Marquette Michigan, located on the southern shore of Lake Superior, is the largest city in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Home to 20,000+ residents, the city is historically known for the shipping of iron ore through the Marquette Iron Range. Large vessels regularly pass through the ports of Marquette. This historic city on Lake Superior’s southern shore offers scenic views, opportunities for recreation, great food, nature, history, and adventure. No matter the season, a visit to Marquette is an adventure.
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BlackRocks outcrop, Presque Isle Park, Marquette MichiganGreat Lakes Trader, Ore Dock along Lakeshore Boulevard
Northern Michigan University
The city of Marquette is home to Northern Michigan University, a public university with a student population of 7,000. NMU has 170+ undergraduate programs and 30+ campus-based and online programs. Known for its stunning scenic beauty, opportunities for recreation and adventure, culture, small town charm, and great food, Marquette has it all!
Photo Collage of Marquette sights (created with Pic collage)
Lake Superior – Wild and Beautiful!
Marquette is a special place, in part due to its unique location on the southern shore of Lake Superior. The largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area and third largest in the world by volume, Lake Superior holds 10% of the WORLD’s fresh water. Bordered by Canada to the north and the United States to the south, Lake Superior is jointly managed by the International Joint Commission (IJC). Lake Superior is over 1300 feet deep, with an average temperature of 36 degrees Fahrenheit. Lake Superior is oligotrophic, with clear, cold water, lower in nutrients and overall productivity.
Map of Lake Superior (courtesy of USGS)
Marquette Michigan | Weather on Lake Superior’s Southern Shore
The weather in the Lake Superior basin can be highly variable. Superior rarely freezes over completely, though Marquette experiences long, cold, snowy winters. For a current forecast and weather conditions, check the National Weather Service website for real-time updates. Marquette, Michigan Weather – National Weather Service
Picnic Rocks BeachMcCarty’s Cove BeachClark Lambros Beach ParkDowntown Marquette Mural, 153 W. Washington StreetLake Superior & Ispheming Railroad Presque Isle Ore DockEllwood A. Mattson Lower Harbor Park – Downtown MarquetteMarquette Harbor Lighthouse at McCarty’s Cove
Lake Superior Shipwrecks
An estimated 550 shipwrecks exist throughout Lake Superior. Only 350 of these shipwrecks have been found, including the famous SS Edmund Fitzgerald. Sunk on November 10, 1975 with 29 souls aboard, this is the most notable of shipwrecks in Lake Superior. This shipwreck inspired the famous 1976 ballad by Gordon Lightfoot, “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald”. The image from the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum shows the launch of the Edmund Fitzgerald on June 8, 1958.
Launch of the Edmund Fitzgerald – June 8, 1958 (Image credit: Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum)
Marquette Michigan | Outdoor Recreation
For scenic views and outdoor recreation, Marquette has it all! Hiking, biking, and ski trails meander throughout the city and forested areas with scenic views of Lake Superior. Options for recreation are endless! You can enjoy guided kayaking tours, explore historical lighthouses, or bike the year-round, 47-mile, Marquette City Multi-Use Path. From May 17th through November 15th, you can visit the weekly farmer’s market. If you’re a fan of collegiate sports, you can visit Northern Michigan University for a hockey game between October and March.
For detailed trail maps on the go, check out the All Trails app. Search 450,000 trails – with detailed maps, photos, and trail reviews. Sign up for a Free 7-day trial HERE.Â
Noquemanon Trail Network
The “Noquemanon“, or “Noque Trails” for short, are a non-motorized trail network in the central Upper Peninsula. Trails are open for trail running, mountain biking, cross country skiing, observing nature, skijoring, or snowshoeing. Numerous trailheads and access points exist throughout the trail system. TheNoquemanon Trail Networkis well-maintained and picturesque. Many trails within the network provide scenic views of Lake Superior.
Noquemanon Trail Network Trailheads
– North and South Trails
– Fit Strip
– Valley Spur
– Saux Head
– Hiawatha Water Trail
Noquemanon Trail Network – South Trails Trailhead Signage for “Noque” Trail Network LoopSouth Trails Noquemanon TrailheadNoquemanon Trailhead – South TrailsNoquemanon Trailhead – South Trails Trail Map
Iron Ore Heritage Trail
Hike, bike, run, cross-country ski, or bird-watch year-round along the 47-mile, Iron Ore Heritage Trail. This multi-use, crushed limestone/paved interpretive trail travels through the Marquette Iron Range. The Iron Ore Heritage Trail passes through downtown Marquette at Marquette Commons, home to the Saturday farmer’s market. If you stop in for a hot coffee or baked good on a Saturday, bike racks are available at Marquette Commons.
