(about Sault Ste. Marie, MI United States, last edited on Oct 02, 2007)
This sister city of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan is located on the river bearing the same name: the St. Mary's River. This river that connects Lake Huron with Lake Superior gives the city the natural beauty that attracted the first settlers and that still attracts people to this place.
People have tried to settle in nice surroundings that had also provided them some advantages since forever and the aboriginal people who were the city’s first settlers did just the same. Another advantage the location provided them was that it was a stop on the French fur trading route that has kept the city’s economy going till in the late 19th century when it had to turn to other industrial activities.
Those who know a bit of French may understand where the city’s name comes from as “Sault” means jump in French and the jump refers to the twenty-foot drops in the cascades of Lake Superior. So just judging by its name you could realize how linked this city is to nature. There’re lakes, forests, small islands, a canyon, and locks and all of them can be viewed as great opportunities for outdoor activities. You can have a cruise through the Soo Locks, a train trip through the Agawa Canyon, a visit to St. Joseph Island and many other possibilities.
Besides its natural beauty that surrounds it, the city is also known for being the hometown Dr. Roberta Bondar, Canada's first woman in space.
Attractions abound in and around the city. In the city, the waterfront and downtown are among the most visited spots also because it is here that you’ll find the main attractions and outside the city there are day-trip attractions within several hours by car. One of them is Lake Superior Provincial Park Wawa, a true wilderness with, dramatic waterfalls and misty canyons. It is a great place for outdoor lovers who may camp, swim, fish, hike or canoe.
Start your visit with the Waterfront Boardwalk, along the St. Mary's River in downtown. It is a nice place to stroll offering great views of the International Bridge connecting Ontario to Michigan and it is also nice to watch boats passing by. people come here to fish too so if you are a fishing fan bring your rod and line next to the locals on one of the fishing platforms. It is a great place to jog or ride your bike and history buffs may follow the historic plaques that give you an insight into the stories of the twin cities. They can go on exploring the history of the place at the Museum Ship Norgoma hosting the passenger vessel/ferry constructed on the Great Lakes. The guided tour takes about 45 minutes.
Bondar Park and Tent Pavillion are great for all those who look for a bit of entertainment. There’s everything: concerts, festivals and even a farmers market. If you happen to come in summer you’ll be able to take see the Salmon Derby and Festival. At the Tent Pavillion you can start a wonderful visit around the city by water and you’ll be able to experience the 21-foot drop difference between the levels of Lake Huron and Superior and see the International Bridge. It is an experience not to be missed.
If you are a gambler you’ll find entertainment in the city at the casinos. One of them is Casino Sault Ste. Marie.
Kids have some nice places to spend their time. The Bellevue Park hosts frequent festivals, special events children's playground, several small botanical gardens, a greenhouse and an amphitheater.
Absorb the wide range of choices for year-round fun and relaxation that this warm and welcoming city offers.
