Distance: 1.2 miles
Walking time: 27 minutes
Sault Ste. Marie is the oldest city in Michigan, founded by Jesuit priest Father Jacques Marquette, and is among the oldest cities in the United States. There is a rich, deep history here that permeates through everything.
The city got wider acclaim when it became the site of great feats of engineering: locks. The first was completed in 1855 and manages the 21-foot difference in water level between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes. It’s all up (and down) to gravity. Visitors are attracted to this UP town to see this marvel with their own eyes. Not to mention it’s close to Whitefish Point and not a far drive from the Mackinac Bridge. This walking tour takes you to some of the most historic sites in town, as well as offer you an opportunity to view great ships at close range.
Stop #1: Soo Locks Visitors Center
It makes sense to start your day in Sault Ste. Marie at the Soo Locks Visitors Center, located on West Portage Avenue. Admission is free (open 10 am – 7 pm, Mother’s Day until the end of October), and visitors will find several displays chonricling the construction of the locks as well as honor the men who made it all possible. There is a movie presentation as well to gain a historical perspective, which will be useful as you embark on your day. Visit https://www.lrd.usace.army.mil/detroit/ for additional information.
Stop #2: Soo Locks Park
Follow the St. Mary’s River as you make your way to Soo Locks Park. This well-designed and beautiful park has several displays as well as enchanting flowering trees. One of the favorite attractions within the park is the Locks Park Fountain, which Make your way into the Soo Locks Park. Here, you can view informative displays, watch freighters pass, and enjoy a leisurely stroll through a beautiful park. A favorite is the lighted fountain, which makes a perfect spot to bask in the sunshine during the day. At night, colored lights alternate through to give the fountain water an almost magical appearance. Another popular display is the propeller from the Independence, noted to be “the first propeller-driven ship on Lake Michigan, and the first steam craft on Lake Superior.” She met her final demise on November 22, 1853, when her boiler exploded. But by far the most exceptional aspect of this park is your ability to view passing Great Lakes freighters, which are typically 1000 feet long and six stories at its highest point.
Stop #3: Bishop Frederic Baraga House
Sault Ste. Marie is synonymous with Frederic Baraga, who was born in Slovenia and came to the United States in 1823 as a missionary priest in the 1820s. His work in the Upper Peninsula with the native people began in the mid-1830s. He earned the reputation “the snowshoe priest” because he used snowshoes to travel between missions. This building was his “palace,” his home, during his time here. After his departure for Marquette, where he was named bishop, the house was transformed into a school, a residence, and a museum. It opened to the public in its current location in 2014. Water Street is very historical. The modest admission price to Bishop Federic Baraga House also includes admission to the John Johnston House, Henry Rowe Schoolcraft House, and Kemp Coal Dock Office and Industrial Museum ($5 adults, $3 children 3 and up, $15 family).
Stop #4: Museum Ship Valley Camp
Have you ever wanted to step foot on a Great Lakes freighter? Now is your chance! The Museum Ship Valley Camp in George Kemp Marina offers deck tours as well as access to the cargo hold that is the home to a museum complete with over 100 exhibits. One such exhibit is the Edmund Fitzgerald Memorial and Exhibit, which includes two lifeboats from the famous ship. There are also several aquariums and the ability to view the crew’s quarters.
Stop #5: Tower of History
Built in 1968, this 210-foot tower gives spectacular views of the shipping channel. There are several observation platforms to visit. The lower level has a museum with exhibits about early missionaries as well as local and Native American history. Admission prices are $8.50 per adult and $4.25 per child. You can combine tickets and receive a discount to visit other museums in the town, including the River of History Museum. Visit www.saulthistoricsites.com/tower-of-history/.
Stop #6: Holy Name of May Catholic Church
It makes sense that the oldest city in Michigan is also home to the oldest Catholic church in Michigan. Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church, or St. Mary’s, was the first cathedral of the Diocese of Marquette. This building is the fifth rendition, but the parish community has existed for more than 350 years. The Gothic-style architecture is beautiful to behold. Visit www.holymarywebsite.org.
After you complete this “formal” walking tour, weave your way around Sault Ste. Marie’s downtown area for some shopping, food, and libations.
Don’t miss events…
Last Friday in June: Engineering Day: A favorite summer tradition, the city celebrates the incredible Soo Locks and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers all day with special open houses, a fair, and tours of locks facilities within the complex.
Last full weekend on July: Rendezvous in the Sault: Reenactors, storytellers, musicians, artisans, games, and exhibits spring up along the historic St. Mary’s River, all honoring Michigan’s past. More information can be found at historicwaterstreet.org/rendezvous.