Marquette City Multi-Use Path
Located in the heart of the city, the Marquette City Multi Use Path includes over 17 miles of paved trails. This scenic trail travels through numerous historic and scenic parts of town, extending from Presque Isle and the Ore Dock in the north of town. The path passes through the Northern Michigan University campus to the southern part of town. Here, it connects with the Noquemanon Trail Network and 30 additional miles of multi-use trails. Check out the Marquette City Multi Use Path Map.
Scenic Views of Lake Superior
Presque Isle Park and Blackrocks Beach
A local gem for visitors and Marquette residents alike is the popular Presque Isle Park. On the north side of the city, Presque Isle hosts a 300+ acre forested peninsula extending into Lake Superior. Peter White Drive is the main road that loops through the peninsula. This road can be accessed by car, bike, or by foot from 7am -11pm daily. Over 100 native plants can be found within the forested peninsula. There are two main picnic areas available to visitors.
Presque Isle is home to Blackrocks, a 1.7 billion year old exposed basalt outcrop. Composed of the remnant cooled lava flows from ancient volcanic activity, Blackrocks is a must-see in Marquette! I encourage you to walk along the rock outcrop for the full experience. Jump from Blackrocks into Lake Superior for a thrilling dip! Most important is safety; the surface of Blackrocks can be slick after rain, and puddles form throughout the outcrop. This is a 10- 15 foot drop, and not for the faint of heart. Jump at your own risk!
Blackrocks outcrop with view of Blackrocks BeachParking lot entrance to Blackrocks BeachBlackrocks Beach
Basalt Outcrop at Blackrocks, 1.7 Billion Years Old (Presque Isle Park)Blackrocks, 1.7 Billion Year Old Basalt Outcrop, Presque Isle ParkSerpentinized Peridotite, Blackrocks BeachSerpentinized Peridotite Rocks, Blackrocks BeachClear Lake Superior water at Blackrocks Beach
Sugarloaf Mountain
The hike to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain is a great option! This trail is popular among visitors, Northern Michigan University students, and residents alike. This brief hike reaches an elevation of 470 feet, offering an expansive view of Lake Superior. You can expect to spend 15-30 minutes to reach the top of the half-mile trail. This trail offers two options to the top, and is rated “moderate”. The steep route is faster, but more difficult, rugged, and rocky.
At the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain there are three observation platforms. Looking west you’ll see the Huron Mountains. Looking east you’ll enjoy views of the Lake Superior shoreline.  The west-facing lookout provides views of the Huron Mountains, while the east-facing lookout offers views of the Lake Superior shoreline. In addition, the south-facing lookout provides views of Presque Isle Park.
Marquette Michigan Lodging Options
Nestledown: A Scandinavian Bed & Breakfast
Are you looking for a unique lodging option? Literally 175 steps from Lake Superior and Picnic Rocks Park, Nestledown: A Scandinavian Bed & Breakfast, offers bright, sunny rooms, daily breakfast, and a sauna. Located along the Marquette City Multi Use Path and within walking distance of downtown Marquette restaurants and shops, Netsedown is in the center of all that Marquette has to offer. It is a short drive to Marquette Mountain Ski Hill, Sugarloaf Mountain, the marina and the lower harbor. In addition, it is close to biking, hiking, and cross country ski tails. This beautiful spot provides a quiet, comfortable stay in the heart of Marquette.
Landmark Inn – Historic Downtown Marquette
For a more elegant lodging option, consider the Landmark Inn, a historic hotel which has hosted guests since 1930! The Landmark Inn hosts uniquely designed guest rooms, claw-footed tubs, fireplaces, and expansive views of Lake Superior. This unique historic hotel allows visitors to travel back in time to experience the old fashioned elegance of yesteryear.
Rippling River Resort
A few moments from downtown Marquette along the Carp River, you’ll find Rippling River Resort and Campground. Lodging options include tent sites, simple cabins, and luxury log cabins. Rippling River Resort hosts hiking and biking trails right on site. Additionally, Rippling River is located just a hop, skip and a jump to the Noquemanon South bike trails.
Marquette Michigan | Restaurants & Breweries
The Vierling Restaurant and Marquette Harbor Brewery
By far my favorite restaurant in town, The Vierling Restaurant and Marquette Harbor Brewery has been part of Marquette for over 140 years. The Vierling serves local whitefish, (and a delicious fish fry!), soups, salads, sandwiches, pizza, pasta, and other entrees. The restaurant also has a selection of craft beers local to Michigan. Dine or carry out, there is something for everyone. My favorite is the whitefish with the Vierling’s seasonal blueberry wheat beer, where the blueberries “dance” in the fizz!
