If you’re looking to mix in a few quirky, off-the-beaten-path places with some popular, quintessential spots in Marquette, this autumn itinerary is for you!
Huron Mountain Bakery
Huron Mountain is a made-from-scratch bakery that should be made must-stop on your visit. They have everything your sweet tooth could desire, including freshly baked donuts, cakes, macaroons, cupcakes and savory goods like breads, bagels and sandwiches. They have another location in Ishpeming which serves up wood-fired pizzas.
Lakenenland
If you like quirky places, Lakenenland will be a hit! It’s just outside of Marquette and it’s free (donations encouraged). This fun sculpture park is open 24 hours, 7 days a week. You can walk through it, drive through it and even take your snowmobile through it during the winter months. The artist, Tom Lakenen, has been adding sculptures for 25 years! Some are interactive, funny & even absurd, making it an absolute must-see if you appreciate art & humor.
510 Bridge
If you’re chasing fall colors, the 510 Bridge is the perfect lookout! I had no idea what to expect as we were approaching what looked to be a normal bridge, but there was a small parking lot off to the side so we stopped. If it weren’t for the people getting out & walking over the bridge, I’m not sure if we would have realized where to go, so we took their cue and did the same. And wow, were we happy we did! The bridge crosses a river and you’ll see the old 510 Bridge and the most beautiful scenery. These were probably the best colors of our trip!
Jackson Mine Park
Our next stop was Jackson Mine Park in the quaint town of Negaunee. The park has so much to offer including a playground, biking & walking trails, disc golf course & more. We came for the historic Jackson Mine Park. The Jackson Mine Park takes you to the first Open Pit Mine! You’ll see historic equipment that was used & the old mine entrance. This was a highlight of our trip because we had no idea what to expect, but we had so much fun exploring! Pro tip: Leave time to check out the town of Negaunee, we wish we had more time because it looked so cute!
Barrel + Beam
Barrel + Beam is on the way back to Marquette and one of my favorite breweries! This isn’t your typical brewery because they specialize in farmhouse ales and barrel-aged beers. These beers are so unique that even people who don’t usually like beer really enjoy these. Not only is their beer exceptional, their space is so cozy. They have so many nooks and an outdoor patio to enjoy your drinks!
Iron Bay Restaurant & Drinkery
End your day with dinner at Iron Bay, located right across from Lower Harbor. You can dine in their main restaurant, on the outdoor patio or across the hall in their taproom. Either way, you’ll want to make a reservation because seating is limited and it’s a very popular spot! We enjoyed the burger, fish tacos & beers.
