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Hunts' Guide to Michigan's UPPER PENINSULA

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MACKINAW CITY
POINTS
OF INTEREST

Colonial Michilimackinac. Reconstructed to its appearance under the British in the 1770s, this palisaded village, first French, then British, is one of Michigan's most interesting and important sights ... more

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse. This landmark lighthouse guided ships through the Straits of Mackinac from 1892 'til the bridge was finished in 1957. See exhibits and ongoing restoration, and climb the tower for great Straits and bridge views. ... more

Shepler's Lighthouse Cruises. A 3-hour cruise takes passengers under the Mackinac Bridge, then passes a variety of lighthouses on islands or hard-to-visit locations on its 20-mile route. ... more

Historic Mill Creek. A reconstruction of the 1790s water-powered sawmill that produced the boards and beams of some buildings in Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island. The wooded, creekside site and its 3 1/2 miles introduce visitors to northwoods plants and animals, passing an active beaver colony on the way to a sugar shack. Demos and nature talks for children and adults. ... more

MACKINAW CITY

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse

This 1892 Straits lighthouse with its distinctive, castle-like round tower and stone trim is being restored to its appearance in 1910. The light guided ships from Lake Huront until 1957, when the illuminated towers of the new Mackinac Bridge made a lighthouse unnecessary.

At the fog signal station next door, visitors buy tickets (if they haven't bought the thrifty triple choice or annual pass), see exhibits, and peruse books and merchandise about lighthouses and Great Lakes maritime subjects. Profits from sales help fund the ongoing restoration.

An interpreter in historic costume leads the tour of the lighthouse itself.
A high point is climbing the tower. That involves 51 steps and an 11-rung vertical ladder through an opening in the top floor. (No flip-flops allowed for personal safety!) The reward is a wonderful view of the bridge and Straits area.

In the park by the Mackinac Bridge at the Lower Peninsula's north tip. Take any street north. (231) 436-4100. Open daily May 1 thru Oct. 7 (2007 hours). Signal house/shop open 9-4:30 at least, to 5:30 from June 9 thru Aug. 25. Lighthouse closes 30 minutes earlier. $5/adult, $3/ages 6-17. See thrifty "family pass" and "triple choice" info at end of "Colonial Michilimackinac." Wheelchair access: both buildings, not tower.

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