Seeking Autumnal Perfection In St. Ignace
Ahh, Fall in St. Ignace!
Redolent of ripening vines, crisp October winds blowing off the lake, dazzling colors bursting forth in one glorious last hurrah… Whenever Autumn rolls around, I feel a calling to venture north; a strong desire to cross the bridge and head straight to St.Ignace during this most vivid of seasons. It is here that I find the cozy fall vibe that keeps me coming back year after year after year.
A Lot to Love!
Everybody knows that St. Ignace is the place to be in the summer. You may have been a part of that crowd, looking to revel in the bright northern sun. But, have you been here in the fall? I just love a visit to the area during this time of year! What makes St. Ignace such an appealing choice for your autumn holiday? Let me tell you —
Breathtaking Views, Family-Friendly Lodging
Many St. Ignace accommodations stay open well into the fall and winter. It’s such a pleasure to snuggle into a cozy and convenient hotel room after a day of exploring all the excitement that the area has to offer. Here are just a few of my personal faves:
The Super 8 boasts sublime bridge views and a number of family-sized suites. Ask for a room facing the Straits of Mackinac — the panorama is sure to impress.
The golfers in your group will appreciate the Super 8’s proximity to the St. Ignace Golf and Country Club, and there is a nice pool to keep the kids happy.
Located within a block of the Huron Boardwalk and ferry stations, the Driftwood Motel offers a convenient place to stay if a day-trip to Mackinac Island is in your vacation plans. With a sports bar and on-site restaurant, you won’t go hungry here!
The Kewadin Shores Casino and Hotel features Vegas-style gaming, a newly-renovated hotel, beautiful water views, and on-site restaurants. As a bonus, Kewadin offers shuttle service to and from various local motels, so you can join in on the fun no matter where you stay!
Bavarian Haus Lakefront Inn is open all-year round, notable for balcony rooms directly overlooking a beautiful Lake Huron Lakeshore. The pool is quite popular, and there are two hot-tubs — one for families, one for adults-only.
Hike, Bike, or Drive
I never miss the opportunity to take a hike, and with an extensive list of trails from which to choose, I always find my hiking bliss in St. Ignace! You may want to enjoy an urban escape along the Huron Boardwalk which follows the shoreline downtown, or perhaps you seek a rugged nature hike through the woods. Bring your bike or ATV for a fast-paced ride on one of the many multi-use trails in the region. If a color tour is on your to-do list, check out this guide for colorful driving route recommendations.
Sometimes, you just want to rise above it all. For a wide-angle view of the surrounding world, Castle Rock is open through October, challenging you to ascend 183 feet above I-75. Enter through the iconic gift shop, then climb the pathway to experience the views that have thrilled visitors for ages. You will be able to view Mackinac Island, Downtown St. Ignace, Lake Huron, and the gorgeous surrounding woodland. Don’t forget to take a picture with Paul Bunyan and Babe on your way up!
A Birder’s Delight
Did you know that St. Ignace marks the beginning of the North Huron Birding Trail? Grab your binoculars and head out on the birding adventure of your dreams on this resplendent byway, which stretches from Pointe La Barbe in St. Ignace all the way to Drummond Island. The Nature Conservancy recognized this area of shoreline as one of “The Last Great Places” in the Northern Hemisphere, and fall is a prime time to see the multitude of birds that use the Straits Area as a resting point on their seasonal migrations.
Spectacular Shopping
The St. Ignace shopping scene remains vibrant into the fall, making it easy to get a head-start on holiday gift shopping. I like taking my time to window-shop through downtown, a steaming mocha from The Wild Blueberry in hand, finding a seemingly endless variety of noteworthy items in the shops of St. Ignace.
Das Gift Haus, located right downtown, has been owned by a local family since 1971. The selections of Minnetonka Moccasins, Willow Tree Figures, and an incredible Edmund Fitzgerald-themed collection make this charming store a must-visit when you are looking for that special something.
Adventure UP North, also in the heart of downtown, is a year-round destination for outdoor lovers and those who appreciate practical style. The shop carries an impressive range of gear, including backpacks, hammocks, warm-weather apparel, and one of the Upper Peninsula’s largest selections of Stormy Kromer hats. Whether you’re prepping for a trail adventure or choosing a cozy gift for the season, the friendly staff and thoughtfully curated stock make it a standout stop during any St. Ignace shopping trip.
The Historic Totem Village is a favorite place in St. Ignace for finding distinctive gifts, with an intriguing vintage atmosphere and diverse selection. It has been around ever since anyone can remember. You will feel like you have stepped back in time as you shop for handmade items, herbal teas, crystals, and original works created by indigenous artists around the world.
Step inside the Mackinac General Store, located in downtown St. Ignace inside the Mackinac Grille, and explore a mix of Michigan-made goods and unique gifts. You’ll find local jams, salsas, coffees, teas, apparel, jewelry, home décor, bath & body products, and more. Open through the end of October, the store welcomes shoppers anytime—no dining required—making it the perfect stop before or after a stroll along the waterfront.
A Fall Feast
What’s a vacation without sampling the local foods? Every trip offers a new and exciting culinary adventure — from pies, pasties, and donuts to smoked fish, burgers, and Mexican food. St. Ignace has a stunning mix of restaurants, and with so many to choose from, you are certain to find something to suit your palette.
You Don’t Want to Miss Fall in St. Ignace!
When October’s bright blue weather coaxes you into that fall getaway state of mind, St. Ignace will be your home port! Visit in autumn for unparalleled recreational opportunities. Join in on the great annual events, or try out a few fun local attractions. Whatever you do, just don’t miss out! Fall is fleeting in the north, but that makes it all the more sweet!