Menominee Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Menominee with our comprehensive travel guide. Check out the best places to visit and things to do in Menominee.


Menominee Travel Guide: Your Ultimate Tour Guide to Menominee

Nestled in the Upper Peninsula region of Michigan, Menominee is the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventurers. With its picturesque landscapes and rich history, Menominee offers an unforgettable vacation experience. In this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your perfect trip to Menominee.

List of Places to Visit in Menominee

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Menominee has an impressive selection of museums and historical sites that offer visitors a glimpse into the town’s rich heritage and cultural significance. Don’t miss these essential sites:

  • Menominee County Historical Museum: This museum is the perfect place to start your trip to Menominee. Here, you can learn about the region’s colorful history, and explore the exhibits featuring the area’s natural resources, First Nations heritage, early 20th century life, and much more.
  • Great Lakes Logging and Heritage Center: Learn more about Michigan’s vital logging industry at this museum. Explore the exhibits and artifacts, watch demonstrations, and take a guided tour for a hands-on educational experience.
  • North Bay Lighthouse Preservation Society: Built-in 1889, North Bay Lighthouse is an important architectural landmark and cultural relic. This museum features interactive exhibits specializing in the area’s maritime history.
  • Erickson Historic District: Take a stroll through this charming neighborhood to experience Menominee’s architectural heritage. The district is lined with historic mansions, churches, and other buildings dating back to the early 20th century.

Natural Attractions of Menominee: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Menominee is home to a wealth of natural beauty and incredible outdoor adventures. The area’s unique terrain and location make it ideal for hiking, biking, fishing, and kayaking. The following natural attractions are must-sees:

  • Stephenson Island: This island is situated in the middle of the Menominee River, offering breathtaking views of the area’s natural beauty and the Michigan/Wisconsin border. Take a lazy afternoon on a blanket and soak in the magnificent scenery, or take a walk along one of the island’s many foot trails.
  • Pemene Falls: This scenic spot is situated in the Menominee River and is special for its rushing waterfalls. The falls are tranquil and a perfect spot for picnicking and fishing.
  • John Henes Park: John Henes Park is an excellent example of a well-maintained public park. The park is filled with picnic areas, a softball field, a tennis court, and a splash pad, making it an ideal site for family recreation and relaxation.
  • Menominee River State Recreation Area: Menominee River is a popular spot for kayaking and whitewater rafting, as well as fishing and hiking. The area’s diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes make it unique among Michigan’s state recreation areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Menominee

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting, Menominee has plenty of scenic trails for you to explore. Here are some of our favorite hiking/biking routes:

  • Ice Age Trail: This route is also known as the Menominee River State River Trail and gives visitors a front-row seat to the region’s natural beauty. The trail spans approximately 10 miles and features scenic vantage points of Menominee River as it winds through rapids and flows over a waterfall.
  • Riverside Bike Trail: Suitable for bikers and hikers, this trail covers about 1.5 miles of paved trail and is an excellent area for jogging, walking, and cycling.

Best Things to Do in Menominee: Activities and Tours

Menominee has numerous activities that cater to a wide range of interests. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Menominee Waterfront Festival: This festival takes place every year and is a testament to the town’s community spirit. The festival features live music, carnival rides, unique exhibits, and delicious food.
  • Kayaking Tours: Menominee is a mecca for kayaking enthusiasts, and numerous tour companies offer tours of the river and its many interesting and enjoyable landmarks.
  • Bird Watching: Menominee has plenty of bird watching opportunities for avian admirers. The area is home to eagles, ospreys, and other fowl.

Week-Long Itinerary for Menominee

Menominee has a lot to offer visitors, and you’ll need more than a weekend to explore everything the area has to offer. Here’s an itinerary for a week-long stay:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Menominee County Historical Museum and North Bay Lighthouse Preservation Society
2 Take a fishing trip on the Menominee River and visit Pemene Falls
3 Explore Erickson Historic District, go shopping, and enjoy dinner at a local favorite
4 Hike and bike along the Ice Age Trail and Riverside Bike Trail
5 Visit John Henes Park for a relaxing day and picnic
6 Kayak tour of the river and bird watching
7 Waterfront Festival, live music and enjoy the final day in Menominee

Food and Drink Scene of Menominee

Whether you’re looking for local cuisine or American comfort food, Menominee has a wide range of delicious eateries to choose from. Here are some of our top picks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pasties: This signature dish of the Upper Peninsula is a delicious turnover filled with beef, potato, and rutabaga. The pasties of Menominee are considered to be some of the best in the region and shouldn’t be missed.
  • Venison: Menominee is renowned for its hunting and fishing, and eating venison is a must-do. Many local restaurants use fresh venison to make delicious stews and other dishes.

