Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan: Border Towns Have the Best View
The season is beautiful and active, truly the best time of the year in Sault Ste. Marie. This town, where I made my home for nine years, is rich in history and beauty. Founded on an old war fort, many of the buildings found on the LSSU campus as well as in the downtown area speak loudly of the town’s age. It is one of the oldest cities in Michigan. Peppered with new buildings, the Soo promises a forward movement in industry while at the same time not losing touch with its historical roots.
Sault Ste. Marie’s Business Spur is lined with national and statewide businesses, such as WalMart, Big Lots, and KMart, as well as the bulk of fast food restaurants and gas stations. This is where the new business come in and where much of the Soo’s exploration takes place. Off the several roads that shoot off the main spur, an explorer of the area can find all sorts of fun things. Dondee Lanes, the Soo’s bowling alley offers moonlight bowling and a lounge for those looking for a bit of upbeat fun. Along another path iies a series of small shops including a used bookstore and a needlework shop for those crafty with their hands. Let’s not forget one of the best coffee shops as well and one of the few places I’ve ever found in the UP that offers a delightful sugar free cappuccino. For those wanting to spend more than one day in the Soo, the selection of hotels is varied and offers something for every taste and pocketbook.
The college is set slightly apart from the rest of the city to showcase its own quiet charm. A small university, a walk across campus is only ten minutes, perfect for someone looking for simplicity with their education. The view from the LSSU hill once again draws the attention to the city across the river, giving a breathtaking view of the international bridge and an inviting glimpse of the Downtown Sault Ste. Marie, MI.
Downtown is the heart of this city. Shops line either side of the street with the charm and flavor of the old “everyone knows their neighbor” type of town. One can safely walk these streets, even in the evening as it remains well lit and well patrolled. The crowd looking for a fun night out can sample one of the many downtown pubs that offer good drinks, fun karaoke, and great service. Those who enjoy the action on a dance floor have three main clubs to choose from, all offering an eclectic mix of music and atmosphere.
The town ends at the Soo Locks on the St. Mary’s River, along which sets several historical homes of which demonstrations are given throughout the spring and summer seasons. The Tower of History is a visitor favorite, taking one high enough to view the entire city in all its glory. Along this final street sits a favorite of the Soo and its welcome visitors, the Antler’s restaurant, perfect for the hunter type and decorated wall to wall with wildlife. Don’t worry…they’re not alive. Be careful though. For special occasions, the staff sets off their famous bells and whistles, and if you’re not prepared, you’re likely to find yourself choking in suprise.
On this stretch, one can also enjoy the beauty of the twin city across the way, which sprawls lushly along the shore and at night beckons those looking for even more fun with its glittering lights and busy Canadian streets.
Though this year is spent away from Sault Ste. Marie, I encourage everyone to visit it at least once. With the offer of extraordinary picturesque views and friendly hometown hospitality, its a place that will find its way easily into your heart.
