Sault Ste. Marie
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Sault Ste. Marie's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Arrive in Sault Ste. Marie and check into your hotel. After settling in, enjoy a delightful breakfast at a local café and take a leisurely stroll along the St. Marys River. Immerse yourself in the scenery and feel the fresh breeze as you admire the picturesque waterfront.
Visit the Sault Ste. Marie Museum to learn about the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Spend some time shopping and exploring the charming downtown area, with its unique boutiques and artisan shops. Enjoy a light lunch at one of the local eateries, sampling regional specialties.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant with a view of the river, savoring fresh fish caught from the Great Lakes. After dinner, take a relaxing evening walk along the riverfront, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. End the night with a local craft beer or cocktail at a nearby pub.
Set out early for a scenic drive to Tahquamenon Falls State Park, where you can witness the stunning natural beauty of one of Michigan’s largest waterfalls. Start your day with a hike along the trails leading to both the upper and lower falls, taking in the lush greenery. Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views of the cascading water.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park surrounded by nature, or try some local fare at the park’s dining area. Continue exploring the trails or take a boat ride on the river to view the falls from a different perspective. Don't forget to visit the visitor center for information on the area's ecology.
Return to Sault Ste. Marie and savor a relaxing dinner at a local steakhouse. Share stories of the day's adventure with your travel companions and unwind with delicious food. If you're up for it, catch a live music performance at a local venue to complete your day.
Start your day with breakfast at a cozy diner before heading to the historic Soo Locks, where you can watch ships navigate between Lake Superior and Lake Huron. Take a guided tour to learn more about the engineering marvel and the history behind this vital waterway. The morning is ideal for capturing stunning photographs of the massive freighters.
Visit the nearby Point Iroquois Lighthouse to explore the maritime history of the Great Lakes. Afterward, spend your afternoon at the River of History Museum, where engaging exhibits delve into the local Native American heritage and the early settlers. Grab lunch at a nearby café to refuel your energy.
Dine at a waterfront grill, feasting on delicious local seafood and enjoying panoramic views of the river. After dinner, explore the local nightlife, perhaps visiting a bar with live music or a trivia night. Grab a nightcap before heading back to your accommodation.
Kick off the day with breakfast at a local bakery, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee. Head to the nearby Chippewa Nature Center for a morning of bird watching and hiking along the trails. Breathe in the fresh air as you immerse yourself in the vibrant flora and fauna.
Continue your exploration by visiting the nearby Brimley State Park, where you can enjoy the tranquil setting and perhaps have lunch at a picnic site. Spend the afternoon observing wildlife or taking a leisurely bike ride along the park’s scenic routes. If you’re lucky, you might spot deer or various bird species.
Return to Sault Ste. Marie and dine at a charming local bistro that focuses on farm-to-table offerings. After dinner, stroll along the waterfront, taking in the beautiful sunset over the St. Marys River. Reflect on your day spent in nature as you enjoy a quiet evening.
Join a local guided tour to explore the cultural aspects of Sault Ste. Marie, including visits to art galleries and artisan workshops. Start with breakfast at a local eatery known for its local art decor and community ambiance. Experience firsthand the talents and creativity of local artisans.
Continue your cultural exploration at the Lake Superior State University Arts Center, where you can catch a visual art exhibition or performance if available. In the afternoon, visit the prominent sites of historical significance, such as the Fort Brady, to learn about the military history of the area. Enjoy lunch at a cultural cuisine restaurant that reflects the region's diversity.
Wrap up your cultural immersion with dinner at a renowned local restaurant known for its innovative dishes. Participate in a local cultural event or festival if it aligns with your visit, showcasing music, dance, and traditional crafts. Enjoy the rich tapestry of community life before returning to your hotel.
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading out for a day of outdoor activities. Explore the area’s many biking and walking trails by renting a bike downtown and navigating along the scenic routes. Enjoy the crisp morning air and invigorating exercise.
Indulge in an exciting afternoon of kayaking or paddleboarding on the St. Marys River, taking in the sights from the water. Alternatively, join a fishing charter for a chance to reel in local fish species. Afterward, enjoy lunch from a local deli as you soak in the experience.
Return to shore and freshen up before enjoying a relaxed dinner at a riverside pub, celebrating your adventurous day. Gather around a fire pit or outdoor seating area with friends, sharing stories of the day’s escapades. Cap off the night with some board games or a movie back at your lodging.
Enjoy breakfast in a local café while discussing the seasonal activities unique to Sault Ste. Marie. Visit the local Visitor Center to gather information about seasonal events in the area, whether it be winter sports, summer festivals, or fall colors. Make plans to experience one of the exciting seasonal offerings.
Spend your afternoon partaking in seasonal activities, such as snowshoeing or ice fishing in winter, while enjoying the outdoor beauty. In summer, opt for a scenic boat cruise or participate in one of the many vibrant festivals happening in town. Savor lunch at an event or food truck showcasing local cuisine and culture.
For dinner, choose a restaurant known for its seasonal specialties, relishing ingredients sourced from the community. As the evening sets in, dive deeper into local traditions by participating in a community bonfire or gathering. Reflect on the beauty of each season and how Sault Ste. Marie offers unique experiences year-round.
Begin your day with a relaxing breakfast at your hotel before heading to a local spa for a day of pampering. Choose from various treatments like massages or facials that focus on rejuvenation and wellness. Allow yourself to unwind and embrace a state of bliss to recharge your energy.
After your relaxing treatments, enjoy a nutritious lunch at a health-focused café that complements your wellness day. Spend your afternoon revisiting favorite downtown spots for some shopping or engage in light activities like yoga in a nearby park. Treat yourself to some self-care shopping for local skincare or artisanal products.
End your spa day with a serene dinner at a calm atmosphere restaurant, savoring organic and locally sourced dishes. Treat yourself to a dessert that highlights local flavors, providing a sweet end to your day of relaxation. Return to your lodging with a refreshed mind and body.
On your final morning in Sault Ste. Marie, visit a local farmers' market to discover fresh produce, local artisanal products, and handmade crafts. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café that supports local ingredients and sustainables. Engage with vendors and learn about the local community.
Spend your afternoons revisiting your favorite sites or shopping for souvenirs in the local shops, capturing the essence of Sault Ste. Marie to take home. Indulge in a farewell lunch at a restaurant known for its iconic regional dishes. Take any last-minute pictures before heading to the ferry or airport.
Reflect on your week in Sault Ste. Marie over a comforting dinner at a beloved local spot, sharing memories before departing. Consider enjoying a simple evening walk along the riverfront one last time, appreciating the scenic beauty. Bid farewell to the city with a sense of gratitude for the experiences and connections made.