Local Beverages

  • Bertram’s Brewery: Located in Menominee, Bertram’s Brewery is a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts. The brewery’s selection of interesting and unique beers and ales is delicious and one of a kind.

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

When it comes to accommodation, Menominee has something for everyone. These are some of the most popular places to stay in the area:

  • Budget: Econo Lodge on Stephenson: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality, the Econo Lodge on Stephenson is a good choice. The hotel features modern amenities and is close to many of the area’s top attractions.
  • Mid-range: The Harbor View Inn: situated along the shores of Green Bay, The Harbor View Inn features cozy rooms with fantastic views. This Inn is within walking distance from Menominee County Historical Museum and the Harbor View Event Center.
  • Luxury: The Four Seasons Island Resort: This resort is located on the shore of nearby Miscauno Island and is a perfect spot of luxurious stay. The resort has an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, fitness center and a spa, among other lavish amenities.

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

Menominee has several local shops and markets where you can find unique and interesting souvenirs and mementos to bring home. Here are some examples:

  • Lost Arrow Gifts: This gift shop is an excellent place to start if you’re looking for souvenirs to take home. They sell unique items, including handmade jewelry, t-shirts, and artwork.
  • Jeri’s Hallmark Shop: This shop carries a wide range of beautiful gift cards, greeting cards, and other items that are perfect for gifts and souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Menominee

Menominee has a rich cultural heritage, which is evident in its art, events, and festivals. The town is influenced by its Native American heritage and offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the many unique customs and traditions of the community. It’s essential to be respectful of the community’s culture and customs and to participate in upcoming events and festivals.

Best Time to Visit Menominee

The best time to visit Menominee is during late spring, summer, and early autumn. The low humidity and relatively mild climate make it an excellent time to take part in outdoor activities and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Menominee

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and cultures of the area.
  • Pack for the weather, and make sure to bring appropriate clothing and footwear for outdoor activities.
  • Take care of the environment, especially when hiking, camping or kayaking.

Don’t:

  • Don’t touch artifacts and historical exhibits in museums and historical landmarks.
  • Don’t wear inappropriate clothing when visiting religious and cultural landmarks.
  • Don’t litter; be responsible, and dispose of trash.

Safety and Health

Safety in Menominee

Menominee is a safe and welcoming community. In general, visitors can expect to find a friendly and helpful environment, but it’s always essential to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially when outdoor activities.

Health in Menominee

Menominee has a well-maintained health care system, including clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies. When visiting Menominee, it’s always essential to have comprehensive travel insurance and make sure you are up-to-date on your health vaccinations.

Getting to Menominee: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Menominee

The nearest airports to Menominee are Austin Straubel International Airport in Green Bay, WI, and the Ford Airport in Iron Mountain, MI. From either airport, it is a 1-2 hour drive to Menominee.

Bus Stations Near Menominee

Greyhound offers services from Green Bay and Milwaukee, WI, to Menominee.

Other Options

Menominee can be reached via car and is located on major highways. If you’re considering driving to Menominee, know that the town offers park-and-ride options and public transportation.

How to Get Around in Menominee

Menominee offers several options for getting around, including taxis, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft, car rentals, and public transportation.

Where to Go Next from Menominee: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Menominee is well-positioned to allow visitors to explore other areas and attractions in the region. The following are some of our best choices:

  • Marquette: Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Marquette offers visitors a selection of natural beauty and urban attractions. The area is known for its scenic lakeshore, parks, and museums.
  • Escanaba: Escanaba is a historic town located on the shores of Lake Michigan. The town is popular with nature enthusiasts, featuring a variety of outdoor activities and hiking trails.
  • Mackinac Island: One of Michigan’s top attractions, Mackinac Island offers visitors a step back in time. The area features vintage automobile-free streets and offers visitors a chance to enjoy captivating outdoor activities, historical landmarks, and unique boutique shops.

Conclusion

Menominee is a unique destination, offering a beautiful blend of art, architecture, history, and outdoor activities. This town is a great spot for those who enjoy exploring and discovering new places, with endless opportunities to experience the region’s natural beauty and cultural significance. With this comprehensive travel guide, you have everything you need to plan your perfect trip to Menominee.