Things To Do in MQT!

Map of our Favorite Spots

Little Presque Isle

Little Presque Isle beach is one of the most magical places to visit in Marquette. It is a great place to hammock, hike, swim, sit at the beach, watch the sunset, and see the northern lights! This is where Ella and Hudson first met, when Hudson visited Marquette for freshman orientation. Ella and Hudson celebrated their first anniversary here with a sunset picnic, and this is the place they both saw the northern lights for the first time! Coordinates: 46.63848° N, 87.45934° W

Third Street Bagel

This is a great place for coffee, smoothies, and bagels! It also happens to be the place where Ella and Hudson went on their first date!

Sugarloaf Mountain

This is a quintessential Marquette hike. This 1 mile out and back trail climbs 288 feet up sugarloaf mountain and offers stunning views of Lake Superior, the Superior Dome, downtown Marquette, and endless coniferous forest. It is a great place to watch the sunrise or the sunset! Ella and Hudson have hammock camped at the top of this mountain with friends, as well as viewed the super moon here in September 2023. Coordinates: 46.60453° N, 87.45520° W

McCarty's Cove

This is an easy access beach on Lake Superior’s beautiful shoreline. It’s a great place to hunt for rocks, agates, and sea glass. It is also a great place to tan, read a good book, or play beach volleyball.

Lagniappe Cajun Creole Eatery

This Cajun restaurant is one of Hudson and Ella’s date night favorites! Hudson is hard pressed to find good southern food in the UP, and this place is a little taste of his Louisiana roots. Hudson would like to add the disclaimer: it’s not as good as anything in Louisiana… but it’s still very good! This is where Hudson and Ella celebrated their second anniversary.

Presque Isle Park

Not to be confused with Little Presque Isle, Presque Isle Park is a great place for a picnic, hike, swim, or to watch the sunset! This park also features one of Ella’s favorite places in Marquette: Blackrocks! Jumping off these rocks is a great way to experience the crystal clear, cool waters of Lake Superior. Swimming at Blackrocks is Ella’s favorite summer activity.

Coachlight

Third Street Bagel might’ve been their first date, but as far as breakfast restaurants go, Coachlight has Ella and Hudson’s hearts. Ella and Hudson eat here almost every Sunday morning to rehash the events of the week and gossip. They make their parents and siblings eat there every time they visit.

Dead River Falls

This strenuous trail features several waterfalls and follows Dead River. If you’re looking for a longer hike through the pines of the UP and past breathtaking views, this hike is for you! The trailhead is at the end of Forestville Rd Coordinates: 46.57419° N, 87.48905° W

The Lower Harbor Ore Dock

Marquette is home to two ore docks. The one in the lower harbor is no longer functional, but it used to facilitate the transport of iron ore from Upper Peninsula mines to steel mills throughout the Great Lakes region. Check it out if you’re looking for a quick sight seeing adventure, or add it to your afternoon walk around the gift shops on Washington Street.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is located in Munising MI, only 45 minutes outside of Marquette. Although this location is a bit of a drive from the city, it would make for an unforgettable afternoon trip. Ella recommends a boat cruise or guided kayak tour to see the shoreline from the water. The cliffs are formed from multicolored sandstone and are sure to take your breath away.