Regarded as one of the most beautiful places in the northern U.S., Northern Lower Michigan is overflowing with natural beauty and history that students will love to discover all year round. Keep reading to learn some of what the northern part of the Great Lakes State has to offer!
MACKINAC ISLAND
Home to the Grand Hotel and historic Fort Mackinac, Mackinac Island is a Michigan must-see. Situated on Lake Huron between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas and accessed only by ferry, Mackinac Island offers up a bounty of opportunities for students. No cars are allowed on the island, so horses, buggies and bikes reign supreme. Embark on a horseback ride, bike the entirety of the island, paddleboard to Arch Rock, and plenty more. There are even performance opportunities on the island!
Students will also love visiting the Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum, Biddle House Mackinac Island Native American Museum, Benjamin Blacksmith Shop and the American Fur Co. Store & Dr. Beaumont Museum. Don’t forget to pick up some fudge to take home!
CASTLE ROCK
A geological limestone stack located three miles north of St. Ignace, Castle Rock is an attraction in its own right. Known as "Pontiac's Lookout" by the Ojibwa Tribe, Castle Rock offers students stunning views spanning 20 miles from 195 feet above water level.
After soaking up the sights, students could spend some time in the attraction’s gift shop, which features birch bark ceiling and walls that were handcrafted by local Native Americans in the early 1950s.
SLEEPING BEAR DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE
Hugging the northeast shore of Lake Michigan is picturesque Sleeping Bear Dunes, home to miles of sand beach, bluffs that tower 450 feet above Lake Michigan, lush forests, clear inland lakes, and unique flora and fauna.
A national park with a rich maritime, agricultural and recreational history, Sleeping Bear Dunes offers students an abundance of options for fun. Students could hike or bike the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, attend a ranger-led program, visit the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum, and more.
This is a scenic spot that remains one of Michigan’s top tourist attractions—and for good reason! Be sure not to miss its stunning views.
Let ETI help you learn more about exploring Northern Michigan’s splendor with your students. Contact us today!
