12 Free Things To Do In Sault Ste Marie Michigan

Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, is a charming city known for its fascinating history and natural beauty. If you're looking for a fun and affordable way to spend your time here, you've come to the right place. From scenic hiking trails to cultural exhibitions, we've compiled a list of 12 free things to do in Sault Ste. Marie that will keep you entertained and captivated without breaking the bank. So get ready to explore this Upper Peninsula gem without spending a dime!

Walk the historic downtown area

Characteristic	Description
Name	Tower of History
Type	Tower in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.3 / 488
Address	326 E Portage Ave, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
Phone	(906) 632-3658
Hours	Sunday - 12–5 PM Monday(Memorial Day) - 10 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–5 PM Thursday - 10 AM–5 PM Friday - 10 AM–5 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5 PM
Profiles

Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan boasts a rich history with plenty of free activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the best ways to experience the beauty and history of this charming town is by taking a stroll through the historic downtown area.

Start your walk at the Soo Locks Park, where you can watch massive ships passing through the locks. The park also offers stunning views of the St. Mary's River and the International Bridge that connects the United States and Canada.

Once you've taken in the sights at the park, head to Ashmun Street, the heart of downtown Sault Ste. Marie. Here you'll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks. Be sure to stop by the Tower of History, a 21-story tower that provides panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. And don't miss the opportunity to visit the Valley Camp Museum Ship, which offers a glimpse into the life of sailors on the Great Lakes.

As you continue your walk, take in the architecture of the historic buildings that line the streets. Many of these buildings date back to the early 1900s and have been well-preserved. Keep an eye out for the Water Street Historic Block, a row of beautifully restored buildings that now house local shops and restaurants.

Finally, end your day with a visit to the River of History Museum. This free museum showcases the history of the St. Mary's River and the people who have lived along its shores. Through interactive exhibits and displays, you'll learn about the Native American tribes, fur traders, and settlers who have shaped the region.

Overall, a walk through the historic downtown area of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the area. With its stunning views, fascinating history, and beautiful architecture, it's a perfect way to spend a day without breaking the bank.

Tour the Soo Locks

Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan is a small border town that is full of activity and adventure. If you're looking for things to do that won't break the bank, then look no further than the Soo Locks.

The Soo Locks are a series of locks and canals that enable ships to travel between Lake Superior and Lake Huron. In fact, they are the busiest locks in the world, transporting millions of tons of cargo each year. Visitors can watch as massive freighters pass through the locks, and get a glimpse of the inner workings of the shipping industry.

During the summer months, the park offers free informative tours of the Soo Locks, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about the history and importance of the locks. Guided tours are available for groups of 10 or more, or individuals can walk through the park on their own.

While you're there, be sure to also check out the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, which is located on the shores of Lake Superior. This museum is home to numerous historical artifacts from shipwrecks throughout the Great Lakes, and also offers a fascinating insight into the lives of sailors during the 1800s.

If you're looking for even more adventure, the nearby St. Marys River is perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. Rentals are available for very reasonable prices, and you'll have the chance to explore the beautiful natural scenery of the river.

In addition to all of these activities, there are plenty of restaurants and shops in the area, making it the perfect destination for a fun and inexpensive day trip. So what are you waiting for? Come and explore all that the Soo Locks have to offer!

Visit the Tower of History

Characteristic	Description
Name	Tower of History
Type	Tower in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.3 / 488
Address	326 E Portage Ave, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
Phone	(906) 632-3658
Hours	Sunday - 12–5 PM Monday(Memorial Day) - 10 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–5 PM Thursday - 10 AM–5 PM Friday - 10 AM–5 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5 PM
Profiles

Are you looking for something to do in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan that won't cost you a dime? Look no further than the Tower of History.

The Tower of History is a 210-foot tower that offers visitors spectacular views of Sault Ste. Marie and the surrounding area. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower, where they will find an observation deck with panoramic views of the St. Mary's River, Sault Ste. Marie, and Canada.

The tower also features a museum on the ground floor, which highlights the history of the area from prehistoric times to the present day. Exhibits include Native American artifacts, items from early explorers, and displays on the area's industrial and military history.

Visitors can also enjoy a 15-minute film that tells the story of the Sault Ste. Marie area and its industries, including the important role of the locks in the transportation of goods throughout the Great Lakes. And for those who want to learn even more, knowledgeable docents are available to answer questions and provide further context.

