Europe in America: Marquette, Michigan

Finnish Heritage Along the Shores of Lake Superior

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan has the largest Finnish population outside of Finland, and Marquette is its most populous city. Marquette is not a spitting image of Helsinki but expect a cool small town with a friendly vibe and deep Scandinavian roots. The town celebrates the unique Heikki Lunta Festival in honor of the Finnish snow god character in January each year, and its Finnish heritage is on display at stores like Touch of Finland. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the diverse number of things to do in Marquette, from outdoor activities to local museums and shopping. The eclectic restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops provide plenty of choices for food and drink.

Outdoor Recreation

– Explore 323-acre Presque Isle Park along the shores of Lake Superior. The popular park was designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmstead. Explore on foot on the John B. Anderton Trail System or take a scenic drive on Peter White Drive.

– Hike to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain for a bird’s-eye view of Lake Superior. The well-marked trail to the peak takes 15-20 minutes and is moderately strenuous.

– With 77 waterfalls in Marquette County, waterfall hikes are a popular activity with locals and visitors alike to enjoy the sights and sounds of the falling water. Morgan Creek Falls, Little Garlic Falls, Carp River Falls, and Wright Street Falls are all in town. The Travel Marquette website can assist with your waterfall adventure.

Photo: Travel Marquette

Museums & Attractions

– Tour the Marquette Harbor Lighthouse. Guided tours are available through the Marquette Maritime Museum.

– If you need a few indoor options during your stay, learn more about the history and heritage of the Upper Peninsula at the Beaumier Upper Peninsula Heritage Center and the Marquette Regional History Center. Other museums include the DeVos Art Museum and Upper Peninsula Children’s Museum.

– The 47-mile interpretive Iron Ore Heritage Trail crosses through Marquette. An example of the mining and manufacturing industry in the area is the Presque Isle Dock in the Upper Harbor. The dock is still active today and is a popular photo spot.

Photo: Travel Marquette

Brew, Distill & Ferment

– Spend an afternoon experiencing the craft brewery scene in Marquette. Mix it up with a glass of wine and some small plates at Zephyr Wine Bar + Café. See what’s on tap at Barrel + Beam, Ore Dock Brewing, Blackrocks Brewery, and Marquette Harbor Brewing Company.