Riverside parks, shopping and dining in Marine City
Marine City is a riverside community on Michigan's Thumbcoast that sits right on the Canadian border. The St. Clair River separates the city from Sombra, Ontario, and the Belle River threads through residential areas. The region was Ojibwe territory for centuries until French trappers and missionaries arrived in the 1600s, and many of the city’s 4,000 residents still share French heritage. Waterfront parks, shops and restaurants keep maritime vibes alive. “We have a lot of parks right on the river. You can bring your pets, stop in and eat and shop — you can spend a whole day,” says Wynne Achatz, owner and broker at Real Estate One Westrick Associates, who has nearly 50 years of experience selling in the area.
Marine City features waterfront homes and condos with river views
Some Marine City properties perch on the edge of the St. Clair River or Belle River, while others feature water views but no direct access. Lot sizes vary from under 10,000 square feet to more than an acre, and most residential streets have sidewalks separated from the street by bands of grass. Condos and single-family fixer-uppers cost $100,000 to $135,000, while Nationals from the early 1900s and midcentury ranch-style homes sell for $140,000 to $225,000. Condos with river views and newer ranch-style builds sell for $225,000 to $400,000. Most homes with river access fetch prices from $575,000 to $850,000. Residents contend with cold winters and strong winds, but many properties include garages that can protect against wind damage and reduce the time spent scraping ice off car windows.
Watersports, cycling and hiking define outdoor life
A string of small parks runs between Water Street and the St. Clair River. Marine City Park has a sandy swimming beach steps away from the grills and ornate picnic pavilion at Mariner Park. A memorial at Nautical Mile Park honors Michigan-bound Titanic passengers. The public marina on the Belle River has several wooden docks where boaters can tie up their watercraft for the day, and a kayak and canoe launch awaits across the river. The pet-friendly Bridge to Bay Trail invites cyclists and hikers to explore 50 miles along the St. Clair River.
Downtown Marine City blends shopping, dining and river views
Shops, boutiques, theaters and restaurants anchor Water Street in downtown Marine City. Waterside dining is available at Riviera Restaurant & Bar and Anita’s Riverfront Grille, and the seafood at Marine City Fish Company is popular with residents and visitors. “It has a balcony that’s open most of the year,” says lifelong resident Achatz, adding that the burgers at Gar’s Lounge also have a strong local following. “It’s a huge hamburger with all the good stuff on it. They’re very famous for that.” Farther down the river, Hook One Bait and Tackle takes care of anglers’ needs, and shoppers will find VG’s Grocery and Tractor Supply at Riverside Plaza.
Public and Catholic schools serve Marine City families
Students start at Belle River Elementary School, which receives a B-minus from Niche, followed by Marine City Middle School, rated B. Students at B-minus-rated Marine City High School can gain work-life experience through the Project Lead the Way program. The city is also home to Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School, rated B-plus. The Catholic school is affiliated with Holy Cross Catholic Church, where students attend weekly liturgy. Michigan’s Schools of Choice program allows students to apply to public schools outside their residential district.
Seasonal events bring flair to Marine City’s riverfront
Annual events enliven the riverfront throughout the year. Fire, Ice & Spice sparks up in February. “It’s an opportunity to get out in the freezing cold,” laughs Laura Merchant, director of the Marine City Chamber of Commerce. “We have a chili competition — that’s the ‘spice’ — then there’s a skating rink, plus the ice on the river, and we have fire pits and people doing fire demonstrations.” During Maritime Days in August, celebrants compete in raffle drawings, bingo, karaoke and sports tournaments. Highlights include a fireworks display and a lighted boat parade. Locals grab goodie bags and make their way through the shops on Water Street during the Merrytime Christmas celebration.
Ferries and bridges allow travelers to cross the Canadian border
The Bluewater Ferry service used to shuttle passengers from Marine City to Sombra, but the boats no longer run. Today, the Walpole Algonac Ferry is about 8 miles away and offers crossings to Ontario seven days a week, and the Blue Water Bridge, about 20 miles away in Port Huron, allows motorists to cross the Canadian border. Medical services are available at Henry Ford River District Hospital in East China Township , roughly 5 miles away. The closest major airport is Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County, about 70 miles away.