Best of all, admission to the Tower of History is completely free, making it a must-visit attraction for anyone in the Sault Ste. Marie area who wants to experience the best views and learn about the fascinating history of the region. So why not plan a visit today?

Hike at Rotary Island Park

If you're looking for a great way to explore the great outdoors in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan without spending a dime, you might want to consider hiking at the beautiful Rotary Island Park.

Located on the banks of the St. Mary's River, this park offers scenic views of the waterway and its wildlife. The park's trails are well-maintained and easy to navigate, making them perfect for hikers of all abilities.

If you're interested in birdwatching, Rotary Island Park is a great place to do it. The park is home to a variety of bird species, including blue herons, ducks, and geese. You might even catch a glimpse of a bald eagle soaring through the air.

One of the highlights of hiking at Rotary Island Park is the chance to see the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge up close. This impressive suspension bridge spans the St. Mary's River and connects the U.S. and Canada.

In addition to hiking trails, Rotary Island Park also offers picnic areas, a playground, and a boat launch. You can even try your hand at fishing in the river, as the park is a popular spot for anglers.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, Rotary Island Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy nature in Sault Ste. Marie. So grab your hiking boots and head out for a day of free outdoor fun!

Stroll along the St. Marys River Boardwalk

Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan is a lovely city that offers its visitors a great deal of free activities to enjoy. One of the best free things to do in Sault Ste. Marie is taking a stroll along the famous St. Marys River Boardwalk.

The St. Marys River is a crucial waterway that connects Lake Superior to the other Great Lakes. Its boardwalk is situated just beside the river and extends for nearly 3 miles along its shore. This stunning boardwalk offers incredible views of the river, the locks, and the surrounding landscapes. The boardwalk is perfectly positioned to allow visitors to have a clear view of the freighters as they navigate through the locks, as well as the unique rock-cut architecture that made this area a geological wonder.

Along the way, you'll find charming cafes, coffee shops, and dining spots to stop by and grab a bite to eat or drink. You'll also find a fantastic park with a play area that has plenty of room for families and children to run around and have some fun.

The St. Marys River also has a few bridges that will cut across the river, giving visitors the chance to get a great view of the locks and river from different vantage points. The two most notable bridges are the Soo Locks International Bridge and the Sault Ste. Marie International Railroad Bridge.

While walking along the boardwalk, you'll also encounter various parks and public rest sites with benches, picnic tables, and other facilities, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the fantastic view. The walking trail is equipped with a bicycle path, which is another free activity to enjoy. During the summer, it's a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike, and there's always a lively atmosphere with lots of people walking, jogging, or cycling.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an affordable and enjoyable activity to do while in Sault Ste. Marie, taking a stroll along the beautiful St. Marys River Boardwalk is undoubtedly worth your time. It offers everything you need for a great day out or a peaceful night walk. So, put on comfortable shoes, grab your camera and take a walk along this fantastic boardwalk. You won't be disappointed!

Explore the River of History Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	River of History Museum
Type	Museum in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.4 / 32
Address	531 Ashmun St, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
Phone	(906) 632-1999
Hours	Sunday - Closed Monday(Memorial Day) - 11 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 11 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 11 AM–5 PM Thursday - 11 AM–5 PM Friday - 11 AM–5 PM Saturday - 11 AM–5 PM
Profiles

If you're visiting Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan and looking for free things to do, one attraction that should be on your list is the River of History Museum. This small, but informative museum tells the tale of the St. Mary's River, which has been a vital waterway for the Great Lakes region for centuries.

The museum is located in the historic Federal Building, which was constructed in 1903 and served as a courthouse until 1941. In 1971, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places, and now houses the museum, which opened in 1983.

Inside the museum, visitors can learn about the history of the St. Mary's River, from Native American settlements to the arrival of French explorers to the development of the locks and canals that allow ships to navigate the river today. There are exhibits on the fur trade, the shipping industry, and the many famous ships that have passed through the Soo Locks.

One of the highlights of the museum is the diorama of the Soo Locks, which shows the complex series of locks and gates that allow ships to move between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes. Kids will love watching the tiny ships move through the locks, and adults will appreciate the engineering marvels that make it all possible.

Another interesting exhibit is the display on the Edmund Fitzgerald, a famous shipwreck that occurred in Lake Superior in 1975. The museum has artifacts from the ship, including the bell that was recovered from the wreckage.

The River of History Museum is open year-round, but hours vary depending on the season. Admission is free, though donations are accepted. Guided tours are available for groups, and the museum can also accommodate school field trips.

