Fall is one of the most beautiful times to visit Marquette. You can see the fall colors in almost every corner of the city. Spend a day doing a walking tour and taking in the season. Start your day with a cinnamon roll for breakfast at Trenary Toast Cafe. Peruse the shelves at Snowbound Books for a new favorite read. Grab a coffee and lunch at Contrast Coffee. Take in a film (or several!) at the Fresh Coast Film Festival. End your day with a perfect, cozy dinner at the Vierling.
Trenary Toast Cafe
Trenary Toast Cafe is a quintessential stop while visiting Marquette. Located right downtown, it's the perfect place to grab a satisfying meal, with a Finnish influence. The spot offers unique twists on Scandinavian favorites like smørrebrød, cinnamon rolls, and Trenary Toast, which is the sugar-cinnamon toast that the cafe is famous for.
Pro Tip!
The cinnamon roll breakfast sandwich sounds overwhelming, but it's delightful!
Snowbound Books
This adorable book shop, located in a former historic home, has an amazing collection of new and used books. Having been open since 1984, Snowbound Books is Marquette's oldest and largest independent bookstore. They host author events, and sometimes even book fairs with local Marquette breweries. In addition to books, they have a large collection of greeting cards, and small gifts.
Pro Tip!
The staff enjoys pairing customers with books they may enjoy, so please ask for their recommendations!
Contrast Coffee Co.
Contrast Coffee is roasted in Iron River, Michigan, and has five locations across the Upper Peninsula, including one in Marquette. They offer a fun selection of seasonal lattes in addition to their signature drinks, and great food options. For lunch, they have many choices of toast, paninis, and crepes.
Pro Tip!
Definitely try one of the crepes. They have a separate crepe station where they are prepared fresh-to-order!
Fresh Coast Film Festival
For almost a decade, the Fresh Coast Film Festival has been showcasing documentary filmmakers, particularly those with a focus on nature. In addition to showcasing the best of the over-700 films submitted, the festival allows you the opportunity to speak with the directors, as well as take part in exciting, guided, outdoor experiences.
Pro Tip!
You won't be able to see all the films. Make a game plan beforehand so you can see as many of the films that you want, as well as taking part in the guided activities!
The Vierling Restaurant & Marquette Harbor Brewery
If you're looking for a cozy and comforting dinner in Marquette, the Vierling is the place to go. Housed in a building that is over 140 years old, the Vierling began as a saloon. In 1985, it was opened as a restaurant by the current owners. Vierling's specialty is whitefish, which is sourced locally from Lake Superior. They also house a brewery.
Pro Tip!
If you don't choose the whitefish for your entree, it is worth trying the whitefish spread as an appetizer.