The Vierling’s Blueberry Wheat Beer
Blackrocks Brewery
When it comes to breweries, Blackrocks is my favorite in downtown Marquette. Located at 424 N. Third Street, Blackrocks Brewery offers 10-20 craft beers on tap.  On site food trucks with burgers, pizza, and tacos are available throughout the summer. Be sure to check out the weekly food truck schedule on the Blackrocks Facebook page. Both indoor and outdoor patio/rooftop seating are available.
While you’re visiting the brewery, be sure to check out the gift shop on the main floor of the pub. Souvenirs and Blackrocks swag are available for purchase. Blackrocks Brewery has a friendly and festive vibe and is a great place to unwind after a day of adventure in Marquette. It’s a great stop for anyone passing through town!
Ore Dock Brewing
Established in 2012, Ore Dock Brewing is located at 114 Spring St., off of Front Street in downtown Marquette. Offering many craft beers and indoor and outdoor seating, Ore Dock is a great place to stop for a local brew. Food trucks are often parked nearby for local eats. Ore Dock also maintains a busy events schedule and live music throughout the year. Be sure to stop in the gift shop to pick up a souvenir!
El Santo Tacos & Tequila
Located at 113 West Baraga Street, El Santo Tacos & Tequila has some of the best tacos in town! Stop in for a quick meal and a refreshing margarita. My favorite is the Michigan margarita, made with Michigan wild cherry, blueberry, pineapple juice and fresh lime. El Santo has a fun and festive atmosphere, in addition to a beautiful outdoor patio nestled between two buildings.
Looking for a unique meal made with local ingredients? Located at 139 West Washington Street, The Delft Bistro offers a unique dining experience, combining high quality, local food and cinema. The Delft partners with local farmers and Upper Peninsula businesses to serve locally sourced foods. There’s something for everyone for lunch or dinner, (with a kid’s menu). In addition, weekend brunch is available Saturdays and Sundays. The Delft is also available for private events and catering.
Donckers Restaurant & Candy Kitchen
A staple of Marquette, Michigan, immediately next door to The Delft Bistro is Donckers Restaurant & Candy Kitchen. Donckers began as an open-air candy stand in 1896, when downtown Marquette was experiencing tremendous growth. Donckers was established as a full restaurant and candy kitchen in downtown Marquette in 1906, growing further in the decades that followed. Today, Donckers remains popular in the community. You can enjoy a hot breakfast and lunch, sandwich, burger, or fresh salad. In addition, be sure to explore the gift shop and candy kitchen to pick up a treat.
Babycakes Muffin Company
Looking for something sweet? Babycakes Muffin Company offers a wide variety of sweets to satisfy your sweet tooth. Babycakes also offers sandwiches, wraps, salads, paninis, breakfast burritos, quiche, coffee, and handcrafted drinks. Gluten-free options are available! My personal favorite is the blueberry muffin, packed with fresh blueberries. Outdoor seating is available during the summer months. Babycakes is located at 223 W. Washington St. directly across from City Hall.
Babycakes Muffin Company, downtown Marquette
Marquette Michigan | Farmer’s Market
If you’re looking for fresh, local produce, visit the Downtown Marquette Farmer’s Market in Marquette Commons. The market is held Saturday mornings from 9am – 1pm, May 17 through October 25. Additionally, the market is open from 10am – 1pm from November 1 through November 15. I love this market! You’ll find fresh fruit and vegetables, in addition to honey, homemade jam, baked goods, in addition to fresh ground coffee, textiles, eggs, and other crafts.
For a great biking-specific pack, consider Osprey’s Kitsuma or Katari hydration packs in 1.5 liter, 3 liter, or 7 liter sizes. The Katari 3 is my go to biking pack, just large enough for extra water, snacks, and a light layer of clothing.
For a lumbar off-the-back pack, check out the Seral 7, with enough room for a spare tube and patch kit. For something a tad larger, I recommend the Raptor 10, with hipbelt pockets and shoulder harness. Osprey’s Packfinder will help you find the pack that best fits your frame and activity.Â
Waterproof Packs
Summer weather can change on a dime. For a waterproof pack for those potentially rainy summer rides, check out the Osprey Transporter Waterproof, in 18, 25, and 30 liter sizes with back-panel ventilation and roll-top closure to fit all your gear.
A visit to Marquette, Michigan is always an adventure, regardless of the season. Spend a day – or a week – in Marquette! Enjoy an active lifestyle – or relax. You will find no shortage of scenic views, friendly people, great food and drinks, nature, history, and adventure.
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