Museums

 

Facilities or groups dedicated to preserving a collection of objects deemed of lasting interest and value and dedicated to sharing the true story of an event, culture, of scientific or historical importance.  Wikipedia

In the Paradise area we are fortunate to have a number of museums with individuals passionate about their charge.   We encourage you to take some time to learn the complete story offered by these groups:  Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society, Crisp Point Light Historical Society, the Tahquamenon Logging Museum Advocates, Bay Mills Indian Community, and the Bay Mills-Brimley Historical Research Society.

Shipwreck Museum, identified as one of the top ten Mari-time museums in the world, is located at Whitefish Point, 10 miles north of Paradise.  Managed by the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society and includes in its operations an active process in locating and identifying resting places of ships and lives lost along the Shipwreck Coast.   Located north of Paradise on North Whitefish Point Road, open May 1 through October 31, seven days a week, 10 AM to 6 PM.

Crisp Point Lighthouse is located along the southern shores of Lake Superior, 38 miles northwest of Paradise.   After the long winding drive to the light, the visitor's building offers souvenirs and a view of Lake Superior in this remote, phenomenal location of Crisp Point.  The story here is a boatman named Christopher Crisp and the U.S. Lifesaving Services.  Many lighthouse facilities were in remote regions of the world.  Crisp Point is no different, but the experience of traveling to Crisp Point is physical immersion into that reality.  Open end of May to October, the visitor's center is open 10 AM to 6 PM

Tahquamenon Logging Museum offers the visitor insight into the logging industry and history of a local industry that rebuilt the city of Chicago after its great fire.  Look at the tools and culture back in the day and learn how the industry has transformed to renew trees in the forests of the upper peninsula.  Located along the Tahquamenon River, 37 miles southwest of Paradise, join in one of their Lumberjack breakfasts, or summer music concerts and you'll capture the experience of their story.  The museum is open seven days a week, 10 AM to 5 PM beginning Memorial Day weekend through the summer months.

 

Point Iroquois Lighthouse is dedicated to a major battle in 1662 fought by Iroquois and Chippewa.  Beginning in June 2022, the Bay Mills Indian Community assumed management of the lighthouse in cooperation with the Hiawatha National Forest.  The Bay Mills Indian Community can tell its story and share the Anishinaabe history, cultural information, and artifacts at the lighthouse.  Located along the Curley Lewis Scenic Byway, 36 miles southeast of Paradise, offers a boardwalk, handicap accessible to the shoreline of the St. Mary's River offering a breathtaking view of freighters traveling up and downbound.

Wheels of History shares the story of early life in the Brimley area and eastern upper peninsula of Michigan.  It includes stories of the mills, trains, early phones, logging, fishing, one-room schools, Great Lakes ships, CCC Camp Raco, cemetery and veteran listings and local family history.  Located in Brimley, 44 miles southeast of Paradise.   The Museum is open seasonally mid-May to mid-Oct. from Noon to 5 PM Fri-Mon.  

Places to Stay! 

This information is brought to you by the Paradise Area Tourism Council and their members:   Curley's Paradise Motel,  Magnuson Grand Lakefront Paradise, Paradise Shores Cabins, and  Vagabond Motel.  Sign up for our newsletter to stay current on activities in the area.

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Paradise Area Events for 2022

Tahquamenon Lower Falls

It is always a good time to visit Paradise.  For your convenience we've listed some of the special activities in the Paradise area for your review in developing your get away plans.

Paradise is a small community within Whitefish Township of Chippewa County, Michigan.  Whitefish Township is approximately 294 square miles with Lake Superior, the largest of the five Great Lakes to its North, Michigan's Tahquamenon Falls State Park to the west and Hiawatha National Forrest nestled in its southern region.  According to the 2010 census the population of Whitefish Township is 575 people.  Whitefish Township is the 6th largest municipality by land area in the state of Michigan.  By land mass, Chippewa County is the 2nd largest county in Michigan.  This region located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan along the Tahquamenon Scenic Byway of M-123 offers tourists the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and escape their daily schedules.  The 2022 travel season offers a number of additional activities.

