East Tawas, MI

East Tawas, Michigan is a small city located in Iosco County on the northern shores of Lake Huron. The city's history dates back to the mid-19th century when the region was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Ojibwe (Chippewa) and Ottawa.

The first European settlers arrived in the area in the 1840s and, due to its strategic location on the lake, East Tawas quickly became an important shipping and logging center. The abundance of white pine forests attracted lumber companies, which established mills and began harvesting the timber in the surrounding areas.

In 1862, an entrepreneur named Benjamin Brown established a sawmill near the Tawas River, which led to the growth of a small community. By 1874, the settlement had become large enough to be incorporated as a village and was named "Tawas City." However, not long after, a dispute arose between two factions of residents, leading to a split in the community.

In 1887, the eastern portion of Tawas City seceded and established itself as an independent village called "East Tawas." Eventually, East Tawas grew and developed its own identity as a resort community due to the area's natural beauty and access to Lake Huron. The availability of sandy beaches, fishing, hunting, and outdoor recreational activities became major attractions for tourists, particularly from the larger cities in Lower Michigan.

The East Tawas State Dock and Harbor were built in 1936 as part of a New Deal project during the Great Depression. The harbor further boosted tourism and made East Tawas an even more popular destination for boating and water-related activities.

Over the years, East Tawas has continued to thrive as a tourist destination, known for its charming downtown area, historic architecture, waterfront parks, and recreational opportunities. The city has preserved its small-town character while catering to visitors and offering a variety of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and accommodations.

Today, East Tawas remains a popular destination for tourists seeking a serene lakeside vacation, with its rich history and natural beauty contributing to its enduring appeal.

Tawas Point State Park

A beautiful park located on the shores of Lake Huron, known for its sandy beaches, lighthouse, and birdwatching opportunities.

Tawas Point Lighthouse

A historic lighthouse that offers guided tours and stunning views of Lake Huron. It is also a great spot for wildlife observation.

Downtown East Tawas

The city's downtown area offers charming shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll and to explore the local culture.

Tawas Bay Antique Mall

A large antique mall with over 10,000 square feet of treasures to discover. Antique enthusiasts will enjoy browsing through the various vendors' collections.

Huron National Forest

Located near East Tawas, this expansive forest offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching.

Au Sable River

Flowing nearby East Tawas, the Au Sable River is known for its scenic beauty and offers excellent opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.

Iosco County Historical Museum

A museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Iosco County. It features exhibits on local industries, Native American artifacts, and more.

Lumberman's Monument Visitor Center

Situated in Oscoda, near East Tawas, this visitor center educates visitors about the region's logging history and offers spectacular views of the Ausable River and Lake Huron.

Tawas Bay Playhouse

A community theater that hosts various productions and events throughout the year. It's a great place to enjoy live performances and support local talent.

Gateway Park

A waterfront park with picnic areas, playgrounds, and a splash pad for children. It offers a lovely place to relax and enjoy the scenic views of Lake Huron.

East Tawas, Michigan has a humid continental climate. The region experiences four distinct seasons with significant variations in temperature and precipitation throughout the year.

Summer: Summers in East Tawas are generally warm and humid. Average high temperatures range from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-28 degrees Celsius). However, occasional heatwaves can push temperatures into the 90s (32 degrees Celsius) or higher. The region receives a moderate amount of rainfall during this season, with occasional thunderstorms. July tends to be the warmest month.

Autumn: Fall in East Tawas is characterized by mild and pleasant weather. Temperatures gradually cool down, with highs ranging from the upper 60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (around 20 degrees Celsius) in September, dropping to the 50s (10-15 degrees Celsius) in November. The region experiences beautiful foliage colors as the leaves change, making it an appealing time to visit.

Winter: Winters in East Tawas are cold and snowy. Average high temperatures range from the mid-20s to low 30s Fahrenheit (-4 to 0 degrees Celsius) during the coldest months of December and January. Snowfall is frequent, and the area experiences lake-effect snow due to its proximity to Lake Huron. Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy snowboarding, skiing, and other outdoor activities during this season.

Spring: Spring in East Tawas is a transition period marked by rapidly changing weather conditions. Temperatures begin to rise, with highs reaching the 50s Fahrenheit (10-15 degrees Celsius) in March and climbing to the 60s (15-20 degrees Celsius) in May. It can still be quite chilly during the early part of the season, and snow is not uncommon in March. Rainfall increases during spring, and the region experiences occasional thunderstorms.

Overall, East Tawas, MI has a diverse climate with distinct seasons, offering a wide range of weather conditions and outdoor activities throughout the year.

East Tawas, MI is a small city located in Iosco County, Michigan, situated on the eastern shore of Lake Huron. While it is a relatively small city, it does have a few distinct neighborhoods that offer a variety of amenities and attractions. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in East Tawas:

Downtown East Tawas

The downtown area is the heart of the city, filled with charming shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere. It offers a mix of locally-owned businesses, art galleries, and cafes. The downtown area is also home to the East Tawas State Harbor, which provides boating and fishing opportunities.

Tawas Bay

The neighborhood along Tawas Bay offers stunning views of Lake Huron and is known for its beautiful sandy beaches. Tawas Bay is a popular spot for water sports, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. There are also several parks and picnic areas along the bay's shoreline.

Bay View

Located just south of downtown East Tawas, Bay View is a residential neighborhood that offers a mix of single-family homes and apartments. It is a quiet and peaceful area, perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere. Bay View is close to the downtown area and offers easy access to amenities and services.

Lakewood

Situated on the eastern outskirts of East Tawas, Lakewood is a neighborhood known for its residential subdivisions and recreational opportunities. It has a mix of homes, ranging from waterfront properties to more affordable options further inland. The area is surrounded by lakes and offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking.

North Tawas

Located just north of East Tawas, North Tawas is often considered an extension of the city. It offers a similar small-town atmosphere and features a range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and parks. North Tawas is also known for its public beach, which is a popular destination for locals and tourists during the summer months.

Overall, East Tawas, MI offers a mix of neighborhoods that cater to various lifestyles. Whether you prefer a bustling downtown, a beachfront property, or a quiet residential area, there is something for everyone in this charming lakeside city.