With summer slowly making its way back into our lives, we wanted to take a moment to highlight Harrison Township, also known as “BoatTown, USA”.
Nestled between I-94 and the shores of Lake St. Clair, Harrison Township has small town vibes but packs a big punch. Ample waterfront real estate, plenty of restaurants and parks, and proximity to cities such as Mt. Clemens (5 miles) and Detroit (26 miles) make this a great option for lakeside living with the amenities of metro suburban life. Whether you’re a boater or just enjoy easy access to the beach and waterfront views, Harrison Township is worthy of your consideration.
Below, we’ve put together some great spots to check out in Harrison Township, whether you’re visiting or considering it as a place to call home.
Eats & Treats
Bumper’s Landing
31970 N. River Rd. Harrison Twp. | (586) 630-0501
Located on the Clinton River, Bumper’s is a popular spot for boaters in the warm weather months. With ample waterfront seating and classic “Lake St. Clair ” bar fare (meaning: deep fried favorites, burgers, and good seafood all share space on the menu) it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a hot summer day.
Crew’s Inn
31988 N. River Rd. Harrison Twp. | (586) 463-8144
Right next to Bumper’s is Crew’s Inn, another waterfront favorite. Crew’s Inn offers casual eats, seafood, signature dishes, and a full service indoor and outdoor bar. You can also pick up your food dockside!
Frosty Boy Ice Cream
38650 Jefferson Ave. Harrison Twp. | (586) 465-3322
Ask any family in the area where their kid’s favorite summer memories are made, and we can bet most of them will say during visits to Frosty Boy. Frosty Boy is located near Lake St.Clair Metropark and offers delicious slushies, flurries, cones, shakes and sundaes.
Harrison’s Speakeasy
39504 Jefferson Ave. Harrison Twp. | (586) 421-5842
A relatively new addition to the area, Harrison’s Speakeasy boasts a unique, elevated atmosphere with outdoor seating available in the summer months. You’ll find great cocktails and a full “craft food” style menu here.
Luigi’s Original
36691 Jefferson Ave. Harrison Twp. | (586) 468-7711
One of our favorite restaurants on this list would have to be Luigi’s. With a menu that includes Italian favorites and an impressive selection of wine, we have no doubt you’ll leave impressed. We recommend grabbing a reservation on their website, as this is a very cozy and intimate space with limited seating.
Macray Harbor
30675 N. River Rd. Harrison Twp. MI | By Sea: 4236.609 N, 08247.746 W
Generally known for its lakefront condos, marina, and special events, Macray also has two restaurants open to the public during their on season – The Helm, and N42 Bar and Grille. Check their website to confirm when they open for the summer, and/or for information on obtaining membership.
Ponchos & Cisco’s
36942 Jefferson Ave. Harrison Twp. | (586) 465-6161
A great Mexican Cantina with a full-service bar, stop in for deliciously authentic Mexican fare and some of the best Margaritas around.
River Rat
29370 S. River Rd. Harrison Twp. | (586) 465-6565
A bit of a hidden gem, River Rat is located across from the Clinton River and has an extensive menu boasting large portions at a reasonable price. Whether you’re looking for high quality seafood, Italian food, or casual bar fare, you’ll find it here.
Sandbar
37030 Jefferson Ave. Harrison Twp. | (586) 649-7455
If you’re looking for that quintessential bar and sports grille where you can find plenty of locals coming together on a weekend night, Sandbar is it. In addition to their elevated bar fare and full service bar, Sandbar also offers Sunday brunch (bottomless mimosas included!).
Terry’s Terrace
36470 Jefferson Ave. Harrison Twp. | (586) 463-2671
Operating since 1938, Terry’s is another go-to that offers an extensive menu (including vegan and gluten-free options), beer list, and specials that are sure to please any member of your party. Love fish and chips? Terry’s were voted #1 by Macomb Daily! In addition to great food, there’s also an arcade located inside the restaurant that both kids and adults alike can enjoy.
Shopping & Entertainment
Birch & Arrow
24392 Crocker Ave. Clinton Twp. | (586) 477-0616
If you’re a lover of refinished vintage furniture, local goods, and unique finds, Birch & Arrow is a must visit! No matter how often you stop in, this cozy shop is constantly restocking and always has new finds.
Pedego Junction Electric Bikes
31785 S. River Rd. Harrison Twp. | (810) 543-1111
Located inside Sundog Marina, Pedego Junction has a variety of electric bikes including cruisers, city, mountain, and fat tires. They offer rentals and also have an extensive offering of battery sizes and accessories.
Total Sports & Entertainment
40501 Production Dr. Harrison Twp. | (586) 463-2000
Where do we start? Laser tag, ax throwing, bowling, cornhole leagues, wallyball, racquetball, handball, dodgeball, or softball? In addition to all those offerings, Total Sports also has a full-service bar and food menu, as well as extensive party and event rental options.
Riverside Vintage Market
24368 Crocker Ave. Clinton Twp. | (586) 630-0345
Lover of all things vintage? Then check out Riverside Vintage Market. In addition to carefully curated furniture and home decor, you can also find indoor plants, candles, unique gifts, and books.
Selfridge Military Air Museum
27333 C Street, Harrison Twp. | (586) 239-5035
A museum dedicated to military aviation history, Selfridge Military Air Museum’s mission is “to help preserve the heritage and traditions of the Michigan Air National Guard, Selfridge Air National Guard Base, and the units that are/were stationed there”. Please call or visit their website for information before visiting to confirm the requirements to access the museum.
Simple Adventures
31300 Metropolitan Pkwy. Harrison Twp. | 1-844-WE-KAYAK
Located inside Lake St. Clair Metropark, Simple Adventures offers kayak, canoe, SUP board, and bike rentals as well as social paddle events. There is also a beach shop and beachside grill on site.
Superior Lakes Tasting and Tap Room
36285 Jefferson Ave. Harrison Twp. | (586) 231-9501
If you love Michigan made mead, wine, and cider then Superior Lakes Tasting and Tap Room is a must visit! Stop in to shop, or for a tasting of their handcrafted beverages and charcuterie boards.
Marinas
For a list of marinas located in and near Harrison Township, click here.
Parks
For local parks and events, visit Harrison Township’s Parks and Rec Facebook page, here.
For information on Lake St. Clair MetroPark, click here.
Interested in what other cities and towns across Macomb and Oakland County have to offer?
Check out our other City Guides, on the blog.