travel to marquette michigan

Things to Do in Marquette, MI - Marquette Attractions

Things to do in marquette.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• Marina District
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Lakenenland Sculpture Park

2. Presque Isle Park

3. Sugarloaf Mountain

4. Marquette Maritime Museum

5. Iron Ore Heritage Trail

6. Downtown Marquette

7. Jilbert Dairy

8. Dead River Falls

9. Marquette Regional History Center

10. Upper Peninsula Children's Museum

11. Blackrocks Brewery

12. Marquette Mountain Ski and Bike Area

13. Hogback Mountain

14. Superior Dome

15. Beth Millner Jewelry

16. Barrel + Beam

17. Morgan Falls

18. Zero Degrees Artist Gallery

19. Downtown Marquette Farmers Market

20. Ellwood A. Mattson Lower Harbor Park

21. Ore Dock Brewing Company

22. Lake Superior Theatre

23. CR-510 Bridge

24. The DeVos Art Museum

25. Wattsson & Wattsson Jewelers

26. North Country Trail

27. Marquette Tourist Park

28. City of Marquette Arts and Culture Center

29. Shiras Planetarium

30. Williams Park

What travelers are saying

• Presque Isle Park
• Sugarloaf Mountain
• Lakenenland Sculpture Park
• Dead River Falls
• Downtown Marquette
• Iron Ore Heritage Trail
• Jilbert Dairy

12 Top-Rated Things to Do in Marquette, MI

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Mar 23, 2023

Michigan's Upper Peninsula is packed with gorgeous places to visit and explore. But the city of Marquette is certainly in a league of its own. This beautiful, historic city overlooking Lake Superior is home to Northern Michigan University, and is one of the best places in Michigan to explore the state's natural beauty.

Marquette, Michigan's cultural core sits in its historic downtown, home to restaurants, shops, boutiques, tourist attractions, and brick buildings that tell the tales of Marquette's mining and shipping history. But Marquette is also a nature lover's paradise, with endless things to do, from hiking, boating, and biking to skiing , depending on the season.

Spend a few hours in Presque Isle Park, or make your way to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain . Marquette also likes to show off its rich maritime history, as it has long been an important shipping port in Michigan.

Are you ready to explore this fantastic Upper Peninsula city? Read on to discover the best things to do in Marquette, Michigan.

1. Explore Presque Isle Park

2. hike sugarloaf mountain, 3. drive lakenenland sculpture park, 4. view dead river falls, 5. stroll through downtown marquette, 6. visit the marquette maritime museum, 7. catch a game at the superior dome, 8. explore the upper peninsula children's museum, 9. tour the devos art museum, 10. see the stars at the shiras planetarium, 11. view the marquette harbor lighthouse, 12. drive to the pictured rocks national lakeshore, map of things to do in marquette, mi, marquette, mi - climate chart.

Welcome to one of the most beautiful places in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Known as the crown jewel of Marquette's outdoor activities, Presque Isle Park is a 323-acre forest that is truly a paradise for nature lovers.

The beauty of the park is entirely natural. It sits on a small peninsula overlooking Lake Superior. In fact, in 1891, Fredrick Law Olmstead (of New York City's Central Park fame), was invited to Marquette to design a city park. His advice to the city was to leave the area completely as is — the natural beauty speaks for itself.

Today the park is most famous for its loop, the two-mile Peter White Drive , which can be walked, biked, or driven. The loop circles through a grove of beautiful trees, with many lookout points from which to stop and drink in the views out across Lake Superior.

Hiking trails branch out all across the park, as well. Keep your eyes peeled for frolicking white-tailed deer or even a snowy owl. One of the most famous landmarks in the park is Blackrocks, an ancient rock formation that stands 15 feet above the beautiful lake.

Address: Peter White Drive, Marquette, Michigan

If Marquette has an abundance of one thing, it would be beautiful hiking trails and spectacular views. One of the best examples can be found at Sugarloaf Mountain, which is just a few miles from downtown Marquette.

One of the best things to do in Marquette is hike to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. But before you shy away with intimidation, rest assured that this is a simple hike and typically takes no more than 20 minutes to climb the half-mile route.

Most visitors park at the parking lot and take the 304 steps up to the top. The reward is sweeping views of the scenic Upper Peninsula, including Lake Superior, Marquette, and Presque Isle Park.

At the top of the mountain, you will also find several wooden viewing platforms, each of which offers a different angle. You'll be able to see the Superior Dome, the Upper Ore Dock, Wetmore Landing, and Hogsback Mountain, among others.

Lakenenland Sculpture Park is a 37-acre woodland park that is devoted to the quirky, festive scrap metal art designed by local artist, Tom Lakenen. The sculpture park is a beloved part of the community that sits between Marquette and Munising.

Shrouded by towering trees, a winding dirt road makes its way around the park. You can walk or drive the route and pass by more than 100 of Lakenen's original works. What's more? The park is free for all and is open 24/7.

Tom Lakenen is the artist — a former construction worker who began creating art from scrap metal. He opened the park in 2003 on 37 acres, and it has become a hub of culture and entertainment. A pond is stocked with fish, and a bandshell provides a spot for live music.

In addition to the sculptures, visitors will find a fireplace area, picnic tables, a bog walk, and direct access to the North Country Trail .

Address: 2800 M-28 East, Marquette, Michigan

Michigan's UP has its fair share of waterfalls. While visiting Marquette, you can tick a few of them off your list. Dead River Falls, in particular, is one of the most popular and beautiful waterfalls in Marquette.

Set in a rock-covered gorge, the Dead River Falls is a series of cascades that plunge between the rocky crevices. A dirt path follows along the length of the falls, giving several opportunities to spot the river and the many different levels of falls from different vantage points. The final drop sends the falls plunging into a canyon below.

The falls are just a quick trip outside of town. A parking area is available. From here, visitors will follow the well-marked path to Dead River Falls.

The trail starts off as an access road. Follow the gravel road for a quarter of a mile, and the footpath will emerge on the left. You'll be able to see the falls from many different angles as you walk along the trail.

Downtown Marquette is a charming slice of history in this Lake Superior town. You can feel the living history as you wander the streets that are flanked with historic buildings, and enjoy the present day shopping, dining, and fun vibe.

Much of the architecture downtown dates back to the 19th century, with gorgeous brick facades. Within the buildings is a rich array of shops, boutiques, galleries, museums, and restaurants.

Marquette was founded by a man named Amos Harlow and was originally called Worcester, after Harlow's hometown in Massachusetts. The history of the city has always been rooted in shipping, particularly minerals that were excavated from nearby mines. The name of the town was changed to Marquette to honor Jacques Marquette, a French Jesuit missionary who had been exploring the region.

If you are interested in Great Lakes history, a stop at the Marquette Maritime Museum is a must. The museum tells the story of the maritime history of Marquette and Lake Superior through a variety of exhibits, like birch bark canoes, shipwrecks, and a Fresnel lighthouse lens collection.

The building itself is also worth a visit, as it sits on the National Register of Historic Places . The gorgeous building dates back to 1891 and is known for its stony facade, front gable, and rounded arch windows.

Among the offerings at the museum are tours of the lighthouse , history workshops , and children's art programs . The museum also offers winter lecture series and special events throughout the year.

Address: 300 Lake Shore Blvd, Marquette, Michigan

It's tough to miss this landmark of Marquette. One of the largest domes in the world, the Superior Dome is visible from many different vantage points around the city. It is a source of immense pride for its residents, and happens to be a stadium for Northern Michigan University, which is also based in Marquette.

The domed campus stadium is where the Northern Michigan Wildcats play football, lacrosse, basketball, field hockey, and track and field. The dome measures 143 feet tall with a diameter of 536 feet, spanning a total of 5.1 acres.

Catching a game here is an invigorating experience, as 16,000 fans are cheering around you. But when no games are on the schedule, visitors can have free rein of the place, whether that's climbing the bleachers or running laps on the field.

Address: 1401 Presque Isle Ave, Marquette, Michigan

If you're traveling to Marquette with the family, you may want to make a stop at the Upper Peninsula Children's Museum . Designed for kids ages one to 13, the museum fosters a creative space for kids and their families to come learn about the history, culture, and heritage of the Upper Peninsula.

Exhibits range from exploring human anatomy to learning where our water supply comes from. Kids can also pilot a real jet from the cockpit , or learn all about fossils.

A three-tiered model railroad is also one of the top exhibits at the museum. The museum even has a creative performance workshop .

Address: 123 W Baraga Ave, Marquette, Michigan

Head over to the Northern Michigan University campus to experience some top-notch art. Opened in 2005, the DeVos Art Museum is a regional art museum for the Upper Peninsula, and also happens to be part of the School of Art and Design. It's also free of charge and open to the public.

