Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to escape to a tranquil corner of the woods and experience nature, grab a local craft beer at a festival, or embark on an adrenaline-pumping snowmobile ride in the winter, you’ll find it here in our unbridled wilderness. Keep reading to find out the best things to do in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan! 

If you want to discover more ways to make the most of your trip to the Wolverine State, request access to our complimentary Michigan Vacation Guide! It’s full of the best restaurants, attractions, and activities in every corner of the state. 


1. Be One With Nature

Exploring the great outdoors is one of the best things to do in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan! You can snowmobile on fluffy powder-covered trails in the winter, zipline in the summer, and kayak along the amazing Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in the spring. 

People kayaking around Pictured Rocks

Lake Superior Boat Cruise

2. Embark on a Boat Cruise

A relaxing boat cruise is the perfect family activity that everyone in your family can enjoy. Learn about the history of the Michigan coat, explore shipwrecks, and enjoy the beautiful shoreline scenery of the Great Lakes! 


3. Golf the Day Away

Hit the Links at the best golf courses in the Upper Peninsula. Grab your clubs and get ready for a day full of beautiful scenery and fun competition.  

two people golfing

old mining equipment at Quincy Mine

4. Learn About the UP’s Exciting History

Step back in time and explore the Upper Peninsula’s rich mining history at the Fayette Historic Townsite and the Quincy Mine. These historic treasures provide some of the more unique experiences and attractions in the UP. 


5. Kick Back and Relax at a Spa

Take a day to relax and treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa treatment at one of these fantastic UP spas. There’s nothing quite like receiving a relaxing massage after exploring all of the fun outdoor adventures and things to do in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. 

  • Maggie’s Massage Spa Resort & Salon
  • Spa of Marquette
  • Waves Salon Spa

 

person receiving a massage

Small Theatre

6. Check Out the Local Arts Scene

Catch a local theater performance at the Lake Superior Theatre or enjoy the outdoors and cutting-edge design at the Lakenenland Sculpture Park. These are some of the most unique attractions in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. 


7. Enjoy a Cold Beverage at a Winery or Brewery

Explore the wonderful wineries and breweries in the Upper Peninsula. These are just a few of our favorite places to grab a craft brew or sip a glass of wine in between venturing through the natural beauty of the UP. 

Beer flight

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

8. Explore the Beautiful UP Parks and Nature

The UP is home to a plethora of stunning landscapes and parks. Hike through the Porcupine Mountains, take a peek at the second-largest waterfall east of the Mississippi River, and come face to face with bears at the Oswald Bear Ranch. 


9. Celebrate at a Local Festival

There’s never a wrong time or place to celebrate, and you'll find plenty of unique and exciting festivals and events in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan that you won’t find in most states. Watch a dog sled race, sample beer at a special Octoberfest, or watch (and partake) in an ice climbing festival! 

dog sled race

Relax at Your Freshwater Vacation Rentals’ Property

Head back to your Freshwater rental after a day of exploring the best things to do in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Our selection of Michigan cabins and homes provides incredible locations across the peninsula. You’ll find everything from large family homes in the woods to small cottages on a lake to pet-friendly cabin rentals throughout Michigan.  

Start planning your visit by viewing our UP rentals. We look forward to welcoming you to the Freshwater family.