Soo Locks Engineers Day 2025

Friday, June 27 | 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in conjunction with the City of Sault Ste. Marie, the Sault Ste. Marie Convention & Visitors Bureau, the United States Coast Guard, the Lake Superior State University Center for Freshwater Research and Education, Hospice of the Eastern Upper Peninsula, and Superior Health Systems, invite the public to the 2025 Soo Locks Engineers Day, taking place on Friday, June 27.

Walk Across the Soo Locks

From 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., visitors are welcome to walk across the MacArthur Lock and explore the historic Soo Locks facility. This annual tradition honors the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ founding on June 16, 1775, and in 2025, marks 250 years of service to the nation.

“The Soo Locks are a vital part of our community’s history. Engineers Day lets us celebrate the history and ingenuity behind the Soo Locks,” said Linda Hoath, Executive Director of the Sault Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Over the past few years, we’ve helped grow Engineers Day into an event that involves the whole downtown.”

Safety Guidelines & Bag Policy

“We are continuing the requirement for all bags entering the Soo Locks to be clear,” said Jason Wojnaroski, Soo Project Office Assistant Operations Manager. “This helps security inspect bags quickly and ensures a fun, safe event for everyone.”

Bag Policy for Entering the Soo Locks:

  • Clear bags only (max size: 12” x 6” x 12”)
  • No diaper bags
  • Medical bags are allowed
  • Wallets must not have a strap and must be no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”

All attendees are subject to a security search. No firearms, knives (of any size), drugs, pets (except service animals), or bicycles are allowed within the Soo Locks.

Due to ongoing construction of the New Lock at the Soo, the Poe Lock will not be accessible. Visitors will instead walk across the MacArthur Lock and may tour the first floor of the historic Administration Building.

Site Details

  • Entrance: East end of the facility (cross downstream gate of MacArthur Lock)
  • Exit: West end of the facility (cross upstream gate)
  • Walking Distance: Approximately 0.5 miles

Canal Park and the Soo Locks Viewing Platform will be open 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
The Soo Locks Visitor Center will be open 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Additional Events

  • U.S. Coast Guard Open House: 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
  • Arts, Crafts & Family Fun Fair (by Hospice of the EUP and Superior Health Systems): 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. at City Hall grounds
  • Lake Superior State University Center for Freshwater Research & Education: Open 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Downtown Street Fair – Saturday, June 28

Downtown Portage Avenue (between Ferris Street and Osborn Boulevard) will be closed to vehicle traffic and open to pedestrians and vendors from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, June 28 to spotlight downtown businesses and attractions.

Interested in becoming a vendor (free of charge)?
Contact the Sault Area Convention & Visitors Bureau:
📞 906-632-3366
📧 admin@saultstemarie.com

Questions?

Visit www.lrd.usace.army.mil for additional updates from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Detroit District.