The collection at the DeVos art museum is dedicated to contemporary art, including the UP Focus, which is an ongoing exhibition that highlights artists that either live in, are from, or have been influenced by the Upper Peninsula. Other exhibitions are dedicated to print work, oil paintings, sculpture, illustration, and more.

Get lost among the stars with a visit to the Shiras Planetarium , one of the only fully operational planetariums on the Upper Peninsula and in the Upper Great Lakes region.

The museum opened in 1965 and has been a center of learning for hundreds of thousands of people over the decades. The planetarium is attached to the Marquette Senior High School, but showings are open to the public.

The domed planetarium features indoor stargazing and laser shows. From their Minolta MS-8 star projector, visitors can explore the night sky, planets, and constellations through a 45-minute experience.

Address: 1203 W Fair Ave, Marquette, Michigan

The Marquette Harbor Lighthouse is one of the more unique lighthouses in Michigan, and certainly on the Upper Peninsula. The original lighthouse was built in 1853, but was replaced in 1866 with the lighthouse we see today. Sort of.

What we see today, the barnyard red building perched atop a bluff overlooking Lake Superior, is actually an amalgamation of different designs that were added on over time. The original 1866 Marquette Lighthouse was only a story and a half tall, made of brick.

As time went on and technology changed, the 1866 structure was built upon, adding things like a second story, a covered staircase, and a barn behind it. The red color came in 1965. Today it is one of the most unique lighthouses in Michigan.

Visitors can tour the lighthouse if they sign up for a tour through the Marquette Maritime Museum . The tour includes a visit to the grounds and the living quarters of the former keeper and his family. Visitors can also walk out on the catwalk and snap a photo of the front of the lighthouse and Marquette's coastline.

Address: 300 N Lakeshore Blvd, Marquette, Michigan

One of the absolute jewels of Michigan's Upper Peninsula is the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Overlooking the crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior, the preserved natural area is one of four national parks in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

It is known for its sandstone cliffs that drip with color that come from thousands of years of minerals that have seeped through the rock. The result is a beautiful collage of color that is splashed across the face of the weathered cliffs.

Among the many things to do within the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is hiking the trails , hitting the pristine beaches , boating , and kayaking . The lakeshore has more than 30 miles of bluffs that run along the southern shore of Lake Superior.

Beyond the cliffs, visitors can also explore the inland lakes , sand dunes, waterfalls , and forests that help to make up the rest of this spectacularly beautiful place.

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How To Spend A Perfect Long Weekend In Beautiful Marquette, Michigan

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With a population of 21,000, Marquette is the largest city in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The town, located on Lake Superior, has a strong maritime and mining history. Today, Marquette remains a major port for shipping iron ore.

Nature enthusiasts will find miles of hiking and biking trails. While you can easily enjoy a long weekend in beautiful Marquette, the city makes an excellent base station for nature-centric day trips to other nearby attractions. Other attractions within an easy day’s excursion are Tahquamenon Falls, Big Bay Point Lighthouse, Pictured Rocks National Shoreline, and Whitefish Point Light Station.

Editor’s Note: Marquette made Amy’s list of beautiful towns on Michigan’s Lake Superior shore . You should check out the rest!

Things To Do In Marquette

When I’m in Marquette, the region’s mining and maritime history present standout opportunities to learn. The Iron Ore Heritage Trail, the history center, and the maritime museum expand your knowledge of mining and Lake Superior.

On the other end of the spectrum, nature is at the cornerstone of the Marquette experience, with waterfalls, the northern lights, and walks in the wilderness. Here are six experiences you won’t want to miss in Marquette.

Discover Marquette Maritime Museum And Lighthouse

The Marquette Maritime Museum , lodged in the old City Waterworks building, tells the stories behind Marquette’s maritime history, Lake Superior, and the Great Lakes. The building itself, constructed in 1891, is as much a story as the exhibits inside. The Richardsonian Romanesque–style structure is a one-story stone building with a hipped roof. The architecture is stunning, with round-arched windows and parapeted windows.

Some of the notable exhibits displayed in the Marquette Maritime Museum include the history of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald shipwreck, the SS Henry B. Smith shipwreck, and one of the best lighthouse lens collections on the Great Lakes. You’ll find examples of many types of boats, including steam barges, fishing tugs, and canoes.

The museum is open from mid-May through mid-October, so check specific dates and times of operation. The building is ADA accessible, and they have some wheelchairs for guest use.

The Marquette Harbor Lighthouse, also on the museum grounds, offers a guided tour and is not ADA accessible. The lighthouse requires a moderate amount of walking and climbing 45 steps to enter the historic lighthouse. The tours last about an hour and run weather permitting.

Visit Marquette Regional History Center

The Marquette Regional History Center ’s permanent collection includes artifacts from prehistoric copper culture through the modern day. Only a fraction of the center’s artifacts is on display at once. The interactive displays feature information on the fur trade, logging, and native culture, to name a few. The history center also presents a series of special exhibits.

I particularly enjoyed the history center–sponsored tours, where history comes alive.

Take A City Tour

Start at the Marquette Regional History Center for a 1.2-mile walking tour of historic Marquette . The 90-minute tours are set on paved sidewalks and cover about a dozen buildings throughout the downtown area.

For bikers, a second option is the city bike tour that takes you farther afield than the walking tour. This tour includes Presque Isle Park and Pebble Beach, where you can enjoy Marquette’s outdoor offerings.

We preferred a riding tour. During the summer months, the Marquette Regional History Center offers a bus tour, where you’ll meet historic characters in period costumes that tell tales of Marquette’s history. The bus tour requires some planning, as it doesn’t run daily. Digital audio tours are available on their website.

Watch For Waterfalls

Michigan has 300 waterfalls, and all but one are in the Upper Peninsula. Marquette County features 75 of those. The best time to see waterfalls is during spring, when the water is abundant and the falls are complete. Sometimes, the hunt for waterfalls is challenging, and they seem elusive when you can hear but can’t see them. Travel Marquette offers turn-by-turn directions (PDF) and a ranking system for the hike difficulty. 

I’ve ordered these falls ranked as easy access according to their distance from downtown Marquette: Starting with the Wright Street Falls, only four miles from downtown, check out Warner Falls, Black River Falls, Laughing Whitefish Falls, Big Pup Creek Falls, Yellow Dog River Falls, and Canyon Falls, which is just over an hour away.

Explore the Iron Ore Heritage Trail

The 47-mile Iron Ore Heritage Trail is an outdoor museum of sorts. It’s a year-round trail that spans the Marquette Iron Range. You can explore this interpretive trail in so many ways — hike, bike, cross-country ski, run, snowmobile, or use off-road vehicles (ORV.) It is an interpretive trail that includes signage telling the story of the role of the iron ore mining industry in Michigan and throughout the United States. What was once the actual rail lines has been built into mile markers and interpretive signage frames. The trail is a great way to explore some of the areas surrounding Marquette. Be aware, the trail surfaces vary from asphalt to crushed limestone and no upgraded surfaces.

View The Northern Lights

You don’t need to travel to Iceland or even Alaska to view the northern lights. Little Presque Isle, Presque Isle, and the M28 turnouts all offer unobstructed views of the aurora. Presque Isle Park is the Upper Peninsula’s only dark sky park, and on Friday and Saturday nights, the park is open until 1 a.m. They turn off the streetlights for an optimal viewing experience.

To improve your chances for seeing the northern lights, study space weather predictions from NOAA Space Weather . To increase the likelihood of seeing the northern lights, go out on nights where the solar wind speeds should be greater than 600, the Ovation Model has a hemispheric power of greater than 30, and the south-pointing Bz is working for you. NOAA Space Weather predictions can assist you in determining this information. And, of course, check the local weather forecast for clear skies.

Best Restaurants In Marquette

Michigan is second in the United States in variety of crops produced, only trailing California . You’ll want to sample the Great Lake State’s abundance. Add that to Lake Superior’s freshwater fish, and it all equals big flavor. A northern Michigan sweet specialty, fudge, comes from Michigan’s sugar beet crop.

Jean Kay’s Pasties & Subs

Jean Kay’s Pasties & Subs features pasties just like the owner’s grandma used to make. Pasties, hand-held meat pies made from hearty steak, potatoes, and local vegetables like onions and rutabaga, are wrapped in a homemade pie crust. If you can’t make it to Marquette or want a taste of your vacation once you return home, they ship their savory pasties throughout the United States.

Iron Bay Restaurant And Drinkery

Situated in Marquette’s historic waterfront district, Iron Bay Restaurant and Drinkery was once a foundry. Lake Superior whitefish fresh from the lake is a specialty here in all forms — Superior Whitefish Tater Tots, Superior Whitefish Chowder, Superior Whitefish Tacos, as a simple sandwich, or as fish and chips. No matter the form, the fish goes straight from the lake to your plate.

