Mackinaw City is a city located in the Lower Peninsula of Michigan. With over 20,000 residents, it's one of the most populous cities in the state. It was originally founded as a trading post in 1819 and became a town in 1887. Today, it's known for its many tourist attractions, including its beautiful lakefront and numerous shops and restaurants.
The city is home to Fort Michilimackinac and Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, as well as Headlands International Dark Sky Park.
Fort Michilimackinac was built by the French in the 17th century and was the first European settlement in what would become Michigan. The fort was later fortified by the British and used during the American Revolutionary War. The buildings at the fort are now open to the public and include a Visitors Center, a military museum, and a ranger station.Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is one of Michigan's most iconic landmarks.
The lighthouse was established in 1825 and is the tallest light tower in the state. Today, visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for 360-degree views of Lake Huron and Mackinac Island. Headlands International Dark Sky Park is one of only a few parks in North America designated as an International Dark Sky Park.
This designation means that it has proven to be an excellent location for stargazing due to its minimal light pollution. Headlands International Dark Sky Park is also home to a number of wildlife species that live in the park, including deer, coyotes, and bobcats.