Sault Ste. Marie
Surrounded by golden sandy beaches, deep forests, breezy river areas, rugged shores and two Great Lakes, Sault Ste. Marie is the seat of the Algoma District and the third largest city in Northern Ontario. Must-see attractions include Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site, the Sault Ste. Marie Museum, Whitefish Island, the Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site, Casino Sault Ste. Marie and the Art Gallery of Algoma.
You can’t miss the popular Agawa Canyon Tour Train, a full day sightseeing adventure deep into the Algoma wilderness. This is an area that truly focuses on its natural resources, from fur and fish to lumber and steel.
Winter recreation activities are a real celebration in Sault Ste. Marie. The annual Bon Soo Winter Carnival is celebrated and enjoyed with great enthusiasm by the locals and tourists. Cultural activities like concerts, ice sculptures, and a polar bear swim make for a memorable experience.
To learn more about all there is to see and do in Sault Ste. Marie, scroll down or visit the city's tourism website.
Where is Sault Ste. Marie?
Sault Ste. Marie is on the north shore of the St. Marys River directly across from the Canada-United States border and its twin city, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.
The city is part of the Algoma Central Railway network and is operated by CN. It provides passenger service north of Sault Ste. Marie to Hearst. There is no interconnection to any other major city by passenger train for the city. The train stops at all the stations on the line, so whether you’re headed to a wilderness lodge or private camps, the train picks you up and drops you off.
You can also take a bus daily by Greyhound Lines of Canada. If you’re driving, the Trans-Canada Highway system will take you to Sault Ste. Marie.
Things to Do in Sault Ste. Marie
With its rich history, vibrant communities and vast wilderness at its doorstep, Sault Ste. Marie is the perfect destination for adventurous travellers.
Set out along the Pinguisibi or Sand River hiking trails, where a breathtaking succession of cascading waterfalls and river rapids will accompany you.
Head to Pancake Bay Provincial Park along Lake Superior to soak in the sandy shores and Caribbean-style blue waters.
For fun water activities, visit the Waterfront Adventure Centre near the St. Marys River and rent canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. Court rentals for tennis, beach volleyball and pickle ball are also available for the sports lovers.
The city is brimming with history, visit the dynamic and fun Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre where true adventure takes off. It is enclosed in the historic waterfront hangar, where aviation in northern Ontario took flight. Interactive, hands-on activities keep you entertained and impart knowledge.
Sault Ste. Marie is known for tasty Italian food, as well as a burgeoning international cuisine. Sample an ale or a stout at Outspoken Brewing or a premium lager from Northern Superior Brewing Co.
Whitefish Island is another great gem, and National Historic Sites of Canada, including the Sault Ste. Marie Canal shouldn’t be missed.
Things to Know About Visiting Sault Ste. Marie
Whether you’re still in the planning stages or you’re already on your trip to Sault Ste. Marie, it’s nice to learn what the locals know about the city.
Great place for winter activities
Take a short drive over to Searchmont Resort for a day out on the slopes, or visit Hiawatha Highlands or Stokely Creek for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
Where to shop local
The Mill Market Farmers Market is open year round if you’re seeking out fresh produce, local products and crafts.
Hidden gem
Thomson Farms Cider & Winery hosts seasonal events and activities perfect for couples, friends and even families. Grab a glass of cider or wine and relax!
Last updated: June 20, 2022
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