Old Presque Isle Light House
(5 minutes) 
5295 E. Grand Lake Rd., Presque Isle, MI 49777 

“In an idyllic setting–just beyond Presque Isle Harbor along Lake Huron in northeast lower Michigan–you’ll find two lighthouses, a keeper’s house museum, a Third Order Fresnel light, and a set of range lights. Take a step back in time–climb the towers, find treasures in the gift shop, attend a concert or community event, learn about the light keepers and their families and how they lived.” 
– Presque Isle Township Museum Society website

Rockport State Park
(20 minutes) 
5001 US-23 NorthC/o P.H. Hoeft State Park
Rogers City, MI 49779 

“Located on the shores of Lake Huron, north of Alpena, the property includes a deep-water protected harbor, an old limestone quarry of approximately 300 acres, a unique series of sinkholes, a dedicated Natural Area (Besser Natural Area) and a broad range of land types, vegetative cover, cultural resources and recreation opportunities.”

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Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground and Bicentennial Pathway
(30 minutes) 
M-68, Rogers City, MI 49779 

“This quaint campground nestled in a beautiful hardwood forest, offers spectacular views. It is located near Ocqueoc Falls. You can hike to the campground’s crowning jewel Ocqueoc Falls along the Ocqueoc Falls Bicentennial Pathway. Visitors can enjoy accessible picnic tables and grills at the falls overlook. Visitors can access the water using either a recycled plastic deck ramp or a set of tiered rocks. Be sure to also take advantage of steelhead and trout fishing from the campground.” 
– Michigan DNR Website

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Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary
(30 minutes) 
500 West Fletcher Street, Alpena, MI 49707 

“Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary protects a nationally significant collection of nearly 100 historic shipwrecks in Lake Huron off the Michigan coast. Through research, education, and community involvement, the sanctuary works to ensure future generations can enjoy these underwater treasures.” 
– Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary website 

Image: Thunder Bay Website

Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center
(30 minutes) 
500 W Fletcher St, Alpena, MI 49707 

“Experience the rich history of the Great Lakes by exploring the exhibits at the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center. Feel the power of a Lake Huron storm while you walk the deck of a life-size schooner or “swim” over a shipwreck in the dive tubes! With over 10,000 square feet of exhibit space there is something for everyone, including families, tour groups, and students. The visitor center, open all year, is located in historic downtown Alpena along the Thunder Bay River. Admission is free of charge. Glass-bottom boat tours ticketing inside visitor center.” 
– Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center website 

Image: Thunder Bay Website

Mackinac Island
(1 hour 30 minutes drive + ferry ride to island) 

“For centuries, visitors have enjoyed this national treasure that’s home to historic Fort Mackinac, world-famous Mackinac Island fudge and car-free streets full of horse-drawn carriages. This ideal vacation spot is a paradise of exploration with incredible natural landmarks, awe-inspiring sunrises and unforgettable sunsets. There’s unique shopping, diverse dining and extraordinary nightlife, too. No wonder Travel + Leisure ranked Mackinac Island the Best Island in the Continental U.S. Start planning your Mackinac Island adventure and come experience the Jewel of the Great Lakes yourself!” 
– Mackinac Island website

Upper Peninsula
(1 hour and 30 minutes to the bridge, then additional time to destination) 

Drive across the Mackinaw bridge to enter Michigan’s upper peninsula. Explore endless attractions, from waterfalls to rock cruises and underground mining tours to historic sites, there is something to interest all ages.