Things To Do
in Sault Ste. Marie
Sault Ste. Marie is a city located in Michigan, United States, at the northeastern tip of the Upper Peninsula. It is known for its scenic location on the St. Marys River, which connects Lake Superior and Lake Huron. The city is home to the famous Soo Locks, a system of locks that allows ships to bypass the rapids on the river. Sault Ste.
Marie has a rich history, with a strong connection to the Great Lakes shipping industry.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Soo Locks with a guided tour to learn about this engineering marvel. Be sure to watch the ships pass through the locks, it’s a fascinating experience.
After the locks, visit the nearby Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum to dive into maritime history. Enjoy lunch at a local café with views of the water.
Wrap up your day with a scenic walk along the St. Marys River. Grab dinner at a waterfront restaurant for a delightful view.
Head to the nearby Tahquamenon Falls State Park for a morning hike to see the majestic waterfalls. The trails offer stunning views and a chance to see local wildlife.
Once you've explored the falls, have a picnic lunch in the park surrounded by nature. Afterward, visit the Upper Falls for the best views.
Return to Sault Ste. Marie and relax with a movie at a local cinema. Consider ordering some comfort food for a cozy ending to your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including the nearby Great Lakes and forests.
- Rich history and cultural significance, with attractions related to Native American heritage and the fur trade.
- Access to outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and boating.
- Lower cost of living compared to many other parts of the United States.
- Strong sense of community with local events and festivals.
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.
- Limited job market and economic opportunities in certain sectors.
- Isolation from larger urban centers can lead to fewer amenities and services.
- Challenges with infrastructure, including roads and public transportation.
- Potential for higher rates of poverty and crime in certain areas.
Best Activities in Sault Ste. Marie
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails of Hiawatha National Forest, which offers picturesque views and a variety of hiking paths suitable for all skill levels.
Enjoy a day of fishing on the stunning shores of Lake Superior, where you can catch various species of fish in a peaceful setting.
Take advantage of the extensive trail system for biking, featuring scenic routes that showcase the area's natural beauty.
Experience kayaking on the St. Marys River, where you can enjoy views of the surrounding landscape and possibly spot local wildlife.
Visit the iconic Soo Locks for bird watching, particularly in spring and fall when migratory birds are abundant.
When winter arrives, try snowshoeing in local parks and forests, offering a unique way to explore the serene snowy landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sault Ste. Marie with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sault Ste. Marie
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic locks offer stunning views of ships passing through and the scenic waterfront.
Located a short drive away, this lighthouse provides panoramic views of Lake Superior and the surrounding area.
While learning about maritime history, enjoy beautiful views of the St. Marys River and the surrounding landscape.
A peaceful park along the riverside with scenic views and great spots for photography.
This park offers ideal vantage points for capturing the locks in action, especially during ship transits.
Located on a hill, it provides an elevated view of the city, Sault Ste. Marie, and the St. Marys River.
Enjoy beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding area, perfect for sunset photography.
Crossing into Canada, the bridge offers spectacular views of the river and city skyline.
Food in Sault Ste. Marie
Sault Ste. Marie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local specialty, pasties are savory turnovers filled with meat, potatoes, and vegetables, perfect for a hearty meal. Try them at Karl's Cuisine or Zim's.
Must-Try!
Fresh from the nearby lake, whitefish is a staple on local menus. Visit The Antlers or West Pier Drive-In for a delicious whitefish dish.
Reflecting the Finnish heritage of the area, these pancakes are a must-try for breakfast or brunch. Sample them at The Pancake Chef.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sault Ste. Marie better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the market for locally grown produce, artisanal goods, and tasty snacks. Open on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the market is a great place to experience the local food scene.
During the summer months, you can find various food trucks offering a diverse range of street food near the Soo Locks Park. Enjoy a casual outdoor dining experience with picturesque views of the locks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Sault Ste. Marie has a rich Indigenous heritage. It's important to be respectful towards local tribes and their cultural practices. Acknowledging and learning about their history and contributions can foster mutual respect.
