Historic Landmarks in Mackinac City

Historic Landmarks in Mackinac City
Michigan has some of the most unique natural resources in the world. With five Great Lakes, and the country's longest coastline, there's no shortage of sights and sounds to explore. And Mackinaw City is no exception. It's the last stop before the Upper Peninsula, where according to the website The Trust for Public Land, there's 90 percent forestland in Mackinaw City. Mackinaw City has nature and history to spare, and their landmarks will remind you of a simpler time.

The Mackinac Bridge

At the northern end of Mackinaw City, you'll see one of the largest suspension bridges in the world (third largest to be precise according to The Mackinac Bridge Authority). Measuring over five miles in length, The Mackinac Bridge is a stunning architectural accomplishment. And although pedestrians aren't allowed to cross the bridge, The Mackinac Bridge Authority will be more than happy to transport you, your bicycle or even your snowmobile (for a small fee, of course).

Fort Mackinac

Fort Mackinac is an historical fort located on the southern edge of Mackinac Island, and was once occupied by the British in the 1700s, and later the Americans in the 1800s. What sets this fort apart from most others, is that you don't just walk around and see artifacts and words on plaques. It's a full scale, all-out re-enactment of the 1880s with soldiers blasting bugle horns, gun fire and 19th century music.

Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park

At Historic Mill Creek, you can step into the past while walking through nature trails in the forest along the path of Mill Creek. See reconstructed historical buildings, and even a working water-powered sawmill that was originally built in the 1780s. And if you're looking for a bit of an adrenaline rush, try flying over the creek on the 425 feet zip line. Check out Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park, and see nature the way it's meant to be seen.

Lighthouses

Lighthouses aren't found only in Maine. There are dozens of lighthouses all up and down the coastline of Michigan, and there's even several located in Mackinaw City. Most of them were built in the 19th century, the oldest being the Waugoshance Lighthouse built in 1832. So while you're out exploring the sights, don't forget to check out these old stone behemoths that lit the way for the thousands of travelers before you.

Article Written By Thomas McNish

Thomas McNish has been writing since 2005, contributing to Salon.com and other online publications. He is working toward his Associate of Science in computer information technology from Hillsborough Community College in Tampa, Fla.

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