If you're interested in learning more about the history of the St. Mary's River and the important role it has played in the Great Lakes region, be sure to put the River of History Museum on your itinerary when you visit Sault Ste. Marie. It's a great way to spend an afternoon, and it won't cost you a dime.

Visit the Art Gallery of Algoma

Characteristic	Description
Name	Art Gallery of Algoma
Type	Museum in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.3 / 150
Address	10 East St, Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 3C3, Canada
Phone	+1 705-949-9067
Hours	Sunday - Closed Monday - Closed Tuesday - 10 AM–4 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–4 PM Thursday - 10 AM–4 PM Friday - 10 AM–4 PM Saturday - 10 AM–4 PM
Profiles

Sault Ste. Marie is a beautiful city nestled in Michigan, USA. If you are on a budget and are wondering what free activities are available here, one great option to consider is visiting the Art Gallery of Algoma.

Located at 10 East Street, Sault Ste. Marie, the Art Gallery of Algoma is a stunning cultural institution filled with beautiful and unique artworks. It is open to visitors free of charge, providing the perfect opportunity for art lovers to explore the gallery's diverse collection.

The gallery showcases the works of both local and international artists, with a particular focus on contemporary art. You can expect to see an impressive assortment of paintings, sculptures, prints, and drawings on display.

During your visit to the Art Gallery of Algoma, you can appreciate and contemplate the beauty of the art pieces on display, and learn more about creative expression and how art can tell a story. You may also have the opportunity to chat with the curators who are always on standby to answer any questions or provide more information about the gallery's collections.

Apart from admiring the artworks, the Art Gallery of Algoma also offers unique educational programs and events that allow visitors to engage in hands-on experiences. These programs are led by trained instructors and are designed to help visitors of all ages learn more about art and how it can impact our daily lives.

In conclusion, visiting the Art Gallery of Algoma is a great way to spend your time in Sault Ste. Marie without breaking the bank. It has a vast collection of breathtaking artworks and is the perfect place to indulge your love for art. Take a stroll through the gallery, and enjoy the natural beauty of Sault Ste. Marie as you explore the art-filled sanctuary.

Attend a free summer concert in the park

Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan is a beautiful city located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan that offers many free activities for visitors and locals alike. One of the must-attend events during the summer months is a free concert in the park.

The city's parks and recreation department organizes free outdoor concerts in different parks throughout the months of June, July, and August. Each concert features a different genre of music, such as jazz, blues, folk, or rock. The concerts always take place on Thursday evenings, and the show runs from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm.

These free concerts are suitable for all ages and are a fantastic way to spend a relaxing evening in beautiful surroundings. The parks are transformed into a party atmosphere, with visitors bringing picnic baskets, blankets, and chairs to sit on while enjoying the show.

The most popular park for these concerts is Rotary Island, which is an excellent location for live music. The park is located on the St. Mary's River, providing a stunning backdrop to the performances. The park has plenty of green space, providing ample room for the whole family to spread out and enjoy the music.

In addition to the free concerts, there are also several food vendors and local craft vendors to explore during the event. Be sure to bring some cash to grab a snack or a drink while relaxing with your family and friends.

Overall, the free summer concerts offer an excellent opportunity to soak up the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy some live music in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. With a variety of different acts performing, there is something to suit all musical tastes. Check out the city's website for information on upcoming concerts and locations, and be sure to mark your calendar for one of these fabulous events.

Check out the weekly Farmers Market

If you're looking for a fun and free activity in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, then look no further than the weekly Farmers Market. Held every Saturday from 8 am to noon, the Farmers Market is the perfect place to explore local produce, artisanal crafts, and much more.

Located in the heart of downtown Sault Ste. Marie, the Farmers Market features over 50 vendors each week, selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to artisanal bread and pastries. You'll also find a wide variety of handcrafted items, including jewelry, pottery, and textiles, all made by local artisans.

In addition to the vendors, the Farmers Market also features live music and entertainment each week, making it a great place to spend a relaxing Saturday morning with friends and family. Plus, with free admission and plenty of free parking nearby, it won't cost you a thing to enjoy all that the Farmers Market has to offer.

But the Farmers Market isn't just a great place to shop and socialize. It's also an important part of the local community, supporting small farms and businesses and promoting sustainable agriculture. By shopping at the Farmers Market, you're not only getting fresh and delicious food, but you're also supporting a vibrant, thriving community.

