Sault Sainte Marie is a small city in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula on the shore of Lake Superior. It is located between the two lock systems of the St. Mary’s River, which connects Lake Huron and Lake Superior and is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. If you're looking for something special to do in Sault Ste. Marie, you won’t be disappointed.
1. Parks and places for a walk on a first date
One of the great ideas for a first date in Sault Sainte Marie is to explore the beautiful parks of the city. There are plenty of outdoor getaways and trails to explore. For example, the Portage Riverfront Park offers a beautiful view of the St. Marys River and two walking trails—one of them is a 10-mile loop, while the other is a half-mile one. The park also has picnic areas, playgrounds, and a large open area perfect for sports enthusiasts. Other parks that you can explore together on a first date include the Bayfront Park and the Cloister Park.
2. Places for a coffee date in Sault Sainte Marie
If you’d rather have a more low-key first date, why not grab a cup of coffee together? There are plenty of quaint and cozy cafes in Sault Sainte Marie to choose from. Positano's Coffee Shop & Café offers an Italian-style menu, from sandwiches and salads to pizza. Then there's Yours Truly Café, a cozy café in downtown Sault Sainte Marie with a wide selection of pastries, espresso drinks, and teas. Or if you’re looking for something more unique, you can check out the Shipwreck Café & Coffee Shoppe, located in the Saults harbor and offering a wide range of specialty coffees and teas.
3. Galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
If you’re looking for some cultural activities to enjoy together, you can visit one of the many galleries, museums and exhibitions in Sault Sainte Marie. The first one to check out is the Sault Sainte Marie Museum, which offers an insight into the history and culture of the region, with displays of artifacts, photographs, and interactive exhibits. Then there’s the Bayliss Public Library, which not only offers a library, but also a gallery and various exhibits. Finally, the Bonifas Arts Center is the perfect spot to explore the local art scene. The center has a gallery with displays of works by local and regional artists, and they also offer classes and workshops in a variety of media.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Sault Sainte Marie
If you’re looking to spice things up a bit, why not grab your date for some live music and entertainment? There are plenty of venues in Sault Sainte Marie to check out. For example, you could go to the Kewadin Casino’s launch lounge, which offers live music every weekend. Or if you’re looking for something more laid-back, check out the Pickford Theatre, a local theatre that offers shows and movies. The theatre also hosts live performances of music, comedy, and theatre throughout the year.
5. Pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
For a more casual date experience, Sault Sainte Marie also has plenty of pubs, bars, and restaurants to choose from. The classic stops to get a drink and something to eat are the Grand Gardens North and Grand Gardens South. Both are perfect for a laid-back date, with tasty food and a cozy atmosphere. If you’re looking for something more unique, check out the Sault Sainte Marie Brewing Company, which serves signature craft beers and a selection of pub grub. Or if you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, the Mary Ann’s Diner offers a more high-end menu, with decadent dishes and delicious desserts.
6. Other date ideas to try in Sault Sainte Marie
If you’d like to try something more unique, Sault Sainte Marie also offers plenty of other activities and attractions to explore together. For example, you can take a riverboat tour of the St. Mary's River or the Soo Locks. Or maybe attend one of the numerous festivals held in the city, including the Festival of Nations and the Soo Locks International
