Ironwood Travel Guide

Ironwood travel guide packed with insights on the best time to visit, top attractions, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Ironwood

Ironwood is a city located in the western area of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, in the Midwest region of the United States. This charming city is known for its rich mining history, stunning natural scenery, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Ironwood offers visitors a range of attractions, including cultural and historical sites, outdoor activities, and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Ironwood has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Ironwood

Ironwood has something for everyone. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ironwood Historical Society Museum: This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Ironwood and its people. It offers visitors a look into the city’s rich mining history and the lives of its early settlers.
  • Old Depot Park Museum: This museum is located in a restored train depot and showcases the history of the Gogebic Iron Range. It features exhibits on mining, the railroads, and the region’s logging industry.
  • Ironwood Theatre: This historic theater hosts musical performances, plays, and other cultural events.

Natural Attractions of Ironwood: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Powderhorn Mountain Resort: This ski resort offers skiers and snowboarders a chance to hit the slopes during the winter months. In the summer, the resort offers hiking and mountain biking trails.
  • Indianhead Mountain: This ski resort is located just outside of Ironwood and offers skiers and snowboarders a chance to hit the slopes during the winter months. In the summer, the resort offers hiking and biking trails.
  • Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: This park is known for its stunning waterfalls, rugged forests, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can hike, camp, fish, and birdwatch in the park.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ironwood

Ironwood is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking trails in the area:

  • Iron Belle Trail: This 1,273-mile trail passes through Ironwood and offers visitors a chance to hike or bike along scenic routes.
  • Miners Memorial Heritage Trail: This 27-mile trail runs through Ironwood and offers hikers and bikers a scenic tour of the city and its surrounding area.
  • Little Carp River Trail: This trail is located in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park and offers visitors a chance to explore the park’s stunning forests and waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Ironwood: Activities and Tours

Ironwood has plenty of activities and tours to keep visitors busy. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Gogebic County Fair: This annual fair takes place during the summer and features rides, games, food vendors, and live entertainment.
  • The Ironwood Depot Park Farmers Market: This farmers market takes place every Saturday during the summer and offers a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts.
  • Ironwood Area Historical Society Walking Tour: This walking tour takes visitors through the city’s historic downtown area and showcases the city’s rich mining history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ironwood

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for visitors to Ironwood:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Ironwood Historical Society Museum
Day 2 Hike the Little Carp River Trail
Day 3 Explore Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
Day 4 Ski at Indianhead Mountain
Day 5 Visit the Old Depot Park Museum
Day 6 Take a tour of the Ironwood Theatre
Day 7 Visit the Powderhorn Mountain Resort

Food and Drink Scene of Ironwood

Ironwood has a vibrant food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pasties: These savory pastries filled with meat, potatoes, and vegetables are a staple of the Upper Peninsula’s cuisine.
  • Lake Superior Whitefish: This fresh fish is served in many restaurants around Ironwood and is a local favorite.
  • Wild Rice Soup: A hearty soup made with nutty, hand-harvested wild rice, vegetables, and cream.

Local Beverages

  • Upper Peninsula Brewing Company: This brewery offers a range of craft beers, including its signature Yooper Ale.
  • Ironwood’s Historic Saxon Harbor: A unique blend of coffee and craft beer brewed by Cold Iron Brewing.
  • Rick Nettell’s Applehouse: This local orchard is famous for its fresh apple cider.

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

Ironwood offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are some recommendations:

  • Copper Peak Lodge: This lodge is located near Copper Peak Ski Jump and offers guests comfortable rooms and easy access to outdoor activities.
  • The Hotel Northland: This historic hotel is located in the heart of Ironwood’s downtown area and offers guests comfortable rooms and easy access to the city’s attractions.
  • Miners Motel: This affordable motel offers guests comfortable rooms and a convenient location near the city’s attractions.

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

Ironwood offers many unique souvenirs and local products that make great gifts for friends and family. Here are some recommendations:

  • Peterson’s Fish Market: This market sells fresh fish, smoked fish, and fish-based sausages.
  • Stormy Kromer: These iconic wool caps are made in Ironwood and are a favorite of the locals.
  • Artists’ Common: This gift shop features work by local artists and craftsmen. It offers a range of products, including pottery, jewelry, and paintings.

Local Culture and Customs of Ironwood

Ironwood has a rich mining history that is reflected in its culture and customs. The city is known for its blue-collar work ethic and love of the outdoors.

Best Time to Visit Ironwood

The best time to visit Ironwood depends on what you want to do. Summer is a great time for outdoor activities and festivals, while winter is ideal for skiing and snowboarding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ironwood

Do:

  • Do explore the city’s mining history and culture.
  • Do take advantage of the city’s outdoor recreational opportunities.
  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Don’t underestimate the weather. Be prepared for cold temperatures and snowy conditions in the winter.
  • Don’t litter in the natural areas. Respect the environment and leave no trace.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations. They know the area best.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ironwood

Ironwood is generally a safe city, but visitors should take typical precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Avoid walking alone at night and keep your valuables safe.

Health in Ironwood

There are several medical facilities located in Ironwood, including Aspirus Grand View Hospital and NorthLakes Community Clinic.

Getting to Ironwood: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ironwood

The closest airport to Ironwood is the Gogebic-Iron County Airport, located just outside the city.

Bus Stations Near Ironwood

Greyhound Bus Lines operates a station in Hurley, Wisconsin, which is about 10 miles from Ironwood.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Ironwood by car or train.

How to Get Around in Ironwood

The best way to get around Ironwood is by car. Visitors can rent a car at the airport or in the city.

Where to Go Next from Ironwood: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ironwood is located near several other popular destinations in the Upper Peninsula, including:

  • Munising: This town is known for its stunning Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and is about a two-hour drive from Ironwood.
  • Marquette: This city is home to Northern Michigan University and offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and delicious cuisine. It is about a two-hour drive from Ironwood.
  • Copper Harbor: This town is located at the northern tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula and is known for its stunning views of Lake Superior and its rich mining history. It is about a three-hour drive from Ironwood.

Conclusion

Ironwood is a charming city located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It offers visitors a range of attractions, including outdoor recreational opportunities, cultural and historical sites, and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re interested in hiking, skiing, or just relaxing, Ironwood has something for everyone.