So if you're looking for a fun and free activity in Sault Ste. Marie, be sure to check out the Farmers Market. Whether you're in the mood for fresh produce, unique crafts, or just some good music and company, the Farmers Market has something for everyone.

Admire the murals scattered throughout the city

Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan is a small town nestled in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan along the Canadian border. Known for its rich history and natural beauty, this charming city offers plenty of free activities to explore and admire. One such activity is admiring the murals scattered throughout the city.

The city of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan is home to several beautiful murals that pay tribute to the town's history and culture. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour to view these murals, which are located throughout the downtown area. Each mural tells a unique story about Sault Ste. Marie and the people who have lived there throughout the years.

One of the most notable murals in the city is the "Marquette Mission Park" mural. Located along the waterfront, this stunning mural depicts the historic Marquette Mission Park, which was one of the first settlements in the area. The mural captures the natural beauty of the park and the historic architecture of the settlement, making it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Sault Ste. Marie.

Another mural worth admiring is the "Soo Locks" mural, located near the historic Tower of History. This mural depicts the famous Soo Locks, which are a vital part of the transportation system in the area. The mural captures the impressive size and power of the locks, providing a unique perspective on this iconic landmark.

Other murals throughout the city celebrate the area's rich history and culture. The "Pine Street" mural depicts the historic Pine Street neighborhood, which was once a hub for African American businesses and social gatherings. The "Downtown Sault Ste. Marie" mural showcases the vibrant downtown area, which is known for its local shops, restaurants, and galleries.

For those interested in exploring the murals of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, a free map and guide is available at the local Chamber of Commerce. The guide offers detailed information about each mural, including its location, history, and significance. Visitors can take their time exploring the murals at their own pace, stopping along the way to enjoy the local scenery and attractions.

In conclusion, admiring the murals scattered throughout Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan is a great free activity that provides a unique glimpse into the town's history and culture. With several murals located throughout the downtown area, visitors can take a self-guided walking tour to explore these beautiful works of art. So the next time you find yourself in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, be sure to take the time to admire these stunning murals and experience the city's rich history firsthand.

Visit the Sault Ste. Marie Public Library

If you're looking for something free to do in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, visiting the local library is a great option. The Sault Ste. Marie Public Library is located on Ashmun Street, just a few blocks from the historic Soo Locks and other downtown attractions.

Inside the library, you'll find a wide variety of books, magazines, movies, and other media to enjoy. Whether you're interested in fiction, non-fiction, history, science, or anything in between, there's sure to be something that catches your eye. The library also offers free Wi-Fi access, so you can bring your own device and stay connected while you browse.

In addition to the materials available for checkout, the Sault Ste. Marie Public Library also hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year. These might include author visits, book clubs, storytime for children, and more. Check the library's website or calendar of events for upcoming activities that you might be interested in.

If you're new to the area or just aren't sure where to start, don't hesitate to ask the friendly staff for recommendations. They'll be happy to help you find something you'll enjoy, whether it's a classic novel or the latest blockbuster movie.

Overall, visiting the Sault Ste. Marie Public Library is a great way to spend an afternoon without spending any money. It's also an opportunity to learn something new, meet new people, and connect with your local community. So the next time you're looking for something to do in Sault Ste. Marie, be sure to add the library to your list!

Attend the annual Sault International Festival of Races

If you're looking for something fun and free to do in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, look no further than the annual Sault International Festival of Races! This event is a great way to get active, enjoy the beautiful scenery in the area, and take part in a fun and festive atmosphere.

The Sault International Festival of Races takes place each September and features a variety of races for runners of all skill levels. The main event is a half-marathon that takes runners over the international bridge connecting Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan and Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Other races include a 5K, a 10K, and a Kids Dash, so there's really something for everyone!

But even if you're not a runner, there's plenty to do and see at the festival. The event takes place in the heart of downtown Sault Ste. Marie, where you'll find vendors selling food, drinks, and merchandise, as well as live music and entertainment. The atmosphere is always lively and welcoming, so even if you're not participating in a race, you can still get in on the fun.

What's more, the Sault International Festival of Races is completely free to attend! So whether you're looking for a fun day out with the family, a chance to watch some of the best runners in the country compete, or just a chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Upper Peninsula, this event is definitely worth checking out.

Overall, the Sault International Festival of Races is a great way to experience the best of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. With its fun atmosphere, diverse range of races, and beautiful setting, it's no wonder this event is so popular year after year. So if you're looking for something fun and free to do in the area, be sure to mark your calendar for the next Sault International Festival of Races!

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