Tucked away in the uppermost region of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the Keweenaw Peninsula, often overlooked, is a true summer paradise waiting to be explored. Brimming with vibrant small towns, magnificent natural beauty, rich history, and, of course, the breathtaking views of Lake Superior, the Keweenaw Peninsula will keep you coming back again and again.
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Nature’s Grandeur
The Keweenaw Peninsula’s landscapes are the epitome of nature’s grandeur. It’s impossible not to be enchanted by the miles upon miles of lush forest, interspersed with glistening waterfalls. These little waterfall gems offer a sense of serenity and are the perfect pit stops for enjoying a summer picnic. (Just be sure to pack your bug spray!)
The Brockway Mountain Drive, an unmissable part of your trip, offers breathtaking, panoramic views of the peninsula’s captivating beauty. With the highest scenic roadway between the Rockies and the Alleghenies, you’ll feel like you are on top of the world. Looking out all you see is nature’s beauty, for miles and miles. At its peak, especially at dawn or dusk, you might even glimpse the Aurora Borealis painting the sky with its breathtaking display of dancing colors.
Beachside Bliss
For beach lovers, the Keweenaw Peninsula boasts some of the most pristine, sandy, and private beaches in Michigan. Bete Grise, a stunning white sand beach, is a hidden gem nestled on the southern shore of Lake Superior. The beach’s charm is only enhanced by the eerie folktales of the ‘singing sands’, whose voice is said to belong to a Native American maiden who lost her love to the lake. Whether or not that is true, the sands are said to emit musical notes when walked upon.
The Great Sand Bay, with its crystal-clear waters and towering sand dunes, offers a spot of beachside bliss that feels like a tropical escape. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, picnic with family, or simply walk along the water’s edge collecting unusual and beautiful stones, these beaches offer relaxation at its finest.
A Peek into the Past
The Keweenaw Peninsula’s storied past, dating back 4,500 years 100 BC when copper mining first began. This adds a unique layer of historical intrigue to this magical place. The Keweenaw National Historical Park’s collection of copper mining sites and museum exhibits will transport you back to the mining boom of the late 1800s. Here, you can explore the Quincy Mine, take a guided tour down the mine shaft, or visit the Delaware Copper Mine, which operates today as a museum.
Small Town Charm
Amidst the natural beauty, the Keweenaw Peninsula is dotted with charming small towns worth exploring. Calumet, once the center of the mining industry, now houses beautiful Victorian buildings and a thriving arts scene. Eagle Harbor, meanwhile, is known for its picturesque lighthouse, while Copper Harbor offers delightful local shops, galleries, and eateries.
Adventurous Activities
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, the Keweenaw Peninsula will not disappoint. With miles of trails, it’s a mountain biker’s paradise. Want to get your feet wet? You can paddle through the waterways with a kayak or canoe, or set sail on Lake Superior’s choppy waters. Hikers can explore Isle Royale National Park or take on the challenging trails of Bare Bluff, offering a stunning view of Lake Superior as a reward.
The Keweenaw Peninsula is a summer paradise tucked away in the heart of Michigan. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, thrill-seeker, or someone in search of silent, serene relaxation, the Keweenaw Peninsula offers a delightful summer escape that truly has something for everyone.
Where to Stay
1. Keweenaw Mountain Lodge, Copper Harbor, MI
Contact: (906) 289-4403
Notable Features: Spacious cabins with kitchens, children’s playground, family hiking trails, and nearby biking.
2. AmericInn by Wyndham Calumet, Calumet, MI
Contact: (906) 337-6463
Notable Features: Indoor pool with a water slide, game room, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary breakfast.
3. Magnuson Hotel Copper Crown, Hancock, MI
Contact: (906) 482-6111
Notable Features: Outdoor heated pool, close proximity to Quincy Mine Tours, and complimentary breakfast.
4. Ramada by Wyndham Hancock Waterfront, Hancock, MI
Contact: (906) 482-8400
Notable Features: Indoor pool, on-site restaurant with kids’ menu, and a short walk to the waterfront park.
5. Holiday Inn Express Houghton, Keweenaw, Houghton, MI
Contact: (906) 482-1066
Notable Features: Spacious rooms, indoor pool and hot tub, complimentary breakfast, and close to family attractions like the A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum.
