Home Tour Ideas Itineraries Michigan Itinerary: Sault Ste. Marie

Michigan Itinerary: Sault Ste. Marie

September 19, 2022

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Get itinerary inspiration with these group-tour stops in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.

“You have to see Sault Ste. Marie for yourself to truly believe all our city has to offer,” says Linda Hoath, executive director of the Sault Ste. Marie Convention and Visitors Bureau. “From cruising along the St. Marys River to exploring Tahquamenon Falls, you’re guaranteed to make memories that last a lifetime. In the Soo, you can find manmade marvels and the wonders of Mother Nature all within a short distance of each other.”

CRUISE

Every year about 10,000 freighters go through the Soo Locks, which are located at the northern end of the St. Marys River connecting Lake Superior and Lake Huron. The locks make it possible for vessels of all sizes to traverse the 21-foot difference between the upper river and the lower river. “Locking through” is the opportunity to experience the tour boat raising, or lowering, with 22 million gallons of water fed by gravity (no pumps) into the Poe Lock. Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours and Original Soo Locks Boat Tours offer 90-minute-plus tours. Pass under the International Highway Bridge and see historic attractions.

VIEW

Soo Locks Park offers great sightseeing. The observation deck peers over the MacArthur Lock and is as close to the Poe Lock as a person can possibly get.

Explore

Upper Tahquamenon Falls
Credit: Aubry Healy © 2021 State of Michigan

At Tahquamenon Falls State Park, take a paved trail to the iconic waterfalls or hike a rustic trail at the river’s edge. Check out the brewpub, gift shop and outdoor fireplace.

TOUR

River of History Museum’s 11 interactive galleries chronicle the 8,000-year history of the St. Marys River.

The Museum Ship Valley Camp, a retired Great Lakes freighter, brings shipboard life into focus.

Museum Ship Valley Camp
Credit: Sault Ste. Marie CVB

Rising 210 feet above Sault Ste. Marie, the Tower of History provides groups a 360-degree view of the entire Sault area from the Soo Locks and the St. Marys River to the Canadian wilderness. An express elevator takes guests to the top for a panoramic view of up to 1,200 square miles.