LOCAL ATTRACTIONS
IN THE HEART OFMANISTIQUE
Manistique, Mi Local Area & Attractions
While in Manistique there are plenty of attractions and things to keep you busy while you’re in the area or traveling through. With such variety of recreational activities, four seasons of outdoor sports and landmarks there is so much to enjoy. Here are some of the more popular items to see while in Manistique.
Palms Book State Park (Kitch-Iti-Kipi)
Located at the north end of Indian Lake in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, is home to Kitch-iti-kipi or “Big Cold Spring” also referred to as "The Big Spring”. Known to be Michigan's largest natural freshwater spring the park features many waterfalls, trails and emerald green water. The Palms Book State Park is a short 20 minute drive from Holiday Motel.
Learn MoreFayette Historic State Park
Blending history and nature, the park is located on the shores of Big Bay de Noc – on Lake Michigan between Snail Shell Harbor and Sand Bay. The Fayette Historic State Park is located between Snail Shell Harbor and Sand Bay on Lake Michigan on the shores of Big Bay de Noc. Combining history and nature the park is a preserved iron smelting town with space for hiking, swimming & picnicking. A one time thriving industrial community, visitors can walk through the well-preserved buildings that have been standing for over 150 years.
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Seul Choix Point Lighthouse
The only active light on the shores of Lake Michigan. The lighthouse has been in continuous operation since starting full light service in 1895. There is now a museum at the lighthouse with both the building and the grounds open for visitors from Memorial Day until the middle of October each year. More information can be found on the Seul Choix Lighthouse website.
Indian Lake State Park
The Indian Lake State Park is spread over 567 acres on the shores of Indian Lake just five miles west of Manistique still in the Upper Peninsula. There is plenty of picnic areas, a designated beach area for swimming, trails, secluded spots for fishing and boat access sites.
Historic Manistique Water Tower
Originally built in 1922, a Roman period architectural landmark with a 200,000 gallon capacity. The tower was built in 1922 but today the water tower is home to exhibits about Schoolcraft County’s history, culture, and heritage. Just 4 miles from Holiday Motel, just a quick drive to town.
Thompson State Fish Hatchery
Sine 1922, the Thompson State Fish Hatchery produces both cold water and cool water fish which includes Chinook Salmon, Steelhead Rainbow Trout, Walleye and Muskellunge for stocking in both inland and Great Lakes waters. Open and free for the public, tours and visitor center are self-guided and open daily, 7:30 am to 3:30 pm.
Pictured Rocks National Shoreline
This national lakeshore located on the shoreline of Lake Superior offers towering multicolored sandstone cliffs, beaches, waterfalls, sand dunes, inland lakes, streams and deep green forests. This is truly a site to see and ensure you budget enough time to take in all the scenery. For more information and to buy your park pass visit the National Park Service website. Roughly an hour drive from Holiday Motel so best to start your day off early.
Oswald's Bear Ranch
Oswald’s Bear Ranch is home to over 40 rescued bears and is the largest bear-only ranch in the United States. The bear ranch has worked with these bears for over 3 decades, and the 240-acre ranch has a lot for families to do and see. Just over an hour drive to get to from the motel.
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Tahquamenon Falls
Located in the Tahquamenon Falls State Park, this pair of waterfalls are a sight to behold. The upper falls falling almost 50 feet and measuring over 200 feet across is best when seen from a boat.
Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum At Whitefish Point
One of the most popular attractions in Michigan housed in the Whitefish Point Light Station is the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum. Visitors can see the oldest operating lighthouse on Lake Superior, and explore shipwrecks, exhibits and artifacts in the museum. Visit the Great Lakes Shipwreck official website for more information and to buy tickets.
The Mystery Spot
Featuring mini-golf, a forest maze, ziplines, gravity defying areas and a guided tour of the world-famous mystery spot itself. Mystery Spot has it all for every member of the family. Check out their website for more information.
Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island is as storied as it is beautiful. There are so many adventures and things awaiting you. From historic forts, horse carriage rides, Indigenous culture to the Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry it is all a great experience. It will take a bit of planning to maximize your time at Mackinac Island so please chat with our friendly staff to best plan this out for you.
Soo Locks
A set of parallel lock allowing ships to travel between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes. Often considered remarkable feat of engineering and human ingenuity that connects the large bodies of water. Visitors to the Soo Locks enjoy the sites of lake freighters and distinctive vessels, such as tall ships, sailboats, cruise ships, and military crafts.
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