Location: Sault Ste. Marie
Top Things to do in Sault Ste. Marie
Countries
9 Budget-friendly Things to do in Sault Ste. Marie That You Shouldn't Miss
Sault Ste. Marie /ˌsuː seɪnt məˈriː/ is a city in, and the county seat of, Chippewa County in the U.S. state of Michigan. It is situated on the northeastern end of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, on the Canada–US border, and separated from its twin city of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, by the St. Marys River. The city is relatively isolated from other communities in Michigan and is 346 miles from Detroit. The population was 14,144 at the 2010 census, making it the second-most populous city in the Upper Peninsula. By contrast, the Canadian Sault Ste. Marie is much larger, with more than 75,000 residents, based on more extensive industry developed in the 20th century and an economy with closer connections to other communities.
Restaurants in Sault Ste. Marie
1. Soo Locks
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,634 reviews
Reviewed By AuntieM64
There is a viewing platform that is 3 levels tall right next to the Soo Locks so that people can see the freighters upbound - going west on the Great Lakes or downbound - going East on the Great Lakes. There is a phone number that you can also call to find out the schedule of the next ships to arrive. The town of Sault Ste. Marie is not a very big place and the viewing platform is right on the main street of the town with motels and restaurants right near it. I was watching ships arrive and depart for about 3 hours and saw many different classes of boats and ships. It is a unique experience if you have never seen something like this before, and wonderful for children and is absolutely free - but you and your purses and backpacks will be searched before being allowed into the enclosed area.
2. Museum Ship Valley Camp
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 393 reviews
We are open Mid-May to Mid October! For more information click on the website link on Tripadvisor. Retired Great Lakes Freighter with over 100 exhibits on Shipping and Shipwrecks of the Great Lakes. Access into the Engine Room, walk the Upper Deck to see crew quarters and pilot house. 3 levels to tour with ramp system for easy access. Last tickets and entry an hour before closing.
Reviewed By midlandmike2015 - Midland, United States
We really enjoyed the self guided tour and history of the ship and waters she plied. The articats displayed were very impressive.
3. Rotary Island Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 94 reviews
Reviewed By warnermrs - Mason, United States
Can easily wade in the river while watching boats go by. Perfectly placed benches for you to sit by the river. Ample picnic tables for those who grab a meal from Clyde’s next door. The play area has hand sanitizer.
4. Lake Superior State University
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 50 reviews
Reviewed By 55hollys
Wide range of professional program supported by outstanding liberal education. Beautiful campus on the border of upper Michigan and Canada.
5. Water Street Historic Block
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 31 reviews
6. River of History Museum
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 32 reviews
River of History Museum follows the History of the St. Mary's River and Sault Ste. Marie from the glacial period to the present day use of the River. Information on the French, Native American, Fur trading, lumbering and fishing of the area. Short videos and hands on exhibits along with an audio tour with specialized audio wands. Last tickets and entry 30 minutes before closing.
Reviewed By Babu2773 - Chicago, United States
This museum packs a lot more than it looks like it will from the outside. Rooms are filled with winding paths that are chock full of exhibits and information. An audio tour enhances your visit, even if it does become a bit long with information with the stories that are being told. A hockey exhibit makes you wonder how anyone survived hockey with the little protection they wore! If you are in town and looking to learn about the area's history, this museum is worth a visit. We took about 90 minutes to tour it, while others just walked through, so it will give you what you are looking for.
7. Soo Brewing Company
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 93 reviews
Reviewed By LLA1962 - Clinton Township, United States
Cool brewery with great selection of craft beers. Love the atmosphere here. Another unique place in the Soo
8. Tower of History
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 196 reviews
The Tower of History has Native American artifacts and 15 min video on the early history of Sault Ste. Marie, MI in the lower level. Express elevator up to a series of observation decks, one glass enclosed and 2 open aired levels for the 360 degree view of Sault Ste. Marie MI and Ontario plus the St. Mary's River System. Great place to view passing Freighters! Last tickets and entry 30 minutes before closing.
Reviewed By 454christinac - Nashville, United States
Great views from the tower of history. Things are relatively well labeled to show you where things are located and what they are. Some local artifacts in the lobby.
9. 1668 Winery & Lockside Brewery
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 28 reviews
Beer, wine, and food made in Sault Ste. Marie and served in a relaxing atmosphere. Enjoy yourself in the taproom or, weather permitting, on the deck where you can see the boats go by. Get it to go if you prefer - beer in growlers and wine by the bottle.
