Sault Ste. Marie MichiganATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.
1. Soo Locks
ENGINEERING MARVEL
The Soo Locks is the largest lock system of its kind in the world, allowing massive freighters to navigate between Lake Superior and Lake Huron. Visitors can watch enormous ships pass through while learning about the crucial role these locks play in Great Lakes shipping. The surrounding Soo Locks Park offers nature trails and historical exhibits at the Weather Bureau Building dating back to 1899.
2. Museum Ship Valley Camp
MARITIME HISTORY AFLOAT
The Museum Ship Valley Camp offers visitors a chance to explore a retired Great Lakes freighter that served for over 50 years. Inside the massive 550-foot vessel, guests can view maritime artifacts, aquariums featuring Great Lakes fish, and exhibits about shipping history. The museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the life of sailors and the importance of shipping in the development of the region.
3. Rotary Island Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Rotary Island Park offers a peaceful retreat along the St. Marys River with picturesque views of passing ships and the International Bridge. The park features family-friendly amenities including picnic areas, a children's playground, and scenic walking paths along the waterfront. Visitors can enjoy watching freighters navigate the nearby locks while relaxing in this beautifully maintained green space in Michigan's oldest city.
4. Holy Name of Mary Church
HISTORIC SACRED SITE
Holy Name of Mary Church stands as a testament to the rich Catholic heritage of Sault Ste. Marie with its beautiful architecture and historical significance. The church features stunning stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and a peaceful atmosphere for both worshippers and visitors. Its location in downtown Sault Ste. Marie makes it an accessible cultural landmark that connects visitors to the city's spiritual history.
5. Sault Ste Marie International Bridge
CONNECTING TWO NATIONS
The Sault Ste Marie International Bridge spans the St. Marys River, connecting the United States and Canada in an impressive display of international cooperation and engineering. The bridge offers spectacular views of the surrounding waterways, locks, and both American and Canadian cityscapes. Travelers crossing this structure not only move between countries but also experience the unique cultural and geographical connection between the twin Sault Ste. Marie cities.
6. Tower of History
PANORAMIC CITY VIEWS
The Tower of History rises 210 feet above Sault Ste. Marie, offering visitors breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, the St. Marys River, and the surrounding region. The observation deck provides the perfect vantage point to watch freighters navigate the Soo Locks and appreciate the natural beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Educational exhibits inside the tower detail the area's rich history, from Native American settlements to the development of modern shipping and industry.
7. Point Iroquois Lighthouse
BEACON OF LAKE SUPERIOR
Point Iroquois Lighthouse has guided ships through the challenging waters where Lake Superior meets the St. Marys River since 1855. Visitors can climb the lighthouse tower for spectacular views of Lake Superior and explore the keeper's quarters which now house fascinating historical exhibits. The surrounding grounds feature interpretive trails, picnic areas, and beach access, making it a perfect day trip from downtown Sault Ste. Marie.
8. Tahquamenon Falls State Park
MAJESTIC NATURAL WONDER
Tahquamenon Falls State Park showcases one of Michigan's most spectacular natural attractions with amber-colored waterfalls surrounded by pristine forest. The Upper Falls, one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, drops nearly 50 feet with a width of over 200 feet, creating a breathtaking scene throughout all seasons. Visitors can explore over 50,000 acres of wilderness through hiking trails, viewing platforms, and boat rentals that provide access to this stunning natural landscape within driving distance of Sault Ste. Marie.
9. Kewadin Casino
ENTERTAINMENT AND GAMING
Kewadin Casino offers visitors exciting gaming experiences with slot machines, poker tables, and various card games in the heart of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Beyond gambling, the venue features live entertainment, multiple dining options, and comfortable hotel accommodations for a complete resort experience. The casino, operated by the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians, contributes to the local economy while providing an entertainment destination for both tourists and locals.
10. River of History Museum
CULTURAL HERITAGE SHOWCASE
The River of History Museum chronicles the rich cultural heritage of Sault Ste. Marie through engaging exhibitions and artifacts dating back thousands of years. Visitors can explore displays highlighting the region's Native American origins, European settlement, and development as a critical shipping hub. The museum's interactive approach brings to life the stories of Michigan's oldest city, offering context to the natural and man-made attractions throughout the area.
11. Shopping
RETAIL THERAPY EXPERIENCES
Shopping in Sault Ste. Marie offers visitors a mix of modern retail centers like Station Mall and charming local boutiques throughout the historic downtown district. Unique shops like Soo MRKT showcase locally made products, Upper Peninsula specialties, and distinctive souvenirs that capture the essence of this border city. Visitors can find everything from outdoor gear and apparel to Native American crafts and locally produced foods while exploring the city's diverse retail landscape.
12. Dining
CULINARY DELIGHTS GALORE
Dining in Sault Ste. Marie presents visitors with a surprising variety of culinary options, from fresh whitefish caught in the nearby Great Lakes to international cuisine. Local favorites include specialty crepes from Oh Crêpe near the Soo Locks and numerous waterfront restaurants offering panoramic views alongside their menus. The city's food scene reflects its position as a crossroads of cultures, with influences from Native American, French-Canadian, and Finnish traditions creating a unique Upper Peninsula dining experience.
13. Hiking
WILDERNESS TRAIL ADVENTURES
Hiking around Sault Ste. Marie offers outdoor enthusiasts access to pristine forests, dramatic shorelines, and diverse ecosystems throughout Michigan's eastern Upper Peninsula. Trails range from gentle waterfront paths like those at Soo Locks Park to more challenging routes through the Hiawatha National Forest with its ancient trees and abundant wildlife. Seasonal changes transform the hiking experience throughout the year, from spring wildflower displays to vibrant autumn foliage and serene winter snowscapes.
14. Fishing
PREMIER ANGLING DESTINATION
Fishing in Sault Ste. Marie provides anglers with world-class opportunities to catch salmon, trout, walleye, and northern pike in the St. Marys River and surrounding Great Lakes waters. The rapids below the Soo Locks create ideal conditions for Atlantic salmon and steelhead, while numerous charter services offer guided experiences for both novice and experienced fishermen. Seasonal fishing tournaments, accessible shore fishing locations, and year-round ice fishing options make this one of Michigan's top destinations for fishing enthusiasts.
15. Camping
NATURAL OVERNIGHT ESCAPES
Camping near Sault Ste. Marie allows visitors to immerse themselves in the spectacular natural beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula with options ranging from developed campgrounds to remote backcountry sites. Popular locations include Aune Osborn Campground along the St. Marys River where campers can watch freighters pass by, and numerous sites throughout the surrounding Hiawatha National Forest. The camping experience connects travelers to the region's pristine environment while providing convenient access to the city's historical and cultural attractions.