Port Austin MichiganATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Port Austin, Michigan.
1. Turnip Rock
ICONIC NATURAL FORMATION
Turnip Rock stands as one of Michigan's most breathtaking natural wonders, located at the tip of Pointe aux Barques peninsula. Visitors can reach this iconic rock formation by embarking on a 7-mile kayaking journey along the Turnip Rock water trail. The adventure offers stunning views of Lake Huron's crystal-clear waters and unique geological formations.
2. Port Austin Farmers Market
LOCAL FLAVORS AND CRAFTS
The Port Austin Farmers Market offers a delightful showcase of local produce, handcrafted goods, and regional specialties in the Village Green. Visitors can browse through numerous vendor stalls featuring fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and artisan crafts every Saturday morning during the season. The market serves as a community gathering place where both locals and tourists connect with the agricultural heritage of Michigan's Thumb region.
3. Port Crescent State Park
NATURE AND DARK SKIES
Port Crescent State Park offers visitors a remarkable combination of natural beauty and one of Michigan's few designated dark sky preserves. The park features beautiful Lake Huron shoreline, sandy beaches, and hiking trails perfect for daytime exploration. After sunset, stargazers can experience spectacular night sky views from the beach, with opportunities to witness the Northern Lights under ideal weather conditions.
4. Bird Creek Park
SHORELINE RECREATION AREA
Bird Creek Park provides multiple recreational opportunities along Port Austin's picturesque shoreline. Visitors can enjoy the boardwalk, beach, splash pad, and excellent facilities for kayaking and fishing in a family-friendly environment. The park is also popular among runners and walkers seeking scenic routes with breathtaking views of Lake Huron.
5. The Breakwall
SCENIC WATERFRONT WALKWAY
The Breakwall begins with a bright steel blue bridge and transitions into a cement walkway with brilliant blue guard rails extending into Lake Huron. Visitors can experience the fascinating contrast between crashing waves on one side and calm waters on the other during windy days. This popular spot offers spectacular sunset walks, though bringing a light jacket is recommended as lake breezes can be surprisingly cool even on warm days.
6. Broken Rocks Trail
BEGINNER-FRIENDLY KAYAKING ADVENTURE
Broken Rocks Trail provides a more accessible kayaking experience than the longer Turnip Rock route, making it ideal for beginners and those with less paddling experience. The trail takes less than two hours to complete while still showcasing impressive sea caves, fascinating rock formations, and views of Turnip Rock. Paddlers gain a unique perspective of Port Austin's stunning shoreline geology that can't be experienced from land.
7. Lighthouse Boat Tour
MARITIME HISTORY EXCURSION
The Lighthouse Boat Tour takes visitors across Lake Huron's waters to explore the offshore reef lighthouse that has guided ships for generations. Passengers learn about the maritime history of the region while enjoying spectacular views of the Port Austin coastline from the water. The tour provides excellent photo opportunities of both natural scenery and historic architecture in one memorable excursion.
8. Butterfly House
COLORFUL WINGED WONDERS
The Butterfly House offers visitors an enchanting indoor garden filled with colorful butterflies fluttering freely throughout the space. Guests can observe these delicate creatures up close as they feed, rest on tropical plants, and sometimes even land on visitors. The educational experience includes information about butterfly life cycles, migration patterns, and conservation efforts.
9. Go-kart Rides
FAMILY RACING FUN
Go-kart rides provide exhilarating entertainment for visitors of all ages looking for a break from water activities. Racers can challenge friends and family on a well-designed track that offers both safety and excitement. The attraction makes a perfect addition to any Port Austin itinerary, especially on days when weather conditions might not be ideal for beach or water sports.
10. Horseback Riding
EQUESTRIAN COUNTRYSIDE TOURS
Horseback riding experiences allow visitors to explore the picturesque countryside surrounding Port Austin from a unique perspective. Guided tours accommodate riders of various skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced equestrians. The peaceful journey through fields, wooded areas, and along scenic trails offers a refreshing contrast to the water-based activities that dominate the area.
11. Shopping
LOCAL TREASURES AND GIFTS
Shopping in Port Austin offers visitors a charming selection of boutiques, galleries, and specialty stores showcasing local artisans and Michigan-made products. Visitors can browse through unique souvenirs, handcrafted items, beach accessories, and gourmet food products in the walkable downtown area. The friendly shop owners often share stories about the region, enhancing the personal shopping experience with local knowledge and recommendations.
12. Dining
LAKESIDE CULINARY DELIGHTS
Dining in Port Austin features a variety of restaurants serving fresh Lake Huron fish, locally-sourced produce, and classic Michigan favorites. Visitors can enjoy waterfront meals with stunning views, casual pub fare at family-friendly establishments, or sweet treats at ice cream shops and bakeries. Local favorites like Pak's Backyard offer the perfect place to refuel after a day of exploring the area's many attractions.
13. Hiking
SCENIC NATURE TRAILS
Hiking in Port Austin provides outdoor enthusiasts with trails showcasing the region's diverse landscapes, from shoreline paths to wooded areas. Visitors can explore routes of varying difficulties within Port Crescent State Park and surrounding natural areas, with opportunities to observe local wildlife and native plant species. The trails offer spectacular views of Lake Huron and the surrounding countryside, with particularly stunning vistas during sunrise and sunset hours.
14. Fishing
GREAT LAKES ANGLING PARADISE
Fishing in Port Austin gives anglers access to Lake Huron's abundant waters, known for walleye, perch, bass, and salmon depending on the season. Visitors can cast their lines from Bird Creek Park, the breakwall, or numerous other shoreline locations, or charter a boat for deep-water fishing adventures. The friendly local fishing community often shares tips and stories, enhancing the experience for both novice and experienced anglers.
15. Camping
STARLIT LAKESIDE GETAWAYS
Camping in Port Austin offers overnight accommodations ranging from rustic sites to modern facilities with electrical hookups in Port Crescent State Park and private campgrounds. Visitors can fall asleep to the sound of Lake Huron waves and wake up to spectacular sunrise views over the water. The camping locations provide excellent access to the dark sky preserve, creating perfect opportunities for nighttime stargazing and possibly viewing the Northern Lights.