JUNE 15        POINT IROQUOIS LIGHTHOUSE Opens for the Season

JUNE 25        TWO HEARTED Trail Run

JUNE 25        LUMBERJACK BREAKFAST, Tahquamenon Logging Museum

JULY 4             7 - 11 am Whitefish Twp EMS JULY 4 BREAKFAST

JULY 4             1 PM INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE, Downtown Parade

JULY 4             DUSK FIREWORKS, Whitefish Township Community Center

JULY 16            CRISP POINT LIGHTHOUSE Annual Summer Conference

JULY 23 – 24 LUMBERJACK DAYS Tahquamenon Logging Museum

JULY 28           GREAT LAKES Maritime Historian & Author Fred Stonehouse

AUGUST 13     TAHQUA Trail Run 

AUGUST 19 - 21      WILD BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL

AUGUST 26            "STORM" CONCERT

AUGUST  27 -28    LUMBERJACK BREAKFAST, Tahquamenon Logging Museum

Our local restaurants offer special entertainment throughout the summer.  Aside from incredible foods, they offer nourishment for the soul.  You'll find a listing of their summer schedule at these links:  The INN!!  and   Wheelhouse Diner & Goat Locker Saloon 

Places to Stay! 

This information is brought to you by the Paradise Area Tourism Council and their members:   Curley's Paradise Motel,  Magnuson Grand Lakefront Paradise, Paradise Shores Cabins, and  Vagabond Motel.  Sign up for our newsletter to stay current on activities in the area.

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Delectable & Delicious Food Fads in Paradise, Michigan

Lift your fork and experience the delectable flavors every foodie will encounter in Michigan's Paradise.  You may want to use a spoon, so that you don't miss a drop of The INN's Roasted Hubbard Squash Ravioli sauce.  Culinary creations with local Whitefish, herbs, and vegetables will dance on your palette as your summer vacation is an ideal opportunity to sample the best in local favorites.  

Here is a listing of dining options in and near Paradise. About 60 miles northwest of the Mighty Mac bridge on the Tahquamenon Scenic Byway, state route M-123, Paradise is situated east of the Tahquamenon Falls State Park, north of the Hiawatha National Forest and south of Lake Superior with Lake Superior's Whitefish Bay to the east. 

Courtesy FreshwaterFeasts.com 2019, Brown's Fisheries 

The Brown family has been instrumental in the economic development of Paradise since the 1930's. Brown's Fisheries Fish House is located just west of the blinking light in Paradise at 32638 West Michigan State Route 123.  Open traditionally from Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day weekend, the Brown family serves the best Whitefish you'll find in the Great Lakes Region.  Be sure to get there early as once the fish is gone, they are closed for the day.  

Smoked Whitefish Dip, Courtesy the INN

Allow your taste buds to dance at The INN, Gastropub and Smokehouse,  located just north of O'brien's Creek and in front of the Magnuson Grand Lakefront Hotel.  Open pretty much year round (double check their hours in November, December, March and April) You will be astounded at the musings of Chef Josh Winkler as he works with fresh foods, herbs, and vegetables.   You'll find tantalizing photos and up to date postings on their Facebook page, 8112 North M-123. 

The Wheelhouse Restaurant & Goat Locker Saloon is located just west of the blinking light at 32520 West M-123.   Open year round, you'll find one of Captain Jack's boats next to the parking lot, and good times in the saloon. 

Compliments Tahquamenon Brewery Camp 33 Website

The Tahquamenon Falls Brewery and Pub, Camp 33 is located in the Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Upper Falls entrance.  The brewery offers a wonderful collection of flavors that range from a Black Bear Stout to a Wild Blueberry enhanced ale to celebrate the summer months.  Brews on tap vary from time to time to take advantage of seasonal flavors.  The restaurant's  chefs have developed a wild rice soup and smoked fish salad that calms your hungry soul and often in the fall and winter months you'll find a hearty pasty, a local favorite.

