09/24/2026
Who remembers an old attraction that you wish was still open in the Irish Hills?
Mine was the Golden Nugget and all you can eat Wednesday night seafood dinners.
🍀 How did Michigan’s Irish Hills get its name?
Long before the Irish Hills became a popular summer destination, Irish immigrants were settling in this part of southeastern Michigan. Beginning in the 1830s—and with more arriving during and after the Irish Potato Famine—the rolling hills and clear lakes reminded many of their homeland. Names such as Killarney, Monaghan, Kelly and Brighton remain reminders of that Irish heritage.
By the 1920s, the area was becoming a destination for automobile travelers. Historic Walker Tavern, which dates to about 1832, became a major tourist attraction, while Cedar Hill State Park—now Cambridge Junction Historic State Park and the surrounding area—helped establish the Irish Hills as a place to stop, explore and enjoy the scenery.
Then came the famous Irish Hills Towers in 1924, built as observation towers to give visitors views across the hills and lakes. Tourism continued to grow through the middle of the 20th century, eventually bringing roadside attractions, motels, restaurants and amusement parks to the region.
Today, signs like this one are a reminder that the Irish Hills name isn’t just a clever tourist slogan—it grew out of the people, landscape and history of this corner of Michigan. 🍀💚
đź“Ť Irish Hills, Michigan
