Need a peaceful lakeside getaway or a weekend full of nautical charm? Head to Port Huron! Located at the southern tip of Lake Huron, this coastal city offers lighthouses, beaches, museums, and Great Lakes history. Whether you're walking the Blue Water Bridge, sailing the river, or exploring maritime lore, Port Huron is Michigan's freshwater gem and I always enjoy visiting.
Port Huron, MI Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Paddle the Black River or stroll the Bridge to Bay Trail – Kayak scenic waterways or bike through miles of lakefront views.
- For History Buffs: Explore the Port Huron Museum – Dive into regional heritage with exhibits on ships, railroads, and Thomas Edison.
- For Shoppers: Peruse local shops in Downtown Port Huron – Browse cozy boutiques, bookstores, and antique stores with lakeside charm.
- For Couples: Watch freighters pass under the Blue Water Bridge – Take in panoramic views with a peaceful waterfront backdrop.
- For Families: Visit the Great Lakes Maritime Center – Learn about shipping and lakes ecology with interactive exhibits and live ship-tracking.
Best Time to Visit Port Huron, MI
The best time to visit Port Huron is late spring through early fall (May to September). The warm weather allows for beach days, festivals, and lake cruises, and it’s the ideal time to enjoy the Blue Water Area’s natural beauty and waterfront activities.
How to Get to Port Huron, MI
- If you are traveling by car: Located off I-69 and I-94, Port Huron is about 1.5 hours northeast of Detroit and connects to Sarnia, Ontario via the Blue Water Bridge.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Blue Water line connects Port Huron to East Lansing, Flint, and Chicago.
- By Bus: Local and regional bus services like Indian Trails and Blue Water Transit offer connections throughout Southeast Michigan.
Where to Stay in Port Huron, MI
- DoubleTree by Hilton Port Huron – Riverfront hotel with modern comforts and views of the Blue Water Bridge.
- Huron House Bed & Breakfast – Romantic inn offering lake views, whirlpool tubs, and gourmet breakfasts.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Convenient stay near the interstate with complimentary breakfast and indoor pool.
Best Things to Do in Port Huron, MI
1. Climb Michigan’s Oldest Lighthouse at Fort Gratiot Light
The Fort Gratiot Light was built in 1829. It was the first to be built in the state and is currently the oldest surviving lighthouse in Michigan. It marks the entry of the St Clair River into Lake Huron.
It was initially 32 feet high but has twice been raised and since 1862 has been 82 feet high. It is still active and the Coast Guard has a station there but it has been handed over to the Port Huron Museum. Tours are conducted in the park and the tower and there is a gift shop.
2. Marvel at Engineering and Waterway Views from the Blue Water Bridge
The Blue Water Bridge was first commissioned in 1928 but the Depression delayed completion until 1938. It is a twin span, arch cantilevered, steel bridge, 6535 feet long. It is an international bridge linking Port Huron, Michigan in the USA to Sarnia in Ontario, Canada, across the St Clair river at its narrowest point. The bridge was financed through bonds and a toll. In 1997, a second twin bridge was added to carry the increased traffic. The bridge won several awards for the complementary design. It is once again a toll bridge and the border posts on either side are open 24/7.
3. Stroll Along Scenic Shorelines on the Blue Water River Walk
Almost a mile of waterfront property along the St Clair River was donated to the community of Port Huron. The Blue Water River Walk is south of the Blue Water River bridge at the southernmost tip of Lake Huron. The community pledged to naturalize the 70 acres of riverine terrain. A breakwater of boulders was created which had two beneficial results. The plant life on shore was protected and a shallow water area was created for small marine to inhabit. A railroad dock ferry was restored and a pedestrian path laid. A maritime center has been erected in the area and regular farmers' markets are held on the site.
4. Explore the Early Life of a Genius at the Thomas Edison Depot Museum
From 1859 to 1863, Thomas Edison worked as a news reporter out of the building that now houses the museum that bears his name. He also worked on trains inside the Fort Gratiot train depot. His formative years in Port Huron are mentioned in his diaries. This satellite to the Port Huron Museum was established in 2001. It chronicles his life from boyhood, through school, his scientific studies and his entrepreneurial efforts. Scenes from this era have been recreated, showcasing his adversities and ultimate triumph. A mobile laboratory and printing shop can be seen in a restored baggage car, outside the museum.
Thomas Edison Depot Museum, 510 Edison Parkway, Port Huron, MI 48060, Phone: 810-455-0035
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
5. Shop, Dine, and Relax at Birchwood Mall
The enclosed Birchwood Mall was built in 1991 and attracts customers from the United States and Canadian sides of the St Clair River. It was designed to have five anchor tenant but currently has two – JCPenney and Target. There are more than 100 other shops selling a variety of consumer goods. The food court has a combined seating capacity of 450. The 10-screen movie theatre has recently been renovated. Outside there is an antique carousel and children's playground.
4350 24th Avenue, Box 4350, Fort Gratiot, MI 48059, Phone: 810-294-8793
6. If You’re Fascinated by Frozen History, Visit the Knowlton’s Ice Museum
Mickey Knowlton had a passion for anything related to the natural ice industry which was once one of the 10 biggest industries in the United States. He and his wife traveled to yard sales, flea markets and auctions all over the North East to collect pertinent articles. In 2008 the 10000 square foot ice museum opened in Port Huron. It houses over 5000 pieces, including hand tools, ice boxes, the forerunners of refrigerators, and six horse drawn ice wagons. There are videos of the history of the industry and photos of ice hockey players. Each year the museum participates in the Port Huron Chilly Festival.
The Knowlton's Ice Museum of North America , 317 Grand River Ave. Port Huron, MI 48060, Phone: 810-987-5441
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
7. Discover Maritime and Regional History at the Port Huron Museum
The Port Huron Museum seeks to tell the stories of Michigan and the Great lakes through the lives and experiences of local people. Natural history, marine lore, fine art and local legends are brought to life through exhibits, programs, field trips and events. The headquarters of the museum are housed in a 1904 Carnegie Library. It has a number of satellite venues, including the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse and the Thomas Edison Depot Museum. The Huron Experience is a passport to enter all the venues. Events include Edison Heritage Tours and Overnight in the Lighthouse Festival.
1115 Sixth Street, Port Huron, MI 48060, Phone: 810-982-0891
8. Learn About Pioneering Transportation at the Historic St. Clair Tunnel
The St. Clair Tunnel is in fact two separate tunnels built under the St Clair River, linking the USA and Canada. The first tunnel was built in 1891 for standard gauge locomotives to be pulled by steam engines. It was dug out by hand and was the first full-sized subaqua tunnel to be built in North America. Electric engines were introduced in 1907. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1993. In 1995, a larger tunnel was built alongside the old one in order to make room for the large double stack shipping containers that needed to be transported.
9. Sip Coffee, Listen to Live Music, and Relax at Raven Cafe
There is an creative energy about the Raven Cafe. The aroma of fresh-roasted coffee and oven-baked pastries fills the air. The interior walls of the double-story open plan brick building are covered in artwork and posters. The staff are actors and artists and the clientele are an eclectic mix of business people and artistic types. There is a wide selection of soups, salads and sandwiches to choose from. The bar serves craft beers and colorful cocktails. The mezzanine area is lined with books and overlooks the river through stained-glass windows. Patrons' doodles and napkin wisdom have been collected and displayed in the gallery of Coffee Table Tales.
932 Military St., Port Huron, MI 48060, Phone: 810-984-4330
Where to Eat in Port Huron, MI
- Freighters Eatery & Taproom – Upscale pub fare with riverfront views and locally sourced ingredients.
- Fuel Woodfire Grill – Stylish steakhouse serving wood-grilled meats and craft cocktails in a historic firehouse.
- Chef Shell’s Restaurant & Catering – Local favorite for hearty breakfast, baked goods, and casual lunches.
If you are interested in local events:
- Blue Water Fest (July) – Parade, concerts, and fireworks leading up to the Port Huron to Mackinac sailboat race.
- Boat the Blue Antique & Classic Boat Show (September) – Showcasing restored wooden boats along the riverfront.
- Chilly Fest (February) – Winter celebration with chili cook-offs, ice carvings, and family fun.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Port Huron, Michigan:
- Lexington (25–30 min) – Quaint harbor town with beaches, wineries, and charming shopping streets.
- St. Clair (20–25 min) – Scenic riverwalk, beautiful parks, and upscale waterfront dining.
- Marysville (15–20 min) – Bike the Bridge to Bay Trail or enjoy a day at Marysville City Park.
- Lakeport State Park (20–25 min) – Hike wooded trails or relax on quiet stretches of sandy shoreline.
- Sarnia, Ontario (10–15 min) – Cross the bridge for international shopping, art galleries, and waterfront parks (passport required).
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Port Huron located?
- Port Huron is situated at the mouth of the St Clair River, at the southernmost point of Lake Huron and the easternmost point of the state of Michigan.
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How is Port Huron connected to Canada?
- It is connected to the Canadian towns of Point Edward and Sarnia via the aesthetically pleasing Blue Water Bridge and the St Clair subaqua tunnels.
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What are the major economic activities in Port Huron?
- The major economic activities are paper milling, tourism, and the automotive industry.
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What are the main tourist attractions in Port Huron?
- The marina, historic downtown, and several museums are the major tourism attractions.
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What is Port Huron’s connection to Thomas Edison?
- Thomas Edison spent his childhood in Port Huron, and his life has been commemorated in one of the museums.
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