Understand

Prepare to be captivated by the oldest city in the state, Sault Ste Marie. This historic destination attracts visitors from all around the globe, drawn by the mesmerizing sight of ships passing through the legendary Soo Locks. Experience the thrill as international commerce vessels navigate their way between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes. Derived from the French word "Sault," meaning rapids or waterfall, Sault Ste Marie owes its name to the nearby rapids that have shaped its rich heritage. Aside from the fascinating lock system, this city offers a wealth of attractions to explore. From the four casinos that bring a touch of excitement to the air to the vast inland lakes, expansive forests, and the magnificent Lake Superior shoreline, every moment spent here is bound to be captivating. Crossing the St. Mary's River, you'll find its twin city, Sault Ste Marie, Ontario, located directly across the Canada/US border. Delve into the charm and wonders of Sault Ste Marie, where history, nature, and international connections converge.

Get in

Sault Ste. Marie, located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, is an incredible destination that offers a range of transportation options for visitors. If you're driving from the south, you can take Interstate 75, which connects Lower Michigan to the Upper Peninsula via the iconic Mackinac Bridge. As you approach Sault Ste. Marie, you have two convenient exits to choose from. The first exit, 3 Mile Road, takes you through the heart of the town via Business I-75. This route will lead you through the main thoroughfare of Ashmun Street, where you'll find a vibrant selection of shops, hotels, and other amenities. Eventually, you'll reach Portage Avenue and the Soo Locks, a fascinating engineering marvel that connects Lake Superior to the lower Great Lakes. The second exit, Easterday Avenue, brings you right to the doorstep of Lake Superior State University and provides direct access to Portage Avenue and the Soo Locks. However, this route may not be as well-marked and passes through some older industrial areas. While you bypass the downtown area, you might miss out on some fantastic shopping and attractions. It's crucial to note that if you miss both exits, you'll end up at the International Bridge toll and customs/immigration plaza for Canada. Without the proper identification, you'll have to turn around, causing unnecessary hassle and potential delays. However, if you're planning to continue your journey to Canada, stopping in Sault Ste. Marie on the Michigan side can be more budget-friendly regarding accommodations and dining options. If you prefer to fly, the "Sault Ste. Marie Michigan" airport is approximately 22 miles south of the town. This former air force base offers shuttle bus services and rental cars. Delta Air Lines provides daily flights to and from Detroit Metro Airport, making it convenient to reach Sault Ste. Marie by air. Additionally, there is a smaller airport located right in town, primarily catering to private planes after its recent reopening. While there is no rail service available on the Michigan side, Indian Trails bus line regularly services Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Another option is the Mackinaw Shuttle Service, which offers bus and limo services from Mackinaw City to Sault Ste Marie. Unfortunately, major carrier bus services have been discontinued for some time. Considering all the transportation options, driving remains the most practical choice for reaching Sault Ste. Marie. Whether you're planning to explore the wonders of the Upper Peninsula or continue your journey to Canada, Sault Ste. Marie holds countless treasures waiting to be discovered.

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