17 Best Things to Do in the Upper Peninsula, Michigan (2025 Guide)

Looking for the best things to do in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan? We’ve road-tripped the UP multiple times and can tell you this: it’s one of America’s last great wild frontiers. This rugged, remote region, home to some of the best places to visit in Michigan, is packed with towering waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, pristine hiking trails, and scenic shorelines along three Great Lakes – Superior, Michigan, and Huron.

Whether you’re kayaking the turquoise waters of Pictured Rocks, taking a heart-pounding leap from the cliffs in Marquette, or feeling the rumble of giant freighters at the Soo Locks, the UP delivers pure adventure. This guide breaks down the 17 must-see places and experiences that make Michigan’s Upper Peninsula unforgettable. Let’s hit the road.

Editor’s Note for 2025: This guide to the Upper Peninsula was originally contributed by Veggies Abroad. We have since completely revamped and updated it with our own personal stories, photos, and insider tips from our many road trips through the UP to ensure it’s the most comprehensive and accurate resource for your travels.*

Quick Hits: The Very Best of the UP

Pressed for time? Here are the top things to do in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula that you absolutely cannot miss:

• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: Kayak or cruise beneath the iconic, mineral-stained cliffs.
• Tahquamenon Falls State Park: Witness the power of the massive, amber-colored Upper Falls.
• Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: Hike to the breathtaking Lake of the Clouds Overlook.
• Presque Isle Park: Cliff jump from the famous Black Rocks into Lake Superior.
• Kitch-iti-kipi: Glide across Michigan’s largest and most stunning natural spring.
• Mackinac Island: Step back in time on a car-free island known for bikes and fudge.
• Keweenaw Peninsula: Drive to the northernmost point for epic stargazing and solitude.

1. Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Why Visit: Home to one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, Tahquamenon Falls is an absolute powerhouse. The tannin-rich waters of the Tahquamenon River give the falls a distinct amber color, earning it the nickname “Root Beer Falls.” We visited in October as golden leaves drifted downstream through the mist, and it felt like walking into a fairytale. The sheer force of the Upper Falls,…