Cherries are another Michigan product featured throughout the menu. You can try their Michigan Cherry Bourbon BBQ sauce on wings or a burger. They also feature these ruby gems on the Farmer’s Salad for a hint of sweetness.

Michigan is number five in the nation for craft beer, and at Iron Bay Restaurant and Drinkery, the chef incorporates beer throughout the menu. Try their beer cheese spread on a warm pretzel or one of Michigan’s craft beers on draft.

Located in Marquette’s historic Downtown Waterfront District, you’ll find this restaurant on the second floor above Iron Bay Restaurant and Drinkery. With large windows, the upstairs location features stunning views of Lake Superior. During the summer months, their outdoor deck is the perfect place to sip a margarita while taking in the sunset. Sol Azteca serves authentic Mexican cuisine in a historic building. The exposed brick walls and colorful decorations make a fiesta-like atmosphere. If you’re having a tough time deciding, choose one of their combination plates.

Best Hotels In Marquette

Marquette offers various accommodation levels, including upscale boutique hotels, national chains, and many options for camping. 

Hampton Inn Marquette Waterfront

The Hampton Inn Marquette Waterfront on Lake Superior is within walking distance of downtown Marquette’s shops and restaurants. We enjoyed our morning coffee and complimentary breakfast on the deck overlooking Lake Superior. On winter mornings, the large windows allow for a beautiful view of the lake. The hotel is a newer Hampton Inn and features many amenities, like an indoor pool, spa, fitness center, and free Wi-Fi.

Landmark Inn

Located in downtown Marquette, the Landmark Inn is a luxury boutique hotel that’s hosted celebrities like Amelia Earhart, Duke Ellington, and Louis Armstrong throughout its history. This 60-room venue with six suites features stunning views of Lake Superior.

Little Presque Isle Cabins

Tucked away in the woods at Little Presque Isle Recreation Area , about six miles north of Marquette, you’ll find six rustic cabins. These cabins are perfect to spend the night close to nature yet sleep with a roof over your head. They offer no running water or electricity and have vault toilets — plan to bring your own light source.

Pro Tips: Cell service is often intermittent in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, so plan accordingly. Don’t depend on cell service, and be sure to take a paper map.

Further Reading:

• 11 Things To Know Before Exploring Pictured Rocks National Shoreline
• 7 Incredible Lighthouses To Visit In The Midwest
• Why You Must Visit Michigan’s Upper Peninsula In An RV

Amy Piper is a travel writer and publisher of Follow the Piper , a blog focusing on luxury travel and food experiences. Her passion for travel has taken her to 41 countries. Amy resides in Lansing, Michigan, and as a Michigan expert, she is currently writing the Michigan chapter in four anthologies about the Midwest.

Marquette, the Midwest’s most adrenaline-charged playground

Jun 1, 2020 • 5 min read

The Coast Guard Lower Harbor Lighthouse stands on an island just off the shores of Marquette, on Lake Superior. Marquette is a hub of adventure travel on Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Sponsored by

An oasis for outdoor lovers of every ilk, Marquette, Michigan is arguably the Midwest’s best-kept secret. This historic, picturesque town is not only a surprising haven for fresh culinary fare and craft libations, but its surrounding landscapes are a year-round hotbed for hikers, bikers, paddlers and adrenaline seekers of all varieties – even during the coldest months. Oh yes, and the Upper Peninsula locals – “Yoopers” – are perhaps the friendliest people on earth. These are just a few of the area’s one-of-a-kind, not-to-miss offerings.

Playing at the lake

Marquette is situated on the south shore of Lake Superior and the water offers a unique vantage point for exploration by kayak, canoe, stand-up paddleboard or surfboard. From Presque Isle Park – the lush, forested peninsula just north of downtown – one can paddle from the beach or harbor across more than 40 miles of shoreline into hidden coves and inlets. The aquamarine water is crystal clear and it’s possible to spot the occasional bass or trout swimming below its surface. 

Presque Isle is not just a popular launching point for paddle sports, but also where adventurers climb the park’s many cliff faces and walls. On warm summer days when daylight stretches for more than 16 hours, ultimate thrill seekers take long leaps into the sparkling lake from the top of the ashen lakeshore wall known as Black Rocks. 

The park is where one can ogle at the rainbow of foliage in the fall or at the hypnotizing frozen ice formations in winter. The waves of Lake Superior can reach ocean-like proportions on stormy days, which serve as a calling card for surfers, whose hoots and happy calls can often be heard above the crashing breakers.

Discovering waterfalls and sweeping panoramas

The lake is not Marquette County’s only feature when it comes to impressive H2O. The Upper Peninsula’s many rivers and creeks spill into at least a dozen jaw-dropping waterfalls, all of which can be viewed via short (most less than a half-mile) hikes, and many of which can be reached by bike. For foot travelers seeking longer treks, the most panoramic bird’s eye views can be found from the summits of Sugarloaf , Hogback or Mt. Marquette .

Exploring on two wheels

Rivaling mountain bike trail systems found in British Columbia and across the American West, Marquette’s expanse of singletrack is truly mind-boggling. Whether you’re soaring around flowy banked turns on hero dirt, grinding up rocky climbs, launching off boulders, navigating bridge features through dark forests or cruising slowly along the edge of a river with family in tow, these trails go everywhere and are geared toward every level of rider. 

There are also plenty of smooth multi-use paths that stretch along the shoreline and weave through neighboring towns – such as the Iron Ore Heritage Trail , a wide paved and gravel path that meanders through woods and around ponds, gurgling creeks and historic landmarks between Marquette and Ishpeming, the perfect route for a pub crawl to the famed craft breweries lying between towns. 

The Upper Peninsula’s snowy winters do nothing to deter two-wheelers in this corner of the world, either – it simply steers them toward fatter tires. Such is the passion of volunteer-fueled trail maintenance groups like RAMBA and NTN , which oversee the majority of Marquette County’s trails and groom more than 75 miles of local singletrack into prime pedaling consistency throughout the white winter months, creating what is possibly the world’s most robust snow biking community.  

Gliding, rolling and stomping on snow

Outside of snow biking, Marquette is home to one of the Midwest’s most popular downhill ski destinations – Marquette Mountain – with its 15 trails taking skiers and snowboarders down 600 vertical feet of elevation and offering striking views of Lake Superior. Marquette Mountain also serves as one of America’s epicenters for cross country skiing and snowshoeing. On any given day in the winter, sleek skinny skiers can be found gliding gracefully along the dozens of miles of groomed velvet comprising the Noquemanon Trail Network, which also offers endless route options for snowshoe, snow bike and yes, skijoring – in which skiers are towed by sled dogs.

Catching the northern lights

There’s no need to travel all the way to the North Pole to spot the ethereal natural night sky display known as the northern lights. As one of the northern-most regions of the contiguous United States, Marquette also boasts clear skies and an absence of light pollution above Lake Superior. It’s arguably the best U.S. town outside of Alaska where you can catch a glimpse of this rare, star-studded phenomenon. Bring your woolies, however, because the dead of night in winter is the best time to spot them, either from a parking lot along the shoreline or, for rugged viewers who don’t mind a strenuous midnight hike, from atop the nearby summit of Sugarloaf Mountain.

Eat and drink

With all of this outdoor activity, local adventurers will likely be craving more than trail mix before and after their journeys. Luckily, Marquette delivers far beyond expectations. Tuck into an herb-infused cocktail and array of German-fused comfort fare, including the most flavorful and authentic wienerschnitzel on this side of the Atlantic at The Steinhaus ; enormous, farm-fresh sandwiches at Café Bodega ; melt-in-your-mouth croissants at Huron Mountain Bakery and whitefish dishes at the Vierling Restaurant meticulously prepared from ingredients swimming in the lake just hours prior. 

There’s also a wine bar , one of America’s longest operating candy stores and a hopping (and hoppy) craft beer scene that draws bustling crowds and live music to its patios in the summer and cozy taprooms all winter. Must-hits include Blackrocks Brewery on the university side of town and Ore Dock Brewing in the middle of downtown. No matter the drinking or dining haunt, the passion and skill poured into every sip and bite is enough to satiate the most discerning foodies and beer snobs.

Brimming with activity, creativity, culinary prowess and good vibes all around, Marquette’s glowing characteristics extend well beyond this list. Above all, this vibrant community is a true hidden gem on North America’s outdoor adventure map.

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Sponsored by Travel Marquette

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This story was crafted collaboratively between Travel Marquette and Lonely Planet. Both parties provided research and curated content to produce this story. We disclose when information isn’t ours.

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The ULTIMATE Summer Upper Peninsula Road Trip Guide

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is like no other place on earth. Sandwiched between three of the greatest lakes in the world, it’s filled with peaceful forests, magnificent waterfalls , ancient rock formations, quiet and cozy towns, and miles and miles of shoreline — making it the perfect setting for a one-of-a-kind road trip.