Fresh Whitefish Image Compliments
 Catch of the Day Food Truck

Catch of the Day food truck offers Fresh Lake Superior Whitefish.  Deliciously fresh and delicately prepared.  Serving the BEST hand-dipped onion rings around!  Just ask anyone!  Catch of the Day is located on M-123 with in the Paradise commercial district.  Parking is available and limited outdoor dining spaces.  You won't regret grabbing a delectable filet at this food stop.

Compliments Fresh Coast Cafe Facebook Page  

The Fresh Coast Cafe is located just north of the Paradise Recreational Sports gas station at 8239 North M-123.  The offer a wide selection of assorted subs and sandwiches.  

The Berry Patch Restaurant is located at M-123 open year round for breakfast and lunch.  Specifically located at 8324 North M-123.

Compliments RJ Regan

Silver Creek Grill & Pub offers a popular Friday night fish fry and a hearty hamburger.  Located along the snowmobile trail, north of Eckerman and south of Paradise, at 151 M-123.

Places to Stay! 

This information is brought to you by the Paradise Area Tourism Council and their members:   Curley's Paradise Motel,  Magnuson Grand Lakefront Paradise, Paradise Shores Cabins, and  Vagabond Motel.  Sign up for our newsletter to stay current on activities in the area.

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Indelible, Incredible Photographic Opportunities in Paradise

Photography can be a gratifying experience. Given today's technology through smart phones and digital cameras all one has to do is point and click to capture a remarkable image. Share your images on Instagram (#michigansparadise, #paradisemichigan) and you are published! 

 An image though that doesn't actually capture the beauty and wonder of your target is not gratifying. Have you ever had that happen? You take a perfect shot, look at it a month later and you just shake your head. The picture is lacking in the shear wonder of the experience. Sometimes you don't have to wait a month. A quick peek in the view finder and behold, somehow, the picture is lacking. Some digitally savvy photographers apply filters and effects yet not capturing the true natural beauty. 

Paradise, Michigan is a scenic location. Let's face it, the scenes can make anyone appear to be a photographic genius. Looking at the many images taken by professional and semi-professional photographers is confirmation that Paradise, offers photographic opportunities even for the most novice photographer. Take a few moments and explore the many indelible sights of the region captured by the photographers listed below.

In recognition and appreciation to these artists and to share their information with you it is our hope you will take some time and visit their websites, postings and realize that to truly Experience Michigan's Paradise, make plans to witness these vistas yourself, take your own family photos and rely on those photos to serve as an indelible reminder of your incredible Paradise experience.

There are a number of photographers that live in the Paradise area.  Frances Czapski has opened a gallery and gift shop just north of The INN in Paradise.  She posts images regularly on her Facebook page.  Her favorite image at the time of this writing is a splendid capture of the Shipwreck Museum complex reflecting in melted snow, March 20, 2022.  The blue skies are reflected as well providing an unusual;y dramatic scene.

You'll find the work of local artist Frank Fruzyna quite often on display at the gallery located at the offices of Superior Shores Reality (7967 M-123, Paradise, Michigan) and a number of local souvenir gift shops.  You can also contact Mr. Fruzyna through his Facebook page.  For years he provided the Wild Blueberry Festival and Paradise Area Chamber of Commerce images that could be used to promote the region.

Terry Humphrey resides south of Paradise along the Tahquamenon "Wilderness" River near Eckerman, Michigan. You'll find indelible images on his website, www.TerryHumphreyPhotograpy.com.  He posts regularly on Instagram and Facebook.  

In the photograph above, Mr. Humphrey has also made magic of the skies over Lake Superior as a Freighter moves past Whitefish Point.  The enormity of the Lake, sky and waters are magnified by the presence of a shoreline visitor.  Somehow this image captures the essence of the area and a "feeling" one can experience when physically present.

