Things To Do
in Sault Ste. Marie
Sault Ste. Marie sits on the St. Marys River at the historic Soo Locks, straddling Ontario and the United States and offering a unique cross-border vibe. The city blends rugged outdoor beauty with a rich industrial heritage, visible in its canals, museums, and historic architecture. Visitors are drawn to the waterfront, waterfall parks, and the surrounding forests that invite hiking, boating, and winter activities.
With a friendly small-city feel and welcoming neighborhoods, it’s a great base for exploring Algoma Country and the Great Lakes region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Sault Ste. Marie Museum, where you can delve into the rich history and culture of the area. After exploring the exhibits, stroll down Queen Street and admire the charming architecture of the historic buildings. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café, savoring the flavors of Ontario's fresh produce.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site, a beautifully preserved heritage site showcasing the early life of settlers. Spend time at the nearby waterfront, where you can enjoy scenic views of the St. Marys River and watch the ships pass through the locks. Conclude your afternoon with lunch at a waterfront restaurant, sampling local fish dishes that Sault Ste. Marie is known for.
As the sun sets, head to the Art Gallery of Algoma for an evening of culture, featuring local and regional art exhibitions. After immersing yourself in the art scene, dine at a cozy bistro where you can enjoy a fusion of Canadian and international cuisine. End your day with a leisurely walk along the St. Marys River, taking in the stunning nighttime views.
Begin your adventure with a hearty breakfast, fueling up for a day of kayaking along the picturesque St. Marys River. Rent a kayak from a local outfitter and receive a quick safety briefing before setting out on the water. As you paddle, take in the serenity of the surroundings and keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species.
Continue your paddling journey, exploring the beautiful shoreline and hidden coves of the river. Stop for a picnic lunch on one of the small islands, where you can relax and soak up the natural beauty. After lunch, venture further downstream, navigating through the calm waters and enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Return to shore in the late afternoon, feeling invigorated from your time on the water. Head back to your accommodation to freshen up, then enjoy dinner at a local steakhouse known for its hearty meals. Cap off your day with a drink at a riverside bar, sharing stories of your paddling adventures with new friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚎Public transit day pass | $6-8 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $100-150 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $70-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings and abundant outdoor activities
- Friendly, safe small-city atmosphere with rich heritage
- Limited nightlife compared with big cities
- Winter driving can be challenging and cold
Places to Visit in Sault Ste. Marie
Visit one of these nice places.
Waterfront locks, historic buildings, and boat activity provide compelling compositions from sunrise through late afternoon.
Captures of ships passing through the locks with dramatic light, especially in early morning or golden hour.
Riverside trails, marinas, and skyline views ideal for wide-angle and sunset photography.
Historic stone buildings and harbor views offer character-rich backdrops for urban shots.
Food in Sault Ste. Marie
Sault Ste. Marie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy, smoky chowder featuring fresh lake whitefish; popular in waterfront eateries.
Must-Try!
Crispy fried walleye served with fries and tartar sauce, a classic Soo staple.
Indigenous flatbread often served warm with butter or jam; a simple, tasty snack or side.
Lightly battered perch with a crisp finish, a common offering at seafood spots.
Fries topped with squeaky cheese curds and gravy; widely available across many venues.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring local produce, maple products, baked goods, and honey; great for tasting regional flavors.
Seasonal pop-ups and street vendors offering snacks, coffee, and quick bites along the waterfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show respect for Indigenous sites; ask permission before taking photos of people or sacred spaces when appropriate.
Courtesy goes a long way—please and thank you, queue in order, and keep voices respectful in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Sault Ste. Marie
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard practice in Canada is 15-20% in restaurants and for services; rounding up change for smaller purchases is common in casual settings.
Major credit cards, debit/Interact, and mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely accepted; cash is also commonly used for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with enjoyable water-based activities; expect gentle humidity and occasional afternoon showers; perfect for lakefront exploring and festivals.
Cold, snowy days with ice on the river; prime time for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter photography with blue skies and frosty landscapes.
Mild but variable weather; rains are common as nature reawakens; good for wildlife spotting and quieter trails.
Cool temperatures and vibrant foliage; ideal for hiking and photography along river valleys and woodland trails.
Sault Ste. Marie at Night
Hiking in Sault Ste. Marie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive trail network above the city offering forested routes, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for winter sports.
Airports
How to reach Sault Ste. Marie by plane.
Small regional airport with seasonal and some year-round flights; convenient access to downtown via taxi or shuttle.
Larger hub with more flight options; typically reached by a longer drive or connecting services if needed.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, students (Algoma University and post-secondary institutions), retirees, and Indigenous communities in the region; English is predominant with bilingual signage in some spots.
A steady student presence from Algoma University and other institutions supports a vibrant café scene and localized services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A cornerstone of local culture with strong youth and community leagues.
Seasonal, especially in warmer months; local clubs and school teams participate.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sault Ste. Marie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for veggie burgers, salads, grain bowls, and simple substitutions upon request.