Named “Manistee” from an Ojibwa word, first applied to the principal river of the county. The derivation is not certain, but it may be from ministigweya, “river with islands at its mouth”. Other sources claim that it was an Ojibwe term meaning “spirit of the woods”.

In 1841, the John Stronach family constructed a sawmill on Manistee Lake and later another on the Manistee River. By 1849, more settlers were arriving, and the reservation was dismantled, with land given to settlers. The city was set back in 1871 when a fire swept through and destroyed over one-half of the city’s buildings. Much was rebuilt, this time of brick. By 1881, salt was discovered beneath Manistee, and another industry was born. By 1885, there were forty sawmills operating and by the end of the century, the population reached 14,260.

Now, thanks to the evolving change after 150 years, Manistee now has much to offer its visitors and residents. The city has a rich history with beautiful Victorian architecture throughout the city and a downtown that is located on the National Register of Historic Places. Recreational opportunities abound from the beautiful beaches, Riverwalk, marinas, parks, and nearby national forest. Local attractions include the Ramsdell Theater, Manistee County Historical Museum, S.S. City of Milwaukee, Riverwalk, Trolley Tours, Manistee Historic North Pier & Catwalk, summer concerts, and farmers markets.

Visiting with family? The first destination that you’ll need to explore will be First Street Beach. First Street is one of Manistee’s most popular beach destinations, providing everything you could want for a great day at the beach or just a stroll along the shoreline. Leaving the beach area, heading east, you’ll discover the Origins Walk. This is a unique sculptural representation of the evolution of the natural landscape and the historic foundation of our region.

After a day at the beach, we recommend continuing the path towards Downtown Riverwalk. Here you’ll find the downtown shops and restaurants where it’s recommended to grab lunch to go at The Outsider on River Street. Interested in something else? Just a way up, you’ll find Fricano’s Manistee River, where you can enjoy some delicious pizza. Still looking for more? TJ’s Pub is just a few more steps away where you can enjoy a wide array of American dishes.

After eating, head back up to River Street where you can explore an eclectic mix of shops where you are sure to find a perfect memento to commemorate your trip. Be sure to stop by the West Shore Community College Downtown Education Center which is home to a visitors kiosk. Here, you can design an adventure of your own with “Mytinerary” cards. At the kiosk, you can also grab a copy of the Historic Sites Walking Tour. This self-guided tour will lead you through the neighborhoods of Manistee, providing a glimpse back in time to learn about the families that were integral to the foundation of the city.

Once your trip is near the end, head back to Manistee County Blacker Airport for your trip back home.

For Airport Information, click here.