Things to do & places to visit in Cheboygan County, Michigan, United States

Cheboygan County county in Michigan, United States. Timezone: America/Detroit, current date and time: Tuesday, May 14, 2024, 4:13.

Top things to do (20)

Top places to visit (29 attractions)

5.0 Jack Pine Lumberjack Show (400 reviews)
- Fun with Talent
Tuesday: 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Theatre & Performances

Experience World Champion Lumberjacks in a fast paced action packed lumberjack competition, located near Mackinaw Island, we are a Mackinaw City MUST SEE! Shows at Jack Pine Lumberjack Shows are approximately an hour long, delivered in a competition format, in which the audience is divided up into two rival logging camps, each camp cheering for their lumberjack. It demonstrates the turn of the century skills of the lumberjack including chopping, sawing, axe throwing, cross-cut sawing, speed climbing and logrolling. In addition to the competition, there is also a chain saw carving demonstration. The show educates the audience in the rich history of Michigan's logging past. It is fast paced, up-beat and keeps the audience involved. A fun show for the entire family, children under the age of 5 are free! See more..
5.0 Cross In The Woods National Shrine (235 reviews)
- Absolutely breathtaking!
Religious Sites

This was definitely one of my family's favorite stops on our trip to Michigan! The priest who greeted us (I wish I could remember his name!) was so sweet and informative. After a short presentation and history of the land and crucifix we went on our way. Each sculpture and shrine is beautiful, but the crucifix! My oh my it is breathtaking! We enjoyed walking the trail of the stations of the cross. It is so quiet and peaceful there, I wish I lived closer and could spend more time there whenever I wish. I also wish we could have visited during a mass. I'm sure it is lovely. The gift shop is nice and reasonably priced. There is no admission fee, although they do appreciate a donation, also donations for "lighting" prayer candles. We spent about an hour there in total. My photos do no justice to the size and magnitude of the crucifix, but they do show just how beautiful it is. See more..
5.0 Great Lakes Lighthouse Keepers association (34 reviews)
- Shop local and support the light houses at the same time.
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums

I highly recommend visiting here for your souvenir shopping. The profits go to support the restoration of local lighthouses. The shop keeper was very sweet and looked up my husband’s grandfather who was a light house keeper in their records and printed out what information they had on him. See more..
5.0 The Forge (24 reviews)
- Awesome family experience and great souvenirs!
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks

This was a great experience. Everyone working here was great with our young kids. For what you get the price is actually very fair...one of the best souvenirs you can get. We all got to hammer out a knife and twist the handles. They handled the grinding/sharpening. We would definitely do this again. See more..
4.5 Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry (1.679 reviews)
- Fast, efficient, and got us there and back.
Tuesday: 7:30 AM - 9:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Ferries

I'd recommend parking in Lot 1 (Mackinaw City) so you avoid the lack of shuttles to get you to other lots upon your return to the city from the island. You might consider going up to St. Ignace to cross as it's closer to the island and may be cheaper (don't quote me on that part). However, we had very little to complain about. See more..
4.5 Colonial Michilimackinac (948 reviews)
- Worthwhile Visit
Temporarily closed - Closed until May 10, 2023 Spent 2-3 hours Parks

War in the West: Michilimackinac 1779. Treasures from the past come to life at this 18th-century fort and fur trading village, reconstructed based on historic maps and more than 60 years of archaeological excavations. As you walk through the site, you are stepping back in time to 1779, as the American Revolution headed west. Here, you will see and hear how soldiers, civilians, and Native people responded to threats real and imagined as they attempted to maintain their livelihood, the fur trade. Historical interpreters representing voyageurs, British soldiers, and French-Canadian merchant families are stationed throughout the fort to answer your questions and perform demonstrations. See more..
4.5 Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse (694 reviews)
- This site was my first taste of Mackinaw City.
Temporarily closed - Closed until May 11, 2023 Spent 1-2 hours Lighthouses • History Museums

Made to be Seen. A point in the storm and a guiding beacon since 1889, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse helped passing ships navigate through the treacherous waters of the Straits of Mackinac. There's just as much to see from the top of the tower as inside the original buildings. Authentically restored quarters and exhibits, including the original lens and the Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Museum, this "Castle of the Straits" is a true gem of the Great Lakes. This is Mackinac. See more..
4.5 McGulpin Point Lighthouse & Historic Site (607 reviews)
- Just 2 miles out Central Ave, Mackinaw City. A Fritomann review.
Historic Sites • Lighthouses

Emmet County owns the historic McGulpin Point Lighthouse, which protected shipping on the Straits of Mackinac against storms, fog and rocks between 1869 and 1906. It was purchased by the county in 2008, which reopened McGulpin to the public with a gala celebration on May 30, 2009. The site is approximately 10 acres and is a half mile north of the Headlands. It includes 336 feet of shoreline on the Straits with a commanding view of the Mackinac Bridge. Trail to the Straits includes new interpretive signage coming in Summer 2015! Beautifully maintained grounds and interior. There is always something new at McGulpin Point! See more..
4.5 Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park (362 reviews)
- So fun!
Temporarily closed - Closed until May 10, 2023 Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites

Have an Adventure. Witness the power of the creek harnessed to cut timber into lumber at one of the oldest industrial sites on the Upper Great Lakes. On the Adventure Tour, explore the treetops on the Forest Canopy Bridge, soar like an eagle on the 425′ Eagle’s Flight Zip Line, and experience the layers of the forest on the five-story Treetop Discovery Tower. Afterward, take time to explore the natural beauty of Mill Creek State Park, which has more than three miles of groomed hiking trails. This is Mackinac. See more..
4.5 Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum Inc. (353 reviews)
- Fantastic...especially for ship geeks!
Speciality Museums

Absolutely wonderful time; no complaints whatsoever. The ship's history is very interesting and is told using photos and info signs throughout. Everything is well maintained, direction signs are easy to follow, and the people were all very friendly. Depending on if you read everything, plan on about an hour on board (for ship geeks, like me, a little longer). The interior is utilitarian, not luxurious (it's an icebreaker, not a cruise ship), so don't expect palatial. Admission is $12 per adult for the self-guided tour, which is a bargain. Overall, a great experience! See more..
4.5 Headlands International Dark Sky Park (330 reviews)
- Dark Sky Park for Star/Planet Viewing
National Parks • Parks

We travelled specifically to this park from down state to view the Milky Way on the new moon. Found out this is a popular spot for viewing the sunset (crowded) so recommend coming early as the parking lot fills up (very small lot) come before sunset or later as the sunset crowd leaves. At 10:30p we walked about a mile from the aux parking to get into the park. Red filter/gel covering for your flashlight as it does not interrupt your night vision and white/regular flashlights are not allowed. Facebook page has scheduled events, information as well. AMAZING. NOMAC was set up and we were able to look through their amazing scope to see Saturn and it's beautiful rings. Clear sky and were able to see Milky Way as well. See more..
4.5 Mackinaw Bridge Museum (202 reviews)
- Mighty Mackinaw Bridge and Museum !!
History Museums

What a spectacular museum that goes over the history of Mackinaw City, the bridge, the war and the people that set up camp here to protect this powerful place in our US history. Its definitely worth it. There is a walk around the beach with historical landmarks, a lighthouse, and so much worth it. This is a five star experience. See more..
4.5 Shepler's Lighthouse Cruises (120 reviews)
- Sheplers eastern Lighthouse cruise
Lighthouses • Ships

Sail the Straits of Mackinac! Sixteen historic lighthouses lie within easy cruising distance of Mackinaw City. Travel in comfort and safety on Shepler's spacious vessels during these fascinating tours. For close to three centuries, the Straits of Mackinac has been a vital nautical thoroughfare, providing passage between Lakes Huron and Michigan. But traveling its famed blue waters has not come without risk. Over the many decades, lighthouses were built to protect mariners from dangerous shoals and reefs. Each has a story to tell. Shepler's exclusive Lighthouse Cruises are voyages of discovery. Guests are treated to awe-inspiring views and the fascinating history surrounding these Great Lakes guardians. See more..
4.5 Cheboygan Brewing Company (85 reviews)
- Great Beers!!
Tuesday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM Breweries

we stopped in there on a Friday evening, the place was packed, and even with just the one server when we walked in, we were still greeted immediately and served promptly! The drink I had was a imperial cinnamon hefewizen rimmed with honey and sugar. It was awesome! Had to have a second! we really loved that there was also free popcorn there. It was too cold to go outside so there was no outdoor seating, but we are looking forward to going back in warmer weather. While at a festival in Charlevoix, we had an opportunity to try see blood orange beer, which was also excellent! See more..
4.5 Burt Lake State Park (80 reviews)
- Park is open, campground currently closed
State Parks • Parks

The park itself was open, but the entire campground was closed for construction. It was pretty awesome as there were hardly any people there. We had the whole beach to ourselves on Friday and mostly Saturday too. They were plenty of picnic tables that were well kept and grills for cooking on. The beach was very clean as was the water. See more..
4.5 Cheboygan State Park (57 reviews)
- Poe Reef cabin
Spent More than 3 hours State Parks • Beaches

Beautiful private beach just 40' from the rustic cabin. Clean & newer outhouse. Woodstove worked great & we needed it the last week of Sept! Dogs allowed only at this cabin at Cheboygan State Park. Bring own cookware! See more..
4.5 Heritage Village at Mackinaw (53 reviews)
- Unexpected Delight
Spent < 1 hour History Museums

As many counties have done, this area has moved several historic buildings to this site. The parking lot is spacious and the paths and grounds are well-maintained. There is a sampling of very well-restored and furnished buildings. In addition, there is a path that is developing features that represent the life of indigenous peoples. A great deal of care, scholarship, craftsmanship and authenticity have gone into making this a great place to visit. BE AWARE that the buildings are open on Wednesday evening and on the weekends. We were so fortunate to turn in on a Wednesday night. There were a couple of members of the historical society that were very friendly and welcoming. If the village is not manned, you will have to peek in the windows. Admission is free, although a contribution is welcome. See more..
4.5 Mackinaw City Marina (38 reviews)
- Beautiful view.
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Marinas