Before you get started though, there’s one thing to warn you about: the UP is big. Like, really big. Like, a road trip across the whole thing to hit every sight you absolutely need to see could eat up a serious chunk of your vacation days.

So we suggest taking this guide and picking a segment or two to take at a time, then stitching them together throughout the summer. Trust us — you won’t want to miss any of these incredible destinations, or the beautiful journeys between them, during your summer Upper Peninsula road trip !

St. Ignace to Sault Ste. Marie

After making your own way north through the lower mitten, your journey starts by crossing the Mackinac Bridge into  St. Ignace . Right off the bridge is a classic road trip tourist stop — Castle Rock, a large rock formation where you can get your exercise in for the day by climbing to the top for a great view of the straights.

This is also where you’ll find Paul Bunyan and Babe the Big Blue Ox statues and an old-school gift shop perfect for adults and kids alike.

If you’re still feeling touristy, take a stop at the Mystery Spot where you can — well, you’ll have to stop to find out for yourself! A quick hour up I-75 will take you to Sault Ste. Marie , one of the oldest settlements in the midwest.

Home to Lake Superior State University , there are plenty of restaurants and shops to quell your hunger (for food and gifts) before the catching a Soo Locks Boat Tour .

Though there are plenty of cruises to choose from, the main attraction is the operation of the Soo Locks, where you actually go through the world’s largest locking system and cruise alongside giant lake and ocean ships.

Sault Ste Marie to Paradise and Whitefish Point

Leaving “The Soo,” you’ll take Lakeshore Drive for a scenic trip to Paradise (adorable, we know) where you can get some memorabilia and classic midwest fare. Then it’s just a short drive into Tahquamenon Falls State Park , the most iconic waterfalls in Michigan.

There are two sets of waterfalls, so make sure you plan enough time for both the upper and lower region of the river. If you only want to stop quickly for a few pictures, the upper falls are very accessible and can let you get on your way.

But if you want to stay longer, the park has a campground and gorgeous hiking trails that can easily extend your stay to a day or two.

Once you decide to hit the road, Whitefish Point is just half an hour north. The point features one of the oldest operating lighthouses on Lake Superior, surrounded by beautiful, wide-open vistas of the water.

If you’re into Michigan or maritime history at all, the facility also features the coolest shipwreck museum around. The admission fee for the museum isn’t too bad, especially if you bundle as a family, and for just a bit extra you can climb to the top of the lighthouse tower for some truly incredible views.

Whitefish Point to Grand Marais

A two-hour drive is all it takes to get from Whitefish Point to the cutest, friendliest town you’ll find in all of Michigan — maybe the world. Grand Marais, the eastern gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore , is home to only 500 people year-round, but it is the perfect stopping point (or week-long destination — there’s plenty of lodging and campsites!) for your road trip.

Eccentric restaurants like West Bay Diner and the Dune Saloon keep you fed, while kitschy stops like the Pickle Barrel (where the teeny-weenies live) and the  Gitche Gumee Agate and History Museum and store provide plenty of entertainment.

When it’s time to venture out, take in the pristine bay beach, soak up the sun, and test your meddle by swimming in Lake Superior — it really is cold though. If you want something more rocky and adventurous, you can head out to Agate Beach and watch the waves roll in.

Grand Marais to Munising

The next stretch of road is its own part of the journey, and you’ll take H-58 from Grand Marais to Munising for the 198 twists and turns along Lake Superior. On this route, you can top by the breathtaking Sable Falls , Lake, Dunes, and other Pictured Rocks waterfalls .

If you’re really in a hurry, or really don’t want to enjoy the scenery, you can instead chose to take M-28 for the Seney Stretch — rumored to be the most boring road in Michigan. Either route will drop you off in Munising, and it’s certainly not hard to decide what to do there, as it’s home to the Pictured Rocks and all of the great ways to experience the landscape.

If you’re wondering if Pictured Rocks are all that they’re cracked up to be, they are. You have to get away from land, or at least on the very edge, to see the formations, and you can choose from a boat tour, kayaking out with a guide , or hiking to Chapel Rock to view it from land. Stop by Chapel Falls, just east of the Chapel Rock hike, for another incredible waterfall display.

Munising  is full of lodging and dining options, though we suggest at least one stop at  Muldoon’s for a pasty , in case you haven’t had one yet. But if you want to get your show on the road, M-28 takes you right along Lake Superior for a little less than an hour and drops you off at the hippest town in the UP.

Munising to Marquette

Marquette is just the coolest. Home to Northern Michigan University and the Superior Dome, the largest wooden dome in the world, it’s the perfect combination of up-north charm and college town.

Though this is definitely the place to take your time and eat at one (or many) or Marquette’s fabulous restaurants , make sure to also swing by  Lagniappes for live zydeco music, heaps of atmosphere, and authentic New Orleans cajun grub.

There are some very cool bars around downtown as well, including Blackrocks Brewery , literally a bar in a house with incredible an amount of charm.

For your outdoor activities, the hiking is outstanding at  Presque Isle Park and Sugarloaf Mountain . The tourist state park is exactly what it sounds like, great for a relaxed drive or walk through the forest with the lake in the background.

Marquette to Houghton

From one college town to another, travel up to the Keweenaw to Houghton , home of  Michigan Technological University .

Between these two cities is Michigan’s highest point of elevation at Mount Arvon . The detour can add about two hours, plus however long it takes you to hike up the 1,300 feet above Lake Superior.

It is definitely a must for avid hikers and climbers, but if that’s not your thing, you can keep the road trip moving along to your next destination.

Houghton has a large number of neat museums and shops for you to explore, such as the Mineral Museum , which displays and sells rocks, stones, and gems from around the world.

If you stay the night in Houghton, breakfast at  Suomi Cafe on your way out is perfect for inexpensive and delicious classic American breakfast food.

Houghton to Copper Harbor

An hour farther up the Keweenaw Peninsula gets you to the historic Copper Harbor , a town that used to be the heart of the huge copper industry in the UP. Nowadays, Copper Harbor is bursting with outdoor adventures for dedicated Michiganders to get out and do (though you can still spot green and metallic copper in the water).

If you’re looking for a hike,  Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary  offers a mix of easy, boardwalk trails with steep rocky pathways.

You can of course kayak in the waters around the town to glimpse some of the leftover copper of the past, or hit up Fort Wilkins State Park to glimpse the people of Copper Harbor’s history and walk among the buildings of the preserved fort to see what it was like to live at a frontier fort in the 19th century.

Before the sun sets, the 9-mile ride through Brockway Mountain Drive will give you what might be the best view in all the UP , so have your cameras and your “oohs and ahs” ready.

We recommend staying the night at a hotel or campground in Copper Harbor, because the next leg of your road trip is fairly long and will leave you in the heart of the UP wilderness.

Copper Harbor to Ontonagon (Porcupine Mountains)

Driving back down Keweenaw, you’ll want to stock up on gas and snacks in  Ontonagon before heading into the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park . I’m sure many of you have been waiting for this stop on your road trip because the Porkies are home to some of Michigan’s most iconic topographical features.

You can’t say you’ve truly seen what the UP has to offer until you’ve seen  Lake of the Clouds in the Porkies. Drive right up to the viewing area, or hike around to see this recognizable sight, as it really is breathtaking.

There’s also plenty to explore around the rest of the park, such as  Bond Falls ,  Presque Isle River , and the many hiking trails looping throughout the park’s gorgeous backcountry.

Ontonagon to Manistique

Strap in for your longest leg of the road trip, as heading back east from the Porkies to Manistique  takes about three and half hours.

Not only will you want stop in Manistique to stretch your legs and refuel, but it’s also home to  Kitch-iti-Kipi  (or “The Big Spring”) and we’re guessing you’ve seen this one on Facebook.

You’ll get to see the marvels of this genuinely stunning active spring from a raft that floats you out right over the crystal clear blue water. There’s a park store and gift shop, so you can brag to your Facebook friends about seeing to this remarkable oddity in our home state.

This cute town also offers the perfect setting for boardwalk trekking and dining, or you can venture over to  Mackinaw Trail Winery for some tasting and relaxing after all your outdoor exercising.

Manistique to St. Ignace

The last leg of your journey winds along US-2, on the edge of Lake Michigan’s northern shore. It’s another one of the prettiest drives you can get in Michigan, with the lake on one side and beautiful UP forest on the other.

A quick stop at Cut River Bridge  provides an incredible look at a 150-foot gorge dug out by the Cut River leading out to Lake Michigan. It makes for only a 10 to 15-minute stop, but it is great for some pictures and the opportunity to stretch your legs.

