Murphy, highlighting his career and the impact he had on Michigan history. Upon visiting this educational landmark, visitors can follow the journey of his career from high school student to mayor to governor of the state with original memorabilia and vintage photographs. In addition to learning about his story, visitors are surrounded by fascinating artifacts from the areas around Port Austin Township.

Pt. Austin Lighthouse is quite a beautiful sight. The harbor and lake near the point of sunrise was known as dangerous to ships and sailors in the 1800's. In 1871, Congress approved an appropriation for the lighthouse and it came into existence by 1876. Even now, you can take tours to the top of the tower, which stands 70 feet tall with a 280-degree waterfront view. An additional structure included is a fog signal building that has been replaced twice.

Grice House Museum is an impressive and fascinating historical building. Built in 1854 by Abner Grice, the museum offers a unique insight into local history and life in 1860s America. Its rustic wooden interiors have remained largely unchanged over time and the building contains original furniture and artifacts that remain from the era in which it was constructed. Visitors can take guided tours of its many rooms, as well as explore other attractions such as a nearby period cabin.

The Harbor Beach Lighthouse has been guiding ships to safety for nearly 140 years. Standing over sixty feet tall, the light tower is the tallest on Lake Huron and remains an active aid to navigation today. Built from brick, a process that stretched two years from 1888 to 1890, the light was powered by kerosene until 1987 when it was electrified. While the grounds of the Harbor Beach Lighthouse are not accessible to the public.

The Saginaw River is a 77-mile waterway that winds through Bay County. Its picturesque waters are home to a variety of wildlife including bald eagles, carp and channel catfish. The river is lined by lush forests and rolling hillsides, creating some unforgettable views. Unique attractions like the Infinity Skyspace sculpture add an interesting element to the region as well. Thanks to its majestic beauty and hospitable environment.

The Saginaw River Rear Range Light is a remarkable example of marine engineering and lighthouse design. Built in 1906 and still functioning to this day, the light marks the entrance of the river located near the southern shoreline of Saginaw Bay in Michigan. The light has retained its original appearance since its construction, with its traditional white masonry cylindrical tower sitting atop an octagonal tan brick foundation.

Carroll Park is a beautiful tranquil garden featuring winding walks and neatly kept foliage. The park is a favorite haunt for many of the local birdwatchers as well as lovers of nature photography. The lake that lies at the heart of the park is ideal for fishing, canoeing, kayaking or simply taking a stroll around its scenic shoreline. It’s also renowned as one of the state's finest sunsets watching spots, which adds to its popularity among families.

The Independence Bridge is an impressive sight. It stands at 80 feet tall, with a longest span of 514 feet and a total length of 583 feet. Constructed in 1939, it traverses the banks of Saginaw River, once connecting the mill towns of Hampton and Zilwaukee. Despite being heavily damaged by ice in 2009 and again in 2014, the bridge was restored to its former glory during a three year period. Today it is recognized as a crucial part of the region's long standing history.