Understand

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan, often overlooked or mistakenly associated with Wisconsin, is a hidden gem that nature lovers should not miss. Tucked away from the rest of the state, this secluded region offers an abundance of sandy public beaches, breathtaking lakes for recreation and fishing, and vast state and national parks and forests. No matter the season, the Upper Peninsula is an ideal vacation destination for those who enjoy the great outdoors. Don't expect to find bustling cities in the UP! If it were its own state, it would have a smaller population than any other state. The region is predominantly rural, with a few larger towns like Marquette, home to just under 20,000 residents. Unfortunately, this rural nature often leads people from other parts of the state to overlook the UP. The population is primarily of Northern-European heritage, although there is also a significant Native American presence. The area's topography resembles that of Finland, resulting in a sizable Finnish-American population. Most towns in the UP were established as mining or logging operations in the nineteenth century and have not experienced much economic success since the mid-twentieth century. However, the region is home to several outstanding ski resorts that offer excellent skiing and snowboarding, thanks to the influence of Lake Superior. For a glimpse of the area's heritage, visit Fayette Historic State Park, located south on 183 from US-2. If you're seeking a remote, wild, and rural destination, the UP is the place to be. It's a world of its own waiting to be explored!

Get in

The most captivating route to embark on from the lower peninsula would be taking US-31, which winds along the picturesque coastline of Lake Michigan and leads you over the majestic Mackinac Bridge, eventually guiding you through the enchanting town of St. Ignace. For those traveling from Wisconsin, the usual access points include US-45 (central route), US-141 (central-eastern route), US-41 (far eastern route), or US-2 (western route). Among these options, US-41 and US-2 offer the most breathtaking and awe-inspiring scenic views.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

**1. Hamburger**The hamburger, often simply called a burger, is a sandwich consisting of a cooked patty of ground beef, usually served in a bun with toppings and condiments such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and pickles. It is a quintessential American fast food item that can be found at restaurants, fast food joints, and even street vendors throughout the country. While traditional hamburgers typically include beef, there are also vegetarian options available made from plant-based ingredients.

**2. Pizza**Pizza is a popular Italian-American dish consisting of a yeasted flatbread base, typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and herbs. In the United States, pizza is often sold as both a take-out and sit-down dining option, with numerous regional variations in styles and toppings. Pepperoni is a particularly popular topping in the U.S., but vegetarian and vegan pizzas are also widely available.

**3. Fried Chicken**Fried chicken is a southern-style dish comprised of marinated chicken pieces that are coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Originating from the American South, fried chicken has become a staple in the country's culinary landscape, with various regional variations in preparation styles and seasonings. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast, and although traditionally prepared with chicken, vegetarian alternatives do exist.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing