Huron County - 22 Attractions You Must Visit

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 Blue Water Bridge spans between Port Huron, Michigan and Sarnia, Ontario and serves as an important international trade connection. Completed in 1938, the bridge consists of two lanes for daily traffic and two railway lanes that cross the St Clair River. It is a major tourist attraction in the area bringing people from all over to view its majestic beauty. Although it is only 1 mile long, it is iconic for viewers as it allows for excellent views of Lake Huron and neighbouring communities.

Courthouse Square considered the birthplace of modern-day Port Huron, the area served as an important center for commerce and education from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century. As the county seat, it housed all administrative offices for the local government until 1989 when those functions were moved to a new courthouse facility nearby. Despite the relocation, Courthouse Square continues to play an important role in Penn Township's history.

Fort Gratiot Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in the state and was built in 1829 to mark the entrance of the St. Clair River into Lake Huron. The lighthouse stands 70 ft tall and boasts a unique octagonal shape, making it easily recognizable from miles away. Taken over by the Coast Guard in 1939, it once served as a navigational aid for watercraft traffic along Lake Huron. Today, it remains an important part of the community's culture and history.

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.

The Goderich Lighthouse constructed in 1858 and looming at 65 feet tall, the structure provides a picturesque beacon from the Port of Goderich. Visitors can explore the area and enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking and fishing. Stairs at the base of the building reach up to a miniature balcony, ready to grant panoramic views of the region. Furthermore, folk art displays on the doorways honor local traditions along with colorful gardensgreens the lighthouse.

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 Huron County Museum is a great place for learning about the history of the area. Its collections include Native American artifacts, artwork, furniture, tools and clothing from the late-19th and early-20th centuries. Visitors can also explore interactive exhibits such as a replica settler's cabin that they can climb inside to experience pioneer life as it was during those times. A library with an extensive collection of county history books is available to those interested in doing research.

Huron Historic Gaol is an interesting piece of local history. The structure was built in 1882 which gives it a classic Victorian flair. This small building that was originally used to house prisoners for minor crimes has been recreated into a museum full of historical artifacts and displays surrounding the Huron County Courthouse and its surrounding area. Visitors can take part in displays about the criminal justice system, take a look through the prison's historic cell block and more.

The Huron Lightship Museum is a unique attraction that preserves the region's nautical history. Located in Port Austin, it includes not only the original lighthouse tender vessel Huron but also several other vessels and artifacts. Visitors are invited to climb aboard the ship and explore its many rooms and decks, as well as learn about its history of patrolling Lake Huron during treacherous times. Besides taking a tour, visitors may observe the lens room.

Lynch's Irish Tavern is a local favorite spot for many throughout the county. Not only does the bar have traditional cocktails and drinks to that it also has an extensive menu full of delectable seafood dishes such as hot and buttery crab legs, shrimp alfredo and vegetable beef stew. Another plus side to Lynch's Irish Tavern is its live music performances by talented local artists. There is something for everyone at this lively atmosphere where people can come together and enjoy.

The Menesetung Bridge is an iconic structure that has drawn the attention of locals and tourists alike. Spanning across the Crystal River in Port Austin Township, the bridge was first constructed in 1921 and subsequently renovated twice by its original designer, William Dick. It proudly stands as a Chicago-style steel Warren truss bridge with a length of 171 feet and three panel sections. In recent decades, it has been declared as an official Michigan Historic Site.

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.

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.

Point Farms Provincial Park, is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts. From bird watching to cross country skiing and from playgrounds to campgrounds, It offers a variety of attractions for children and adults alike. Conquer the 2.4 mile hiking trail on one of its wooded ridges that spans 10 acres or take in nature along the hummingbird trail. Boaters can explore the nearby Bay Port and Sebewaing rivers while anglers may try their luck at catching the local bass, bluegill and catfish.

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.

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.

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.

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.