Other eccentric little towns on your way back to St. Ignace, like Brevort or the  Garlyn Zoo  in Naubinway, provide even more chances to sightsee while refilling the snack cooler and gas tank.

Coming up on St. Ignace along US-2 will give you a view of the Bridge, signaling the end of your UP road trip adventure. Hopefully, by this time you’ll look back fondly on the UP’s striking features, its rich history, and its friendly faces.

More Upper Peninsula Summer Road Trip Inspiration

We obviously couldn’t capture everything great in our northern peninsula in just one road trip — did we miss one of your favorite places to visit in the Upper Peninsula during the summer months ? Let us know in the comments!

And for more inspiration, check out a few of the Upper Peninsula road trips our team took in the summer of 2021:

• 12 Days + 1,946 Miles + 4 Campgrounds + 6 People + 1 Dog = Our 2021 Upper Peninsula Summer Adventure
• Just 4 Days to Explore the Upper Peninsula this Summer? Here’s What We Did. #MittenTrip

Editor’s Note: Thanks to Samantha Ward for writing this article in 2017. It has since been updated for accuracy.

The Ultimate Upper Peninsula Road Trip Guide Story

I'm a Spartan, a tree climber, an ice cream connoisseur and a passionate Michigander who wants to tell the stories of our state and those in it. I will correct you if you say soda instead of pop.

A Wheelchair Accessible Marquette, Michigan Travel Guide

After my recent trip to Detroit and Ann Arbor , I had the opportunity to take a road trip to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (U.P.), and specifically the largest city in the U.P., Marquette. The drive from Ann Arbor to Marquette is a bit long at approximately seven hours, but I had the chance to stop in some fun destinations along the way thanks to a wheelchair accessible van rental from Detroit’s Creative Mobility Group . 

While road tripping up to Marquette, I visited Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland (the world’s largest Christmas store), rolled through the treetops on the accessible Canopy Walk at Dow Gardens, and even enjoyed an overnight stay at the gorgeous Inn at Bay Harbor in Petoskey, Michigan, which is about halfway between Ann Arbor and Marquette. During this road trip, I discovered that Michigan has so much to offer in terms of wheelchair accessibility and it made me fall even more in love with the state. I’ll have more information here on the blog soon about everything that I enjoyed during my epic Michigan road trip, but in this blog post, I’d love to share with you what all I was able to do in the quaint, but phenomenal city of Marquette. 

To be completely honest, I hadn’t even heard of Marquette until just a few months ago. Somehow, it had managed to stay completely off my travel radar, but after a few days in the city in August 2021, I am now a huge fan of Marquette, Michigan and am already dreaming of returning. Marquette is essentially the best of what Michigan has to offer; it has incredible outdoor experiences, a lively downtown area, some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet, and so much more. And the best part? It happens to be a wonderful destination for wheelchair users as well. 

From rolling beside Lake Superior on accessible trails to drinking at some great breweries and more, there are so many wheelchair accessible Marquette attractions and things to do that you’ll likely have a difficult time doing them all within one trip. Whether you want to enjoy the great outdoors or get in touch with your creative side and enjoy some art, there is something for everyone in Marquette, Michigan. 

In this wheelchair accessible Marquette, Michigan travel guide, I’ll start by sharing some of the best accessible things to do and then dive into where to stay while in the city. By the time you finish reading this guide, I’m sure that you’ll be excited to book your own accessible trip to Marquette (and I’m likely to be booking a return trip alongside you).

Wheelchair Accessible Marquette Attractions & Things to Do

Munising Falls at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Technically, Munising Falls isn’t in Marquette, but since it’s a little less than an hour away, it is easy to get to and definitely worth the drive. I visited Munising Falls on my way to Marquette and it was one of my first impressions of what the Upper Peninsula had to offer. It certainly impressed!

To reach Munising Falls, there is a paved, albeit steep at some points, trail to get to the waterfall. The trail is about 800 feet long and my Quickie Wheelchair handled the steeper points very well. If you use a manual wheelchair or lightweight scooter however, you may need a push on the way up and some assistance with getting back down as well. 

Once I made it up to the waterfall, it was beautiful. There was a boardwalk viewing area, where I could easily see the waterfall from my wheelchair. The water drops approximately 50 feet over a sandstone cliff and I enjoyed sitting there and watching it for a few peaceful minutes. 

The water falling from Munising Falls is a relatively small amount compared to other waterfalls (all waterfalls can’t be Niagara, I guess), but I really enjoyed my time here and would definitely recommend visiting. Aside from seeing the waterfall, the roll on the trail is a fun activity, and it’s a great way to get outdoors, as well. 

Presque Isle Park

On a nice day, Presque Isle Park is  the  place to go in Marquette. It’s just a short drive from downtown and a favorite of visitors and locals alike. I arrived at Presque Isle Park at about 10am on a weekday and there were already a good bit of people there. It didn’t take long for me to figure out why. 

Accessible parking spots are available at the Presque Isle Pavilion and then you can just follow Peter White Drive for the full paved loop. It is a beautiful trek. From the park’s two-mile paved loop, I was able to see gorgeous Lake Superior for almost the entire way.

The entire loop is completely wheelchair accessible, but there are some steeper hills at certain points. I didn’t have any problems with the route in my powered wheelchair and I think most wheelchairs should be able to handle the entire loop just fine. It was such a fun two-mile roll and I could’ve easily done another loop around if there weren’t so many other amazing things to see in Marquette. 

Downtown Marquette

Downtown Marquette is quirky, cool, and a fun place to wander around on a nice day. Downtown has so many awesome shops & restaurants, and the large majority of them are wheelchair accessible. I enjoyed popping into the various shops and spent about four hours one afternoon just rolling through downtown and shopping. For Marquette to be a smaller city, compared to big cities like Detroit anyway, I actually liked its downtown area more than most places. I’m telling ya, downtown Marquette is a whole vibe. 

There were smooth curb cuts at all crosswalks in downtown, so it was easy for me to get around in my powered wheelchair. Sidewalks were in good condition as well and wide enough, but some of the streets in downtown Marquette are quite steep, so definitely be careful while going up and down the steep hills. I didn’t have any issues, but it could prove to be a little challenging with a manual wheelchair in some areas. 

A fun downtown activity to participate in if you’re in Marquette on the first Thursday of the month from June-October is the First Thursdays Art Walk . This is a monthly art stroll, where local studios and galleries come together to create a fun and interactive art crawl through downtown. Many of the shops are within walking/rolling distance of each other, but you will need to drive to some.

There are around a dozen art shops on the First Thursdays Art Walk and most of them are accessible. Some of my favorites were Gordon Gearhart , who is a talented blacksmith and creates metal sculptures, The Gallery, Hotplate Pottery, Hotplate Clayworks, and Rock Street Studio. After visiting these, I was impressed with just how much talent is in Marquette. And remember, even if you’re not in Marquette during First Thursdays Art Walk, you can still visit the many galleries and studios.

Blackrocks Brewery

Established in 2010, Blackrocks Brewery has become one of the Upper Peninsula’s largest and most popular breweries. And it is no wonder! This microbrewery in Marquette offers craft beers, live music, and outdoor seating, making it the perfect place to relax after a long day of sightseeing. 

Blackrocks Brewery does not serve food, but you definitely will not go hungry here. When I visited, there was the most delicious food truck parked on the street’s edge selling pizzas and apparently, you can find a food truck here pretty much every evening. In my opinion, nothing is better than pizza, beer, and a perfect summer breeze with live music in the background, so I was quite happy. 

The Blackrocks drink menu contains American IPA’s , dry hopped cream ale, seasonal beers, lager beers, and delicious barrel aged brews. Whether you want to drink some beer, watch some live music, or both at the same time, this is a place to add to your list while in Marquette.  

Marquette Maritime Museum

This museum specializes in the maritime history of Marquette, Lake Superior, and the iron ore trade. Its exterior is a beautiful brick building and it is all on one level for easy wheelchair access. Check the museum’s calendar before heading over though, as it is only open from mid-May through mid-October. 

While relatively small in size, the Marquette Maritime Museum is full of interesting exhibits and information. You can learn about the city’s maritime history, notable shipwrecks in the area, and what it takes to live out at sea. One of my favorite details inside the museum was the “knot station”. This is a hands-on display of ropes and the pictures of different sailor’s knots for you to try. Trust me, those knots are harder than they look to figure out! 

Since 2002, the museum has also been associated with the Marquette Harbor Light, a lighthouse that serves traffic in Marquette Harbor and adjacent waters of Lake Superior. Unfortunately, the lighthouse does not have an elevator and is not wheelchair accessible. However, it is worth catching a glimpse of from the outside. 