The photograph above was taken by a young man that has moved to another area but provided a number of incredible images of the region.  While living north of Paradise, he worked with the Paradise Area Night Riders.  They use a number of pictures to this day on their website.  Over the years he sold his work to many visitors of the Wild Blueberry Festival.  Ben Musielak still has his Facebook page and remains a favorite local photographer.

Over the past couple of years, a number of professional photographers have visited the area.  Their images have appeared on Facebook and we've shared them on the Paradise Area Tourism Facebook page.  A case in point is the work of Norris Seward of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.  He has a wide range of images on his website

Sewards Wood n Crafts  and posts on his Facebook page ,

The Mr. Seward's photo above is an amazing capture of Northern Lights from the shoreline of Tahquamenon "Wilderness" River Mouth Park.  

There are many gifted novice photographers.  Over the years in our photography contest, visitors to the area have shared some indelible pictures of their visits.  You'll see many of those pictures in our gallery.  Did we overlook a photographer?  In the comments below please let us know their names and a link to their website or Facebook page.

As you can tell from these many images, there is much to see in the Paradise area, make plans to stay a few days, immerse yourself in the beauty of Paradise and create your own memories with photographs to document the experience.  Experience photography in Michigan's Paradise.

Places to Stay!   This information is brought to you by the Paradise Area Tourism Council and their members:   Curley's Paradise Motel,  Magnuson Grand Lakefront Paradise,  Paradise Shores Cabins, and  Vagabond Motel.  Sign up for our newsletter to stay current on activities in the area.

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How far might you travel for your Summer Vaca?

Tahquamenon Lower Falls Image by Kristen Daniels of Caro, Michigan

No one has missed the rising price of gasoline at the fuel pump.  You are already calculating the impact to your summer vacation.  But you can manage the increase in cost by traveling a shorter distance, selecting a location with reasonable food costs options, and competitive rates for lodging. We appreciate your concerns regarding fuel prices.  But for your health, we highly recommend that you proceed with your summer vacation plans.  You will be better for it.

We did a little research.  If you live in Lansing Michigan, how far would it be to travel to Paradise, Michigan? 298 miles.  Below is a chart comparing a Paradise trip to alternative popular summer vacation venues.

Paradise Michigan is located in the Upper Peninsula, about 50 miles northwest of the Mackinac Bridge along scenic M-123, offering a wide range of natural and cultural experiences that provide you with that stress lowering change of pace you so need.  For your health, keep that summer vacation plan viable.  In Paradise Michigan you can avoid high-cost amusement park fees, watch the shoreline of Lake Superior, hike the trails in the Hiawatha National Forest, and witness the breathtaking site of Tahquamenon Falls.  Negotiate food costs by selecting a facility that offers cooking accommodations or even a kitchenette.  While enjoying Yooper food delicacies unrivaled by any other favorite summer spot.   

You are right, you can't control gas prices, but you can manage other costs while taking time for your health.

Places to Stay!   This information is brought to you by the Paradise Area Tourism Council and their members:   Curley's Paradise Motel,  Magnuson Grand Lakefront Paradise, Paradise Shores Cabins, and  Vagabond Motel.  Sign up for our newsletter to stay current on activities in the area.

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SUMMER VACATION

FOR THE BENEFIT YOUR HEALTH

Vacation in Paradise, Michigan

Allina Health outlines the personal value of a vacation in order to thrive!  Kathryn Isham, PsyD LP, describes the need for a vacation as the time when your "work-life balance feels out of whack."  "People who take vacations have lower stress, less risk of heart disease, a better outlook on life, and more motivation to achieve goals".  Benefits like these are a win for your employer, a win for your family, and big win for you. 

Paradise Michigan offers solutions for vacation planning.  Our destinations provide sanctuary, quiet, social distancing, cultural exploration, historic documentation, and reconnection with nature so that you are able relax and decrease the potential for burnout. 

Out of the Office, Gone Waterfall Watching! Discover Tahquamenon Falls State Park home of the Tahquamenon Upper Falls, 2nd largest falls east of the Mississippi and the Tahquamenon Lower Falls!

