Things To Do Near Father Marquette National Memorial
The Father Marquette National Memorial itself is small, but Straits State Park and the surrounding area have plenty to offer. Explore the park on two different trails, head to the lake for a bracing swim, and take in the views of the spectacular Mackinac Bridge. St. Ignace has a bustling tourist trade, so you'll find plenty of dining and shopping opportunities within a short drive.
Hiking Trails
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North Country Trail
Explore a section of the North Country Trail; it runs through Straits State Park, just a quick walk from the Father Marquette National Memorial. The full trail is 4,600 miles long, but you can create a hike of any length. Head north, and you can hike through the park and along the eastern shore of St. Ignace. In this section, the route runs along streets in town; if you prefer a more traditional hike, head over to American Legion Memorial Park for beautiful water views.
Location
720 Church St, St Ignace, Michigan 49781
Length
Varies
Intensity
Easy
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Straits State Park Main Trail
After you check out the Father Marquette National Memorial, take a short hike on the beautiful Straits State Park Main Trail. It travels from the main viewing platform through the forest, climbing a few steep hills along the way. A short way from the start of the trail, you'll find another observation deck with stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge. If you're visiting in the winter, check the schedule; the park hosts stunning lantern-lit evening hikes through the snowy forest.
Location
Straits State Park day-use area viewing platform
Length
1-mile round-trip
Intensity
Moderate
Sightseeing
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Mackinac Bridge
The Mackinac Bridge dominates the landscape near the Father Marquette National Memorial, connecting Michigan's Upper Peninsula and Lower Peninsula. Enjoy the view from Straits State Park or from nearby Bridge View Park.
Location
I-75, St Ignace, MI 49781
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Fort Michilimackinac
See what life was like in a 1700s-era trading post at Fort Michilimackinac, where historical reenactors portray soldiers, merchants, travelers, and families. Explore the historic buildings, which are furnished with period furniture and exhibits, and enjoy the view of the Mackinac Bridge from the shore.
Location
102 W Straits Ave, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
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Mackinac Island State Park
Hop on a ferry from St. Ignace to reach Mackinac Island State Park, a small island that sits off the coast. There are no cars on the island, so you can hike, bike, or catch a ride in a horse-drawn carriage. With an adorable historic downtown and spectacular outdoor areas, there's plenty to do for a full day or a week.
Location
7029 Huron Rd, Mackinac Island, Michigan 49757
Museums
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Museum of Ojibwa Culture
Discover the history and culture of the Native American people near the Father Marquette National Memorial at the Museum of Ojibwa Culture. It's located inside the historic French Jesuit Mission, which is where Father Marquette lived and was buried. Keep an eye out for the museum's special events, which provide a firsthand look at Ojibwa festivals and celebrations.
Location
500 N State St, St Ignace, MI 49781
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Fort de Buade Museum
The Fort de Buade Museum is home to a fascinating collection of historical artifacts. A gift from the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, it offers a unique glimpse at the lives of Native Americans and European settlers throughout the centuries. Check out beaded historical garments, jewelry, weapons, and an exceptional collection of vintage photographs.
Location
334 N State St, St Ignace, MI 49781
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Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse
Drive across the Mackinac Bridge to the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse. Starting in 1889, this historic structure helped sailors navigate the dangerous Straits of Mackinac. Today, it's been restored to look as it did in 1910; you can explore the quarters of the lighthouse keeper, learn about local shipwrecks, and listen to the deafening signal that was broadcast during foggy conditions.
Location
526 N Huron Ave, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Souvenir Barn
The Souvenir Barn is exactly what it sounds like — an enormous red barn packed with interesting souvenirs. From Native American art to contemporary magnets and coffee mugs, this spot has something for every taste.
Location
929 US-2, St Ignace, MI 49781
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Indian Village
Indian Village is designed to resemble a historic trading post. Inside, you'll find a range of souvenirs and gifts, including T-shirts, home decor, and more. Keep an eye out for the Native American artifacts scattered throughout the store.
Location
499 N State St, St Ignace, Michigan 49781
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Original Murdick's Fudge
No visit to St. Ignace is complete without a stop at Original Murdick's Fudge. You'll smell it before you see it; the scent of chocolate wafts down the street. Pick up delicious homemade fudge, chocolates, and other sweets.
Location
204 N State St, St Ignace, Michigan 49781
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Mackinaw Pastie & Cookie Co.
A pasty is a type of handheld meat pie that was brought to Upper Michigan by Cornish immigrants — you can try one for yourself at the Mackinaw Pastie & Cookie Co. Indulge in a traditional beef-and-potato pasty, or try a specialty chicken, stroganoff, or Italian version.
Location
698 US-2, St Ignace, Michigan 49781
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Fred's Pub
Celebrate your proximity to the Great Lakes at Fred's Pub. The menu is packed with freshwater fish, including whitefish, perch, and walleye.
Location
200 Ferry Ln, St Ignace, Michigan 49781
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The Gangplank
Grab a table on the huge outdoor patio at The Gangplank; that way, you can dine with a view of the water. Serving a selection of burgers, fish, and classic salads, this restaurant is a great family destination.
Location
100 South N State St, St Ignace, MI 49781