Michigan Sweet Spot photo of Presque Isle Park in Marquette
This stunning lookout over Lake Superior is one of the points of interest at Presque Isle Park in Marquette

Marquette Michigan, is among the most magical places I’ve ever been to. It’s like going back in time, surrounded by nature and friendly, warm genuine people. My first visit to Marquette was about 15 years ago when we took a family trip that I’ll never forget, partly because I locked my keys in our running car… but mostly because of the scenery along the lakeshore, wonderful parks, boutique shopping and great restaurants.

Presque Isle Park Trail photo
An NMU student was enjoying the scenery at Presque Isle Park.

 

Michigan Sweet Spot Marquette photo
I took this photo on a walk along the path in Marquette following the Lake Superior shoreline.

It had been too long since my last visit and this fall I made another trek to Marquette only to discover that it’s still the same as it used to be. I highly recommend this as a getaway vacation spot. Lake Superior is stunning in its sheer power and magnitude and there’s a walk along the lakeshore that stretches through town, passing a lighthouse, rocky shoreline, parks, and massive old iron ore docks . The town is full of locally owned shops and the people are welcoming, “U.P.” quirky (that’s a good thing) and kind.

Massive iron ore dock photo
A massive iron ore dock is a focal point along the Marquette Lake Superior shoreline although it’s no longer in use.

This summer I plan on revisiting Marquette for a couple of weeks and taking pictures to add to my upper peninsula collection of photos. Some of my favorite Marquette places that I visited so far are listed below, I’ll add to my list after I return from my trip this summer:

Marquette Food Co-op  502 W. Washington St., Marquette, MI 49855  I was totally impressed with this place, they had a huge selection of  health conscious products, from organic food to organic lotions.

Donckers’ Restaurant has delicious food from scratch, an old time atmosphere, and a well stocked candy store and old time soda fountain.

The Portside Inn features awesome food in a historical pub atmosphere. Call ahead for reservations, they are hard to get into.

Sweet Water Cafe features meals made from fresh and natural ingredients and is a local favorite.

The Thai House is owned by a native of Thailand, and it shows. If you love Thai food, this place is a must.

Lagniappe Cajun Creole Eatery … this southern restaurant in the U.P. features authentic Cajun food that you will love.

The Marquette Baking Co features truly artisan crafted breads and pastries using organic flours and the finest ingredients.

Dead River Coffee … coffee is important to me, too important. So I was on a mission to find the best place and this is where the locals told me to go. I love Dead River Coffee, went there every day. It’s a historic little hole in the wall with great coffee and lots of attitude.

Presque Isle Park is one of my favorite parks, it has a winding road through hilly woods along Lake Superior. Stunning views and peaceful surroundings. Go there, you’ll be glad you took the time.

Hampton Inn Marquette/Waterfront is one really nice place to stay at. Loved it!

Comfort Suites Marquette another great place to stay during your visit.

If you know of anyone who might be willing to trade photography services for rent in the Marquette region this summer, please let me know by emailing me at ann@atmediastudio.com , I’m flexible with my trip this summer and looking for a good place to stay. Thanks

photo of lighthouse in Marquette MI
This is another of the beautiful treasures you’ll discover along the Lake Superior shoreline in Marquette.