Marquette Michigan 2025 Adventure Guide: Recreation, Culture, and Food in the Upper Peninsula
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, Marquette is historically known for the shipping of iron ore through the Marquette Iron Range, and regularly sees vessels pass through the city’s ports. Marquette is also home to Northern Michigan University, a public university enrolling 7,000 students, with 170+ undergraduate programs and 30+ campus-based and online programs. Marquette is a city known for its stunning scenic beauty, opportunities for recreation and adventure, culture, small town charm, and great food!
Marquette Michigan Photo Collage
Marquette Michigan and Lake Superior – Wild and Beautiful!
Marquette, Michigan’s unique location on the southern shore of Lake Superior is a big part of what makes it special. 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. Superior is considered an oligotrophic lake, lower in nutrients and overall productivity, with clear, cold water.
Weather along Lake Superior’s Southern Shore
The weather in the Lake Superior basin can be highly variable, and although Marquette experiences long, cold, snowy winters, the lake rarely freezes over completely. 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 MuralLake Superior & Ispheming Railroad Presque Isle Ore DockEllwood A. Matteson Harbor Park – Downtown MarquetteMarquette Harbor Lighthouse at McCarty’s Cove
Lake Superior Shipwrecks
An estimated 550 shipwrecks exist throughout Lake Superior; however, only 350 of these shipwrecks have been found, including the famous SS Edmund Fitzgerald, sunk on November 10, 1975 with 29 souls aboard. The most notable of shipwrecks is the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald, which 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)
Outdoor Recreation in Marquette
When it comes to outdoor recreation, Marquette has it all. Hiking, biking, and ski trails with scenic views of Lake Superior meander throughout the city and forested areas that surround Marquette. Visitors can enjoy guided kayaking tours, explore historical lighthouses, bike the year-round, 47-mile, Marquette City Multi-Use Path, visit Northern Michigan University for a hockey game, or visit the weekly farmer’s market from May 17th – November 15th.
Noquemanon Trail Network
The “Noquemanon”, or “Noque Trails” for short, are a non-motorized trail network that travel through 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. (North and South Trails, Fit Strip, Valley Spur, Saux Head, Hiawatha Water Trail). The Noquemanon Trail Network is well-maintained and scenic; many trails within the network provide a view of Lake Superior.
Noquemanon Trail Network – South Trails Trailhead Noquemanon Trail Network Loop SignageNoquemanon Trailhead – South TrailsNoquemanon 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, multi-use, crushed limestone/paved interpretive trail that travels through the Marquette Iron Range. The Iron Ore Heritage Trail passes right through downtown Marquette at Marquette Commons (home of the Saturday farmer’s market). Stop in for a hot coffee or baked good on Saturdays as you bike through town.
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 that travel through numerous historic and scenic parts of town.
This scenic bike path extends from Presque Isle and the Ore Dock in the north of town, through the Northern Michigan University campus to the southern part of Marquette, where 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 Hikes with Views of Lake Superior
Presque Isle Park and Blackrocks Beach
A local gem for visitors and Marquette residents alike, the popular Presque Isle Park hosts a 300+ acre forested peninsula extending into Lake Superior on the north side of the city. Peter White Drive can be accessed by car, bike, or by foot from 7am -11pm daily, traveling the loop through the peninsula. Over 100 native plants can be found within the forested peninsula. Two main picnic areas are available for 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. Visitors can walk along the rock outcrop or jump into Lake Superior at Blackrocks beach.
Blackrocks outcrop with view of Blackrocks BeachParking lot entrance to Blackrocks BeachBlackrocks Beach
Serpentinized Peridotite, Blackrocks BeachSerpentinized Peridotite Rocks, Black Rocks BeachClear Lake Superior water at Blackrocks Beach
Sugarloaf Mountain
The hike to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain is brief, but very scenic. 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. Hikers can expect to spend 15-30 minutes to reach the top of the half-mile trail; this trail is rated “moderate” but offers two options to the top. The more difficult, rugged, rocky route is steeper but faster.
At the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain there are three observation platforms; the west-facing lookout provides views of the Huron Mountains, while the east-facing lookout offers views of the Lake Superior shoreline, and the south-facing lookout provides views of Presque Isle Park.
