For nearly a century, The St. Clair Inn has been a place where milestones are celebrated, connections are made, and memories are created. Celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, this iconic waterfront property continues to stand as a timeless destination for conferences, conventions, special events, and corporate retreats along Michigan’s beautiful Thumbcoast.
When The St. Clair Inn first opened in 1926, its purpose was to meet the growing demand for a refined retreat for both residents and vacationers traveling from the nearby Detroit area. Notably, it was one of the first hotels in the country to feature air conditioning—an early sign of the Inn’s commitment to comfort, innovation, and exceptional guest experiences. Today, that same spirit lives on through thoughtfully restored spaces, modern amenities, and warm hospitality that welcomes every group as part of the inn’s ongoing story.
Beyond its elegant meeting spaces, The St. Clair Inn offers planners something increasingly important: a destination that extends the experience beyond the agenda. Year-round activities throughout Michigan’s Thumbcoast region make it easy for attendees to turn meetings into meaningful getaways.
In the spring—and throughout the year—groups can enjoy live professional theater at venues such as Thumbcoast Live Theaters locations in Marine City and St. Clair, McMorran Place in Port Huron, and Enter Stage Right’s The Citadel Stage, also in Port Huron. Creative team-building experiences await at Foundry in Port Huron, where groups can participate in hands-on art workshops, custom game nights, or karaoke. History lovers can explore the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse, Michigan’s oldest lighthouse, complete with guided tours to the top and sweeping views of Lake Huron.
Summer brings vibrant energy to the Thumbcoast region, with sandy beaches, charter cruises on the St. Clair River, kayaking adventures, and strolls through charming waterfront communities—all available for groups to enjoy. Signature events like The Blue Water Fest—home to the Bayview Mackinac Race—and the St. Clair Art Fair add color and culture to the season.
In the fall, brilliant foliage color tours, scenic hiking and biking trails, trips to a cider mill, and crisp lakeside air create the perfect setting for reflection and connection.
Winter transforms the region into a festive retreat, featuring outdoor adventures like fat tire biking, snowshoeing, and attending lively community festivals. Groups also can enjoy hockey action with Port Huron Prowlers games (a minor-league professional hockey team) and the annual International Silver Stick youth hockey tournament.
For event planners seeking a destination with character, convenience, and year-round appeal, The St. Clair Inn and Michigan’s Thumbcoast offer decades of experience—and countless reasons to gather, celebrate, and return.
