With the weather cooperating and a weekend to ourselves, my wife and I took off the Freedom Panels and pointed the Jeep toward the thumb of Michigan. No big plans — just the kind of open-road trip we’d both been needing.
We made our way up to Port Austin, took our time along the lake, and stopped whenever something looked interesting. We grabbed lunch and drinks at Lake Street Local, which had exactly the kind of patio bar vibe we were hoping for — relaxed, good food, and perfect for a top-off Jeep day. The open air made every stretch of the drive feel amazing!
Lake Street Local
Right in downtown Port Austin, this spot had the exact patio bar vibe we were hoping for — relaxed, breezy, and the kind of place you want to linger after a sunny drive. Good drinks, solid food, and great atmosphere.
From there, we made the short drive over to Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses on the Great Lakes. It’s a quiet spot with a wide view of Lake Huron — peaceful and still, the kind of place that makes you stop and take in your surroundings. Michigan actually has more lighthouses than any other state, and this one has been guiding ships since the 1840s. We didn’t stay long, but it was one of those stops that sticks with you.
Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse
This was one of the most peaceful stops on our trip — quiet, breezy, and right on the edge of the water. We didn’t do the full museum tour, but even just walking around the lighthouse grounds was worth it. It’s the kind of spot that makes you slow down, take a breath, and appreciate being out in the open air. Would definitely come back for a longer visit.
We continued south along the coast, passing through Harbor Beach and Port Sanilac, just taking our time and enjoying the drive. Our final stop was Lexington, where we stretched our legs at Lexington State Harbor, walked the docks, and caught a great view of the lake before grabbing dinner and drinks at The Village Pub. A relaxed, no-rush kind of stop — exactly how we like to wrap up a day on the road.
The Village Pub
After a long drive along the lake, this was the perfect place to wind down. The Village Pub had a welcoming vibe, good food, and cold drinks — everything we needed to close out our first Jeep road trip on a high note.
No off-roading. No overlanding. Just two people, an open road, and the kind of day that reminds you why you bought the Jeep in the first place.