Houghton MichiganATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Houghton, Michigan.
1. A. E. Seaman Mineral Museum of Michigan Tech
GEOLOGICAL WONDERS DISPLAYED
The A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum showcases remarkable minerals from around the world and serves as the official mineral museum of the State of Michigan. Visitors can explore extensive collections of rare specimens, fluorescent exhibits, and historic samples that were collected 100 to 200 years ago. The museum features a stunning 19-ton native copper vein in the outdoor pavilion and a gift shop where visitors can purchase minerals to take home.
2. Isle Royale National Park
PRISTINE WILDERNESS GETAWAY
Isle Royale National Park offers a pristine wilderness experience accessible via the Ranger III Ferry from Houghton. This remote island park features untouched forests, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife including wolves and moose. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, kayaking, and experiencing the solitude of this isolated natural paradise.
3. Nara Nature Park
TRANQUIL OUTDOOR ESCAPE
Nara Nature Park offers a peaceful retreat with scenic trails winding through beautiful Upper Peninsula forests. Visitors can explore well-maintained pathways suitable for walking, biking, and cross-country skiing depending on the season. The park provides an excellent opportunity to observe local wildlife and vegetation while enjoying the tranquility of Michigan's natural landscape.
4. Isle Royale Ranger III Ferry
GATEWAY TO ADVENTURE
The Isle Royale Ranger III Ferry provides transportation from Houghton to the remote wilderness of Isle Royale National Park. This 165-foot vessel offers a comfortable 6-hour journey across Lake Superior with amenities including seating areas, food service, and remarkable views of the vast waters. The ferry serves as an essential link connecting mainland adventurers to one of America's least-visited but most pristine national parks.
5. Ray Kestner Waterfront Park
FAMILY FUN BY WATER
Ray Kestner Waterfront Park, affectionately known by locals as "Chutes and Ladders," features an epic playground with tubular slides and ladders resembling the classic board game. Located on the shores of the Keweenaw Waterway, the park offers paddle sport rentals, a concession stand, volleyball courts, a picnic area, and a protected swim area. This popular venue also hosts many of Houghton's outdoor events, live music performances, and festivals including the Keweenaw Brewfest and Bridgefest.
6. Quincy Mine
HISTORIC COPPER HERITAGE
Quincy Mine offers visitors an immersive journey into Michigan's rich copper mining history through guided tours of this historic site. Visitors descend into the depths of the mine to experience firsthand the conditions miners faced while extracting the valuable copper that helped build America. The year-round attraction includes historic buildings, mining equipment, and educational exhibits that showcase the technological innovations and human stories of the Copper Country.
7. Coppertown USA Mining Museum
LEGACY IN METAL
The Coppertown USA Mining Museum preserves and presents the fascinating story of copper mining that shaped the Keweenaw Peninsula. Exhibits feature authentic mining equipment, historical photographs, and artifacts that illustrate the technological developments and daily lives of miners and their families. Visitors gain a comprehensive understanding of how copper extraction influenced the development of Houghton and the surrounding region from the 19th century to the present day.
8. Portage Lake Golf Course
SCENIC LINKS EXPERIENCE
Portage Lake Golf Course offers golfers a challenging and scenic 18-hole experience nestled in the beautiful Upper Peninsula landscape. Players navigate through rolling terrain with spectacular views of the surrounding forests and occasional glimpses of wildlife. The well-maintained course features strategic water hazards, carefully placed bunkers, and varying elevations that provide an enjoyable round for golfers of all skill levels.
9. Mt. Ripley Ski Area
THRILLING WINTER DESCENTS
Mt. Ripley Ski Area provides exhilarating downhill skiing and snowboarding opportunities just minutes from downtown Houghton. The ski area features multiple runs of varying difficulty, modern lift systems, and reliable snow conditions enhanced by state-of-the-art snowmaking equipment. Winter sports enthusiasts appreciate the affordable rates, night skiing options, and stunning views of the Keweenaw Waterway from the slopes.
10. Mt. Bohemia
EXTREME WINTER ADVENTURE
Mt. Bohemia offers adventurous visitors an extreme skiing and snowboarding experience that has earned it recognition among the top challenging terrain in the Midwest. The resort prides itself on ungroomed runs, deep powder, and a natural skiing environment with glades, cliffs, and chutes for experienced winter sports enthusiasts. During summer months, Mt. Bohemia transforms to provide mountain biking, kayaking, and other outdoor adventures in the beautiful Keweenaw Peninsula.
11. Shopping
LOCAL TREASURES ABOUND
Shopping in Houghton offers visitors a charming mix of locally-owned boutiques, specialty shops, and artisan stores throughout its vibrant downtown area. Shoppers can discover unique Upper Peninsula souvenirs, handcrafted jewelry, outdoor gear, and locally-made products that reflect the region's mining heritage and natural beauty. The welcoming atmosphere and personal service create a memorable retail experience that supports the local economy while providing one-of-a-kind treasures to take home.
12. Dining
FLAVORS OF THE NORTH
Dining in Houghton presents a diverse culinary landscape featuring locally-owned restaurants serving everything from traditional Upper Peninsula specialties to international cuisine. Food enthusiasts can sample regional favorites like pasties (savory meat pies with Finnish heritage), fresh Lake Superior fish, and hearty comfort food perfect after a day of outdoor adventures. The city's restaurants, cafes, and brewpubs offer welcoming environments where visitors can refuel while enjoying views of Portage Lake or the bustling downtown scene.
13. Hiking
TRAILS THROUGH WILDERNESS
Hiking in Houghton provides outdoor enthusiasts with access to numerous scenic trails winding through the Keweenaw Peninsula's diverse landscapes. Explorers can traverse paths that showcase dense forests, bubbling streams, dramatic waterfalls, and panoramic overlooks with views of Lake Superior. The area's extensive trail network accommodates hikers of all abilities, from casual walkers seeking short nature loops to experienced trekkers looking for challenging day-long adventures.
14. Fishing
ANGLER'S NORTHERN PARADISE
Fishing around Houghton offers anglers exceptional opportunities to catch a variety of species in the waters of Portage Lake, the Keweenaw Waterway, and nearby Lake Superior. Enthusiasts can target walleye, northern pike, bass, and multiple trout species depending on the season and specific location. The area's abundant access points, including public docks, boat launches, and fishing piers, make it easy for visitors to enjoy this popular recreational activity in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
15. Camping
NIGHTS UNDER NORTHERN SKIES
Camping near Houghton allows outdoor lovers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula with options ranging from developed campgrounds to remote backcountry sites. Campers can enjoy amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, and nearby hiking trails while experiencing the region's dark night skies perfect for stargazing. The area's campgrounds provide ideal bases for exploring Houghton's attractions while offering peaceful retreats surrounded by the sights and sounds of the northern wilderness.