If you’re looking for an easy Midwestern weekend spot, Marquette, Michigan, in the Upper Peninsula (UP), checks a lot of boxes: quirky small town, rich history, unique shopping and swoonworthy views of Lake Superior. And, there’s beer! Marquette is a craft beer lover’s delight.
This was my first trip to the UP. My Detroiter husband went to college at Michigan Tech in Houghton so we decided to tack on a trip North to our week in the Motor City. Here’s a list of things to do in Marquette and why you should visit in autumn.
The writer was hosted by Travel Marquette.
Getting to Marquette
- Driving: Marquette is about six-and-a-half hours from both Detroit and Minneapolis
- Flying: Marquette has a small airport serviced by American and Delta, plus a solid rental car presence. I recommend wheels for getting around the area, although you can get around downtown without a car.
Things to Do in Marquette, Michigan
- Explore the Lower Dock Harbor – stroll along the waterfront trail, watch boats and kayakers glide across Lake Superior and admire the towering Ore Dock, especially striking at sunset.
- Visit the Marquette Maritime Museum – Tour the still-active Marquette Harbor Lighthouse, and learn about the shipwrecks that lie beneath Lake Superior’s surface.
- Check out Marquette’s craft beer scene – the city has 10+ breweries and tasting rooms.
- Shop downtown Marquette – Washington Street is full of fun boutiques. My favorites include Spice & Tea Merchants and Read My Lips bookstore.
Outdoor Activities
- Thomas Rock – A wheelchair accessible, family and dog-friendly trail leading to a scenic overlook, offering incredible views of the Keweenaw Peninsula and Lake Superior. More of a walk than a hike.
- Sugarloaf Mountain – This moderate 1.2-mile hike involves navigating a soft trail through the woods and a series of stairs to reach a scenic overlook. There’s also a more difficult option that involves a few light rock scrambles.
- Morgan Falls – Easy 2.8-mile trail just outside of the city with a short decline to the falls, which you’ll hear well before you see with your eyes.
- Lakenland Sculpture Park – Free for visitors, this 37-acre park features whimsical sculptures made from scrap metal.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Check out Travel Marquette’s website for other seasonal outdoor adventures, from biking to kayaking to viewing Northern Lights.
Where to Eat
Downtown Marquette offers plenty of charming eateries. We found everything to be super casual.
- Delft Bistro – Locally sourced brunch and dinner menus and live entertainment.
- The Vierling Restaurant and Marquette Harbor Brewery – Historic building, dreamy views and an extensive menu. This place is hopping so make a reservation.
- Trenary Toast Cafe – Breakfast and lunch, bright eclectic decor and good coffee.
- Donckers – Candy store downstairs, restaurant upstairs. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
- Iron Bay Restaurant and Drinkery – Fun waterfront location with great appetizers, burgers and beer.
Where to Stay in Marquette
- The Landmark Inn is a comfortable boutique hotel in downtown Marquette.
- Free parking, with many shops, bars, breweries, restaurants and local attractions within easy walking distance, although expect a few hills.
- We stayed in a single king room with lots of space.
Hotel Amenities
- Northland Gastropub – located just off the lobby, this is a fun place to grab drinks, dinner or Sunday brunch.
- Northstar Lounge – this dreamy top-floor space has eclectic decor and great views of Lake Superior.
- The rooms include free WiFi and Keurig coffee makers.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Travel Marquette maintains a listing of other hotels and lodging options in the area, including familiar franchise properties and vacation rentals.
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Fall Weather in Marquette
- Fall lows range from high 30s to low 60s with highs usually in the 40s and 50s.
- Leaves begin to turn mid-September and achieve peak color in mid-October, although this can vary. Check the fall color reports available on the Upper Peninsula Travel website for the latest and greatest.
- Marquette is a four-season destination so if you’re inspired to visit another time of year, it’s an easy adjustment.
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