Marquette County Michigan Archives

Lakenenland Sculpture Park

March 16, 2026February 25, 2023 by Nikki

Lakenenland Sculpture Park in Marquette County, Michigan

Lakenenland Sculpture Park is one of the most unexpected and entertaining stops in Upper Michigan. Located about 15 miles east of Marquette, this outdoor art park features more than 100 welded scrap-metal sculptures spread across 37.5 acres of wooded property.

It is the kind of place that feels part roadside attraction, part art park, and part Upper Peninsula oddity in the best possible way. Whether you visit in summer or winter, Lakenenland is a fun stop for photography, wandering, and seeing something completely different from the usual waterfalls and overlooks.

Sugarloaf Mountain, Marquette Michigan

March 16, 2026June 27, 2018 by Nikki

Sugarloaf Mountain overlook stairs and platform in Marquette Michigan

Sugarloaf Mountain in Marquette, Michigan

Sugarloaf Mountain is one of the most popular scenic overlooks near Marquette, Michigan. The short hike leads to a series of wooden observation platforms with sweeping views over Lake Superior, the city of Marquette, Presque Isle Park, and the surrounding forest.

Old IGA Store in Watson Michigan

March 14, 2026November 28, 2017 by Nikki

Old IGA Store in Watson Michigan

My husband and I took an extra-long motorcycle ride from Green Bay, Wisconsin to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula a few years back. We stumbled upon this beautiful old IGA store in Watson Michigan.

Lower Ore Dock Marquette Michigan

March 16, 2026October 2, 2017 by Nikki

Lower Ore Dock in Marquette, Michigan

The Lower Ore Dock in Marquette, Michigan, is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Along the Lake Superior shoreline, this massive industrial structure blends harbor history, open lake views, and the distinct character of Marquette’s working waterfront.

Even if you are not especially interested in mining history, the ore dock is worth seeing. It gives this stretch of shoreline a different feel than a typical beach or harbor walk, and it is one of the best places in Marquette to photograph the meeting of industry, water, and evening light.

Da Yoopers Tourist Trap

March 16, 2026September 18, 2017 by Nikki

Da Yoopers Tourist Trap in Ishpeming, Michigan

Da Yoopers Tourist Trap in Ishpeming, Michigan, is one of those classic Upper Michigan roadside stops that leans fully into humor, local character, and a little bit of weirdness. If you enjoy unusual attractions, old vehicles, funny signs, and places that do not take themselves too seriously, this is a fun place to stretch your legs.

It is part gift shop, part outdoor display area, and part Yooper joke collection. More than anything, it feels like a place built for travelers who do not mind taking the scenic route and laughing along the way.

Big Red Lighthouse Marquette

March 12, 2026July 13, 2017 by Nikki

Big Red Lighthouse in Marquette, Michigan

Big Red Lighthouse in Marquette, Michigan, is one of the most recognizable landmarks along this stretch of Lake Superior. Officially known as the Marquette Harbor Lighthouse, it sits high above the rocky shoreline and adds a striking historic focal point to the harbor.

With its red exterior, elevated setting, and connection to Marquette’s shipping history, it is an easy stop to add to a day of exploring the waterfront. It is especially appealing for photographers, lighthouse lovers, and anyone interested in Upper Michigan history.