Day 1
Explore a National Lakeshore and the Coastal Town of Munising
Day 1 Activity
Pictured Rocks Boat Cruise
Begin your trip to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on a Pictured Rocks Boat Cruise. This narrated 2-to-3-hour journey along the sweeping sandstone cliffs, marked by colorful mineral stains, and the clear blue waters of Lake Superior. You'll enjoy breathtaking views of some of the coastline's most iconic landmarks while learning about the area's history and the stunning natural formations.
Travel Tip
Another option is to save this tour for the end of the day when you can join a Sunset Cruise for a unique perspective on the scenery as the setting sun bathes the rocks and lake in a golden glow.
Day 1 Activity
Hike Pictured Rocks
Head into the park and lace up your hiking boots – now's your chance to get up close to some of your favorite landmarks from the cruise. There are over 100 miles of hiking trails in the park, crisscrossing sandstone cliffs, beaches, lush forests and dunes.
Travel Tip
Check with rangers at the Munising Falls Visitor Center on your way into the park – they'll help you select a trail that matches your interest and time requirements. In addition, you can peruse their displays of the natural and cultural history of the park.
Day 1 Dining
Savor Fresh, Local Flavors
Treat yourself to some well-earned food after your day out. Munising is home to a variety of restaurants like the Brownstone Inn for some delicious whitefish chowder or lake-caught walleye. Or, stop by the Cap'n Ron's Fish & Chips food truck for lakeside views and delicious food made with fresh-caught whitefish and trout.
Travel Tip
For a U.P. staple, Muldoons Pasties & Gifts is a casual option for some hearty pasties.
Day 1 Lodging
Cozy Up at the Roam Inn
It’s always a good season to stay at the Roam Inn, where adventure meets relaxation. Overlooking Lake Superior, this intimate boutique inn features only 18 luxurious rooms and award-winning dining at Tracey’s. Don’t miss the new wine menu filled with thoughtfully curated options by the glass or the bottle.
Travel Tip
No matter what your budget and whether you’re traveling with family or friends or going solo, you can find accommodations to fit your needs in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Day 2
Downtown Marquette and Hiking Trails
Day 2
Drive From Munising to Marquette
Your drive to Marquette today follows M-28 west and US-41 north through sections of the Hiawatha National Forest.
Travel Tip
Enjoy the pines and views of Lake Superior as you drive.
Day 2 Activity
Marquette Hiking
Start your exploration of Marquette with a hike in one of the city's many beautiful parks. Presque Isle Park encompasses a forested peninsula in Lake Superior and offers easy trails and scenic overlooks. Don't miss out on the Black Rocks, a 1.7 billion year old rock formation. The dark basalt against the blue waters of Lake Superior creates an unforgettable picture.
Travel Tip
Check out the Marquette Ore Docks on your way into the park. It is the only operating ore-loading facility in Marquette's harbors, and you can see iron ore freighters loaded here daily.
Day 2 Dining
Refuel in Downtown Marquette
Marquette dining spans cozy pubs and fine-casual eateries. Serving Marquette for over 140 years, the family-owned Vierling Restaurant & Marquette Harbor Brewery combines local craft beer with hearty bistro fare, including fresh Lake Superior whitefish. For a more casual vibe, try Donckers for some made-from-scratch sandwiches or burgers.
Travel Tip
On the main floor of Donckers, browse handcrafted sweets made from fair trade chocolate to take with you on your road trip, as well as unique gifts and ice cream.
Day 2
Drive from Marquette to Houghton
The final drive of the day takes you to Houghton, the "Gateway to the Keweenaw." From Marquette, head north on US-41 along the Lake Superior coastline.
Travel Tip
Located on the southern shore of the Keweenaw Waterway, Houghton is home to Michigan Technological University, a vibrant historic downtown and plenty of great dining options.
Day 2 Lodging
Rest Your Head in the Keweenaw Peninsula
For your stay in Houghton, consider the boutique The Vault Hotel. Housed in an iconic, industrial revolution–era sandstone building, The Vault Hotel embodies its namesake with teller windows, salvaged bank boxes and other curios, and rooms come equipped with modern amenities. Just a short 20-minute drive north, the historic Laurium Manor Inn is another excellent choice.
Travel Tip
If you’re staying at The Vault Hotel, stop by the onsite speakeasy named The Counting Room. After a day of adventures and driving, enjoy handcrafted drinks below the hotel while sitting at penny-adorned bar.
Day 3
Explore the Keweenaw Peninsula
Day 3 Activity
Quincy Mine Tour and Cog Railway
North of Houghton, head to the Quincy Mine to experience a piece of the Keweenaw's history firsthand on a mine tour. The Quincy Mine operated for almost a century during the copper boom on the Keweenaw Peninsula. On the tour, learn about the mine's history as you tour the museum, Shaft House and Steam Hoist Building before boarding the Cog Railway Tram, which carries you to the mine entrance. Here, you'll descend seven levels underground to experience how the miners lived and worked firsthand.
Travel Tip
The interior of the mine can get cold, so make sure to bring a sweatshirt or jacket for your decent underground.
Day 3
Drive from Houghton to Eagle River
Today, you'll drive northward into rugged Keweenaw County, following US-41 before transferring to M-26 at Phoenix. Continue to the village of Eagle River on the shores of Lake Superior in the Keweenaw Peninsula.
Travel Tip
Eagle River Falls is a must-see landmark just .8 miles from town, reachable by car.
Day 3 Dining
The Jampot
Grab some food at the Jampot, a bakery affiliated with the Catholic Monastery of the Byzantine Rite. They sell flavorful fruitcakes, preserves made with wild berries picked near their shop, delicious muffins and cookies, handmade chocolates and candies, and house-roasted coffee.
Travel Tip
If you need something heartier before hitting the road, Fitzgerald’s Restaurant in Eagle River offers cuisine crafted with locally sourced ingredients paired with unforgettable Lake Superior views.
Day 3
Drive from Eagle River to Copper Harbor
Continue along M-26 to Copper Harbor, the top of the Keweenaw Peninsula and the final stop of your trip.
Travel Tip
Copper Harbor is a beautiful and historic town on the shores of Lake Superior, known for its iconic blend of outdoor recreation and small-town charm.
Day 3 Activity
Enjoy Vistas Along Brockway Mountain Drive
The Brockway Mountain Drive, located in Copper Harbor, is a 9.5-mile drive – the highest above-sea-level drive between the Rockies and the Alleghenies – that offers spectacular views of Lake Superior and the Keweenaw.
Travel Tip
There are plenty of viewing platforms and trails along the drive if you want to hop out and soak up the breathtaking views.
Day 3 Dining
Dining and Lake Superior Views
Unwind in one of Copper Harbor's many wonderful restaurants. Harbor Haus offers a fine-dining experience with views of Lake Superior – it's not unlikely you'll catch a freighter cutting across the horizon. Sample some locally caught fish paired with a drink from their extensive wine list.
Travel Tip
The Mariner North Resort is a great casual option with a large selection of sandwiches, pizzas and homemade soups.
Ready to explore Michigan’s Upper Peninsula?
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