Michigan is home to plenty of well-known islands, from Mackinac to the Manitou Islands. While these gorgeous destinations are favorites for tourists and longtime Michiganders alike, nothing compares to the magic of exploring a largely untouched island in the midst of our Great Lakes. There’s one island here in Michigan that few have heard of — and you’ll want to see it for yourself.
Charity Island is a limestone outcropping located within Lake Huron’s Saginaw Bay.
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This stunning destination is comprised of 222 acres and dates back more than 350 million years — talk about a long and utterly fascinating history!
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For approximately 2,000 years, the island was inhabited by Native Americans, many of whom used it as a vital location for sculpting stone tools.
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Following colonization by both the French and the British, Charity Island was ultimately declared an official United States territory in 1805.
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For years, the Charity Island Light played a key role in shipping on the Great Lakes. While the original lighthouse was eventually put out of service by the construction of the Gravelly Shoals light, both still stand.
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So, how can one visit and explore this largely forested natural wonderland? For a fee, curious Michiganders can take a boat to the island and even enjoy a dinner cruise.
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Guided boat departures to the island are available from both Caseville and Au Gres, so you’ll need to park at one of these two ports before beginning your journey.
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For an incredibly unique experience, purchase tickets for the 1857 Lighthouse Dining Adventure Cruise, which is just as wonderful as it sounds.
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Guests on this cruise will have the chance to stroll through the woods, learn about the island’s history, and enjoy a delicious dinner at the Charity Island Light.
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The schedule is even carefully planned so guests will be able to catch a sunset during the return journey — can you imagine anything more breathtaking?
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As if that weren’t enough, Charity Island can even be rented out for weddings. It’s tough to imagine a more whimsical destination for a Great Lakes State ceremony.
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So, what are you waiting for? Boat cruises continue through the first half of October, so there’s still time to enjoy a Charity Island journey this year.
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This is one magical excursion here in Michigan that you’ll certainly never forget.
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For details about tickets, schedules, departure locations, and the island itself, click here. Have you had a chance to visit Charity Island? We’d love to hear your stories and see your photos in the comments!
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