Visitor Resources

Area Attractions

A large crucifix of Jesus Christ at the Cross in the Woods towers over a group of onlookers in a wooded outdoor area.
A large crucifix towers over the people and buildings surrounding it.

The Cross in the Woods

The second larges crucifix in the world, The Cross in the Woods is a must-see destination when you visit Indian River. The shrine is open 365 days a year during daylight hours, and visitors are invited to attend daily mass.

Plan Your Visit to Cross in the Woods

Top O' Michigan Outboard Marathon Nationals

Every August, the Indian River Area becomes the center of the outboard racing world as the Top O' Michigan Outboard Marathon Nationals roar to life on the Inland Waterway.

Founded in 1949, this legendary event is widely regarded as the world's toughest outboard marathon, challenging racers to navigate more than 80 miles of rivers, lakes, sharp turns, and changing water conditions over two days of competition.

Learn More About the Top 'O Boat Races

Boats racing in the Top O' Michigan Outboard Nationals Boat Race across Burt Lake.
A piano on stage at the Cheboygan Opera House

The Cheboygan Opera House

A treasured cultural landmark in downtown Cheboygan, the Cheboygan Opera House brings live entertainment, history, and community together. Visitors can enjoy concerts, theater productions, comedy shows, films, and special events throughout the year in an intimate historic setting.

Explore Upcoming Performances

Chillermania!

A favorite stop for families visiting Northern Michigan, Chillermania! celebrates the imagination and adventure behind the bestselling Michigan Chillers and American Chillers book series by author Johnathan Rand.

This one-of-a-kind attraction features books, merchandise, interactive exhibits, and opportunities to meet the author himself during special events.

Visit Chillermania!

The outside of the Chillermania! building in Indian River, Michigan
A large red Coast Guard cutter sits docked in Mackinaw City.

Coast Guard Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum

The United States Coast Guard Cutter MACKINAW WAGB-83 was built as part of the war effort during World War II. In order to keep iron ore, limestone, and coal on the move across the Great Lakes shipping channels into the winter months, an icebreaker was needed.

After a remarkable 62-year career, the original MACKINAW was decommissioned in 2006. Today, she is permanently moored at the old railroad dock in Mackinaw City, where she continues her service as the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum.

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