Manistique Travel Guide

Discover the best of Manistique, home to stunning natural attractions, outdoor adventures, and rich culture and history. Our comprehensive tour guide includes a list of places to visit, must-try dishes, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Manistique

Located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Manistique is a charming city surrounded by natural beauty, rich history, and a thriving cultural scene. It’s a perfect destination for travelers seeking a tranquil and relaxing getaway.

Whether it’s exploring museums and historical sites, hiking or biking in the great outdoors, savoring delicious local food and drink, or simply relaxing in a cozy hotel, Manistique has something to offer for everyone.

In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit, eat, stay, and experience around Manistique.

List of Places to Visit in Manistique

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Historic Seul Choix Lighthouse Museum: A must-visit for history buffs and lighthouse lovers, this iconic structure is one of the oldest lighthouses in Upper Peninsula. Built in 1892, the lighthouse now houses a museum showcasing the life and work of its keepers, as well as the history of the Great Lakes.

  • The Kitch-iti-kipi Springs: Known as the “Big Spring”, the Kitch-iti-kipi Springs is a naturally occurring freshwater spring that is over 10,000 years old. Take a paddleboat tour and enjoy the unique experience of seeing the bottom of the spring, over 200 feet away.

  • The Manistique East Breakwater Lighthouse: Another historic lighthouse built in 1916, the Manistique East Breakwater Lighthouse now serves as a popular photo spot, and you can catch a glimpse of it while exploring Manistique’s waterfront.

  • The Manistique Boardwalk and River Walk: A scenic walkway that runs along the Manistique River, the Manistique Boardwalk and River Walk is a great place to go for a morning or evening stroll. It’s also a perfect spot for fishing and picnicking.

Natural Attractions of Manistique: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: A spectacular natural formation that spans over 15 miles of Lake Superior’s shoreline, the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a must-visit for any traveler to Upper Peninsula. Explore the sandstone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and the stunning waterfalls.

  • The Hiawatha National Forest: Spanning over 87,000 acres of wild forests, lakes, waterfalls, and wildlife, the Hiawatha National Forest is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Go camping, hiking, fishing, kayaking, or simply explore the picturesque trails.

  • The Indian Lake State Park: Located in Schoolcraft County, Indian Lake State Park offers a plethora of recreational activities like camping, boating, fishing, and hiking. There are nearly 400+ campsites within the park among which most have private access to the lake.

  • The Seney National Wildlife Refuge: Spread across 95,000 acres, the Seney National Wildlife Refuge is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, otters, and bald eagles. It’s a great place to birdwatch, fish, or hike.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Manistique

  • The North Country Trail: As the longest national scenic trail in the U.S., the North Country Trail runs through many Upper Peninsula counties and passes through Seney National Wildlife Refuge.

  • The Fox River Pathway: A 27-mile trail that runs through the Hiawatha National Forest and offers stunning waterfalls, streams, and woods views. The path is suitable for hiking and biking.

  • The Haywire Grade Trail: Formerly a railway track, the Haywire Grade Trail has now been converted into a 10-mile hiking and biking trail that offers breathtaking views of the Manistique River.

Best Things to Do in Manistique: Activities and Tours

  • Delight in the Fall Colors: Manistique, being located in the Upper Peninsula, has a stunning fall season. Take a scenic drive through Hiawatha National Forest or go on a trail hike for the best of colors.

  • Enjoy Winters: Manistique transforms into a wintery dreamland and offers activities like snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing at Indian Lake State Park. You may also go ice fishing, enjoy sleigh rides, or spend a day in the snow-a cozy hotel.

  • River Fishing: The Manistique River is renowned for trout fishing that runs 17 miles from Curtis to its mouth Harbor. It’s a great way to relax in the waters and catch a fish.

Week-Long Itinerary for Manistique

Day Activities
Day 1 Go to the Kitch-iti-kipi Springs, enjoy paddleboat ride and explore picnic areas
Day 2 Visit the Indian Lake State Park, go fishing and camping
Day 3 Visit the Hiawatha National Forest, go for a hike/bike ride and stop at the many waterfalls along the way
Day 4 Go on a Seney Wildlife Refuge canoe tour and experience the local wildlife
Day 5 Take a scenic drive of the Upper Peninsula while visiting the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Day 6 Visit the Manistique Boardwalk and River Walk and go fishing
Day 7 Visit the Historic Seul Choix Lighthouse Museum and the Manistique East Breakwater Lighthouse and enjoy the scenic views

Food and Drink Scene of Manistique

Must-Try Dishes

  • Whitefish: A local delicacy, and a given in every menu. Fresh quality whitefish is a must-have when visiting Manistique.

