St. Ignace Travel Guide

Discover the cultural and natural attractions of St. Ignace, Michigan, explore the food scene and learn about local customs and safety tips in this comprehensive guide.


Introduction to St. Ignace

Located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, St. Ignace is a charming, historic city that offers plenty of cultural and natural attractions for visitors to enjoy. Known as the “Gateway to the UP,” this city is the perfect starting point for exploring the scenic beauty and unique culture of the region.

In this comprehensive guide, we have highlighted the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in St. Ignace. We also provide tips on local culture and customs, safety and health information, and how to get to and around this wonderful city.

List of Places to Visit in St. Ignace

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort de Buade Museum: This museum offers a glimpse into the history of St. Ignace and the Upper Peninsula, including exhibits on the native Ojibwa tribe, French fur traders, and early American settlers.

  • Father Marquette National Memorial: Dedicated to the famous French explorer and Jesuit missionary, this memorial features a statue of Father Marquette overlooking the Straits of Mackinac.

  • Museum of Ojibwa Culture: Located in the historic St. Ignace Mission District, this museum offers an in-depth look at the history and culture of the Ojibwa people from their origins to present day.

Natural Attractions of St. Ignace: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mackinac Island: Just a short ferry ride from St. Ignace, visitors can explore this historic island without the use of motor vehicles, as horse-drawn carriages and bicycles are the primary modes of transportation.

  • Castle Rock: A popular scenic overlook, Castle Rock offers breathtaking views of the Mackinac Bridge and surrounding area.

  • Straits State Park: This park offers camping, hiking trails, and stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge and the Straits of Mackinac.

Hiking/Biking Routes of St. Ignace

St. Ignace and its surrounding areas offer a variety of hiking and biking trails for visitors to explore. Some of the most popular include:

  • North Country National Scenic Trail: This trail spans over 4,000 miles from New York to North Dakota and passes through St. Ignace on its way through Michigan.

  • Mill Creek Discovery Park Trail: A short but scenic loop trail through Mill Creek Discovery Park, this trail offers a glimpse into the natural beauty and history of the area.

  • Hiawatha National Forest: Located just a short drive from St. Ignace, the Hiawatha National Forest offers over 1,600 miles of hiking and biking trails through pristine wilderness areas.

Best Things to Do in St. Ignace: Activities and Tours

No visit to St. Ignace is complete without trying these fun activities and tours:

  • Shepler’s Ferry to Mackinac Island: Take a scenic ferry ride to Mackinac Island and enjoy the history, culture and the beauty of the Island.

  • Pictured Rocks Tour: This tour takes visitors along the scenic Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on Lake Superior and offers breathtaking views of sandstone cliffs, caves, and waterfalls.

  • Star Line Ferry: Another ferry ride that will take you to the Mackinac Island but this time with a glass bottom boat tour to witness the underwater beauty of the Straits.

Week-Long Itinerary for St. Ignace

Here’s an example of a week-long itinerary for St. Ignace:

  • Day 1: Explore Fort de Buade Museum and the St. Ignace Mission District.
  • Day 2: Take a ferry to Mackinac Island for a day of exploring and outdoor adventures.
  • Day 3: Hike a portion of the North Country Trail followed by a visit to Castle Rock.
  • Day 4: Visit the Museum of Ojibwa Culture and take a scenic drive through Hiawatha National Forest.
  • Day 5: Take a Pictured Rocks Tour and enjoy the beauty of Lake Superior.
  • Day 6: Visit Father Marquette National Memorial and spend the afternoon at Straits State Park.
  • Day 7: Relax and explore downtown St. Ignace, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy the local food and drink scene.

Food and Drink Scene of St. Ignace

Must-Try Dishes

Some local delicacies that you must try while visiting St. Ignace:

  • Whitefish: A local fish that is best served fried or smoked. It’s also a popular dish on Mackinac Island.

  • Pasties: A traditional meat pie that was brought to the region by Cornish immigrants and is now a staple food in the Upper Peninsula.

Local Beverages

  • Mackinac Island Fudge Coffee: A delicious blend of coffee and Mackinac Island fudge, a well-known product of the region.

  • Upper Peninsula Beer: Brewed locally, these beers are known for their unique flavors and high quality.

Where to Stay in St. Ignace: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

St. Ignace has a range of accommodation options, including:

  • Budget: Super 8 by Wyndham and Americas Best Value Inn are the most affordable options in town.

  • Mid-Range: The Best Western Harbour Pointe Lakefront and Budget Host Inn are great mid-range options that offer comfortable amenities.

  • Luxury: The Mission Point Resort is a luxurious property located on Mackinac Island with stunning views of Lake Huron.

What to Buy in St. Ignace: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some local products and souvenirs to bring home include:

  • Mackinac Island Fudge: A local specialty, this sweet treat can be found in many shops and candy stores throughout St. Ignace and Mackinac Island.

  • Handmade Crafts: Many local artisans sell their handmade crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of St. Ignace

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan has a unique culture influenced by the native Ojibwa tribe, French fur traders, and early American settlers. Visitors should be respectful of local culture and customs when visiting St. Ignace, including:

  • Respect for Land and Wildlife: The Upper Peninsula is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including moose and bears. Visitors should take care not to disturb the natural environment or its inhabitants

  • Conservation of Natural Resources: The UP is known for its pristine natural environment and local communities take their conservation seriously.

Best Time to Visit St. Ignace

The best time to visit St. Ignace is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and many outdoor activities are available. Fall, from September to November, is also a popular time to visit when the region’s trees are ablaze with reds, oranges, and golds.

Do’s and Don’ts of St. Ignace

Do:

  • Respect the local environment and wildlife
  • Take time to explore the natural beauty of the area
  • Try the local food and drink

Don’t:

  • Ignore the local culture and customs
  • Litter or damage the local environment

Safety and Health

Safety in St. Ignace

St. Ignace is a safe and welcoming community, but visitors should take common sense precautions to ensure their safety, such as:

  • Lock cars and hotel rooms when unoccupied
  • Avoid leaving valuables unattended
  • Take care when hiking or biking on wooded trails

Health in St. Ignace

Visitors should be prepared for the outdoors by:

  • Wearing appropriate clothing for the season and weather
  • Staying hydrated, especially during the summer months
  • Wearing insect repellent and protective clothing in wooded areas to guard against ticks.

Getting to St. Ignace: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near St. Ignace

The nearest airports to St. Ignace are the Pellston Regional Airport and Chippewa County International Airport, located about an hour’s drive away.

Bus Stations Near St. Ignace

Indian Trails and Greyhound both operate bus stations in St. Ignace, providing convenient transportation options for visitors.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to St. Ignace, as the city is located near major highways. Additionally, Shepler’s Ferry operates ferry service to and from Mackinac Island.

How to Get Around in St. Ignace

The best way to get around St. Ignace is by car, as many of the area’s natural attractions are located outside the city. Visitors can also rent bicycles or scooters to explore the area or take a leisurely stroll through downtown St. Ignace.

Where to Go Next from St. Ignace: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Mackinac Island: Just a short ferry ride away, Mackinac Island offers scenic beauty, historic sites, and outdoor adventures.

  • Sault Ste. Marie: Located just 50 miles to the northeast, this city offers plenty of cultural attractions, including the River of History Museum and Soo Locks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, St. Ignace offers visitors a unique glimpse into the history, culture, and natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula. From its historic museums and cultural attractions to its breathtaking wilderness and outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone to enjoy. By following the tips and recommendations in this guide, visitors can make the most of their trip to St. Ignace and create memories that will last a lifetime.