Gone Shipwreck Hunting! The Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society has already put together a lot of information about shipwrecks in the Great Lakes at the very popular, Shipwreck Museum.  They are one of the few internationally known mar-i-time museums that continues the research into Shipwrecks along the Shipwreck coast. 

Gone Star Gazing!  Living in urban areas and now even in many rural areas, well-lit for safety and security purposes, one of the greatest light shows in the galaxy is obscured.  There is something about watching an object larger than ourselves or our surroundings that seems to put "life" into perspective.  People watch the continual waves of Lake Superior, largest freshwater lake in North America or gaze at the unending light show of the Milky Way after a long experiencing the wonders of nature in Paradise, Michigan.

Gone Lighthouse Exploring! There are three lighthouses in the immediate region of Paradise:  Crisp Point Light built in 1875, Point Iroquois with a native Indian history going back to 1662 and Whitefish Point Light Station sanctioned by U. S. President Abe Lincoln.  Each offers a glimpse of the Lighthouse keeper's duties and family culture.

Gone Boating!  Work with a local outfitter and make plans to take a guided tour with the Woods, Taqhuamenon River Canoe & Kayak Rentals, or rent a boat at Paddle U.P.  to explore the many tributaries in the region.  Combine waterfall watching and cultural exploration with a cruise on the Tahquamenon Riverboat Tours, a family-owned and operated business since 1927.

Gone Rock-Hounding! Lake Superior continually washes an assortment of stones and pebbles to the shoreline.   Agates, basalt, rhyolite, granite, quartz, feldspar, mica, slate just to name a few can be found, skipped back into the lake for a therapeutic stress release or polish the stones for a number of crafts.  Keep in mind that private property is off limits for carting off bags of rocks.

Gone Bear Scratching!  Oswald's Bear Ranch is a destination enjoyed by all ages.  The Oswald family has rescued black bears across the country and provided for them a natural safe environment in their sanctuary.  

Gone Tree-Hugging! Paradise is surrounded by waters to the north and east and by state and federally designated wooded areas, Tahquamenon Falls State Park to the West and South, and the Hiawatha National Forest to the west and south.  Showcasing sugar maple, red maple, American Beech, white pine, red pine, northern white cedar, eastern larch or tamarack, Jackpine Savannahs, and balsam fir in the region.

Gone Hiking! The North Country Scenic Trail, an 8-state hiking trail of 4,700 miles and identified by its famous "blue blazes", meanders through the Paradise region and the Tahquamenon State Park Falls.  The Tahquamenon Falls State Park offers some 35 miles of trails.  Both systems offer unique vistas and a range of skill levels to provide you with hiking opportunities for years to come.

Gone Four-Wheeling!  Side by Sides, 4-wheelers, ORV's and ATV's, we do like our machines, and they are a lot of fun!  The Paradise area offers a number of two track roads and a facility that offers equipment for rent, Paradise Recreational Sports.  As with all motorized equipment, stay informed about Michigan Laws and road use.

Gone Foodie! Paradise offers a broad range of food experiences from Fresh Whitefish to Pastie's and always popular Carrott Cake with micro-brewed Black Bear Stout and Lumberjack Lager.  

Gone Fishing!  A region located in the midst of Michigan state's Tahquamenon Falls State Park, the Hiawatha National Forest and nestled within Lake Superior, Lake Superior's Whitefish Bay and Tahquamenon River has to offer incredible fishing opportunities.  It does and the state offers specifics instructions to Tahquamenon area's fishing holes.

Learn more details about the Importance of Taking a Vacation and boost your level of happiness!  The region of Paradise Michigan is less populated than many favorite destinations, but lodging facilities fill quickly, place your reservations early and make note of cancellation policies.  We want you to stay at your preferred facility, when you want to stay there.

Places to Stay!   This information is brought to you by the Paradise Area Tourism Council and their members:   Curley's Paradise Motel,  Magnuson Grand Lakefront Paradise,  Paradise Shores Cabins, and  Vagabond Motel.  Sign up for our newsletter to stay current on activities in the area.

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