bike with freighter in the background st marys river

New adventures await

With the weather warming up, snow (hopefully) melting and a renewed love for the outdoors, spring is the perfect time to visit Sault Ste. Marie. While it is the shortest season of the year in the Soo, it offers plenty of fun. The Soo’s accommodations and restaurants are ready for your first post-winter vacation of the year. Plus, spring brings with it something people wait on for months – the return of shipping season, starting March 25.

 

Take a look at the activities below to plan your spring getaway, and be sure to check our calendar of events for the latest on other great wintertime events!

joseph h thompson freighter

Soo Locks: Open for business

March 25 is like a holiday in Sault Ste. Marie! Each year on this date, the Soo Locks re-opens following its winter hibernation. Freighters rush throughout mid-March to be the first in line to pass through the Soo Locks on the 25th. Each year, hundreds of freighter enthusiasts visit the Soo Locks on March 25 to see the first freighter pass through. Are you planning on making it to this special celebration of Great Lakes shipping?

1,000 foot freighters located in the great lakes
family friendly spring hiking trails

Getting Outdoors

As one of the snowiest cities in the United States, it’s especially satisfying to get outdoors and enjoy springtime weather in Sault Ste. Marie. The Eastern Upper Peninsula is home to trails for all ages and all experience levels. There are some trails you even have to take kayaks or paddleboards to reach!

spring adventures to do in sault ste marie

Fish on

Now that ice fishing season is over, it’s time to get back out on the water. Sault Ste. Marie offers fishing options from shore and boat and is home to a variety of species. Pro tip: walleye season opens on May 15 in the Upper Peninsula!

Plus, if you’re really trying to catch some good fish. The Lockview Restaurant opens later in the spring in Sault Ste. Marie!

6 Hidden Places to Catch Fish on the St. Marys River

Local dining options

whitefish dinner at lockview restaurant

Springing back to life

As a tourist destination, many businesses in Sault Ste. Marie enter hibernation throughout the winter. Luckily, March begins to signal a return of classic Sault Ste. Marie restaurants and stores. By the time May rolls around, most businesses and attractions are open and ready for the season. We recommend visiting early if you’re looking to beat the summer crowd.

Spring is prime time to visit Sault Ste. Marie. Between us, it’s the most underrated time of year to visit. Whether you’re looking for fresh air following a long winter or looking to experience top notch hospitality, Sault Ste. Marie is ready for you.

Oh crepe and coffee sign