Discovery Pier is Open to All
Our waterfront green space, pavilion, and docks are designed to be full of opportunities to engage with the Great Lakes and the cherished, lake-inspired culture of Northern Michigan. With barrier-free amenities and innovative programming, everyone can bond with our treasured waters in meaningful ways.
Visit the Pier
With universally accessible sidewalks, green space, picnic shelters, fishing areas, barrier-free restrooms, and an adaptive kayak launch, Discovery Pier is a place for everyone to take-in waterfront views and activities, from sunrise to sunset.
The pier is a great place for kids to learn to fish too! Bring your own gear and drop a line any day of the week, or join our Discover Fishing on the Pier Program for a hands-on learning experience.
Connect with the Great Lakes today!
Adventure on Lake Michigan
Our docks are a hub for maritime experiences—boat tours, tall ship sails, fishing charter expeditions, ecology studies, marine technology explorations and more! We partner with educational and recreational organizations to ensure our docks are a place to launch freshwater adventures for all ages. And, our pavilion offers a place to extend learning on-shore.
Because we believe the Great Lakes should be for all, we leverage our partnerships to create our All Aboard! Program to provide free opportunities to youth around the region to experience the beauty and complexities of these treasured waters.
Your Great Lakes adventure starts here!
Celebrate at Venue Blue
Venue Blue is our covered, open-air pavilion, which hosts many lake-side gatherings, from youth programs to weddings and private events. Elevate your next special occasion at Venue Blue, where good times meet great views.
Revenue generated from Venue Blue helps Discovery Pier provide fee-free programming for underserved youth and adults with disabilities, maintains Discovery Pier’s barrier-free amenities, and supports the general operation of our nonprofit organization. By booking Venue Blue, you support our mission to inspire, educate and connect people of all ages, needs and abilities to the Great Lakes.
Where good times meet great views.
Freshwater Research & Innovation Center
Coming soon to the campus of Discovery Pier, the Freshwater Research and Innovation Center will be a collaborative space for students, educators, researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, existing businesses, government agencies, and the developing workforce. The purpose of the center will be to protect freshwater resources for future generations through collaborative scientific research, advanced technologies, and an educated workforce that can assess impacts, address threats, and develop solutions.
Coming Spring 2027