Things to Do in The Upper Peninsula Michigan

If you are looking for a complete guide to exploring Michigan’s Upper Peninsula — its natural beauty, rugged coastlines, historic sites, and unforgettable adventures- you have come to the right place. This post is part of an overall series of travels around Lake Michigan.  Please see the post “The Ultimate Guide: Best Time to Visit Lake Michigan,” to learn more about the overall two-week tour around the Lake.

Best Things to Do in The Upper Peninsula

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is one of the most spectacular regions in the Midwest — a wild, scenic, adventure-filled landscape surrounded by Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Huron. With dense forests, sandstone cliffs, small towns, and endless shoreline, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan feels like a world apart. It’s a place where you can wander through ancient rock formations, hike to waterfalls, watch the northern lights, explore historic forts, and enjoy ice cream and fudge on a car-free island.

Whether you’re planning a road trip, a long weekend, or a full vacation, this guide covers the best things to do across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula — from the Keweenaw Peninsula to St. Ignace, from Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore to Copper Harbor, and everywhere in between.

Why Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Is So Special

The Upper Peninsula (UP) is unlike anywhere else in the Great Lakes region. It’s remote, rugged, and filled with natural beauty — towering waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, pristine lakes, and thick forests that stretch for miles. The UP is also home to fascinating historic sites, charming towns, and some of the most amazing places to explore in the Midwest.

Here’s what makes the UP a great place to visit:

• Over 1,700 miles of shoreline
• Three Great Lakes: Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron
• Dozens of waterfalls
• Miles of scenic drives
• Unique geological formations
• Heavy snowfall in winter (perfect for cross-country skiing)
• Endless summer adventures
• Friendly small towns with local charm

Whether you love hiking, boating, history, photography, or simply exploring new landscapes, the UP delivers.

Best Route to Tour Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

Following is the general route we took given our three day tour of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.  If you have a least three days, but preferable five or more, we suggest you take this tour around the Upper Peninsula:

1. St. Ignace → Sault Ste. Marie

Distance: 52 miles Drive Time: 50 minutes

Highlights:

• Mackinac Bridge views
• Soo Locks
• Historic downtown
• St. Mary’s River waterfront

This is a smooth, scenic start to your loop.

2. Sault Ste. Marie → Paradise

Distance: 60 miles Drive Time: 1 hour

Highlights:

• Quiet forest roads
• Small-town charm
• Gateway to Whitefish Point & Tahquamenon Falls

Paradise is your base for two of the UP’s most iconic attractions.

3. Paradise → Whitefish Point Lighthouse

Distance: 11 miles Drive Time: 15 minutes

Highlights:

• Whitefish Point Lighthouse
• Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum
• Lake Superior’s Shipwreck Coast
• Birding & rugged shoreline

This is one of the most dramatic coastal views in the entire Upper Peninsula.

4. Whitefish Point Lighthouse → Germfask

Distance: 63 miles Drive Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Route Character: A peaceful drive south through forest and wetland regions, transitioning from Lake Superior’s dramatic coastline to the quiet marshlands of the central UP.

Highlights:

• Seney National Wildlife Refuge (minutes from Germfask)
• Wildlife viewing, scenic marshes and boardwalks
• Ideal for photography and nature lovers
• See Benny the Beard Fisher, a troll created by Danish Thomas Dambo.at the Northland Outfitters Canpground.

5. Germfask → Grand Marais

Distance: 41 miles Drive Time: 45 minutes

Route Character: A beautiful eastbound drive that reconnects you with Lake Superior’s shoreline and the eastern gateway to Pictured Rocks. Click here to learn more.

Highlights:

• Log Slide Overlook
• Grand Marais harbor
• Sable Falls
• Access to eastern Pictured Rocks trails
• Small-town charm

6. Grand Marais → Munising

Distance: 46 miles Drive Time: 50 minutes

Route Character: A scenic shoreline and forest drive along the southern edge of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Highlights:

• Miners Castle
• Miners Falls
• Chapel Falls trailheads
• Boat tours & kayaking – a great way to see the Pictured Rocks and Grand Island.
• Sandstone cliffs and turquoise water

Munising is the heart of the Pictured Rocks region and the best place to get a boat ride to view the Pictured Rocks. It also has a unique spot for lunch, “Toby’s Dog House.”

7. Munising → Marquette

Distance: 43 miles Drive Time: 45 minutes

Route Character: A westbound drive along Lake Superior with rolling hills and forest views.

