Sault Ste. Marie

Located on the northeastern tip of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Sault Ste. Marie serves as a historic gateway between the USA and Canada. This picturesque city, famous for its locks, can be reached in various ways: by using the local airport, embarking on a road trip, or crossing the border via the international bridge. Regardless of the chosen route, a trip to Sault Ste. Marie promises a fascinating introduction to the rugged beauty of the Great Lakes region.

The main air hub for arriving travellers is Chippewa County Airport (CIU), which provides regular connections to major hubs. It is located just a few minutes' drive from the city centre, making it the most convenient option for starting your visit.

Alternatively, you can consider flying into the neighbouring Canadian city of Sault Ste. Marie, situated literally 2 km from the border, or choose regional airports in the cities of Pellston and Alpena. However, it is worth noting that arriving in neighbouring cities will require additional time for transfer to your final destination.

There is no direct rail service to the city of Sault Ste. Marie, and it is impossible to get here exclusively by train. The nearest major Amtrak passenger network stations are located significantly further south, deep within the state of Michigan, making this mode of transport impractical for a direct route.

Railway travel enthusiasts will need to combine transport methods, travelling to major regional transport hubs and then transferring to a rental car or bus to cover the remaining journey to the Upper Peninsula.

Travelling by bus to Sault Ste. Marie remains an accessible and budget-friendly way to reach Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Regional carriers usually connect the city with other towns in the state, offering passengers comfortable conditions and the opportunity to enjoy views of the northern nature.

Since schedules and routes may change depending on the season, it is recommended to check current schedules on transport company websites in advance. A bus trip will take more time than flying but will eliminate the need to drive a vehicle yourself on unfamiliar roads.

Travelling by car is one of the most popular ways to get to Sault Ste. Marie, offering the freedom to move around the region. The shortest route lies from the Canadian city of Sault Ste. Marie: the distance is only about 7 km, and crossing the famous International Bridge will take no more than 15 minutes.

For travellers heading from the south, the route from the city of Pellston, with a length of about 120 km, will take approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. The road from the city of Alpena will require a little more time: you will have to cover around 244 km, which will amount to about 2.5–3 hours of driving along picturesque highways.

A trip to Sault Ste. Marie promises a unique experience at the intersection of cultures and natural beauty, but it requires a little preparation. Here are some practical recommendations to help make your journey as comfortable as possible.

1. Clothing and Seasonality: Winters here are severe and snowy, so a warm parka and waterproof footwear are mandatory. In summer, the weather is pleasant, but evenings by the water can be cool — bring a windbreaker.
2. Transport: Public transport is not widely developed, so to fully explore the surroundings, it is highly recommended to rent a car.
3. Finances: The official currency is the US Dollar. Bank cards are accepted everywhere, but carrying small cash is useful for paying for parking or gratuities.
4. Documents and Border: When at the border, always keep your passport with you. Crossing the bridge into Canadian Sault Ste. Marie requires passing through full border control.
5. Communication: The main language of communication is English. Locals are known for their hospitality and readiness to assist tourists.
6. Local Etiquette: In the USA, it is customary to leave a tip of 15–20% in restaurants and bars, as this makes up a significant part of the staff's earnings.
7. What to Avoid: Do not joke with border guards when crossing the border and do not leave valuable items in the car in plain sight, despite the general safety of the city.
8. Must-Visit: Do not miss the chance to visit the observation deck of the Soo Locks — this free attraction allows you to see giant cargo ships at arm's length.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the history and nature of this amazing corner of Michigan.