Riverfront living and boating are central to life in Algonac
Algonac sits on a curve in the St. Clair River, with Canada just over the water. The city of 4,000 falls into Clay Township, about 50 miles from Detroit in eastern Michigan. Waterside parks and marinas make it easy for locals to explore the river, Lake St. Clair and its islands. “We have beautiful canal systems and a lot of river- and canal-front living,” says Pam Ceder, an associate broker with Sine & Monaghan, who grew up in Clay Township. “Boating, fishing and all the watersports are big in the area.”
Homes with river access drive demand in Algonac
Most buyers are drawn to Algonac for the waterfront properties, many featuring private docks and boat storage facilities. Few homes are right on the river, but canals weave through several cul-de-sacs, giving homeowners direct access to the river. Inland in central areas, well-maintained sidewalks border the residential streets and thoroughfares. Though some homes date to the early 1900s, the property blend also includes midcentury ranch-style homes and New Traditionals built in the last 25 years on lots measuring under a quarter-acre. Prices start at $125,000 to $250,000 for ranch-style and National houses, while two-story Victorian homes, New Traditionals and waterfront condos sell for $250,000 to $400,000. Most single-family homes with canal or river access cost $480,000 to $750,000.
Fishing, boating and history along the St. Clair River
The boardwalk at Algonac City Park stretches for half a mile, past a gazebo, picnic tables, benches and Adirondack chairs where visitors can enjoy the river views. It’s also a premium spot to fish for walleye and pike, and boaters can launch from the nearby ramp. The Walpole Algonac Ferry shuttles passengers and vehicles to Walpole Island in Ontario, Canada. Near the ferry terminal, the Algonac Clay Historical Museum features maritime exhibits, including Chris-Craft boats, which were created in the city. Amenities at Lions Field include basketball courts, horseshoe pits, a playground and a dog park. The Algonac Harbor Club is a haven for boaters and anglers, with over 350 slips, fueling docks and a tiki bar.
Bait shops and markets cater to anglers and boaters
Casual and upscale dining spots, including a few fast-food chains, are scattered throughout town. Snoopy’s Dog House is a tavern-style restaurant specializing in burgers and all-you-can-eat fish and chips, and Catch 22 Bistro features an eclectic menu with Mediterranean flair. Anglers stock up on bait at Azar’s Market and Ed Minnich Boats & Baits, which also sells ice, tackle and fishing licenses. Groceries are available at Kroger and DG Market.
Algonac students attend well-regarded elementary schools
Students attend Millside Elementary School from prekindergarten through Grade 1, then move to Algonquin Elementary School for grades 2 through 6. Both schools receive B-minus grades from Niche. Algonac Junior/Senior High School is rated C-plus and serves students from seventh through 12th grade. High school students can participate in sports that include trap shooting. The Algonac Community School District participates in Michigan’s Schools of Choice program, which allows students to enroll in schools outside their residential district.
Ferry and bus services allow residents to explore the area
Ferry service invites residents to explore nearby islands. Buses on the Blue Water Area Transit system provide weekday service, and riders can connect to the SMART system to access the Detroit metro area, about 50 miles away on the other side of Lake St. Clair. Detroit Metropolitan Airport is about 65 miles away, and medical services are available at Henry Ford River District Hospital in East China Township, about 13 miles away.
Riverfront events include an art show and a fishing tournament
The Algonac Art Fair has been a Labor Day weekend tradition since 1972. Local artists show their stuff on the riverfront boardwalk as boats and freighters drift by. Other highlights include a classic car show, live music and kids’ activities. The city has hosted the Algonac Lions Pickerel Festival for 87 years, earning it the nickname “The Pickerel Capital of the World.” During the July event, anglers compete for prizes while families enjoy carnival rides, parades and fireworks.
Community events at Trinity United Methodist Church
Algonac Trinity United Methodist Church is a red brick Gothic Revival building that serves as a gathering spot for many residents. The congregation hosts a food pantry, a “paws pantry” for pets and monthly community dinners.
