Weekend Getaway: Marquette, Michigan – Fall Edition

Marquette is my absolute favorite place in Michigan\’s Upper Peninsula (UP), in fact it is also one of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan\’s most visited cities. I fell in love with Marquette while attending Northern Michigan University. Marquette is situated on the shored of Lake Superior, and filled with countless outdoor activities, good food and all the small town vibes you could hope for. 

Everytime I leave Marquette, I wish that my trip was at least a week longer – or I could stay in Marquette forever. From the best food, hikes and adventures I am sharing the best things to do in Marquette during a fall weekend getaway.

Things to do in Marquette, Michigan

Presque Isle Park
You have just arrived in Marquette – what is your first stop? My first stop is always Presque Isle Park. Presque Isle Park offers scenic viewpoints. Take a trip through the park and make a stop to take in the views at the famous Black Rocks. Black Rocks is a highly known spot for cliff jumping into Lake Superior.

If you\’re looking to hike in Marquette, Michigan
Sugarloaf Mountain
If you\’re like me and always looking for a hike head to Sugarloaf Mountain. The hike may be easy, but it is my absolute favorite hike in Marquette, because of the stunning fews. If you take the easy trail you will be heading up and down a series of steps that can be hard on your knees. I prefer the difficult trail, which isn\’t actually difficult it\’s just more rugged. 

Phils 550
Along 550 on your way to Sugarloaf Mountain you will come across Phils 550 store. While Phil may no longer be alive, the shop is still run by new owners. The sign out front of Phils 550 always has something funny, and this is a great stop to grab some drinks before heading out to Sugarloaf Mountain. 

Dead River Falls
If you\’re looking to chase waterfalls head to Dead River Falls. Follow the trail to see some spectacular waterfalls. The hike is definitely for more experienced hikers and is very difficult after it has rained. However if you can make the hike you\’ll get upclose and personal with some of my favorite waterfalls. 

Ore Dock
A must-see in Marquette is the Ore Dock located downtown. It makes for the perfect photo opportunity.  The Ore Dock is located in Lower Harbor and is reminisent of Marquette\’s rich Mining history. 

Lake Superior Sunrise
Wake up early and head to Lake Superior to catch a sunrise – trust me, you do not want to miss a Marquette sunrise!

Mountain Biking
Not only is Marquette home to some of the best hiking trails, it is also home to some of the best mountain biking in the country. If you are looking to hit the trails I recommend: 

NTN (North Trail Network) – Beginner to Intermediate but scenic and loads of fun

STN Trails (South Trail Network) – Advanced and very fun

Kayaking
With plenty of lakes around Marquette, there are plenty of opportunities for you to grab a kayak and adventure around to checkout the color changing along the shoreline.

Fall\’s Best Kept Secret
510 Bridge
While Marquette is filled with a ton of different places you can leaf peep, my favorite is actually at the 510 bridge. You will get the most gorgeous view of trees, water and of course a bridge. If you are looking for quintessential fall foliage pictures, I highly recommend heading to the 510 Bridge.

Where to eat in Marquette, Michigan
Breakfast
Babycakes Muffin Company – If you\’re looking for something sweet, I highly recommend heading to downtown Marquette and grabbing a muffin or two from Babycakes. They have the best muffins that I have ever tasted. 

Third Street Bagel – If you\’re looking for something savory, Third Street Bagel is for you. I love their bagel sandwiches and typically get the Village Veggie and Veggie Delight on a 9-grain bagel. 

Donckers – Eating out with kids or just want to get the cutest pancakes in the universe? I recommend Donckers in the heart of downtown Marquette for moose pancakes. 

Lunch
Vangos – Vangos was my go-to place to dine when I attended Northern Michigan University. Located just outside of downtown Marquette, Vangos is known for their waffle fries and ranch – trust me, you need them in your life. 

Togo\’s – Looking for a sandwich? Skip Subway and head to Togo\’s for the best sub sandwich you\’ve ever tasted. 

Border Grill – If you are looking for something quick and easy, Border Grill is serving up the best Mexican food. I love their Veggie Bowl with Mexican rice.

Jean Kay\’s – Don\’t forget to grab a pasty while you\’re in town visiting. Jean Kay\’s serves up my favorite pasty\’s in town. 

Dinner
The Vierling – The Vierling is one of Marquette\’s oldest restaurants located downtown and is known for their blueberry beer and white fish recipes.

Iron Bay – Iron Bay is serving up some of the best desserts (I had slice of chai pumpkin pie that was unreal) and delicious white fish meals. Don\’t forget to get their white fish chowder, guaranteed to be the best soup you have ever tasted.

The Delft – When I was in college The Delft was actually a movie theater and was our rainy day hangout. Today The Delft is serving up American Fare meals in the converted movie theater right in the heart of downtown Marquette. The coolest thing about The Delft is they still utilize the movie screen and fun movies while you enjoy your meal.

Dessert
Babycakes Muffin Company – Babycakes offers muffins, macarons and other various desserts. I am addicted to their muffins and could eat them for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 

231 West Patisserie – 231 West is one of the newest establishments in the heart of downtown Marquette. They\’re a patisserie, which means they\’re serving up some delicious recipes including macarons and crossiants.