Detroit Zoo

The Detroit Zoo has 125 acres of naturalistic habitats for more than 2,000 animals from aardvarks to zebras and features award-winning attractions such as the National Amphibian Conservation Center, Great Apes of Harambee and Arctic Ring of Life. The Zoo’s newest attraction is the spectacular Polk Penguin Conservation Center, the largest facility for penguins in the world. more

Hartwick Pines Park

Hartwick Pines is rich in scenic beauty and different habitats. The principal features of this park are the 49-acre forest of Old Growth Pines and logging museum. There is ample subject matter for the sports person, photographer, or naturalist throughout the year. Hartwiick Pines offers a glimpse of what life was really like for the loggers and workmen during Michigan's heyday lumbering era. If you love large trees, than this is a must stop on your Michigan travel list. more

Headlands Int Dark Sky Park

The Park contains approximately 550 acres of pristine woodlands, more than two miles of undeveloped Lake Michigan shoreline and many species of rare and endangered plant life. Visitors to the Headlands may experience sightings of the many wild animals native to the area including: bald eagles, osprey, white tail deer, wild turkeys, coyotes and occasionally a black bear. Marked nature trails guide hikers, bicyclists, cross-country skiers, and nature photographers to experience the park throughout the changing seasons. For more information email darksky@emmetcounty.org or call (231) 348-1713. more

Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park

Historical demonstrations by costumed interpreters and nature programs are conducted throughout the day.  Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park is situated on over 600 acres with three miles of trails that contain beautiful forests, wildflowers and scenic views. A variety of wildlife species make their homes here. Even the novice hiker will find adventure in the northern forest.  Visitors can witness the power of the creek harnessed to cut timber into lumber at one of the oldest industrial sites on the Upper Great Lakes and soar like an eagle on the zip line during the Adventure Tour.  more

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse

A point in the storm and a guiding beacon since 1889, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse helped passing ships navigate through the treacherous waters of the Straits of Mackinac. There’s just as much to see from the top of the tower as inside the original buildings. Authentically restored quarters and exhibits, including the original lens and an audiovisual program, Shipwrecks of the Straits, make this “Castle of the Straits” a true gem of the Great Lakes. Be sure to visit our Facebook page for updates and events! For more information, you an email or call (231) 436-4100   more

Sleeping Bear Dunes

Sleeping Bear Dunes is as old as continental ice sheets and as young as the 1970 Establishment Act that set aside the Lakeshore for preservation of the natural resources and for public use. The most prominent features, and those for which the park is named, are the perched dunes above Lake Michigan. These immense sand dunes are “perched” atop the already towering headlands that are glacial moraines. The dune overlooks at the Sleeping Bear, Empire and Pyramid Point bluffs are about 400 feet above Lake Michigan. With 65 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and numerous inland lakes and streams, the ... more