Iron Ore Heritage Trail and the Marquette bike paths

I love being outdoors on accessible trails and Marquette, Michigan certainly has a LOT of them! The Iron Ore Heritage Trail and Marquette bike paths stretch for 47 miles and 35 of those are wheelchair accessible. I didn’t roll the entire path (my wheelchair can’t go quite that far on a single charge), but I did roll some of it & had great views of Lake Superior! 

The bike paths and Iron Ore Heritage Trail go through downtown, near Presque Isle Park, and much further. I started rolling on the trail from Clark Lambros Beach Park, but you could absolutely start somewhere else along the trail. Before heading out, just think about where you want to start and stop, and then plan your route.  

Across the street from the Clark Lambros Beach Park is an EZ Launch for kayaks and canoes. This kayak launch is adapted for wheelchair users to make the process of actually getting in and out of the kayak easier. You just slide over some sturdy benches until you’re down in the kayak and then make your way into the water. It’s an easy way to get out on the water and I loved the fact that Marquette had this, as water activities can frequently be off-limits for wheelchair users due to a lack of access.

Ore Dock Brewing Company

If I lived in Marquette, Ore Dock Brewing Company is the place that I would be at every weekend. It is much more than just a bar, although the drinks are great. It’s also a place to socialize, enjoy live music, a comedy show, or simply unwind.

Ore Dock Brewing Company opened in 2012 and since then, it has become one of the best breweries in the Upper Peninsula. They have a variety of beers on tap and if you want to try five of them, you could do a sampler flight. I had the Blue Canoe beer and loved it, so I’d definitely suggest trying it. 

Every weekend, Ore Dock has live music and sometimes, they have comedy shows. On the night that I visited, it was open-mic comedy night, which was a lot of fun to watch. The shows take place on the second floor, which is wheelchair accessible via an alternative entrance. Whether you want to hang out downstairs or be entertained upstairs, the brewery is fully accessible. 

The Downtown Marquette Farmers Market

Every Saturday morning from May until the end of October, downtown Marquette overflows with local vendors at the Marquette Farmers Market. There are all kinds of things for sale here, from artwork to food, flowers, and pretty much anything you can imagine. And the best part is that it’s all made by locals!

While at the farmer’s market, I bought a piece of art and enjoyed some kale/carrot/turmeric juice (followed up with a scone, of course). There is truly something for everyone here and the market is fully accessible. There are smooth paved paths between vendors, so you should have no problems shopping from a wheelchair. 

There are about 50 vendors at the Marquette Farmers Market every Saturday morning, but if you won’t be in town on a Saturday, you could also visit the Wednesday evening market. It runs every Wednesday from 5-7pm from mid-June to mid-September. 

Lakenenland

Lakenenland is one of the coolest roadside attractions I’ve ever been to. Lakenenland Sculpture Park in Marquette, Michigan is such a unique place because not only is it completely free and open 24/7, but all of the sculptures were created by one person, Tom Lakenen. 

Across 37 acres, there are dozens of sculptures made of junk metal and scrap iron. The sculptures are fun to see and it amazed me that just one person created all of them. Many of the sculptures are politically-driven, but there are also many that aren’t. 

You can choose to walk/roll throughout the sculpture park or drive. It was raining a bit when I visited, so driving was the best option. It is a dirt path, but hard-packed, so it would probably be possible to roll in a wheelchair if you really wanted to. However, Lakenenland is pretty big, so I’d likely suggest driving through it.

Thomas Rock Scenic Overlook

Thomas Rock Scenic Overlook is only a 30-minute drive from Marquette, Michigan and has beautiful views of Lake Superior. To get to the overlook, there is a trail (about a 1-mile long loop) that winds through the woods and is wheelchair accessible. 

The mile-long trail was very easy to do in my powered wheelchair, but there were a couple spots that were a bit steep. Interpretive signs are along the trail and they describe the surrounding trees, wildlife, and plants. As I rolled along the trail, I enjoyed learning about the area through the many interpretive signs.

Approximately halfway on the trail is the overlook spot, where the views stretch for miles. I could see Lake Superior and the gorgeous scenery, and I sat there for a while taking in the beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. This is easily one of the best, and most scenic, places in all of Michigan. It should be an absolute must-do on your wheelchair accessible Marquette itinerary!

At the start of the trail, there are accessible parking spaces and accessible restrooms. The restrooms are spacious and single stalls, so they’re perfect for families or if you require a companion.

Where to Stay in Marquette: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson

While in Marquette, I stayed at the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson . I had never stayed at a Country Inn & Suites until this stay, but I was quickly impressed and really liked this hotel. It was in a great location, just a 10-minute drive from downtown Marquette, and there were plenty of restaurants in the surrounding area. 

My wheelchair accessible room had one king bed and was spacious enough for me to maneuver around. There was also plenty of clearance underneath the bed for a hoyer lift/hoist if you need that. 

In the bathroom, there was a pull-under sink, grab bars by the toilet, and a roll-in shower. The roll-in shower had a fold-down seat, but the fold-down seat was on the opposite side of the shower as the controls and handheld shower wand, so they could be difficult/impossible to reach if you’re sitting in the fold-down seat. Aside from that, the room and bathroom were great for my accessibility needs. 

Another feature that I liked was that the  Country Inn & Suites by Radisson  had complimentary breakfast every morning. There was a good selection of breakfast items and it was the perfect way to start the day before embarking on fun excursions around Marquette! 

Marquette, Michigan is a destination that I’m already dreaming about returning to. And to have not really known anything about the city before visiting, it completely blew me away. From friendly locals to a plethora of wheelchair accessible Marquette attractions and great accommodations, now that you know just how spectacular this city is, it’s time to plan your own adventure to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula!

*Thank you to Travel Marquette  for working with me on this trip and showing me the best wheelchair accessible Marquette attractions! While most of my experiences in Marquette were complimentary, all opinions expressed are authentic and my own.

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After being diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy at the age of two, Cory's thirst for adventure never ceased. He went on many trips around the US when he was younger, and then started taking things internationally when he turned fifteen. Since then, Cory has traveled around the world, all while managing to successfully graduate college and start up his travel blog curbfreewithcorylee.com, where he shares his accessible, and sometimes not so accessible, travel adventures with others. Through this, he hopes to inspire other wheelchair users to roll out of their comfort zone and see all of the beauty that the world has to offer.

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Crazy Fun Things To Do In Marquette, MI

L ocated in the northern reaches of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and on the shores of Lake Superior, one of Michigan’s great lakes, you’ll find Marquette, Michigan.

Yes, it will feel like you’ve driven far enough to be in Canada, but I promise you’re still in the United States.

Known for Northern Michigan University, mountain biking, surfing, breweries, iron ore heritage trail, maritime history, northern lights and so much more. The Marquette area is so much more than you would ever expect.

There is a rich history and the downtown area is quite lovely, but, in my opinion it’s the outdoor recreation that really draws people to Marquette Michigan.

Important editor’s note: In my opinion, the best time to visit Marquette is in the summer or fall. I’m not a big fan of winter and would prefer to be far away from cold and snow.

That being said lots of people love it here in the winter months. Plan accordingly though if you visit in the winter because it will be COLD.

However, after my recent visit to Marquette, I realized why you only have to be a little crazy to fall in love with the UP.

During my trip, I fell in love with Michigan’s U.P. all over again. It may not be THE place for me to live year round, but it is absolutely wonderful to visit in Summer and Fall.

If you are a fan of snow sports then you will LOVE it during that season as well.

The Ultimate List of Things To Do In Michigan

Crazy Fun Reasons to Visit Marquette, MI

Thought you needed to live near an ocean to learn to surf? Think again. Surfers flock to Michigan’s Lake Superior to catch a wave or two.

Note that wet suits are usually required due to Superiors cold, cold waters. Hence, being number one on my crazy list of reasons to visit the U.P. I’ve never been a fan of cold ((shudder)).

(c)https://www.flickr.com/photos/three_if_by_bike/2880222913

Mountain Biking

Hundreds of miles of trails for off-road biking and fat tire bike await you in Marquette County.

The International Mountain Biking Association recently awarded Marquette as a Bronze Level Ride Center which makes it only one of twenty ride centers in the U.S. and only the second location in Michigan (Copper Harbor in the Upper Peninsula is the other designated ride center).

There are trails for all skill levels here from beginner to extreme.

(c)https://www.flickr.com/photos/monicahackett/8141354397

Cliff Jumping

Black Rocks are famous for its cliff-jumping opportunities. Not being a fan of heights or cold water cliff jumping is not for me.

However, if you’d like a bit of an adrenaline rush cliff jumping from Black Rocks might just be the thing.

NOTE: Be advised that cliff jumping can be dangerous. Engage in this activity at your own risk.

There are lots of great hiking trails to hike around the Marquette area. Two of my favorites include Presque Isle Park and Marquette Mountain.