Highlights:

• Marquette’s historic downtown
• Black Rocks
• Presque Isle Park
• Breweries & restaurants
• Lake Superior shoreline

Marquette is the largest city in the UP and a perfect overnight stop. It has been and still is a major port for loading iron ore onto ships transporting the ore to other ports on the Great Lakes. The unique buildings are designed to unload the trains carrying the iron ore, and efficiently load the barges which will further transport it to where it is needed. The older loader has become a landmark in the center of town. The new more efficient loaded is slightly north of the town and still operating with the connected train bridge.

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8. Marquette → Escanaba

Distance: 66 miles Drive Time: 1 hour

Highlights:

• Lake Michigan shoreline
• Sand Point Lighthouse
• Escanaba downtown
• Great food & waterfront parks

Escanaba is a relaxing final stop before continuing south and entering Wisconsin. If interested please see our post “Best Coastal Wisconsin Cities Near Lake Michigan.” Otherwise, continue back to St. Ignace.

Map of Our Recommended Things to Do in The Upper Peninsula Michigan

Here is the fastest path we suggest to tour Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. We did this is three days, but we suggest a few extra days especially if you wish to visit Whitefish Point and the State Parks.

Best Time to Visit Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

The best time to visit depends on what you want to do.

Warmer Months (May–October)

This is the most popular season for:

• Hiking
• Boat tours
• Waterfalls
• Scenic drives
• Exploring Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
• Visiting Mackinac Island
• Enjoying ice cream in small towns
• Watching sunsets over Lake Superior

Temperatures are mild, trails are open, and the days are long — perfect for exploring.

Winter Months (November–April)

Winter in the UP is magical but intense. Expect:

• Heavy snowfall
• Limited cell service in remote areas
• Incredible winter scenery
• Snowshoeing
• Cross-country skiing
• Snow mobiles
• Frozen waterfalls
• Quiet towns

Winter yields a great spot for solitude and adventure, but it requires preparation.

Start Your Journey in St. Ignace

Most travelers begin their UP adventure by crossing the iconic Mackinac Bridge, which connects Michigan’s Lower Peninsula to St. Ignace in the Upper Peninsula. The bridge itself is a landmark — a massive suspension bridge stretching five miles across the Straits of Mackinac, offering breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron.

Mackinac Bridge

The Mackinac Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Michigan — a five‑mile suspension bridge connecting St. Ignace in the Upper Peninsula with Mackinaw City in the Lower Peninsula. It’s visually stunning, historically significant, and culturally beloved. Locals have deep affection for it, and it plays a major role in Michigan identity. Its main suspension span is 3,800 feet, one of the longest in the United States.

Once you reach St. Ignace, you’ll find:

• A welcoming small town atmosphere
• Local restaurants
• A beautiful waterfront
• Easy access to Mackinac Island
• Scenic views of the straits

Castle Rock

Just north of St. Ignace, Castle Rock is one of the UP’s classic roadside attractions. Climb the stairs to the top for a panoramic view of the surrounding forests and lakes. There’s also a gift shop at the base — a fun stop on any UP road trip.

Visit Mackinac Island — Michigan’s Car-Free Gem

Although technically between the peninsulas, Mackinac Island is a must-see on any Upper Peninsula itinerary. This car-free island is accessible by ferry from St. Ignace and offers a charming step back in time.

Top Things to Do on Mackinac Island

• Walk or bike around the island
• Visit Arch Rock
• Explore historic forts
• Enjoy ice cream on Main Street
• Take a horse-drawn carriage tour
• Visit the butterfly house
• Wander through the island’s beautiful scenery

It’s one of the best places to experience Michigan’s history and natural beauty. Please see our Post “Ultimate Guide to Plan a Trip to Mackinac Island” for more information. Also, if looking for places to stay on the Island, please check out TripAdvisor below:

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore — The Crown Jewel of the UP

Located along the shores of Lake Superior, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the most stunning natural areas in the United States. Known for its colorful sandstone cliffs, turquoise waters, and dramatic rock formations, this park is a must-visit. Here are two examples, one of which is one of the two arches on the rocks.

This rock is thought of as the face of an Indian with the trees serving as his headdress.

Best Ways to Explore Pictured Rocks

• Boat tour — the most popular way to see the cliffs
• Kayaking — for a close-up view of caves and arches
• Hiking — dozens of trails through forests and along cliffs
• Photography — sunrise and sunset are spectacular

Chapel Falls & Chapel Rock

One of the most scenic hikes in the park leads to Chapel Falls, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by dense forests. Continue the trail to Chapel Rock, a dramatic formation with a lone tree growing from its top, best viewed from the water.

