Things To Do in Port Austin | Top Activities and Attractions

Port Austin is a charming village at the tip of Michigan’s “Thumb” of the shores of Lake Huron. It’s a popular destination among those who love stunning nature and tasty food. Besides modern attractions like the famous Farmers Market, Port Austin prides itself on its unique natural formations and historic spots. It doesn’t matter when you visit this village – there are plenty of things to do all year round. Here is a hand-picked list of the top things to do in Port Austin.

Beautiful spots in Port Austin

If you like nature but aren’t a fan of hiking and getting dirty, State Harbor and Bird Creek Park are great spots.

Port Austin State Harbor

This place is great for those who like fishing. You don’t need to have your equipment with you since you can easily rent both a boat and fishing gear on the spot. You can also find cooking amenities in the area if you like to cook your fish yourself.

Bird Creek Park

The park has a large sandy beach with a variety of activities for the entire family. For picnics, there is a wooden boardwalk with a roof that runs along its length. You can bring your own food and drinks or buy everything you need in the nearby cafes and shops. For smaller children, there is a splash pad where they can enjoy the waters safely. The park has both restrooms and shower facilities, which are easily accessible and clean.

Exploring the Waters

If you’d like to go for a water adventure, Port Austin has plenty to offer. The most popular attractions are Turnip Rock and the Veterans Waterfront Park.

Kayaking to Turnip Rock

You can rent a single or tandem kayak pretty much anywhere in Port Austin, along with safety equipment like life jackets. If you want to experience all the glory of Turnip Rock, there are plenty of local vendors who offer you guided tours of the area. It’s a 7-mile round-trip. On the way, you can explore unique rock formations and sea caves.

Veterans Waterfront Park

This sandy park is located near downtown Port Austin and is easily accessible by foot or car. The waters are calm and perfect for swimming and wading. In addition to that, there are picnic tables and BBQ grills you can use for an even better experience. While the park is best visited in the summer, it’s open year-round, which makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Unique Attractions

If you’re looking for something you can only find in Port Austin, below are some options you can consider.

Port Austin Farmers Market

You can visit this market on every Saturday between May and October. Over 100 vendors offer all kinds of local produce and crafts here. You can purchase fresh fruit and vegetables, jams, pickles and homemade treats. There are also unique handcrafted items like jewelry, pottery, candles, wooden crafts and much more. Even if you don’t purchase anything, it’s a great place to explore and better understand the local culture.

Port Austin Lighthouse

This lighthouse, also known as the “Reef Light,” is an iconic maritime landmark. If you take a tour, you’ll be taken to the lighthouse in a boat accompanied by stories of the building’s history. When you arrive, you’ll have to climb 122 steps to reach the top and have one of the best views of Lake Huron.

Historic Dining Place: The Bank 1884

There is a variety of great restaurants in the area. However, today we choose The Bank 1884 for its rich history and uniqueness.

Historical Background

The Bank restaurant building was constructed in 1884 and initially used for banking, hence the name. Later, it served various purposes until it became a restaurant in 1984. The Bank Port Austin building kept a lot of its historic aesthetic like its red brick facade and old-fashioned door and window design. Inside, the ambiance is very pleasant and unique, thanks to the presence of the original bank’s vault and other historic features.

Menu Options

Right now, the establishment offers both upstairs and downstairs seating with the first option often used for parties and celebrations. The Bank 1884 food & spirits menu includes dishes like Australian Prime Rib, Chicken Wellington, Escargot Stuffed Mushrooms and a variety of wines and cocktails. Besides these, there are a lot of seafood and vegetarian options. If you’re lucky, you might also come in time for their special events with live music and themed dinners.

Hiking and Biking Activities

Those who are looking for a more active way to spend their time in Port Austin can look into hiking and biking trails.

Port Crescent State Park Trails

The Port Crescent State Park offers trails for people with different skill levels. The paths are well-marked, which makes it easier to navigate. Along the paths, you have access to picnic areas, restrooms, and designated swimming spots. This hiking experience will let you enjoy fantastic views of Lake Huron and observe different natural ecosystems, including both sand dunes and forests.

Barn Art Bike Tour

This tour takes a special approach, which combines outdoor activities with art. The participants go for a relaxing ride in the countryside where they can appreciate large-scale art. You can view various murals, uniquely shaped installations, and even illusion art. Overall, it’s an experience that allows you to enjoy an unusual exhibition where each barn is a canvas for the artist.

History and Culture

If you want to dive even deeper into the history and culture of Port Austin, consider visiting the Art Fair and the local museum.

Port Austin Art Fair

This fair gives the local artists an opportunity to showcase their artworks, while visitors can go back home with a unique piece of art. You can choose from a large number of options, including jewelry, paintings, sculptures and much more. The exhibitions are often accompanied by live music, fresh food, and interactive art projects for children. The Port Austin Art Fair is held in July, so if you want to see the exhibition, be sure to plan your visit for the middle of the summer.

Historical Museum

The Port Austin History Center is a museum that preserves the history not only of Port Austin but also of Grindstone City and Port Crescent. The actual building is over 100 years old and holds a large number of artifacts that tell the story of the region’s past. The museum also includes several historic buildings like a log cabin, a 19th-century schoolhouse, and a barbershop. This history center holds history walks, lectures, and other events throughout the year for anyone who is interested. If you prefer a more in-depth experience, you can easily find a guide on the spot.

Winter Sports

Port Austin can be visited anytime, and winter offers special advantages over other seasons.

Ice Fishing

If you want to enjoy a peaceful fishing experience in the serene winter landscape, visit Port Austin in the cold season. Augers, rods, and shanties are easy to find on the spot, and there is parking and other facilities close to the lake. Common catches include perch, walleye, northern pike, and whitefish. If you come in time for a tournament, you might even compete for a prize. Research the area and weather beforehand to ensure the ice is thick enough. Otherwise, you will not be granted entry.

Snowshoeing

Another activity for those who love the magic of nature, snowshoeing offers a wonderful solution. Besides the pristine views, you can observe the wildlife in its full glory. From snow owls and horned larks to white-tailed deer and cottontail rabbits – with enough patience, you can see and take pictures of all kinds of creatures.

Final Thoughts

Regardless of your interests, there are a lot of things to do in Port Austin. If you want to go for a solo adventure, grab your gear and just set off. There are plenty of facilities on the hiking trails to make your time more comfortable. If you prefer a more structured trip, hire a guide and explore the most beautiful spots in the village.

For those who can appreciate exquisite food in a historic ambiance, The Bank in Port Austin can offer you that experience. This village is truly a hidden gem that’s perfect for those who love outdoor activities, unique views, tasty food and clear, mesmerizing water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Port Austin worth visiting?

Absolutely! You can have a great time alone or with your loved ones. There are plenty of things to do for both children and adults, and the prices are quite reasonable when compared to similar locations.

How long is the Port Austin Pier?

The pier is around 3,400 feet in length.

What is Lake Huron famous for?

Lake Huron is in the top 5 largest lakes on Earth. It’s famous for its unique ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, and complex river systems.

A Quick Guide to the Best Things to Do in Port Austin