Newberry Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to buy, local culture, safety, and transportation options in Newberry.


Introduction to Newberry

Newberry is a charming town located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, often referred to as the “Gateway to Tahquamenon Falls.” The town is known for its stunning natural beauty, with numerous outdoor opportunities that draw visitors from all over the world. Newberry is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Michigan, and offers plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.

List of Places to Visit in Newberry

If you’re planning a trip to Newberry, you won’t be disappointed with the variety of attractions available. Here’s a list of must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Tahquamenon Logging Museum: Located in Newberry, the museum features equipment, tools, and structures from a time when logging was the primary industry in eastern Michigan.

  2. Garlyn Zoo: Get up close and personal with animals from around the world at this small but vibrant zoo.

  3. Museum of Ojibwa Culture: Learn about the Ojibwa people and their history, art, and culture through exhibits and programs.

Natural Attractions of Newberry: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Tahquamenon Falls State Park: The park is home to one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. The falls are truly a sight to behold, with over 50,000 gallons of water per second pouring over the falls.

  2. Hiawatha National Forest: This vast forest is a must-visit for nature lovers and offers hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking opportunities.

  3. Oswald’s Bear Ranch: Get up close to black bears with a guided tour at Oswald’s Bear Ranch. It is the world’s largest not-for-profit bear sanctuary.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Newberry

Newberry is home to miles of hiking and biking routes that offer stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty. Here’s a list of some of the most popular routes:

  1. The North Country Trail: This trail is the longest in the National Scenic Trail System and stretches over 4,600 miles from New York to North Dakota. The trail passes through Hiawatha National Forest and offers beautiful views.

  2. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: This national park offers miles of trails along the stunning shoreline of Lake Superior. The trails offer breathtaking views of the cliffs, beaches, and forests.

  3. Tahquamenon Falls State Park: The park offers several hiking trails, including the Upper Falls Trail and the River Trail. The trails offer beautiful views of the falls and surrounding forest.

Best Things to Do in Newberry: Activities and Tours

  1. Take a scenic drive: Newberry and the surrounding areas are home to some of the most scenic drives in the country. From The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum and Whitefish Point Lighthouse to Oswald’s Bear Ranch, there are plenty of stops along the way.

  2. Snowmobiling: During the winter months, snowmobiling is a popular activity in Newberry. The area offers miles of groomed trails with beautiful views.

  3. Canoeing and Kayaking: Experience the lush green landscape by exploring the rivers, including Tahquamenon River. You can rent a kayak from local outfitters.

Week-Long Itinerary for Newberry

If you’re planning to stay in Newberry for a week, here’s an itinerary for you:

Day 1: Check into your hotel, explore the town, and make your way to the Tahquamenon Logging Museum
Day 2: Visit Tahquamenon Falls State Park and take a hike on the Upper Falls Trail
Day 3: Drive to Whitefish Point to visit the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum and Oswald's Bear Ranch
Day 4: Visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and take a hike on the Lakeshore Trail
Day 5: Explore Hiawatha National Forest on foot or by bike
Day 6: Go canoeing and kayaking on the Tahquamenon River
Day 7: End your trip with a scenic drive through the Upper Peninsula of Michigan

Food and Drink Scene of Newberry

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pasties: A traditional Cornish dish, a pasty is a baked pastry filled with meat and vegetables.

  2. Smoked Fish: Local restaurants serve delicious smoked fish caught from nearby lakes and rivers.

Local Beverages

  1. Michigan Beer: Michigan is home to some of the best breweries in the country, which offer an extensive selection of beers to choose from.

  2. Michigan Wine: Michigan produces a variety of wines, from sweet to dry, that can be enjoyed during a memorable dining experience.

Where to Stay in Newberry: Hotels, Hostels and Guesthouses

Newberry offers many different types of accommodation, from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. Here are some of the most popular options:

  1. American Star Inn & Suites: A budget-friendly option with clean rooms, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi.

  2. Newberry Campground: If you’re looking for a more rustic option, this is the place for you. Tent and RV sites are available, along with bathrooms and showers.

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

  1. Maple Syrup: Michigan is known for its high-quality maple syrup, which can be purchased at local shops throughout the city.

  2. Crafts and Artworks: Pick up some locally made crafts and artworks, including pottery and wood carvings from local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Newberry

The Ojibwa people are the local indigenous group, and their culture has greatly influenced the town. Native American Culture is celebrated through festivals and art shows, where the community works to preserve the heritage.

Best Time to Visit Newberry

The best time to visit Newberry is from late May to early September, during the summer months when the weather is warm. Tahquamenon Falls is most impressive in the spring when the snow melts and water flows rapidly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Newberry

Do:

  1. Respect the natural environment: Newberry’s natural environment is one of its greatest assets; be sure to keep it clean and respect wildlife.

  2. Explore the town: Experience the vibrant culture of the town and its friendly residents.

Don’t:

  1. Litter: Be sure to keep the town and surrounding areas clean.

  2. Disrupt wildlife: Be sure to respect wildlife while exploring the wilderness.

Safety and Health

Safety in Newberry

Newberry is a safe destination. Be sure to be aware of your surroundings, especially if you are in remote areas or hiking in the woods.

Health in Newberry

There are medical facilities in the surrounding area such as Helen Newberry Joy Hospital in Newberry, Michigan. Also be sure to bring necessary medication, especially if you have allergies or chronic conditions.

Getting to Newberry: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Newberry

The closest airports are:

  1. Chippewa County International Airport (CIU) – 50 miles away
  2. Sawyer International Airport (MQT) – 96 miles away

Bus Stations Near Newberry

The closest bus stations are:

  1. Greyhound Bus Station in Newberry – In May, Greyhound Travel was suspended temporarily. Check the website for updated information.

  2. Indian Trails in Traverse City – 203 miles away

Other Options

Renting a car is recommended because there are extremely limited transportation options.

How to Get Around in Newberry

The town of Newberry is easily walkable, but if you want to venture out into the wilderness, you will need a car.

Where to Go Next from Newberry: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Sault Ste. Marie: This historic town is just 40 miles away from Newberry. It is known for its rich history and unique cultural sites.

  2. Mackinac Island: Located just over 100 miles away, Mackinac Island is a must-visit destination. The island is car-free and offers unique dining and shopping experiences.

Conclusion

Newberry is the perfect destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. With its picturesque beauty and diverse attractions, this small town offers a big vacation experience.