Visiting Oscoda, Michigan is a great experience; there are many activities to do and things to see. Several parks give you the opportunity to spend time outdoors and museums will teach you more about the Oscoda area.
Lumberman’s Monument & Visitor Center
The Oscoda area is well known for lumberjacking. Explore the history of the trade in this area at the Lumberman’s Monument & Visitor Center. The monument is a statue of 14 foot, depicting the lumberjacks and overlooks the AuSable River.
There is a hiking trail to an observation deck, providing great views of the area. The Visitor Center has several exhibits, hands-on activities and educational videos to teach you more about the area.
Wurtsmith Air Museum
The museum offers a rich history of the Air Force. There are many artifacts to see, relating to the air base. The vintage planes on display offer great photo opportunities and you can sit in some of them. There are also handwritten army letters, army tanks and historic photos on display.
River Road Scenic Byway
River Road Scenic Byway is just one of the many scenic routes you can travel in Oscoda. The drive is about 20 miles long and offers many places to stop. There are several trailheads, views of the river and vistas. You can also fish, go on a hike, or travel the area by bicycle.
Vista Lanes & Lounge
The bowling alley hosts tournaments and league games. There is a pro shop to purchase equipment and poker events are held on occasion. A bar and grill will keep you satisfied and there are arcade games and a pool table.
Oscoda Canoe Rental
Rent a canoe and spend the day on the AuSable River. The water is relatively calm and you can admire the scenery. Oscoda Canoe Rental will provide you with all the necessary equipment.
Canoers Monument
The Canoers Monument is a stone structure, featuring paddles and commemorative plaques. It is close to other attractions so you can just stop off along the way. The view of the river from the monument is breathtaking so take some photos while you are here.
AuSable River Queen
The AuSable River Queen has been around since 1966. It is a paddle boat with two decks and offers daily trips for the public. Tickets are for a 2-hour ride and you can listen to live music while onboard. Delicious snacks are on sale on this red, white and blue boat.
Largo Springs Interpretive Site
Visit the Iargo Springs Interpretive Site for stunning views of the AuSable River Valley. There is an observation deck located 300 feet above the river, which can be accessed at the trailhead of the Highbanks Trail.
Lake Theatre
This movie theatre is reminiscent of days gone by. It shows new movies and discounted older movies. There are matinees and specials too. Refreshments include soda, candy and popcorn.
Concrete Animals
Gateway Park has huge concrete animals painted in bright colors. The animals are large enough to make a playground giving kids the chance to slide down them or climb the animals.
Paul Bunyan Statue
At the entrance of the Furtaw Field stands a statue of the historic Paul Bunyan. It is 13-foot-tall and there are many stories about the statue. Some people consider it to have been in a float parade on Thanksgiving Day during the 1970s and it was brought to Furtaw Field in the 1980s. Take some photos here and then stop for a snack at one of the many excellent restaurants nearby.
Hunt’s Canoes & Miniature Golf
Enjoy a round of miniature golf or rent a canoe to paddle on the AuSable River. The miniature golf course features tiny houses and rock landscapes; it was built in the 1950s and still open today.
Parks
Oscoda Beach Park
The Oscoda Beach Park finds itself along the coastal line and offers many activities for the whole family. Children can enjoy the playground equipment, skate park or basketball court. Have a stroll down the boardwalk or relax in the bathhouses. You can also have a barbeque at the picnic tables under the shady trees.
Veterans Memorial Park
The six-acre park opened its gates to the public in 2006. It honors the veterans and their memory on what was previously an Air Force base. There is a visitor center, U.S flags from different states and several memorial plaques.
Pocket Park
This park is just like its name sounds, a small pocket of land, which has been transformed into a park. There is picturesque scenery, lots of flowers and several benches for seating. The park’s location is a stone throw from restaurants, shops and taverns. Pack yourself a picnic basket and go visit the park.
Township Park
Township Park is spread over a 9.6 acre area along Lake Huron coast. There is tons of space for a picnic or football game. You can swim at the public beach or meander along the boardwalk. The park offers a variety of sport areas, including shuffleboard, skate ramps, and basketball courts. A band shelter is available to play some music in too.
Port Crescent State Park
The Park is located along Lake Huron’s sandy beaches. You can go for a swim, walk along the boardwalk, hike, hunt canoe and watch birds.
Foot Site Park
Nature lovers and birdwatchers will find solace in Foot Site Park. here you can see many bird species, including trumpeter swan and bald eagles. The AuSable River running through the park is home to many water birds.
Depner Farms
The farms were opened in 2005 and is run by a family. Various produce and crops ia raised on the farm. During fall, you choose your own pumpkin and even cut down your own tree for Christmas.
There are many things to do and places to see in Oscoda. Plan your trip for several days and explore the parks, scenic drives and other outings. Pack your outdoor gear to go hiking or bicycling, or visit one of the many museums in the area.
