Road Map Of Upper Michigan Travel Guide
Discover the Best of Upper Michigan
Introduction
Upper Michigan is a hidden gem in the United States, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the stunning beaches of Lake Superior to the rugged mountains of the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, this region is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, Upper Michigan has something to offer. In this travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top attractions, hidden gems, and must-see landmarks in this beautiful region.
Top Attractions
Upper Michigan is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the country. Here are some of the top attractions to add to your itinerary: – Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: This stunning park is home to towering sandstone cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear lakes. Take a scenic boat tour to see the stunning rock formations up close. – Mackinac Island: This charming island is a step back in time, with horse-drawn carriages, Victorian architecture, and stunning views of Lake Huron. Be sure to try some of the island’s famous fudge. – Tahquamenon Falls State Park: This park is home to the Upper Peninsula’s largest waterfall, as well as miles of hiking trails and scenic overlooks.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions in Upper Michigan are certainly worth a visit, there are also plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Here are a few of our favorites: – Kitch-iti-kipi: This hidden gem is a natural spring that is home to crystal-clear waters and a variety of fish. Visitors can take a self-guided raft tour across the spring to see the underwater world up close. – Fayette Historic State Park: This well-preserved ghost town is a fascinating look at Michigan’s industrial past. Explore the abandoned buildings and learn about the town’s history. – Seney National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, black bears, and trumpeter swans. Take a scenic drive or hike one of the park’s many trails to see the animals in their natural habitat.
Food Scene
Upper Michigan is famous for its hearty, homestyle cooking, with plenty of comfort food and local specialties to try. Here are a few must-visit restaurants: – The Jampot: This bakery in Eagle Harbor is known for its delicious homemade jams and pastries, as well as its stunning views of Lake Superior. – The Vierling: This historic restaurant in Marquette is known for its fresh seafood and craft beer selection, as well as its charming atmosphere. – Johnny Dogs: This food truck in Munising is the perfect spot for a quick bite, with delicious hot dogs and creative toppings.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Here are a few tips for saving money on your trip to Upper Michigan: – Visit in the off-season: Summer is peak tourist season in Upper Michigan, but visiting in the spring or fall can save you money on lodging and activities. – Cook your own meals: Many of the hotels and cabins in Upper Michigan have kitchens, so consider cooking your own meals to save money on dining out. – Take advantage of free activities: There are plenty of free activities to enjoy in Upper Michigan, such as hiking, swimming, and exploring the local parks and beaches.
Outdoor Adventures
Upper Michigan is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and more. Here are a few of the best outdoor activities to try: – Hiking the Porcupine Mountains: This wilderness area is home to miles of scenic hiking trails, as well as stunning views of Lake Superior. – Kayaking the Au Train River: Take a guided kayaking tour down this scenic river to see waterfalls, rock formations, and wildlife up close. – Fishing on Lake Michigan: Upper Michigan is home to some of the best fishing in the country, with plenty of opportunities to catch salmon, trout, and other species.
Family-Friendly Activities
Upper Michigan is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids of all ages entertained. Here are a few family-friendly activities to add to your itinerary: – Exploring the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum: Learn about the history of the Great Lakes and see artifacts from some of the most famous shipwrecks in the region. – Visiting the Marquette Maritime Museum: This museum is a great place to learn about the history of the Great Lakes and the important role they played in the region’s development. – Riding the Soo Locks Boat Tour: Take a scenic tour of the Soo Locks, which allow ships to pass between Lake Superior and Lake Huron.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For travelers looking for something a little more unique, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had in Upper Michigan. Here are a few of our favorites: – Visiting the Seul Choix Point Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse is said to be haunted, and visitors can take a guided tour to learn about its mysterious past. – Exploring the Iron County Historical Museum: This museum is home to a variety of exhibits on Upper Michigan’s mining history, as well as a collection of antique cars and other vehicles. – Hiking to the top of Bare Bluff: This challenging hike offers stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding wilderness.
Natural Wonders
From towering waterfalls to stunning beaches, Upper Michigan is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the country. Here are a few must-see spots: – Bond Falls: This stunning waterfall is a popular spot for hiking, fishing, and photography. – Sleeping Bear Dunes: This iconic park is home to towering sand dunes, crystal-clear lakes, and miles of hiking trails. – Isle Royale National Park: This remote park is only accessible by boat or seaplane, but offers visitors a chance to explore a pristine wilderness area.
Vibrant Nightlife
While Upper Michigan may be known for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, there are also plenty of options for nightlife. Here are a few of the best spots to check out: – Ore Dock Brewing Company: This popular brewery in Marquette offers a variety of craft beers and live music. – The Delft Bistro: This restaurant in Marquette offers a variety of creative cocktails and a cozy atmosphere. – The Up North Lodge: This bar and restaurant in Gwinn is a great spot for a casual night out, with plenty of food and drink specials.
Local Markets
If you’re looking to sample some of the best local produce and artisanal goods, be sure to check out these markets: – Marquette Farmers Market: This popular market offers a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. – Iron Mountain Farmers Market: This market is a great spot to find locally grown fruits and vegetables, as well as handmade soaps and other products. – Munising Farmers Market: This market is a great place to find fresh produce and homemade jams and jellies.
Beaches and Mountains
Upper Michigan is known for its stunning beaches and rugged mountains. Here are a few of the best spots to enjoy the great outdoors: – Presque Isle Park: This beautiful park in Marquette offers stunning views of Lake Superior, as well as hiking trails, beaches, and picnic areas. – Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: This park is home to some of the most rugged mountains in the region, as well as miles of hiking trails and stunning views of Lake Superior. – Sand Point Beach: This beautiful beach in Munising is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Cultural Immersion
To get a better understanding of Upper Michigan’s rich history and culture, be sure to check out these museums and cultural attractions: – The Upper Peninsula Children’s Museum: This museum in Marquette is a great spot for families, with plenty of hands-on exhibits and interactive displays. – The Ironwood Theatre: This historic theater in Ironwood hosts a variety of cultural events, including concerts, plays, and films. – The Bishop Baraga Shrine: This shrine in L’Anse is dedicated to the memory of Bishop Frederic Baraga, a famous missionary who worked with Native American tribes in the region.
Art and Music Scene
Upper Michigan has a thriving arts and music scene, with plenty of opportunities to see live performances and explore local galleries. Here are a few of the best spots to check out: – The DeVos Art Museum: This museum in Marquette is home to a variety of contemporary art exhibits and installations. – The Calumet Theatre: This historic theater in Calumet hosts a variety of concerts, plays, and other cultural events. – The Bonifas Arts Center: This center in Escanaba offers a variety of art classes and workshops, as well as rotating exhibits by local and regional artists.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore Upper Michigan’s charming towns and historic landmarks is on foot. Here are a few of the best walking tours to check out: – The Marquette Downtown Walking Tour: This self-guided tour takes visitors through the historic downtown area, with stops at landmarks like the Marquette Harbor Light and the Iron Ore Dock. – The Keweenaw National Historical Park Walking Tour: This guided tour takes visitors through the historic mining town of Calumet, with stops at landmarks like the Calum