  • Pasty: It’s a popular Upper Peninsula dish that is essentially a handheld pie stuffed with meats, veggies, and spices.

  • Perch: Another local favorite, the perch is great as fried or grilled.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Check out Upper Hand Brewery for fresh and delicious craft brews.

  • Wine: Visit Garden Bay Winery for some of their best vintage wines.

  • Cider: Bonnie’s Hometown Grocery is known for having the best cider in town.

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

  • North Shore Motor Inn: An affordable and convenient option located near the Manistique Boardwalk and River Walk.

  • Upper Peninsula Lodge: Set in a rustic and comfortable environment, the Upper Peninsula Lodge is perfect for solo travelers or families looking for a relaxed stay.

  • Indian Lake Resort: An upscale option with beautiful lake views. From fine dining to water sports, this resort has it all.

  • The Jack Pine Lodge: For those who want more of a wilderness feeling, this cozy lodge offers rustic accommodations and is conveniently located close to outdoor attractions.

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

  • Pinecone Birdfeeders: Perfect for bird lovers, these charming handcrafted birdfeeders are made with pinecones.

  • Lake Superior Agate Jewelry: Agates are a type of quartz rock, and the Lake Superior Agate is a popular gem found in Michigan. Pick up some beautiful and unique jewelry pieces for friends or family.

  • Local Maple Syrup: Manistique is also known for producing high-quality maple syrup that makes for a great gift and can be used in cooking..

Local Culture and Customs of Manistique

Manistique has a strong sense of community, with people known for their friendliness and hospitality. It’s also a region rich in Native American culture and history.

Best Time to Visit Manistique

The best time to visit Manistique is during the summer months from May to September, where the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities. Fall is also a great season to visit if you want to experience the fall colors of Michigan. Winters are harsh, but it offers a unique wintery experience to the visitors

Do’s and Don’ts of Manistique

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs of Manistique.

  • Visit the Hiawatha National Forest and Seney Wildlife Refuge for a glimpse of Michigan’s stunning natural beauty.

  • Try out the local foods and beverages unique to Manistique.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places.

  • Harm the wildlife and natural habitats of Manistique.

  • Ignore the local safety advisories and guidelines.

Safety and Health

Safety in Manistique

Manistique is a safe and friendly city with low crime rates. However, it’s always essential to keep your belongings safe and avoid leaving valuable items in your car if possible.

Health in Manistique

Manistique is home to a few medical facilities, including the Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital. It’s always recommended to have travel insurance when visiting and to carry all necessary medication.

Getting to Manistique: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Manistique

The closest major airport to Manistique is Delta County Airport (ESC), which is located approximately 46 miles away. Flights from major cities like Chicago, Detroit, and Minneapolis are available.

Bus Stations Near Manistique

The nearest bus station is located in Escanaba, around 50 miles from Manistique. Bus services are provided by Greyhound and Indian Trails bus companies.

Other Options

Manistique can also be reached by car via US Highway 2 and 41. The closest train station is located in Marquette, around 85 miles away.

How to Get Around in Manistique

The best way to get around Manistique is by car, either by renting a car or driving your own. Biking or walking is also an excellent option, especially around Manistique’s Boardwalk and River Walk area.

Where to Go Next from Manistique: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Mackinac Island: A three-hour drive from Manistique, Mackinac Island is a charming and historic island village that’s known for its stunning views, unique shops, and delicious food.

  • Marquette: Located about 85 miles to the north, Marquette is a vibrant town that offers fantastic outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and kayaking, along with a great selection of shopping and dining options.

  • Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: If you couldn’t get enough of the beautiful scenery, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore will offer even more. Follow the drive 68 miles northwest of Manistique to see more stunning rock formations and exquisite scenic views.

Conclusion

Manistique is a hidden gem in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and offers fantastic natural wonders, rich history, and friendly community. From visiting cultural attractions and outdoor activities to experiencing the local food scene and staying in cozy lodges, Manistique has something for everyone. Plan your next trip to Manistique for an unforgettable experience.