Presque Isle offers lovely walks along Lake Superior’s shore while Mount Marquette provides scenic sweeping views of downtown Marquette and Lake Superior.

70 waterfalls can be found in Marquette County. Some are easy hikes and others are a little more extreme to hike to.

The majority of waterfalls are in remote locations and will require a 4×4 or be prepared for a bit of a hike.

A great place that is easily accessible is Dead River Falls . 

Swim in Lake Superior

The gorgeous waters of Lake Superior are hard to resist. As far as I’m concerned Superior really never warms up enough to swim in, but many others don’t agree with me.

A lot of locals and visitors alike swim in the lake without any reservations. The most you’ll find me doing is wading a bit and not for long.

Whitefish is a signature menu item in Marquette. You’ll find it fried, baked, and/or steamed at many restaurants.

Marquette has a few breweries that are producing some excellent brews. In September Marquette hosts a beer festival that showcases over 65 Michigan breweries. If you attend be sure to make and wear your beer necklace!

These handheld meat pies were brought to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula by the copper and iron miners from Cornwall, England.

Pasties typically have root vegetables and beef and are baked to a crispy brown. You’ll be able to find pastys at a lot of restaurants in the area.

Autumn Colors

September and October find the U.P. in an explosion of colors. Reds, Oranges, Yellows and more color the landscape.

Fall is my favorite time of year to visit for all the amazing colors.

Sugarloaf Mountain Overlook

Seriously, well worth the walk and one of the best places for sweeping views of the Lake Superior shoreline in one direction and endless views of forest green in the other is the Sugarloaf Mountain viewing area . Simply stunning.

Lakenenland Sculpture Park

Now, you’ll see a lot of weird and wonderful things on your visit to Marquette. One place, just outside of town, that you absolutely shouldn’t miss is the Lakenenland Sculpture Park .

Here’s a list of what else to see beyond Marquette; 30 more reasons to visit Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

Marquette Maritime Museum

You can’t really visit Marquette without visiting the Maritime Museum . The bonus is that the museum is also home to the Harbor Lighthouse, which is a gorgeous building and a must for those that love the history and lore of lighthouses.

For my friends that enjoy a good haunted location you’ll definitely want to visit the lighthouse. Rumor has it that it is haunted by the spirit of a young girl.

Although no records can be found of any tragic endings at the lighthouse there are lots of stories floating around of people seeing a child apparition. The lighthouse itself is worth the stop, a ghost encounter would be a great bonus.

If you have time be sure to include a visit to the Devos Art Museum and if you have small children with you a stop at the Upper Peninsula Children’s museum is a must.

These are also great options if you happen to visit on a rainy day.

Find more family fun at Moosewood Nature Center

Unique Things Roadside Attraction

The World’s Largest Wooden Dome, Superior Dome, spans span of 535 feet and is a great one to check off the roadside attractions checklist.

Where to Eat/Drink

Vierling Restaurant & Marquette Harbor Brewing

Jilbert Dairy Ice Cream

Blackrocks Brewery

***Pin Crazy Fun Reasons to Visit Marquette, MI to Pinterest***

University of Michigan Athletics

Michigan Set to Square Off with Marquette in Road Trip

3/18/2024 4:41:00 PM | Women's Lacrosse

By: Megan McIntosh

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- The No. 3-ranked University of Michigan women's lacrosse team will travel to Marquette, Wisc., for a non-conference contest Sunday (March 24) at noon CT.

• Michigan heads into week seven as the No. 3 ranked team in the nation, cracking into the top five for the first time in program history. The Wolverines are off to their second-best start in program history as they are 10-0. The best start came in 2019 when U-M went 13-0 to start the season.

• As a team, the Wolverines have defeated four ranked opponents this season -- with its most recent win over No. 15 Penn.

• The U-M defense is the No. 1 scoring defense in the country allowing just 5.20 goals per game, while goalie Erin O'Grady leads the nation in goals against average (5.26) and save percentage (.667), and ranks seventh in saves with 92.

• Junior Kaylee Dyer scored a career-best six goals and added two assists in the victory over Rutgers becoming the first U-M player to record eight or more points in a game since Molly Garrett on March 21, 2021, against Penn State.

• The 2024 Wolverines are finding their spot in the Michigan lacrosse record book as junior Jill Smith is just 16 goals away from tying Kim Coughlan for the most goals (124) and senior Lily Montemarano now has 131 draw control wins in her career passing Maggie Kane for fourth all-time in Michigan history. Her 12 wins against the Buckeyes also eclipsed a Michigan single-game best.

• Head coach Hannah Nielsen has led U-M to three NCAA Tournament appearances including back-to-back years in 2022 and 2023. Nielsen has also coached four players who were Tewaaraton Award nominees.

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Our goal is to keep Michigan's motorists safe, informed, and mobile. That is why MDOT offers many ways to help ease the stress of commuting by providing information that commuters want and need as they make daily travel decisions.

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At MDOT, safety is paramount. It is our goal to improve overall safety for all road users, internal staff, contractors performing work on roads, and emergency responders.

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In Michigan, there are three publicly-owned and operated bridges: Mackinac Bridge, Blue Water Bridge, and International Bridge. There are also two privately-owned and operated border crossings: Ambassador Bridge and Detroit-Windsor Tunnel.

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MDOT meeting April 9 to discuss 2026 M-35 rebuilding/roundabout project in Marquette County

March 26, 2024

ISHPEMING, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) invites the public to a meeting regarding a planned 2026 improvements project on M-35 in Marquette County between County Road 480 and US-41, including rebuilding the M-35/County Road 492 intersection to a modern roundabout. During this meeting, there will be a brief presentation followed by a question-and-answer session.

Who: MDOT staff Interested residents and business owners Community stakeholders                       

When: Tuesday, April 9, 2024 5:30 p.m.

Where: Negaunee Township Hall 42 East State Highway M-35 Negaunee, MI 49866

Accessibility: Attendees who require mobility, visual, hearing, written or other assistance for effective participation should contact Orlando Curry at 517-241-7462 or [email protected] , preferably at least five business days prior to the scheduled meeting. Forms are located on the Title VI webpage . Requests made after this timeframe will be evaluated and honored to the extent possible.

Project information: MDOT plans to invest about $7.2 million to crush and shape the existing pavement and surface with new asphalt pavement, widen existing paved shoulders, realign the M-35/Marquette County Road 492 intersection to build a modern roundabout, and perform grading and tree clearing at various locations for safety improvements.

Work is expected to begin in spring 2026 and be completed in fall 2026.

Throughout work, project information will be posted on MDOT's Mi Drive website and will also be shared on social media.

Public comment: In addition to the public meeting, c omments and input can be submitted using the M-35 rebuilding/roundabout comment form , or by using the contact information below.

Monica Monsma MDOT Environmental Services Section [email protected] 425 West Ottawa St.  P.O. Box 30050  Lansing, MI 48909 517-335-4381

Media Contact:

Dan Weingarten

MDOT Superior Region Media Representative

[email protected]

906-250-4809

Related News

Mt. hope avenue closed at us-127 for bridge demolition in ingham county this weekend starting friday night.

LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will close Mt. Hope Avenue at US-127 for a partial bridge demolition on Friday.

I-96 Flex Route update: Weather forcing weekday ramp and lane closures in Oakland County

NOVI, Mich. ¬- Weather is forcing crews on the Michigan Department of Transportation's (MDOT) I-96 Flex Route project in Oakland County to perform planned weekend ramp and lane closures instead on weekdays.

Mackinac Bridge Authority meets April 5 in Dimondale

ST. IGNACE, Mich. ¬- The Mackinac Bridge Authority (MBA) will meet April 5 in Dimondale to discuss the annual inspection report and maintenance project updates.

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US-12 (Michigan Avenue) pedestrian improvement project at I-275 interchange area in Canton Township

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Reminder: US-24 (Telegraph Road) project near Eureka Road will have one lane open Monday, April 1

TAYLOR, Mich. ¬- The Michigan Department of Transportation is investing $18.5 million to replace two bridges and improve four bridges on US-24 (Telegraph Road) from the US-24/I-75 connector to Mercier Avenue, north of Eureka Road, along with repairs to the US-24 connector between I-75 and Eureka Road.

MDOT public meeting April 10 to discuss I-75 BL project between M-1 and I-75 in Bloomfield Township

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is hosting a public meeting to discuss an overview of the I-75 Business Loop (BL) (Square Lake Road) project between M-1 (Woodward Avenue) and I-75 in Bloomfield Township, Oakland County.

