French explorer Daniel Greysolon Duluth established Fort St. Joseph near the present site of the Blue Water Bridge in 1686; this fort was incorporated into the U.S.-established Fort Gratiot in 1814. Port Huron was incorporated in 1857; it consolidated the villages of Fort Gratiot, Desmond, Huron, and Peru. Situated at the base of Lake Huron, the city established successful shipbuilding and lumber trades, causing its population to grow rapidly. As a matter of fact, in the post-Civil War years, Port Huron was the second-largest immigration point in the nation, trailing only New York City! It was designated as the County Seat of St. Clair County in 1871 and is known as the Maritime Capital of the Great Lakes. Visitors to Port Huron today have a wide array of fun and exciting activities to choose from. History buffs will delight in exploring over 300 years of history; historic sites and fascinating museums abound!
Among the most popular sites are Fort Gratiot Lighthouse – Michigan’s oldest working lighthouse, the Thomas Edison Depot Museum, Knowlton Ice Museum, and the Huron Lightship Museum, which showcases the last existing lightship on the Great Lakes, now a National Historic Landmark. The quaint historic downtown shopping district features unique boutiques and art galleries – you are certain to find a special treasure there while strolling among grand brick storefronts! Of course, boating and fishing enthusiasts are never at a loss of what to do in Port Huron – the many marinas, boat tours, fishing charters, and boat rentals supply what is needed for a great day on the water! Restaurants and taverns welcome guests for a delicious meal and refreshing drink. Embrace all there is to do in the dynamic city of Port Huron! Hotels allow you to stay conveniently close by to where you want to be. When you stay at Choice Hotels, you enjoy affordable rates, many amenities, and friendly service. We look forward to hosting you! Reserve your room today!