Port Austin, is at the the tip of Michigan’s Thumb. The end of the road. From such a stance one can stand in the harbor and see a beautiful sunrise and sunset over Lake Huron and Saginaw Bay without moving an inch. Blessed with clear water, sandy beaches and dunes, unique rock formations, and the finest fishing anywhere.
Cute shops, a top rated farmer’s market, a variety of parks, camping, accommodations and visitor ‘fun stuff’ are all plentiful.
Travel West on M-25 and find the shoreline dotted with parks, beaches and recreational facilities. Head East and visit historic areas such as Grindstone City. Go back in time with in the the restored lumber town museum of Huron City. Take in the vista at Lighthouse County Park featuring historic Pointe Aux Barques Lighthouse.
The Upper Thumb offers many family friendly attractions and things to do.
The Summer of 2021 looks return to offering events and festivals that we love to attend and see.
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The accidental find of the Marshal Sandstone formation in Michigan’s Upper Thumb in 1834 gave rise to one of the areas first industries. Grindstone City became famous for its production of huge grinding wheels until a disruptive technology change slid the industry into obsolescence.
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Port Austin Summertime Farmers Market is a great way to spend a morning sorting through trash and treasure.
Its also has some wonderful sites and smells to perk up your mood after a long week.
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The name Pointe Aux Barques was coined by French sailors and voyageurs in about 1760. The name literally means the point of boats, This is because the rock formations at the tip of the Thumb looked like the prow of a ship. It was also known as a hideout for sailors.
The year is 1912. An exclusive modern resort community is opened at the tip of Michigan’s thumb with direct train service from Detroit. For over 100 years it has been a resort community.
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We went looking for over a dozen free things to in Michigan’s Thumb. This are fun for the family and only cost your time and travel.
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The past pandemic has caused folks to curtail travel. However a new interest in camping now giving families safe way to be outdoors and explore safely.
Also the Michigan DNR has worked with local companies that offer RV and camper rental delivery and set up services in Michigan’s State Parks. This allows outdoor camping for those who want the experience of staying in a camper but not the ownership of one.
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On the shores of Lake Huron near the tip of Michigan’s Thumb is a well appointed cottage community that used to be a thriving company lumber town. New River Michigan as been almost erased by time and nature.
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A colorful postcard view of Port Austin Michigan in 1951
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