15 Best Things to See in Escanaba Michigan

We recently took a trip through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (U.P.) to see all the big cities and see all of the Great Lakes. We stopped into Escanaba Michigan not knowing what we would find.  From what I learned, people come here for fishing, beaches and hunting.  We came to relax, see the lighthouse and go to the U.P. State Fair.

Where to Get Food in Escanaba?

We enjoyed a few restaurants during our stay.

Bobaloons – We enjoyed hot dogs, grilled cheese and hot ham and cheese sandwiches.  Some of the greenest relish I’ve ever seen.  We arrived at lunch time during the week and there was a wait, but worth it.

Happy Day’s Ice Cream Parlor – This was a cute little shop downtown with soda shop decor.  They serve delicious Jilbert’s ice cream, which is the ice cream company from the Upper Peninsula.

Rosy’s Diner for breakfast. Consider sitting at the counter and talking to Rosy’ herself.  She’s a character that doesn’t sugar coat what she says. She was very busy but took the time to talk to us.

Elmer’s – This was a large busy diner.  We were here during the U.P. Fair, so busier than normal I think.  Good food.  We saw the decor needs to be refreshed, the food was good.

What to See in Escanaba?

Monarch Butterflies! – Visit late Summer or early Fall and you will see lots of butterflies as they travel from Canada to Mexico. There is something about the area that draws the butterflies in to the area.

Festivals – From Rock the Dock to the Marina Festival and the Fourth of July celebration, there are many activities to see and do in Escanaba.

Joseph Medill Fire Ship – located off the 600 block of 1st Avenue North, look towards the shore and you’ll see it.  Used as a fire ship used in Chicago to fight fires from the water.  (may no longer be there as it was being dismantled).  Find it early in the morning or at night for beautiful sunrise and sunset photo opportunities.

The House of Ludington – built in 1865 as the Gaynor House Hotel and then renamed in 1871 to honor local lumberman Nelson Ludington.  The building was rebuilt in 1883 out of brick and became the hotel you see today.  The building is in need of some upkeep and maintenance.

Downtown Escanaba

Ludington Park – one of the largest parks in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.  This park is three-quarter miles long, along the lake shore going into Little Bay de Noc. Lots to keep the family busy.  Pack a picnic and spend the afternoon. Walk along the dock. Location:  Downtown Escanaba

Murals – there are several beautiful murals on the buildings, so be on the lookout and have your camera ready.  Looking left and right, up and down while downtown and you won’t miss any of them.

Portage Point Beach – Watch the sunrise as you eplore this one mile stretch of beach. Bring your binoculars and do some bird watching. There are shallow waters to allow kids to swim. There are various bike trails to explore as well. Location: Drive south on M-35 from Escanaba, turn left onto Portage Point 11.4 Lane, and follow the road to where it ends. You can park there.

Touring Michigan’s Lake Superior Shoreline

Sand Point Lighthouse – The lighthouse was in operation from 1868 to 1939. Mary Terry was the first lighthouse keeper (and one of the first female lighthouse keepers on the Great Lakes).  The lighthouse has been restored and has period furniture as well. Location:  Northeast shore of Lake Michigan along Ludington Park.

Shop – there are unique shops in the downtown area, including Saykllys Candy and Gift shop.  Lot of candy and other gifts to select from.

U.P. State Fair – In August, the Upper Peninsula has its own state fair. Understandably, Michigan is pretty big and the lower peninsula state fair is in Novi (near Detroit). The fair is not state funded and is now governed by the Upper Peninsula State Fair Authority (made up of the 15 counties in Michigan’s U.P.)  When we were there, parking was free, but you pay to get into the Fair.  There are rides, that delicious fair food and all other things Fair.  Location: 2401 12th Avenue North

U.P. Steam & Gas Engine Museum (Agricultural Museum) – located at the U.P. State Fairgrounds, this was created to preserve the local heritage.  You will find an eclectic collection antique equipment and artifacts.  Check the days and times this museum is open.  It is free to visit, but donations are welcome.