Fun Things to Do in Upper Peninsula | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Upper Peninsula Travel Guide
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- Nearby Destinantion From Upper Peninsula
Welcome to the Upper Peninsula of the United States! Nestled between the Great Lakes of Superior, Michigan, and Huron, this hidden gem offers a truly unique travel experience. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, the Upper Peninsula boasts pristine forests, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning waterfalls. Adventure seekers will be delighted by the abundance of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and kayaking. History buffs will be captivated by the region's rich Native American heritage and the remnants of the copper mining industry. Whether you're seeking tranquility in nature or a thrilling outdoor adventure, the Upper Peninsula is the perfect destination for your next travel escapade.
Upper Peninsula Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Upper Peninsula videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Upper Peninsula in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
![8 Things to do on Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula (Upper Peninsula) [ep 23]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/rf_03USyj9I/hqdefault.jpg)
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Things To Do In Upper Peninsula
The Upper Peninsula of the USA offers a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff, there is something for everyone in this beautiful region.
One of the main attractions of the Upper Peninsula is its stunning natural beauty. With its pristine lakes, majestic waterfalls, and dense forests, the region is a paradise for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Exploring the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a must-do activity, where you can witness the breathtaking cliffs, caves, and sand dunes along Lake Superior.
For those who enjoy water activities, the Upper Peninsula offers excellent fishing, kayaking, and canoeing opportunities. The Great Lakes surrounding the region are known for their abundance of fish species, making it a popular destination for angling enthusiasts. Additionally, the Keweenaw Peninsula is a great spot for kayaking and canoeing, with its calm waters and scenic shoreline.
If you are interested in history, the Upper Peninsula has a rich mining heritage that is worth exploring. The Quincy Mine in Houghton offers underground tours, where you can learn about the life of a miner and see the impressive mining equipment. The Iron Mountain Iron Mine is another popular attraction, allowing visitors to descend into an actual iron mine and learn about the mining process.
For a taste of local culture, make sure to visit the Upper Peninsula's charming towns. Marquette, the largest city in the region, offers a vibrant downtown area with unique shops, art galleries, and delicious restaurants. Mackinac Island, located in Lake Huron, is a popular tourist destination known for its historic charm and horse-drawn carriages. The island is also famous for its fudge, so make sure to indulge in this sweet treat.
In the winter months, the Upper Peninsula transforms into a winter wonderland. With its heavy snowfall, the region becomes a haven for snow sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.
Tours And Activities In Upper Peninsula
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Best Time To Visit Upper Peninsula
The best time to visit the Upper Peninsula in the USA is during the summer months from June to August. This is when the region experiences warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and exploring the numerous lakes and forests. Additionally, wildlife sightings are more common during this time, including black bears, moose, and eagles. However, it is important to note that the Upper Peninsula can get quite crowded during the summer, so if you prefer a quieter experience, spring and fall can also be great times to visit. During these seasons, you can enjoy milder temperatures, beautiful fall foliage, and fewer tourists. Winter is another popular time to visit the Upper Peninsula, especially for snow enthusiasts. The region receives heavy snowfall, creating perfect conditions for activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.
Flight Calendar For Upper Peninsula
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Upper Peninsula.
Best Areas To Stay In Upper Peninsula
The Upper Peninsula of the USA offers a variety of best areas for accommodation that cater to different preferences and interests. Here are a few notable areas:
1. Marquette: Located on the shores of Lake Superior, Marquette is a vibrant city known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can explore the Presque Isle Park with its picturesque trails and beaches, or visit the Marquette Harbor Lighthouse for panoramic views of the lake. The downtown area offers a range of boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts, providing a cozy and convenient stay.
2. Munising: Situated near the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Munising is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The area is renowned for its breathtaking cliffs, sandstone formations, and pristine beaches. Accommodation options in Munising include campgrounds for those seeking a closer connection to nature, as well as lodges and cabins that offer a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring.
3. Sault Ste. Marie: As the oldest city in Michigan, Sault Ste. Marie offers a blend of history and natural beauty. Visitors can witness the impressive Soo Locks, which connect Lake Superior to the lower Great Lakes, or explore the Tower of History for panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. Accommodation in Sault Ste. Marie ranges from hotels and motels to vacation rentals, providing options for different budgets and preferences.
4. Copper Harbor: Tucked away in the northernmost tip of the Upper Peninsula, Copper Harbor is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. The area boasts scenic hiking and biking trails, including the renowned Copper Harbor Trail System. Accommodation options in Copper Harbor include cottages and campgrounds, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the surrounding nature.
5. Escanaba: Situated on the shores of Little Bay de Noc, Escanaba offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the Sand Point Lighthouse or enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing and boating. Accommodation in Escanaba includes hotels, motel chains, and resorts, providing a comfortable stay for travelers.
Overall, the Upper Peninsula of the USA offers a diverse range of accommodation options in areas such as Marquette,
Hotels Map Of Upper Peninsula
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Upper Peninsula.
Transportation To Upper Peninsula
There are several transportation options to the Upper Peninsula.
1. By Air: The most convenient way to reach the Upper Peninsula is by flying into one of the regional airports. The main airports in the area are Sawyer International Airport (MQT) in Marquette, Delta County Airport (ESC) in Escanaba, and Chippewa County International Airport (CIU) in Sault Ste. Marie. These airports have regular flights from major cities in the United States.
2. By Car: The Upper Peninsula is accessible by car via several major highways. If you are coming from the Lower Peninsula of Michigan, you can cross the Mackinac Bridge on Interstate 75 and continue north. From Wisconsin, you can take US-2 or US-41 to enter the Upper Peninsula.
3. By Bus: There are bus services that connect the Upper Peninsula with other cities in Michigan and neighboring states. Greyhound and Indian Trails are two popular bus companies that operate in the area.
4. By Train: Amtrak's Pere Marquette and Wolverine lines provide train service to the Upper Peninsula. The Pere Marquette line runs between Chicago, Illinois, and Grand Rapids, Michigan, with stops in St. Joseph and Holland. The Wolverine line runs between Chicago and Pontiac, Michigan, with stops in Kalamazoo and Battle Creek.
5. By Ferry: If you are coming from Canada, you can take a ferry across the St. Marys River to reach the Upper Peninsula. The ferry operates between Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, and Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.
Once you are in the Upper Peninsula, there are local transportation options such as rental cars, taxis, and public transportation systems in some cities.
Nearby Destination From Upper Peninsula
1. Marquette: A charming city known for its stunning Lake Superior shoreline and vibrant arts scene.
2. Sault Ste. Marie: A historic town located on the St. Marys River, offering breathtaking views and a rich cultural heritage.
3. Escanaba: A picturesque city nestled on the shores of Little Bay de Noc, renowned for its outdoor recreational opportunities.
4. Houghton: Home to Michigan Technological University, this city is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and offers access to the beautiful Keweenaw Peninsula.
5. Iron Mountain: A scenic town surrounded by forests and lakes, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and skiing.
6. Munising: A gateway to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Munising is famous for its stunning cliffs, waterfalls, and pristine beaches.
7. St. Ignace: Located at the northern end of the Mackinac Bridge, this charming town offers breathtaking views of the Straits of Mackinac and is a popular tourist destination.
8. Manistique: A peaceful town on the shores of Lake Michigan, known for its sandy beaches, lighthouses, and tranquil atmosphere.
9. Ironwood: Nestled in the heart of the Gogebic Range, Ironwood is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, biking, and skiing opportunities.
10. Newberry: A gateway to the Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Newberry is a small town with a rich logging history and natural beauty.