A new year calls for new adventures, and Marquette County has you covered in any season. Here are 10 reasons to start planning your 2026 visit to Marquette, MI.
1. There's Always More to Explore
Adventure, any way you choose–from exploring the striking blues of Lake Superior to an abundance of breathtaking evergreen hikes, Marquette County, MI is an outdoor lover's paradise.
For the Hikers - Hiker's Guide to Marquette
For the Mountain Bikers - Mountain Biker's Guide to Marquette
For the Kayakers - Kayaking in Marquette
2. Winters are Celebrated
In Marquette County, we don't hibernate. We celebrate. Here are some of our favorite ways you can embrace winter our way:
- Attend one of our many annual classics like the Ishpeming Ski Jumping Tournament, Noquemanon Ski Marathon, or UP200 Sled Dog Races.
- Explore snowy trails with snowshoes, cross-country skis, or a fat tire bike.
- Warm up with hot cocoa in the ski lodge or unwind with a refreshing local brew.
- Pop into one of our many local downtown shops or restaurants.
3. You Can Chase the Elusive Northern Lights
When the sun goes down, don't forget to look up! Our dark skies and geographical location offer some pretty stellar views on a clear night. From bright constellations to the northern lights, here are some tips to make the most out of a night stargazing or aurora chasing in Marquette, Michigan.
4. Fall Color in U.P. is among the best in the US
Voted #1 Best Destination for Fall Foliage in 2026 for USA Today 10Best, it's no secret that the Upper Peninsula puts on a breathtaking show during the autumn peak season. Don't just take everyone else's word for it—come see the glorious fall colors for yourself.
5. Lake Superior.
Located on the southern shores of Lake Superior, Marquette County boasts 80+ miles of accessible shoreline. Whether you paddle out for a quick excursion, soak up some rays on a secluded beach, or go for a leisurely lakeshore stroll, being near the Big Lake is good for the soul.
6. There are Awesome Festivals & Events Year-round
Make your visit to Marquette more eventful by attending one of our many amazing annual events. Here are some of our top seasonal picks:
Winter: Annual Ishpeming Ski Jumping Tournament, Noquemanon Ski Marathon, Meijer Winter State Games, UP200
Spring: Festival of the Angry Bear
Summer: Marquette Trails Fest, Ore to Shore, Blues Fest
Fall: U.P. Fall Beer Fest, Marquette Fall Enduro, Fresh Coast Film Festival
7. Home to Incredible Handcrafted Brews & Roasts
From a vast selection of local craft beer, coffee, and kombucha, when it comes to beverages Marquette's got options.
For the Beer Lovers - Drink Like a Local
For the Coffee Connoisseurs - Must-stop Coffee Shops in Marquette County
8. Marquette Restaurants Keep it Fresh, Local & Delicious
Between adventures, fuel up with food that's as fresh as it is delicious at one of our many local restaurants. For more in-depth info, check out our Après Adventure Cravings blog.
9. There's Plenty of Stuff for the History Buff
From mining and maritime to skiing, uncover Marquette County's history inside the area's lighthouses and museums or out on the water, trails, or slopes.
10. Discover Marquette's Burgeoning Art Scene
Explore Marquette's flourishing art scene by visiting local exhibits, galleries, and museums, attending one of our many art-centric events, or checking out as many murals as you can around the county.