Residents of Sault Ste. Marie value politeness and friendliness. Simple gestures like greeting people with a smile or saying 'please' and 'thank you' can go a long way in fostering positive interactions.
Patronizing local shops, restaurants, and markets is encouraged. Engaging with the community through local events and supporting small businesses shows respect for the local economy and culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sault Ste. Marie with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sault Ste. Marie
Ensure a smooth experience
In Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, tipping practices generally align with those in other parts of the United States. It is customary to tip service staff, such as waiters, bartenders, and taxi drivers, typically around 15-20% of the total bill. Tipping is seen as a way to show appreciation for good service. In some cases, particularly at restaurants, a gratuity may be automatically added to large parties.
Payment practices in Sault Ste. Marie commonly include cash, credit, and debit card transactions. Many establishments accept mobile payments as well. In restaurants and retail, electronic payment methods are widely accepted. It is also common for customers to request split bills in group settings. Local businesses may occasionally have specific preferences for payments, so it's advisable to check in advance.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Sault Ste. Marie, with temperatures gradually warming and the landscape blooming with flowers. Expect mild weather, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and visiting parks. The annual fishing season begins, attracting anglers.
Summer is peak tourist season in Sault Ste. Marie, with warm temperatures and a range of outdoor activities available. Expect vibrant festivals, boating, and fishing opportunities. This is the best time to enjoy the natural beauty of the area, including lakes and trails.
Fall is a stunning time to visit, as the foliage transforms into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. Expect cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a great time for photography, hiking, and enjoying local harvest festivals.
Winter offers a unique experience, attracting visitors for snow-related activities like skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. Expect cold temperatures and snow-covered landscapes, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy quiet, picturesque scenery.
Sault Ste. Marie at Night
Hiking in Sault Ste. Marie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail offering views of the St. Marys River, perfect for hiking and nature walks.
This trail provides a serene hiking experience, surrounded by natural beauty and wildlife.
A historical trail along the Sault Ste. Marie Canal, suitable for walking, jogging, and biking.
Offers trails with diverse ecosystems, providing unique hiking opportunities and birdwatching.
Located a bit further away, this park features numerous miles of hiking trails and stunning waterfalls.
A beautiful trail that leads to the historic Point Iroquois Lighthouse with views of Lake Superior.
Aiports
How to reach Sault Ste. Marie by plane.
Located approximately 20 miles west of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, this airport serves regional flights.
Located about 50 miles southeast of Sault Ste. Marie, this airport provides commercial services to several destinations.
Situated around 90 miles north of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada, this is the largest airport in the Northwest Ontario region.
Approximately 150 miles southwest of Sault Ste. Marie, this airport is a larger facility serving domestic and some international flights.
Located about 200 miles southwest in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, this is a major international gateway.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant racial group in Sault Ste. Marie, making up a significant majority.
A smaller but important demographic group that contributes to the cultural diversity of the city.
Includes members of the Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) tribe, reflecting the region's indigenous heritage.
A growing demographic group that adds to the multicultural fabric of Sault Ste. Marie.
Represents a smaller percentage of the population, contributing to the city's diversity.
Includes various individuals from different racial backgrounds not specified in larger categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is extremely popular in Sault Ste. Marie, with a rich history and community support. The area has produced many professional players and hosts various youth leagues.
Football is widely played in schools and local leagues, with the Sault Ste. Marie Blue Devils representing the community in high school competitions.
Basketball is a popular sport at both the school and recreational levels, with numerous leagues and programs for all ages.
Lacrosse is gaining popularity in Sault Ste. Marie, with local teams and leagues forming to promote the sport among youth and adults.
Running events and track and field competitions are popular in the area, with annual races and a focus on youth development in the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sault Ste. Marie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional local cuisine leans heavily on meat and fish, many restaurants in Sault Ste. Marie offer excellent vegetarian and vegan options, including creative salads, veggie wraps, and plant-based entrees.
Several eateries in the city provide gluten-free alternatives and are accommodating to dietary restrictions, ensuring that individuals with gluten intolerance can still indulge in the local food scene without worry.