Grand Marais

On the eastern edge of Pictured Rocks, Grand Marais is a charming town with:

• A quiet harbor
• A historic lighthouse
• A friendly local vibe
• A base for exploring the eastern side of the park.

Sand Dunes & Waterfall

The Grand Marais are best known for the sand dunes reaching down to the Lake and a waterfall.  We didn’t visit the waterfall, but we did see the sand dunes further west on Lake Superior’s coast.

Hiawatha National Forest — The Heart of the UP

Covering nearly a million acres, Hiawatha National Forest is filled with:

• Dense forests
• Lakes
• Trails
• Wildlife
• Scenic views

It’s a peaceful place for hiking, camping, and exploring nature. The forest stretches between Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, making it a central part of any UP adventure.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park — Michigan’s Most Famous Waterfall

One of the top things to do in the Upper Peninsula is visit Tahquamenon Falls State Park, home to two massive waterfalls.

Upper Falls

One of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. The amber-colored water (from cedar tannins) gives it a unique appearance.

Lower Falls

A series of smaller cascades with a boardwalk and boat rentals.

The park offers:

• Hiking trails
• Observation decks
• Dense forests
• Wildlife viewing

It’s especially beautiful in the fall.

Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum — Lake Superior’s Shipwreck Coast

Located at Whitefish Point, the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum tells the story of the many ships lost along Lake Superior’s shipwreck coast.

Highlights include:

• The bell of the Edmund Fitzgerald
• Historic artifacts
• A lighthouse
• Exhibits about maritime history

It’s one of the most fascinating historic sites in the UP.

Explore Grand Island

Just off the coast of Munising, Grand Island is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Accessible by ferry, it offers:

• Hiking
• Biking
• Camping
• Cliffs and caves
• Beautiful beaches

It’s quieter than Pictured Rocks but equally stunning. It contains the Grand Island East Channel Lighthouse. The Lighthouse  is one of the most photographed and beloved historic structures in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula — a weathered, wooden sentinel standing guard over the turquoise waters of Lake Superior near Munising. It’s rustic, remote, and absolutely iconic.

The Keweenaw Peninsula — Copper Country Adventure

The Keweenaw Peninsula is one of the most rugged and scenic areas in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Known for its mining history, dramatic landscapes, and remote beauty, it’s a must-see. Unfortunately, we ran out of time, which is why we recommend that you spend more than the three days that we spent in the UP.

Copper Harbor

At the tip of the peninsula, Copper Harbor offers:

• Mountain biking
• Hiking
• Scenic drives
• Lake Superior views
• A peaceful atmosphere

It’s also one of the best places to see the northern lights.

Scenic Drives

The Brockway Mountain Drive is one of the most beautiful routes in the Midwest, offering sweeping views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forests.

Sault Ste. Marie — The Oldest City in Michigan

Sault Ste. Marie (often written Sault Ste Marie) is the largest city in the eastern UP and one of the oldest cities in the United States.

Top attractions include:

• The Soo Locks
• Historic downtown
• Museums
• Waterfront parks

It’s a great base for exploring the eastern Upper Peninsula.

Small-Town Charm & Ice Cream Stops

The UP is filled with charming small towns where you can grab local ice cream, explore shops, and enjoy the slower pace of life.

Favorites include:

• Munising
• Marquette
• Houghton
• Escanaba
• St. Ignace
• Grand Marais

Each town offers its own personality and local flavor.

Northern Lights in the UP

The Upper Peninsula is one of the best places in the United States to see the northern lights. The best viewing spots include:

• Copper Harbor
• Marquette
• Whitefish Point
• Isle Royale (accessible by ferry)

Clear nights in spring and fall offer the best chances.

Insider Tips for Visiting the Upper Peninsula

• Cell service can be limited — download maps ahead of time.
• Bring layers — even summer nights can be cool.
• Book lodging early during peak season.
• Keep an eye out for wildlife on scenic drives.
• Visit the visitor center at each major park for trail updates.
• Try local pasties — a UP classic.
• Don’t rush — the UP is best enjoyed slowly.

Final Thoughts: The Upper Peninsula Is an Adventure Like No Other

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a place of beautiful scenery, rugged landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. From the cliffs of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore to the waterfalls of Tahquamenon Falls, from the quiet charm of Copper Harbor to the historic streets of Sault Ste. Marie, the UP offers endless opportunities for exploration.

Whether you’re hiking through dense forests, taking a boat tour, wandering a car-free island, or watching the northern lights dance over Lake Superior, the Upper Peninsula is full of much fun, wonder, and discovery.

It’s one of the best places in the Midwest — and once you visit, you’ll understand why travelers return again and again.