Top 15 Things to Do in Marquette Besides Hiking
Marquette is often known for its incredible hiking trails, rugged cliffs, and outdoor adventures. While hiking is certainly one of the area's biggest draws, it's far from the only way to experience Michigan's largest city in the Upper Peninsula.
Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway, planning a family vacation, attending a wedding, or simply looking for new experiences, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Marquette that don't require hitting the trails.
From craft breweries and waterfront activities to museums and local events, here are 15 of the best Marquette activities and attractions to add to your itinerary.
1. Take a Brewery Tour
Marquette has become one of the Upper Peninsula's premier craft beer destinations, making a brewery tour one of the most popular Marquette attractions for visitors and locals alike.
Instead of worrying about transportation or deciding which brewery to visit next, a guided brewery tour allows you to experience multiple locations in a single outing while learning more about the area's thriving beer scene.
Whether you're visiting with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply exploring the city, a brewery tour offers a fun and unique way to experience Marquette.
2. Relax at McCarty's Cove
Located just steps from downtown, McCarty's Cove is one of Marquette's most popular beaches.
Visitors can swim, sunbathe, watch freighters pass through the harbor, or simply enjoy stunning views of Lake Superior. During the summer months, it's a favorite destination for both locals and tourists looking to cool off and enjoy the waterfront.
3. Visit Presque Isle Park
While many visitors come to Presque Isle Park for walking and sightseeing, you don't have to be a hiker to enjoy it.
Take a scenic drive around the peninsula, enjoy a picnic overlooking Lake Superior, watch the sunset from the shoreline, or explore the area's famous black rocks and scenic viewpoints.
4. Explore Downtown Marquette
Downtown Marquette is packed with locally owned shops, restaurants, coffeehouses, galleries, and historic buildings.
Spend an afternoon browsing unique stores, grabbing a coffee, or discovering local artwork while enjoying the walkable atmosphere that makes downtown one of the city's most popular destinations.
5. Tour the Marquette Maritime Museum
The rich maritime history of Lake Superior comes to life at the Marquette Maritime Museum.
Visitors can learn about shipwrecks, lighthouse history, commercial shipping, and the role Marquette played in Great Lakes transportation.
It's a great indoor activity for rainy days or anyone interested in local history.
6. Catch a Sunset on Lake Superior
Few experiences compare to watching the sun set over Lake Superior.
Popular viewing spots include Presque Isle Park, South Beach, McCarty's Cove, and the Lower Harbor area. Bring a blanket, grab takeout from a local restaurant, and enjoy one of nature's best free attractions.
7. Visit the Ore Dock
The historic Lower Harbor Ore Dock is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Marquette.
Originally built to load iron ore onto freighters, the structure remains an iconic symbol of the city's mining heritage and offers excellent photography opportunities.
8. Explore Local Waterfalls
You don't need a strenuous hike to enjoy some of the Upper Peninsula's beautiful waterfalls.
Popular nearby options include:
Dead River Falls
Laughing Whitefish Falls
Yellow Dog Falls
Morgan Falls
Many offer accessible viewing areas and make excellent day trips from Marquette.
9. Attend a Local Festival or Event
Marquette hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including:
Music on Third Street
Farmers markets and seasonal celebrations
Depending on when you visit, an event can add a unique local experience to your trip.
10. Paddle on Lake Superior
Kayaking and paddle boarding offer a completely different perspective of Marquette's shoreline.
Several local outfitters offer rentals and guided excursions, making it easy for visitors to explore the waters of Lake Superior safely.
11. Visit Lakenenland
One of the most unique Marquette attractions is Lakenenland Sculpture Park.
This free outdoor sculpture park features hundreds of whimsical metal art installations created by local artist Tom Lakenen. It's a favorite stop for families, photographers, and first-time visitors.
12. Take a Scenic Drive Along Lake Superior
Not every adventure requires physical exertion.
The roads surrounding Marquette offer spectacular views of forests, rocky shorelines, and Lake Superior. A leisurely drive is a great way to experience the area's natural beauty while covering more ground than you could on foot.
13. Enjoy Marquette's Food Scene
Marquette's dining scene continues to grow, with options ranging from classic Upper Peninsula comfort food to upscale dining and international cuisine.
Visitors can enjoy fresh whitefish, locally sourced ingredients, artisan pizza, Indian-fusion, barbecue, and of course, craft beer paired with great meals.
14. Go Fishing
Lake Superior and the surrounding inland lakes provide excellent fishing opportunities throughout the year.
Whether you're interested in charter fishing, shore fishing, or simply spending a relaxing day on the water, fishing remains one of the region's most popular outdoor activities.
15. Experience Northern Michigan's Craft Beverage Scene
While breweries often steal the spotlight, Marquette's beverage scene also includes local distilleries, wineries, and specialty drink establishments.
Exploring these local businesses offers another great way to experience the community and support local entrepreneurs.
Plan Your Marquette Adventure
While hiking may be one of the area's most famous activities, there are countless other things to do in Marquette for visitors of all ages and interests.
Whether you're exploring local history, relaxing on a beach, enjoying craft beverages, attending a festival, or discovering unique attractions, Marquette offers experiences that go far beyond the trail system.
If you're looking for a fun, social way to experience the city, consider booking a brewery tour and seeing why Marquette's craft beer scene has become one of the Upper Peninsula's most popular attractions.