6. Super 8 by Wyndham Houghton, Houghton, MI
Contact: (906) 482-2240
Notable Features: Indoor pool, free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and pet-friendly, in case the family pet is along for the trip.
7. Travelodge by Wyndham Houghton, Houghton, MI
Contact: (906) 482-1400
Notable Features: Indoor pool with a hot tub, free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and an on-site restaurant.
8. The Vault Hotel, Houghton, MI
Contact: (906) 281-2652
Notable Features: Modern design with spacious rooms, proximity to downtown attractions, and on-site restaurant.
Always call ahead or check online for the most current information, as details could change, and reservations may be necessary due to high demand or ongoing public health precautions.
Where to Eat
Harbor Haus, Copper Harbor, MI
Known for their exceptional seafood and unique German cuisine, Harbor Haus also offers a kids menu featuring favorites like cheeseburger and fries.
Roy’s Pasties and Bakery (Family Favorite)
Serving the most delicious pasties in the UP. They have pasties for breakfest, lunch, and dinner. You can look out at the boats on the Portage Shipping Canal, or watch the bakers work their magic through their open kitchen.
The Ambassador Restaurant, Houghton, MI (Family Favorite- Get the Pizza!)
Famous for its pizza, the Ambassador also offers sandwiches, salads, and a variety of kid-friendly options. The historic murals and unique decor also make for a fun atmosphere.
Four Suns Fish & Chips, Hancock, MI
Serving traditional fish & chips, but they also offer chicken tenders and fries for the little ones. It’s a quick, casual place ideal for families.
Keweenaw Mountain Lodge Restaurant, Copper Harbor, MI (Gorgeous setting!)
A beautiful spot to eat, the restaurant at the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge serves up favorites like burgers, sandwiches, and pasta. They also have kids’ options.
Rodeo Mexican Kitchen, Houghton, MI
This family-friendly spot offers a variety of tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, and they offer milder options perfect for kids.
Suomi Restaurant, Houghton, MI (Do not leave without eating here! Best breakfast anywhere.)
This Finnish-American diner has breakfast favorites kids will love, like French toast and pancakes. They also serve lunch and offer a children’s menu. Get there early, there is usually a line.
Joey’s Seafood & Grill, Houghton, MI
Although seafood is their specialty, they also offer burgers, chicken, and a ‘Little Skippers’ menu for kids.
Gemignani’s Italian Restaurant, Hancock, MI (Lots of history, my grandparents took my dad and his siblings here for a big pasta dinner after a day at the beach.)
Known for their Italian dishes like pasta and pizza, they also have a kid’s menu featuring spaghetti and meatballs, chicken tenders, and more.
These eateries have something for everyone in the family to enjoy. However, it’s always a good idea to call ahead or check online to verify hours of operation and to see if reservations are recommended.
What to Do
Delaware Copper Mine Tours: Explore the first commercial mine in the Keweenaw Peninsula. The tour provides an educational and fun experience for all ages.
Quincy Mine Tours: Yet another mining experience where you can take an underground tour of a copper mine. The cog-rail tram car ride is always a hit with the kids.
Hiking at Brockway Mountain Drive: A family-friendly hike with panoramic views of the peninsula. The drive up is as beautiful as the hike itself.
Copper Harbor Lighthouse Boat Tour: Take a guided boat tour to the historic lighthouse. It’s a great way to see the coastline and learn about the area’s maritime history.
Visit to Calumet Theatre: Catch a live performance at this historic theater located in Calumet, which often has family-oriented shows.
Swimming at Bete Grise Beach: This sandy beach has a lifeguard on duty and is a perfect spot for a family picnic and swimming.
Fort Wilkins Historic State Park: This well-preserved 19th-century military outpost and lighthouse offer a peek into the region’s history with live reenactments during the summer.
Mont Ripley Ski Area: If you happen to visit in winter, Mont Ripley offers skiing lessons for kids and ski trails for all levels.
McLain State Park: With a playground, picnic areas, and a beach, it’s an ideal spot for a family day out. You can also go hiking or fishing.
A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum: Located on the Michigan Tech campus, the museum offers an extensive collection of minerals from the Great Lakes region and around the world, which can be educational and interesting for children and adults alike.
Isle Royale National Park: For the more adventurous families, take a ferry to this remote island for hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping.
Remember to check the availability and timings of these activities before planning your visit, as some of them might be seasonal or could be affected by weather conditions.
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