Upper Michigan Map With Cities
Introduction
Upper Michigan, also known as the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, is a beautiful region that sits on the northern tip of Michigan. This region is famous for its natural beauty, rich history, and diverse culture. If you are planning to visit Upper Michigan, then you are in for a treat. This comprehensive travel guide will help you discover the best attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that Upper Michigan has to offer.
Top Attractions
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the most beautiful destinations in Upper Michigan. It is known for its towering sandstone cliffs, crystal clear waterfalls, and pristine beaches. Visitors can hike, kayak, or take a boat tour to explore the area. The park also offers campsites for overnight stays.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Tahquamenon Falls State Park is home to one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. Visitors can hike, bike, or snowmobile through the park to explore the beautiful forest and river. The park also offers rustic and modern campsites for overnight stays.
Hidden Gems
Seney National Wildlife Refuge
Seney National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden gem in Upper Michigan. It is a great place to observe wildlife, including bald eagles, trumpeter swans, and sandhill cranes. Visitors can hike, bike, or take a scenic drive through the refuge. The refuge also offers campsites for overnight stays.
The Ghost Town of Fayette
The Ghost Town of Fayette is a historic site that takes visitors back in time to the 19th century. It was once a bustling iron-smelting town, but now it is a preserved ghost town that visitors can explore. The site also offers campsites for overnight stays.
Food Scene
Pasty
Pasty is a traditional Upper Michigan dish that consists of a pastry filled with meat, potatoes, and vegetables. It is a hearty and delicious meal that is perfect for a cold day. The best place to try a pasty is at a local bakery or restaurant.
Whitefish
Whitefish is a popular dish in Upper Michigan. It is a freshwater fish that is usually grilled or smoked. The best place to try whitefish is at a local restaurant or fish market.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Activities
Upper Michigan has many free activities that visitors can enjoy. Some of the best free activities include hiking, biking, and visiting local parks and beaches.
Camping
Camping is a budget-friendly way to explore Upper Michigan. There are many campgrounds in the area that offer affordable rates for tent and RV camping.
Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking
Kayaking is a popular activity in Upper Michigan. There are many rivers and lakes in the area that are perfect for kayaking. Visitors can rent kayaks or take a guided tour to explore the waterways.
Hiking
Upper Michigan has many hiking trails that offer beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Some of the best hiking trails include the North Country Trail, the Escarpment Trail, and the Chapel Loop.
Historical Landmarks
Fort Mackinac
Fort Mackinac is a historic fort that was built by the British in the late 18th century. Visitors can take a guided tour of the fort to learn about its history and explore its buildings and exhibits.
The Soo Locks
The Soo Locks are a historic engineering marvel that connects Lake Superior to the lower Great Lakes. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the locks and watch ships pass through.
Family-Friendly Activities
Great Wolf Lodge
Great Wolf Lodge is a popular indoor water park that is perfect for families. It features water slides, pools, and other attractions that kids will love.
DeYoung Family Zoo
The DeYoung Family Zoo is a small zoo that is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, bears, and monkeys. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the animals and their habitats.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
Kitch-iti-kipi
Kitch-iti-kipi is a natural spring that is located in the Upper Peninsula. Visitors can take a self-guided tour to explore the spring and its surrounding forest.
Big Spring
Big Spring is another natural spring that is located in the Upper Peninsula. It is one of the largest freshwater springs in the world and offers beautiful views of the surrounding forest.
Natural Wonders
Porkies Mountains
The Porkies Mountains are a range of mountains that offer beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike, bike, or snowshoe through the mountains to explore the area.
Isle Royale National Park
Isle Royale National Park is a remote island that is located in Lake Superior. It is known for its pristine wilderness and diverse wildlife. Visitors can hike, kayak, or take a boat to explore the island.
Vibrant Nightlife
Marquette
Marquette is a vibrant city that offers a variety of nightlife options. Visitors can enjoy live music, local beer, and delicious food at one of the city’s many bars and restaurants.
Sault Ste. Marie
Sault Ste. Marie is another city in Upper Michigan that offers a vibrant nightlife. Visitors can enjoy live music, dancing, and local beer at one of the city’s many bars and clubs.
Local Markets
Marquette Farmers Market
The Marquette Farmers Market is a popular market that is held on Saturdays from May to October. Visitors can buy fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products from local vendors.
Sault Ste. Marie Farmers Market
The Sault Ste. Marie Farmers Market is another popular market that is held on Saturdays from May to October. Visitors can buy fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products from local vendors.
Beaches and Mountains
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a beautiful destination that is located on the shores of Lake Michigan. It is known for its towering sand dunes, crystal clear water, and pristine beaches.
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is a beautiful park that is located on the shores of Lake Superior. It is known for its rugged mountains, dense forest, and pristine lakes.
Cultural Immersion
Ojibwa Cultural Foundation
The Ojibwa Cultural Foundation is a cultural center that is dedicated to preserving and promoting the culture and traditions of the Ojibwa people. Visitors can learn about the history, art, and music of the Ojibwa people.
Hiawatha Music Festival
The Hiawatha Music Festival is an annual music festival that celebrates the music and culture of Upper Michigan. Visitors can enjoy live music, dancing, and local food at the festival.
Art and Music Scene
Marquette Symphony Orchestra
The Marquette Symphony Orchestra is a professional orchestra that performs classical and contemporary music. Visitors can attend one of the orchestra’s concerts to enjoy beautiful music.
Art on the Rocks
Art on the Rocks is an annual art festival that showcases the work of local and regional artists. Visitors can browse and buy art, listen to live music, and enjoy local food at the festival.
Walking Tours
Marquette Historic Walking Tour
The Marquette Historic Walking Tour is a self-guided tour that takes visitors through the historic downtown area of Marquette. Visitors can learn about the history and architecture of the area.
Sault Ste. Marie Historic Walking Tour
The Sault Ste. Marie Historic Walking Tour is a self-guided tour that takes visitors through the historic downtown area of Sault Ste. Marie. Visitors can learn about the history and architecture of the area.
Architectural Marvels
Keweenaw National Historical Park
The Keweenaw National Historical Park is a historic park that preserves the history and culture of the Keweenaw Peninsula. Visitors can explore the park’s