Gladstone Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Gladstone with our comprehensive guide featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, food & drink, accommodations, local culture, safety tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Gladstone

Located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Gladstone is a small city with a population of just over 4,500 people. While it may be small, Gladstone offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and relaxation. Situated on the banks of Little Bay de Noc, Gladstone offers beautiful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a weekend getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Gladstone

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for some relaxation, Gladstone has something for everyone. Here are some of the must-see attractions in Gladstone.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Delta County Historical Society is a great place to learn about the local history of Gladstone and Delta County.
  • The Gladstone 1927 Train Depot Museum is a historic train station that has been converted into a museum showcasing the history of the railroad in the area.
  • The William Bonifas Fine Arts Center is a community arts center that offers a wide range of art classes and exhibits throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Gladstone: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Little Bay de Noc Trail offers a scenic bike ride or walk along the bay. It is a 12-mile trail that connects Gladstone to Escanaba and offers stunning views of the water and wildlife.
  • The Sand Point Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse that offers beautiful views of Little Bay de Noc.
  • Gladstone Beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. It offers a sandy beach, picnic tables, and a playground for kids.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gladstone

Gladstone offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking. Here are some popular routes:

  • The North Bluff Trail is a moderate hike that offers beautiful views of Little Bay de Noc.
  • The Rapid River Falls Trail is an easy hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall.
  • The Rapid River Bike Trail is a 25-mile trail that takes you through the wilderness and offers great views of Rapid River.

Best Things to Do in Gladstone: Activities and Tours

  • Gladstone Golf Course is a beautiful 18-hole golf course that offers great views of the bay.
  • The Delta County Fairgrounds hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including rodeos, fairs, and music festivals.
  • The Gladstone Yacht Club offers sailing lessons and rentals for anyone interested in exploring the bay.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gladstone

Day Activity
1 Explore the Delta County Historical Society and the Gladstone 1927 Train Depot Museum.
2 Take a bike ride along the Little Bay de Noc Trail.
3 Hike the Rapid River Falls Trail.
4 Relax on Gladstone Beach.
5 Play a round of golf at the Gladstone Golf Course.
6 Take a sailing lesson or boat rental from the Gladstone Yacht Club.
7 Enjoy the Delta County Fairgrounds and attend any events that are happening during your stay.

Food and Drink Scene of Gladstone

Gladstone has a variety of restaurants and bars to satisfy any craving. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • The pasties at Dobber’s Pasties are a local favorite. These hearty meat and vegetable pies are a staple of the Upper Peninsula.
  • The whitefish at Terrace Bay Inn is a local specialty that is perfectly cooked and always fresh.
  • The burgers at The Buck Inn are a classic American favorite and a must-try for anyone who loves a good burger.

Local Beverages

  • Upper Hand Brewery is a local brewery that offers a variety of craft beers perfect for any beer lover.
  • The Upper Peninsula is also known for its cherry wine, which is available at many local wineries and liquor stores.
  • Borderline Bar and Grill offers a great selection of local and imported beers along with delicious pub food.

Where to Stay in Gladstone: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gladstone offers a variety of accommodation options for any budget. Here are some of the top choices:

  • The Terrace Bay Inn offers beautiful views of Little Bay de Noc and comfortable rooms at a reasonable price.
  • The Scandinavia Lodge is a cozy bed and breakfast perfect for a romantic getaway.
  • The Lake Bluff Inn and Suites offers spacious rooms and suites for families or large groups.

What to Buy in Gladstone: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • The Trappers Cabin is a local shop that offers a variety of gifts and souvenirs, including handmade crafts and Upper Peninsula specialties.
  • H&H Contracting sells locally sourced firewood that is a perfect way to take home a piece of the Upper Peninsula.
  • The Gladstone Farmers Market offers a variety of fresh produce and homemade goods from local farmers and artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Gladstone

Gladstone is a friendly and welcoming community with a rich history and a strong sense of pride in the Upper Peninsula. The locals are known for their hospitality and eagerness to make visitors feel at home. While there are no specific customs or traditions unique to Gladstone, visitors should be respectful of the local community and its traditions.

Best Time to Visit Gladstone

The best time to visit Gladstone is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny, and the outdoor activities are in full swing. The fall is also a great time to visit when the leaves are changing colors and the cooler weather offers a cozy atmosphere for exploring the area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gladstone

Do:

  • Try the local specialties like pasties and whitefish.
  • Take advantage of the outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and sailing.
  • Check out the local events and festivals, like the Delta County Fair.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Disrespect the local community and its traditions.
  • Be loud and disruptive in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gladstone

Gladstone is a safe community with low crime rates. Visitors should be cautious when hiking or biking in remote areas and always let someone know where they are going.

Health in Gladstone

Gladstone has a small hospital and a variety of clinics and doctors’ offices to provide medical care if needed.

Getting to Gladstone: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Gladstone is easiest by car, but there are a few other transportation options available:

Airports Near Gladstone

  • Delta County Airport is located in Escanaba, about 10 miles from Gladstone.

Bus Stations Near Gladstone

  • Greyhound offers service from Escanaba, about 10 miles from Gladstone.

Other Options

  • Amtrak offers train service to nearby stations in Green Bay, Wisconsin and Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

How to Get Around in Gladstone

Getting around Gladstone is easiest by car, but there are also bike trails and sidewalks for walkers.

Where to Go Next from Gladstone: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Escanaba is a larger city just 10 miles from Gladstone that offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions.
  • Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a stunning natural area located about 100 miles from Gladstone and is a popular destination for hiking and kayaking.
  • The Mackinac Bridge is a famous landmark located about 200 miles from Gladstone and is a must-see for anyone exploring Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, or just some relaxation, Gladstone has it all. With its beautiful scenery, friendly locals, and small-town charm, Gladstone is the perfect destination for anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.