The Mackinaw City Marina is the premiere marina in the Straits of Mackinac. Amenities include: restrooms, showers, 30 amp and 50 amp power, water, pump-out, gasoline, ice, boat launch, dog run, grills/picnic area, laundry, marine life/repair/supplies, chromecast provided for television (computer needed for access) (deposit required), free wireless internet. See more..
4.5 WaWatam Park (32 reviews)
- Park with Statue of Chief Wawatam
Parks

Along the shore in this town are a number of small parks...this one had a wooden statue of Chief Wawatam...and a plaque telling about the history. See more..
4.5 Gary R Williams Memorial Park (21 reviews)
- One of a last few quaint places in the city.
Parks

Still one of the most peaceful, quaint little known about parks in Mackinaw City. The city has become so commercialized and lost its small town appeal somewhere in the last 20 years but this park holds onto what’s left of it. Great views of the Mighty Mac and the island. Quiet because your are far enough from the bridge not to hear the trucks and are located off a side street. Limited parking. Benches, picnic tables, Beach, flowers, water and waves. Just sit down take a breath and enjoy the views. See more..
4.5 Alexander Henry Park (19 reviews)
- The place to be to ship watch and catch a sunset.
Parks

This is a very nice park along the east side and directly under the bridge. We've gone to see the lighthouse, watch ships, walk under the bridge, and to catch a sunset. There are usually a lot of people out having a picnic and wadding into the water, which is VERY rocky. It's a nice place to get away from all of the tourist trap stuff. See more..
4.5 The Wacky Taxidermy And Miniatures Museum (14 reviews)
- Great activity for any one looking for something odd
Speciality Museums

Take a self guided tour through two buildings full of wild and fun taxidermy mounts and over 60 dioramas of every miniature scene you can imagine! Low admission makes it a perfect experience for families! See more..
4.5 The Opera House (13 reviews)
- Concert
Operas

A must stop to experience performances in a restored intimate near acoustically perfect setting. And, tours are available to discover the space. See more..
4.0 Del Sol - Color-Change - Mackinaw Crossings (172 reviews)
- Great place
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Shopping Malls

Del Sol is hidden within the Mackinaw Crossings (which is an olde time outdoor, but beautifully renovated mall. It has playgrounds, a laser show stage, Karaoke, bands, restaurants, and a visitor favorite: The Del Sol Color-Change store! (Located North of Starbucks, located near the laser show stage. Del Sol sponsors an inflated dinosaur to entertain the little ones, and plinko to be played! Del Sol is one of the few stores in the city to contain unique items, that are guaranteed for like. Everything CHANGES COLORS! Nail polish, Men's hats, Sun dresses, shirts, frisbees, toys, and much more! It also contains an organic section of homemade soaps and other fun items to browse! It features color-changing sunglasses and that are amazing for fishing hunting, and driving and OFFER A LIFETIME GUARANTEE even on the shades! Including: theft, damage, and lost sunglasses! Truly a fun experience for all! Stop on by and have a good time! See more..
4.0 Animal Tracks (118 reviews)
- Great Mini Golf Course!
Spent < 1 hour Playgrounds

Fun mini golf course for a reasonable price (~ $10.00 per person). The course is well-organized and fun, despite showing some wear and tear. It also adjoins a Starbucks at the halfway point! We enjoyed trying to identify the animal tracks at each hole, though they are challenging! (You can receive a free game if you correctly identify 12 tracks.) Keep the scorecard to earn 10% off at select restaurants. This is a good activity for couples and families! See more..
4.0 Mackinac Island Winery (75 reviews)
- Always A Great Time!
Spent < 1 hour Wineries & Vineyards

I love this winery, their selection is huge. Wine tasting is always fun and the staff is always friendly. I love their selection of wine, beers, seltzers, there is litterally something for everyone. The brewery right next door is open now too! If you bring your children they can check out build-a-bear and you can order food from Nonas, all in one spot, its a must try! See more..
4.0 Aloha State Park (63 reviews)
- GREAT STATE PARK
State Parks • Parks

What a great time had by the whole family. There is something for everyone here. swimming, boating, camping, playground, camp store with hand dipped ice cream, and the BEST staff!! Molly was A-Maz-Ing and made our trip super fun! Thank you Aloha State Park! See more..
4.0 Sea Shell City (47 reviews)
- I finally stopped in!
Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums

After driving by this destination for 47 years, I finally was driving by at a time that they were open and I had some time to spare. Can't believe what a gem I've been missing all this time! Sea Shell City is a great little (big, actually) gift shop with something for everyone that likes water (and the north woods). The addition of a candy counter is perfect and overall it offered us a great little place to stretch our legs. I can only hope that the next time I am driving by I will have time to stop again. See more..
3.5 Odawa Casino (68 reviews)
- Stopped by to check it out!
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 1:00 AM Spent < 1 hour Casinos

Only stayed for a short while as I had to move on down the road but wanted to see the new casino in town. Very clean & bright, lots of gaming selections, and lost a ten in short period of time. Appears to have a good following & felt comfortable in the setting. Will have to go back when time allows. See more..