The Father Marquette National Memorial honors the Jesuit priest who established Michigan's first permanent settlement. Visitors will enjoy an outdoor interpretive trail, picnicking and a panoramic view of the Mackinac Bridge. It is located in Straits State Park in St. Ignace, just west of I-75 off US 2.

Straits State Park is home to the Father Marquette National Memorial, which honors the Jesuit priest who established Michigan's first permanent settlement. Today, Father Marquette is recognized as one of the great explorers of the North American continent.

On a rise overlooking the Straits of Mackinac, the memorial pays homage to this 17th century missionary explorer and the meeting of French and Native American cultures.

Historical interpretation is provided by the Michigan History Center. Please allow about one hour to visit the memorial, interpretative trail and panoramic views of the Mackinac Bridge.

Visitors will also enjoy an outdoor interpretive trail, picnicking and a panoramic view of the Mackinac Bridge. The site is open Memorial Day through Labor Day.


Father Marquette National Memorial

The park is home to a picnic area and an observation platform overlooking the Mackinac Bridge and the Straits of Mackinac. It's located on Church Street in the City of St. Ignace, just south of US-2.

The park has fantastic views of the Mackinac Bridge and the boats travelling the Straits of Mackinac from the trails, campground and/or viewing platform. The park has a picnic area, playground and waterfront area along Lake Huron.

The Father Marquette National Memorial honors the Jesuit priest who established Michigan's first permanent settlement. Today, Father Marquette is recognized as one of the great explorers of the North American continent. Please allow about one hour to visit the national memorial, the interpretative trail and panoramic views of the Mackinac Bridge.

Historical interpretation is provided by the Michigan History Center.

State Parks Tagged With: St Ignace