8 Towns In The Great Lakes That Were Frozen In Time
The Great Lakes region is a geological wonder that spans eight American states and two Canadian provinces. The land masses surrounding the lakes enjoy four seasons of weather, with the lakes freezing in the winter. Historically, many of the towns that dot the banks of the lakes were frozen in time through the community's efforts to preserve the unique heritage of these coastal towns.
This region has a lot of maritime history, as the lakes are a significant transportation and fishing hub. One does not have to look far to see remnants of this vital economic system. The historic ecosystem, formed 14,000 years ago with melting glaciers, is a fantastic feat of nature that is stunning in its beauty. The region's landmark towns capture this rugged beauty and add to it with their historical attractions.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Mackinac Island is a classic and historic Great Lakes town in Michigan. The sparsely populated town is popular among visitors, and horses and carriages are the primary forms of transportation. The elegant village offers over 1,600 guest rooms through an array of cottages and inns like Cloghaun Bed and Breakfast and Bogan Lane Inn. Booking a narrated carriage tour that picks you up from the historic inns and winds around colorful gardens transports you to the 19th century.
Other iconic equine locations include a stop at the Benjamin Blacksmith Shop and the Grand Hotel Stable and Carraige Museum on Carraige Road. The museum is free of charge to island visitors and is home to 12 horses. The village's restaurants are as diverse as the scenery and include outstanding cuisine at the 1852 Grill Room, Bistro on the Greens, and many more dining options.
Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
Sault Ste. Marie, on the Upper Peninsula, is Michigan's oldest European settlement. Founded in 1668, it is filled with quaint historic districts and residences like those on Water Street. The neighborhood has 26 historic sites, including the John Johnson House and the Central Methodist United Church. To make the most of the historic districts, stop at the Historical Society first for a map of the area.
The Historic Commercial District comprises several blocks, including the Old Federal Building, Chippewa County Courthouse, and many other relevant structures. The Holy Name of Mary Pro-Cathedral is a stunning brick building built in 1668 by Jesuit Priests and rebuilt five times through the centuries. History and architectural lovers revere this town for its historical preservation and accessibility to these fantastic sites.
Marquette, Michigan
Marquette, Michigan, is a significant port town on the banks of Lake Superior with a rich history. The downtown buildings are traditional brick and have an air of classic Americana. The town's landmark structure is the Lower Harbor Ore Docks, constructed in the late 19th century. The Upper Ore Dock contains the Presque Isle Dock, built in 1912 and still in use today.
Watching a freighter load and offload iron ore pellets is a fascinating glimpse into Marquette's maritime history. The Marquette Museum and Lighthouse, ca. 1891, is a must-see location in town. The Romanesque building with front gables preserves the town's maritime history through exhibits, artifacts, and photographs. The historic sites in Marquette are a microcosm of the rich history of the Great Lakes region, making for an enjoyable visit.
Ludington, Michigan
Ludington, Michigan, borders the Pere Marquette River at Lake Michigan and is steeped in maritime history. Much of the town's history can be observed at the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum, which offers interactive exhibits and digital storytelling. A fascinating lumber history can be visited with a guided tour through Historic White Pine Village.
The site is a living history village of 30 19th—to 20th-century structures, including the 1849 Mason County Courthouse. An early 20th-century steam locomotive, tender car, and flat car filled with lumber show the significance of this small village. Ludington is an ideal location to explore the different historical aspects of the Great Lakes Region.
Ashland, Wisconsin
Known as the Historic mural capital of Wisconsin, Ashland displays more than two dozen murals depicting historical scenes. The scenes range from lumberjacks to railroads and the ore dock that used to dominate the landscape. The Historical Society offers a historic mural walk from Main Street, where visitors can view the unique public art displays.
The society's other historical contributions include the Museum Giftshop. Here, you will find a Norman Rockwell collection, vintage furniture, and hand-carved items depicting the local heritage and culture. There is also a tasteful Women in the Military display and a section dedicated to the throwback Mom and Pop stores that solidified Ashland's place in historical Americana.
Port Washington, Wisconsin
Many adore Port Washington, Wisconsin, for its "New England charm combined with Midwestern friendliness." The friendly and historic town's landmark is the easily accessible lighthouse, located at the end of a 2,500-foot steel breakwater and open to the public. The Port Washington Historical Society has preserved Port Washington's history and includes a downtown district.
The Historic Downtown district comprises 40 buildings from the mid-19th century through the 1950s. The town boasts more pre-Civil War buildings than any other town in Wisconsin, including Pebble House, where walking tour guides are available. Another vital stop in Port Washington is the 1860 Light Station, initially constructed in 1849. The lighthouse has seen several renovations, including a fourth-generation Fresnel lens.
Port Clinton, Ohio
Known as the Walleye capital of the world, Port Clinton, Ohio, is a scenic town on the banks of Lake Eerie. The iconic lighthouse, built in 1896, is open to the public on Saturdays, and a docent-guided tour is also available. Other historic landmarks include the downtown area, part of the Main Street program.
The downtown district stretches for many blocks and is near Waterworks Park and the lighthouse. Notable structures include the limestone Port Clinton City Hall, completed in 1912 after being under construction for 12 years. Downtown includes numerous buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries, like the Odd Fellows Building. Some commercial buildings have been converted into modern shops, but the original architecture has been lovingly preserved.
Put-In-Bay, Ohio
Scenic Put-In-Bay, Ohio, has a storied Native American and maritime history. The town's name originated when sailors would "put into the bay" seeking shelter. It played a key role in the War of 1812 when Oliver Hazard Perry won a decisive battle. Today, a 352-foot-high Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial commemorates the victory against the British where the battle took place. The elegant Doric column, complete with a dome depicting the pivotal battle, was completed in 1915.
Other notable attractions are the Antique Car Museum, Butterfly House, and the Historical Museum. The museum features Lake Eerie Island's history with exhibits, photographs, and artifacts. It is an excellent way to grasp the significance of the Great Lakes and the port towns that sprung up because of the massive bodies of water. After exploring the heritage sites, stop by the Put-In-Bay Winery on the historic Dollar Estate for a nightcap.
The Great Lakes region is among the prettiest geographical areas in the United States. The region is thousands of years old and packed with historical towns that embrace their unique heritage. The carefully preserved natural wonders and man-made structures have been preserved, and it feels like they transport you back in time.
Some towns, like Mackinac Island in Michigan, are well known for good reason. The smaller villages do not always register on a traveler's radar but are fun to discover for the same reasons. Much of the history is maritime and travel-related, but there is a lot of Native American history to explore, and these eight towns are among the best to visit for a trip back in time.
