Crossing one of the two bridges to the island community of Grosse Ile feels as though you are entering a quiet, quaint town in Northern Michigan, while remaining within easy access to the city of Detroit and its suburbs.
The township is composed of several Islands in the Detroit River within view of Canada. Its 18 square miles of tree-lined streets and wooded residential areas convey a sense of peace and tranquility that are reflected in the community being named the safest city in Michigan in 2019 by backgroundchecks.org. Grosse Ile’s idyllic setting, strong school system, and wildlife protection programs have earned it a place among the top 100 places to live in 2011 according to Money Magazine.
Grosse Ile is home to nearly 11,000 residents. The Island is accessible by boat, plane and car with two bridges (free bridge to the south and pay bridge to the north) an airport and plenty of dock space.
Island living on Grosse Ile definitely comes with some great perks. The island location supports a fantastic, active boating community. The Grosse Ile Yacht Club, Ford Yacht Club, and Elba-Mar Boat Club all call the island home and host regular events. For those looking for land-based activity, Grosse Ile has two excellent, 18-hole golf courses: West Shore Golf & Country Club and the Grosse Ile Golf & Country Club. Runners and cyclists can take advantage of the miles of paths and trails that cross the island.
On and off the water, Grosse Ile is home to a plethora of wildlife. Rich coastal wetlands are found across the island including the Nature Area, a 40.5 acre wetland used by Scout groups and teachers to educate children.
A drive along the riverside passes a number of homes steeped in the island’s history. Speaking of history, at the south end of the island, you will find the Grosse Ile Municipal Airport. Between 1927 and 1969 the airport operated as the Naval Air Station Grosse Ile. During World War II, this was one of the largest training stations for pilots from the Navy and Royal Air Force. Today, the airport also plays host to Grosse Ile’s biggest party. Held late May/early June each year, Islandfest is three days of food, art, live music, and fair rides.