Marquette Michigan Lodging Options
Nestledown: A Scandinavian Bed & Breakfast
Literally 175 steps from Lake Superior and Picnic Rocks Park, located along the Marquette City Multi Use Path and within walking distance of downtown Marquette restaurants and shops, Nestledown: A Scandinavian Bed & Breakfast, offers bright, sunny rooms, daily breakfast, and a sauna, in the center of all that Marquette has to offer. A short drive to Marquette Mountain Ski Hill, Sugarloaf Mountain, the marina and lower harbor, biking, hiking, and cross country ski tails, Nestledown 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! With uniquely designed guest rooms, claw-footed tubs, fireplaces, and expansive views of Lake Superior, Landmark Inn allows visitors to travel back in time to experience the old fashioned elegance of yesteryear.
Rippling River Resort
A few moments from downtown Marquette, you’ll find Rippling River Resort and Campground along the Carp River. Lodging options include tent sites, simple cabins, and luxury log cabins. The resort has hiking and biking trails on site, and is close to the Noquemanon South bike trails.
Marquette 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. Serving craft beers, local whitefish (and a delicious fish fry), soups, salads, sandwiches, pizza, pasta, and full entrees, 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
Located at 424 N. Third Street, Blackrocks Brewery offers 10-20 craft beers on tap, and both indoor and outdoor patio/rooftop seating. There’s also a nice gift shop on the main floor of the pub to pick up a souvenir. Food trucks are often located nearby for local eats! A favorite of locals, and a great stop for anyone passing through Marquette.
Ore Dock Brewing
Established in 2012, Ore Dock Brewing is located at 114 Spring St., just off of Front Street in downtown Marquette. Offering many craft beers and indoor and outdoor seating, Ore Dock is a great place to stop in for a local brew. Food trucks are often located nearby for local eats, along with a busy events calendar 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. Fun and festive atmosphere and beautiful outdoor patio nestled between two buildings.
Looking for a unique meal made with local ingredients? The Delft Bistro offers a unique dining experience, combining high quality, local food and cinema. Serving lunch, dinner, (with a kid’s menu) and weekend brunch, there’s something for everyone.
Donckers
Immediately next door to The Delft Bistro is Donckers Restaurant and Candy Kitchen, which began as an open-air candy stand in 1896, when downtown Marquette was experiencing growth. Donckers was established as a full restaurant and candy kitchen in downtown Marquette in 1906, and continued to grow in the decades that followed. Today, Donckers remains popular in the community, and visitors can enjoy a hot breakfast and lunch, including sandwiches, burgers, and fresh salads, and explore the gift shop and candy kitchen to pick up a treat.
Babycakes Muffin Company
Looking for something sweet? Babycakes Muffin Company, located at 223 W. Washington St. in the center of town, offers a variety of sweets including muffins and croissants, sandwiches, wraps, salads, paninis, breakfast burritos, quiche, coffee, and handcrafted drinks. Gluten-free options available! My personal favorite is the blueberry muffin; packed with fresh blueberries! Outdoor seating available during the summer months.
Babycakes Muffin Company
Downtown Marquette Michigan Farmer’s Market
If you’re looking for fresh, local produce, visit the Downtown Marquette Farmer’s Market Saturday mornings from 9am – 1pm, May 17 – October 25, and 10am – 1pm, November 1 – November 15 in Marquette Commons. Visitors can purchase fresh fruit and vegetables, honey, jam, baked goods, fresh ground/brewed coffee, textiles, eggs, and other crafts.
Weather along the shore of Lake Superior can be chilly, especially in the spring and early summer. If you plan to hike or bike in Marquette, make sure you have a comfortable backpack or waist pack to carry your water, snacks, and other gear. I recommend Osprey’s Talon 11 – I have worn this pack faithfully for 10 years and it has never let me down. I cannot say enough positive about the durability and fit of Osprey packs (I have four!) The Talon 11 has comfortable padded shoulder straps with safety whistle, curved back-panel to allow ventilation, continuous-wrap hip-belt, two water bottle compartments and plenty of storage space. Sized by gender from small to large/extended fit to fit your frame. Osprey Talon/Tempest Packs. For a simple sling pack, consider the Daylite Sling. For a smaller waist pack option, consider the Transporter Waist Pack, which functions as a sling or a waist pack.
If you’re looking for a great waterproof pack for rainy spring hikes, check out the Osprey Transporter Waterproof 18 (also available in 25 liter or 30 liter sizes). #ospreypacks @ospreypacks
Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase based on my recommendation, I make a small kickback at no additional cost to you.
A visit to Marquette Michigan is always an adventure, regardless of the season. Whether you plan to spend a day or a week in Marquette, enjoy an active lifestyle or relaxation, you will find no shortage of scenic views, friendly people, great food and drinks, nature, history, and adventure.
