Beaver Island, Lake Michigan

• Where is Beaver Island located?
  • Beaver Island is an island on the waters of northern Lake Michigan, located within the state of Michigan.
• How large is Beaver Island?
  • The island covers 55.8 square miles, making it the largest island in Lake Michigan and the third largest in Michigan after Drummond Island and Isle Royale.
• How can visitors reach Beaver Island?
  • The island is now a popular tourist destination and can be reached by ferry from Charlevoix, Michigan, which is about a 32-mile trip across Lake Michigan waters.
• What is unique about Beaver Island's history?
  • One fascinating part of the island’s history is that it was once home to a unique religious colony ruled by the Strangite Mormon Church leader, who appointed himself as "King Strang".

37970 Michigan Ave, Beaver Island, MI 49782, Phone: 231-448-2480, Map, website

• What is the Toy Museum?
  • The Toy Museum is a one-of-a-kind museum located in Beaver Island, Michigan, run by multifaceted artist Mary Scholl.
• Where is the Toy Museum located?
  • The museum is situated near Whiskey Point, overlooking the Harbor, and nestled within a beautiful birch grove.
• Who designed the Toy Museum?
  • The museum was designed by Mary Scholl, who has been running it for many years.
• What types of toys can visitors find at the museum?
  • The museum features an expansive collection of toys, including Disney figurines, candy jars, Star Wars cards, stencils, rubber figures, polished stones, paper dolls, trolls, and cowboys.
• What vintage toy collections are available?
  • The museum boasts more than fifty metal trucks and cars from the 1920s and 1930s, making it a haven for collectors.

Toy Museum , 37970 Michigan Ave, Beaver Island, MI 49782, Phone: 231-448-2480

• What is the Beaver Head Lighthouse?
  • The Beaver Head Lighthouse is located high up on a bluff at the south end of Beaver Island at Beaver Head and was originally constructed in 1858.
• When was the lighthouse decommissioned?
  • The lighthouse was later decommissioned in 1962 and now serves as a site for tourists and locals to explore and enjoy.
• Can visitors climb the lighthouse?
  • Throughout the summer season, visitors can climb the Beaver Head Lighthouse and take in panoramic views from the decagonal lantern room overlooking the lake waters below.
• How tall is the Beaver Head Lighthouse?
  • The 46-foot tall Beaver Head Lighthouse is considered a treasured mid-1800s lighthouse of the Great Lakes.

Beaver Island, MI 49782, Phone: 888-446-4095, Map, website

• What is the Mormon Print Shop Museum?
  • The Mormon Print Shop Museum was originally built by the followers of James Jesse Strang in 1850 and served as the local community’s Print Shop.
• What was published at the print shop?
  • The first newspaper in Northern Michigan was published at this print shop, along with Strang’s Mormon doctrines and religious tracts.
• Why did Strang and his followers come to Beaver Island?
  • James Jesse Strang led his followers to Beaver Island, Michigan, describing it to them as “paradise.”
• What happened to James Jesse Strang?
  • Strang was crowned as King and later mortally wounded in 1856 by two of his former followers.
• What is the building used for today?
  • The building is now home to the Beaver Island Historical Society’s museum, which features a room dedicated to Strang and the story of his followers.

Mormon Print Shop Museum, 26275 Main St, Beaver Island, MI 49782, Phone: 231-448-2254

• What is the Marine Museum on Beaver Island?
  • The Marine Museum on Beaver Island is a fascinating destination for maritime history enthusiasts, established by the Historical Society in a renovated authentic 1906 net shed.
• What can visitors learn at the museum?
  • Visitors can explore the museum's growing collection of memorabilia, telling the stories of Beaver Island’s fishing fleets and commercial boats.
• What historical events does the museum highlight?
  • The museum showcases information about shipwrecks, rescue dramas, salvage and diving operations, and other dilemmas that early mariners faced.
• What are some of the highlights of the museum's collection?
  • Highlights include a hand-crafted Bill Freese wooden boat and a restored gill-net boat, which provide a glimpse into the island's maritime heritage.

Beaver Island Marine Museum, 38105 Michigan Ave, Beaver Island, MI 49782, 231 448 2479, Map

• Are there unique places to stay on Beaver Island?
  • Yes, there are several unique places to stay right on the island, many of which are open seasonally during the warmer months.
• What is special about Beaver Island Lodge?
  • Beaver Island Lodge has just 14 rooms, so guests are encouraged to book early to secure their stay.
• Where can visitors enjoy upscale glamping?
  • Beaver Island Retreat offers upscale glamping accommodations for those seeking a luxurious outdoor experience.
• What accommodation is best for walking access?
  • If you enjoy walking, consider staying at the Emerald Isle Inn, which is located close to restaurants and museums.
• Are there pet-friendly accommodations on Beaver Island?
  • Yes, the Erin Motel is just steps from the ferry dock and welcomes well-behaved pets.
• What accommodation is suitable for families?
  • The Harbor View Motel is ideal for families who need more space during their stay.