Attractions

Start at Michigan’s Beginning: Sault Ste. Marie

As Michigan’s first city, Sault Ste. Marie has earned its place as your first stop on a funfilled trip to the region. Some of our sights cannot be missed.

Soo Locks

With a beautiful park, visitor center, observation platforms overlooking 1,000-foot freighters, and a mesmerizing fountain, there is much to do and see and every last inch of it is free of charge. (906) 253-9453.

Museum Ship Valley Camp

Tour a retired cargo freighter, complete with exhibits on Great Lakes shipping, fishing, shipwrecks and more. (906) 632-3658.

Historic Homes of Water Street

Two historically-significant homes that date back to the 1820s have been restored and furnished with appropriate replicas and a third is the site of a museum honoring the region’s industrial history. Living history performances also scheduled throughout the summer.

Tower of History

At 200 feet above the twin Saults, the Tower affords the perfect panoramic view of the St. Mary’s River, Soo Locks, and Canada. (906) 632-3658.

Soo Locks Boat Tours

Don’t just view the Soo Locks – live them! Climb aboard and let the friendly staff explain the history and function of the Locks. Ride alongside massive freighters and enjoy a snack or dinner on the water. (906) 632-6301.

River of History Museum

Explore this expertly-arranged museum to learn more about Native Americans, French fur traders and others who settled the region from the “voice” of the River. (906) 632-3658.

Portage Avenue & Ashmun Street

Shopping, restaurants, sweet shops and more line these main thoroughfares. With a busy day of sightseeing, look no further than downtown Sault Ste. Marie for the sustenance you need to explore again tomorrow!

Point Iroquois Lighthouse

This picturesque light station features a tower for climbing, a 50’s era museum for touring, and a boardwalk that begs for a stroll. (906) 635-5311.

Agawa Canyon Tour Train

Travel 114 miles north into the Canadian Shield, where you will witness pristine northern lakes and rivers, awesome granite rock formations and mixed forests. Once in the Canyon, visitors have two hours to explore trails, discover waterfalls, or hike to a breathtaking lookout. The ride is comfortable, the scenery unmatched and the experience thoroughly relaxing. (800) 242-9287.

The Wonders of Water

Wonders, both man-made and natural, await you to the west, when you explore the Whitefish Point and Tahquamenon Falls areas. In one adventure-filled day, visitors can paddle around Tahquamenon Falls, visit the shores of Whitefish Point, and scan water and shore from the top of Point Iroquois Lighthouse.

Whitefish Point Bird Observatory

Learn about the migratory pattern of birds that make the Point part of their annual flight path. (906) 492-3596.

Upper Tahquamenon Falls

The Upper Falls are the largest at 200 feet across and a 50-foot drop. Enjoy the view both from an overlook and from the base. Afterward, visit the brew pub or ice cream shop for quick refreshment. (906) 492-3415.

Lower Tahquamenon Falls

A smaller series of five falls make up the Lower Falls. Of special interest is the row boat ride to a small island, complete with a walking path to view additional falls. (906) 492-3415.

Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum

Best known for its Edmund Fitzgerald memorial, this must-see lighthouse includes a first-class museum, theater, lodging, and gift shop. Stroll the beach in search of agates. (888) 492-3747.

Hitting the Links

Exploration doesn’t have to include a lengthy car trip. For some, exploring the greens and fairways of a new golf course is exploration perfected, although we admittedly try to avoid sand traps!

Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre

One of the few aviation museums that allow their visitors to actually climb aboard the aircraft; pilot a passenger plane from its cockpit, or climb into the cargo holds of a real waterbomber! There's no better way to learn -- and have fun! 1-877-287-4752

*Photos courtesy of Michigan.org