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Sea Stacks, Shipwrecks, and History: Explore the Story of St. Ignace

When visiting St.Ignace, it’s easy to think of the town as a quick stop to take a ferry ride to Mackinac Island. However, this peaceful little place is abundant in history, unique geology, and special spots that will make your Upper Peninsula vacation truly unforgettable. From ancient sea stacks to fascinating museums, St. Ignace and the surrounding area offer a beautiful blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage. Sounds fascinating, right? Let’s explore a few of those must-see spots to check out for a deeper understanding of local history.

The Father Marquette National Memorial: History with a Beautiful View

Just outside of St. Ignace is Straits State Park where you will find the Father Marquette National Memorial. This park-within-a-park commemorates the life and legacy of Father Jacques Marquette, a French Jesuit missionary who established some of the first European settlements in Michigan. Along the trails, you will find exhibits that highlight Marquette’s travels, his work with Native American communities, and the broader 17th-century exploration of the area.

In recent years, the memorial has expanded its focus to include the rich cultural history of the Anishinaabe people, providing a more inclusive view of the region’s past alongside Marquette’s story. Visitors can enjoy an amphitheater, powwow grounds, and interpretive trails. Although the original museum was destroyed by fire in 2000, redevelopment plans are underway, featuring new interactive exhibits and community-focused areas like a Learning Commons, aiming to create a balanced narrative for visitors by honoring Indigenous history. 

Beyond the Father Marquette Memorial, Straits State Park offers great recreational opportunities. The views of the Mackinac Bridge and the Straits of Mackinac are breathtaking, making this place the perfect spot for photography!

Take a Road Trip to the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum

Photo Credit: Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum

If you’re up for a beautiful drive, the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum and Whitefish Point Lightstation is about an hour away in Paradise, Michigan, and it is absolutely worth the travel time! As one of Michigan’s most popular cultural sites, the museum draws nearly 100,000 visitors each season. Located at historic Whitefish Point, it tells the story of Great Lakes maritime history, including the infamous sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald.

Built in 1861, the Whitefish Point Light Tower is the oldest operating lighthouse on Lake Superior and an integral part of the Shipwreck Museum experience. Tour the light station, learn about the challenges of navigating the often treacherous waters of Lake Superior, and before you leave, be sure to check out the museum store for souvenirs to bring home.

Since the museum is open seasonally from May 1 to October 31, plan your visit within that window to fully experience this fascinating piece of maritime history.

On your way back to St. Ignace, take a moment to explore Sault Ste. Marie’s 1899 Weather Bureau Building, located near the Soo Locks. This historic site once housed a forecaster (and his family) who would hand-deliver weather reports to ships that were navigating the locks. After 1939, the development of radio technology made that job much easier, and the building was finally abandoned. These days, it the houses the Shipwreck Museum’s administrative offices, also offering free exhibits and a super-fun souvenir shop. 

St. Anthony’s Rock and the Huron Boardwalk

Most visitors to St. Ignace have heard all about Castle Rock, but while you’re here make sure to check out another ancient rock formation that stands tall in downtown: St. Anthony’s Rock! This impressive formation, composed of fragmented limestone and dolomite, was shaped by the waters of Lake Algonquin as it receded thousands of years ago.

According to geologists, Lake Algonquin was a prehistoric glacial lake that existed during the last Ice Age, around 12,000 years ago. As the glaciers melted and retreated, they transformed the landscape, leaving behind various geological features, including the “sea-stack” formations found in the area today. Legend has it that Father Louis Hennepin, chaplain to the explorer Robert La Salle, named the rock in honor of St. Anthony of Padua in 1679.

Just across the street from St. Anthony’s Rock is the Huron Boardwalk, a pathway that follows the Lake Huron shoreline in downtown St. Ignace. It’s a favorite spot for both locals and visitors to enjoy views of ferries heading to Mackinac Island. Don’t forget to snap some photos of the famous Wawatam Lighthouse!

Downtown St. Ignace itself is perfect for wandering and exploring. Grab a bite to eat, explore a shop, or simply soak in the views for a glimpse into both past and present! 

This Year Make Memories in St. Ignace

With a rich history and enough natural beauty to go around, St. Ignace is definitely a destination worth exploring! From fascinating landmarks to scenic views, this peaceful town offers something for everyone. Why wait? Book your stay today, then get ready to experience attractions and sites that will make your stay a memorable one.

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