Summer Getaway Trip in Port Huron, Michigan
Port Huron has quite a few things to do, especially in the summer. As the hub of Michigan’s Thumbcoast, it’s a great place to start exploring the region’s 140 miles of shoreline. A lot of the area’s attractions are packed into just a few miles around downtown, making it easy to get around and see a lot in a short trip.
This story is part of a series highlighting quick getaway ideas for adults along the coast. When you visit Port Huron, this town might surprise you. Its drawbridges, surrounding waterways, and nautical charm give it a laid-back coastal feel and plenty of ways to relax, explore, and enjoy the water.
3 days in the Maritime Capital
Picking the right place to stay is a big part of planning your trip. Port Huron has plenty of options, including hotels with great water views. Click the button below to find the one that’s right for you.
Photo, DoubleTree by Hilton
DAY 1
LUNCH TIME
Kate’s Downtown is one of the favorite scratch-made lunch spots. Visitors and locals alike love the friendly atmosphere here. Other equally wonderful options include Chef Shells, Senor Tequila, and Bella Bolla Pizza. See a complete list of small-business dining in Port Huron.
CULTURE
Visit Port Huron Museums’ four locations, which include Michigan’s oldest lighthouse, the Huron Lightship, the Thomas Edison Depot, and the Carnegie Center. Additionally, the museums has themed narrated trolley tours including a prohibition tour later in the summer.
DINNER TIME
The Vintage Tavern features a roof deck with stunning views in a beautifully renovated 1800s building. Watch a behind-the-scenes video with the owner in the video carousel at the end of the article. Our menu picks include:
- Wine Flight
- Dill Pickle Soup
- Manitoba Lake Walleye Siciliano
- Ratatouille Confit Byaldi (Vegan & GF)
ENTERTAINMENT
Downtown has an official Social District! It’s a lot of fun strolling around downtown with a cocktail. In the summer, there’s an outdoor stage with free concerts at the McMorran Plaza Park at Casey’s on the Plaza Beer Garden. Click the link to see the full schedule.
DAY 2
BREAKFAST
The Raven Café is a unique breakfast, lunch, or dinner eatery themed after Edgar Allan Poe. It features an outdoor deck with a marina view. For a lighter breakfast option of pastries and coffee, visit Exquisite Corpse or Electric Coffee Co.
PICNIC BASKET
Country Style Marketplace is a boutique downtown grocer where you can grab ready-made meals, snacks, and drinks without any fuss. With easy in-and-out curbside parking, it’s perfect for stocking a picnic basket or filling your cooler for a road trip. Free Parking Google Pin
FUN IN THE SUN
The sandbar is calling! Lakeside Park is a visitor favorite, so arrive early to secure a parking spot. It’s a crowd favorite due to its smooth sandbars, anchored boats, concessions, and sports activities. If you prefer a quieter beach, consider visiting the north end of Lighthouse Beach, Krafft Rd., or Keewahdin Beach.
Photo, Lighthouse Beach
DINNER TIME
Casey’s is a fantastic place to relax with a drink. The lively atmosphere makes it perfect for catching the game and dining al fresco. Our menu favorites are:
- Ron Burgundy Cocktail
- Avocado Egg Rolls
- OMG House-Made Drippy Breadsticks
- Michigan Cherry Salad
WALK IT OFF
The Blue Water River Walk is a flat, paved path that stretches for one mile along the river. It features information kiosks, views of passing freighters, art sculptures, urban wetlands, and shoreline reefs. At the southern end of the walk, a tunnel showcases murals by local artists.
WRIGLEY CENTER ENTERTAINMENT
For a night out in Port Huron, The Wrigley Center offers multiple bars, including a hidden speakeasy tucked behind a washer and dryer, billiards, fowling, darts, live entertainment, an arcade, a candy bar, delicious food, and golf simulators. They also feature a rooftop restaurant with city views, perfect for enjoying a meal or drinks above it all.
DAY 3
BREAKFAST
Freighters Eatery & Taproom, inside the DoubleTree Hotel and the Blue Water Convention Center, is a great place to watch the sunrise with views of the Blue Water Bridges, Canada, and of course, freighters. Our menu picks are:
- Blue Water Breakfast Mule
- Glazed Doughnut Waffle & Bacon
- Avocado Toast
RIVER CRUISE
Step aboard the iconic Huron Lady II sightseeing cruise for a 90-minute narrated cruise touring the St. Clair River and Lake Huron, going under the Blue Water Bridges into Lake Huron from the St. Clair River. They also have fun themed cruises throughout the season!
COCKTAILS & LUNCH
Bootleggers Axe Co. is a lively yet relaxing waterfront spot for cocktails, lunch, and even axe throwing. There’s a secret speakeasy hidden below through the wall of axes!
- Gangster’s Martini
- Elk Steak with Jalapeno Corn Bread
- Pineapple Rum Cake
More in Port Huron
Port Huron offers many fantastic attractions, dining options, and unique shops. The downtown area features boutiques with locally made products and unique gifts. The interactive map provides a complete list of small businesses for shopping and dining during your visit. We hope to see you here! Enjoy your stay, and come back again soon!
Other Articles in the Getaway Series
Article by Katie Stepp, Blue Water Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