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Marquette is a No. 2 seed again in March Madness, hopes to seize opportunity in South Region

Marquette head coach Shaka Smart reacts during the final minutes in the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against UConn in the championship of the Big East Conference tournament, Saturday, March 16, 2024, in New York. UConn won 73-57. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)

Marquette’s Tyler Kolek shoots between Providence’s Josh Oduro and Corey Floyd Jr. during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)

Marquette forward Ben Gold dunks during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against UConn in the championship of the Big East Conference tournament, Saturday, March 16, 2024, in New York. UConn won 73-57. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)

The Hilltoppers celebrate winning 78-71 over the UTEP Miners in an NCAA college basketball game to become the Conference USA men’s basketball champions for the first time since 2013 at VBC Propst Arena in Huntington, Ala., on Saturday, March 16, 2024. WKU advances the NCAA tournament. (Grace Ramey/Daily News via AP)

Western Kentucky junior guard Don McHenry (2) shoots a three-pointer over UTEP senior guard Zid Powell (0) in the Hilltoppers’ 78-71 win over the Miners in an NCAA college basketball game to become the Conference USA men’s basketball champions for the first time since 2013 at VBC Propst Arena in Huntington, Ala., on Saturday, March 16, 2024. WKU advances the NCAA tournament. (Grace Ramey/Daily News via AP)

Western Kentucky redshirt senior guard Brandon Newman (10) kisses the Conference USA men’s basketball championship trophy after the Hilltoppers won 78-71 over the UTEP Miners to become the Conference USA men’s basketball champions for the first time since 2013 at VBC Propst Arena in Huntington, Ala., on Saturday, March 16, 2024. WKU advances the NCAA tournament. (Grace Ramey/Daily News via AP)

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INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Marquette is determined to do more with a No. 2 seed in the NCAA Tournament than it did last year.

The Golden Eagles squandered their high seed a year ago, losing in the second round to 10th-seeded Michigan State.

Their first task: Play like a big favorite against No. 15 seed Western Kentucky in the first round of the South Region on Friday.

“I think we found that edge all season,” senior forward Oso Ighodaro said Thursday. “When we’re playing at our best, we have it and that’s something that we’ve been really focusing on during this two-game tournament.”

Being closer to full strength has Marquette (25-9) feeling confident.

Standout point guard Tyler Kolek is expected to return from a six-game absence because of an oblique strain. The nation’s second-ranked player in assists (7.6 per game) has practiced this week and coach Shaka Smart indicated that he’ll play, although Kolek acknowledged his recovery has had obstacles.

Teammate Kam Jones had to help him out of a chair after a class. Kolek also struggled to close a car door. Fortunately for Marquette, he looked pretty fluid shooting 3s during practice on Thursday.

“It was a three-to-four-week injury, so we’re still kind of on the front end of it a little bit,” he said. “But I made great progress. The doctors really took care of me. I did everything that I could to get back.”

The Golden Eagles went 3-3 without Kolek, including last week’s 73-57 loss to defending national champion and No. 1 overall seed UConn in the Big East Tournament championship game. Smart, eyeing the big picture, held Kolek out as a precaution.

“He just wasn’t quite ready in terms of going through all the things he needed to go through,” Smart said. “I think the biggest challenge for him (Friday) is going to be the psychological part of coming back to playing after three weeks of not playing. He’s a very, very thoughtful, intentional, serious person and player, and he wants to get everything right.”

Western Kentucky (22-11) is making its first March Madness appearance since 2013 and seeking its first tournament win since 2012 in the First Four.

The Hilltoppers staged a remarkable turnaround after closing the regular season on a four-game slide. They regrouped to win the next three and claim their first Conference USA Tournament championship in coach Steve Lutz’s first season.

“During the losing streak, sometimes teams went on runs and we kind of put our heads down,” Western Kentucky junior guard Don McHenry said. “Whereas at the conference tournament, we just stayed through it together through everything, knowing if something goes wrong, we’ve got to bounce back from this. We can’t lose. It was a bit more focused and there was a bit more fight to us.”

DUKE LOSES FOSTER

Duke coach Jon Scheyer said a right ankle injury will keep freshman guard Caleb Foster out of the NCAA Tournament . The fourth-seeded Blue Devils open against 13th-seeded Vermont on Friday in New York at Barclays Center, home of the Brooklyn Nets.

Foster (7.7 points per game, 41% on 3-pointers) has missed the past five games but Duke had hoped he might return for the tournament. He had seen multiple doctors and even tried to practice this week, but Scheyer said Foster “wasn’t able to be himself.”

Vermont is making its 10th NCAA Tournament appearance and is 2-9 overall, including an upset of Syracuse as a 13 seed in 2005. The Catamounts feature eight new players, including four transfers. The transfers include leading scorer TJ Long, who rooted against Duke while growing up in the New York area.

FREE-FLOWING FLORIDA

Held to its second-lowest point total in an 86-67 loss to Auburn in the Southeastern Conference Tournament championship game, No. 7 seed Florida hopes to resume its high-scoring ways against 10th-seeded Colorado in New York.

The Gators credit their second-year coach, Todd Golden, for their success on offense.

“I think a lot of us have freedom, the freedom to do things that’s tailored to our game,” said guard Walter Clayton Jr., whose 17.1-point average leads four Gators in double figures.

“I think our offense has a lot of movement in it. We just get moving, get the bigs involved a lot, and just obviously I think (point guard Zyon Pullen) does a great job getting us shots, and that allows the whole team to just play free.”

Florida is 4-3 this month with two 100-point efforts against Alabama alone. The Gators, who won national titles in 2006 and ’07, are playing in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2021.

UPSET ADVICE

James Madison coach Mark Byington watched Florida Atlantic make its surprising run to last year’s Final Four and wondered what it would take for the Dukes to do something similar. So he called his friend, FAU coach Dusty May.

“I wanted to see what was the natural, or what was the magic,” Byington said. “I have great respect for him as a coach and what he’s done there, and it just so happened they are up in Brooklyn.”

The 12th-seeded Dukes (31-3) are tied with No. 1 seed UConn for the most victories in the country and face fifth-seeded Wisconsin in Brooklyn. JMU is making its first March Madness appearance since 2013 and third since 1984.

AP College Sports Writer Ralph D. Russo in New York contributed to this report.

AP March Madness bracket: https://apnews.com/hub/ncaa-mens-bracket and coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/march-madness

Events in Marquette, MI

Scenic vistas, dancing Northern Lights, and 83 miles of Lake Superior shoreline make Marquette, MI a hidden gem ready to be discovered. Home of the NMU Wildcats , the vibrant college town is brimming with energy. This good-natured fun inspires Marquette’s community events – and everyone’s invited. 

Annual Events

From sled dog races and the Polar Roll to the Festival of the Angry Bear, Marquette shows its unique flavor through its annual events .    Pack in the flavor – and fun – at Marquette Blueberry Festival . Held each July in Downtown Marquette, Blueberry Festival satisfies your cravings with creative blueberry fare. (Blueberry pizza and beer, anyone?) Or simply stroll through downtown snacking on mounds of fresh blueberries.    Fall weather ushers in the U.P Fall Beer Fest in Marquette – along with a selection of 600 craft beers from 80 different Michigan breweries. Food from local restaurants and a jam-packed lineup of musicians round out the weekend. 

Concerts and Live Music

Hiawatha Music Festival has been one of the most anticipated events in Marquette over the past 40 years. Each year’s event features traditional music styles, including bluegrass, old-time, Cajun, Celtic, acoustic blues, and folk – including singer/songwriters – and dance.   Marquette Area Blues Fest features world-class blues performers on the main stage in addition to artist workshops, local food vendors, and a beverage tent with local craft brews. And it all takes place in Mattson Lower Harbor Park on the shores of Lake Superior.

Theater and Performing Arts Events

Fresh Coast Film Festival celebrates the outdoor lifestyle and resilient spirit of Marquette. The documentary film festival gathers the best environmental and cultural filmmakers from around the world while creating a venue for and building a culture of Great Lakes storytelling in the Upper Midwest’s hidden gem. 

Race and Fitness

Like many things in Marquette, Ore to Shore bike race is rooted deeply in nature. The starting line begins at Negaunee, where iron ore was first discovered in 1844 in the Superior region. The long-distance course travels through Ishpeming, past towering head frames from the heyday of underground mining, and then heads north into the beautiful wooded wilderness, crossing or running alongside Dead River all the way into Marquette to the Lake Superior shoreline.   Whether you bike, run or meander, Marquette Trails Fest encourages the community to get out and have fun. Everyone contributes to this race, from a 1.5-mile kid run to youth events and bike races. All proceeds go to maintaining the trail network.  

Concerts & Live Music

Theater and performing arts, races & fitness, northern michigan university, join the fun.

From culinary hotspots and craft breweries to stargazing and miles of trails, there are plenty of things to do in Marquette once the party has died down. Many come in awe of nature and stay for the fun.    Are you interested in spreading the word about an upcoming event? Submit your event to Travel Marquette.

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