Setting foot in Sault Ste. Marie is akin to sitting down at grandmother's dinner table while the roast is still cooking; you'll be there awhile. As Michigan's oldest city, there's a lot to uncover about its past. Stay, pour a beer and listen as locals debate the meaning of the town's namesake and just what it is about that pesky twin city cross the bridge that gets the fellow Yooper all riled up.
Sault Ste
Setting foot in Sault Ste. Marie is akin to sitting down at grandmother's dinner table while the roast is still cooking; you'll be there awhile. As Michigan's oldest city, there's a lot to uncover about its past. Stay, pour a beer and listen as locals debate the meaning of the town's namesake and just what it is about that pesky twin city cross the bridge that gets the fellow Yooper all riled up.
Sault Ste. Marie is a charming town. It leans just over the edge of days gone by. Sure, there's Wi-Fi and all the modern fixings but the town seems to think that if it ain't broke, there's no real reason to fix it. Facades are vintage and rustic; diners stand as a proud reminder that local business can flourish with no need to reinvent the wheel, and the land and waterways tie it all together, back to the nature that surrounds the town.
The towns' antiquated properties are now trending, small-town living is somewhat of a boon as big city fads can overwhelm even the most seasoned downtown dweller. Not just a tourist destination, folks reside here year round for the unadulterated charm of a town rich with local lore and scenic surrounding.
While searching for the perfect rental housing in Sault Ste. Marie, make certain you bring credentials and a lump sum equal to one months rent and small deposit. Both are quite affordable here in town where property rentals are plentiful, even when the out-of-towners begin to arrive for the summer.
Sault Ste. Maries is a seasonal town. While the hustle of tourist season brings a crop of fresh-faced out-of-towners, the winter captivates as well. Pristine and sublime views of nature, no waiting at local haunts, and nobody to muck up that night out to the local pub, make the chill worth its weight in whitefish.
It's a small town, so don't be so surprised when we tell you there's just two neighborhoods to choose from.
Downtown: High-rise and studio apartments are common here. Some housing for rent is available, but it's more probable you'll find a building equipped with an open floor plan and on-site laundry than a house with a huge backyard.
West Pier Place Apartments offer studio to three-bedroom apartment floor plans, updated appliances that include a full-size washer and dryer set, and jazzed up units. The complex is a half-mile walk to all downtown businesses and located on the west pier, providing residents a view of the freighters barging along on the St. Mary's river.
Living downtown, residents have the ability to maneuver on foot better than their neighbors down the road. Many local businesses reside here, making an errand run quick and easy.
For a fresh cup of Joe, head to Kuhl's Koffee House, the comfy interior allows respite from the outdoors. If you're searching for freshly ground beans to brew up at home visit Superior Coffee Roasting Co. where you'll get a larger dose of locally roasted caffeine. The Downtowner dive bar, Maloney's for burgers and beer, and Soo Brewing will allow you to enjoy a libation while getting to know the good folks nearby.
Dining destinations are scarce but true to form. The best spots in the area are tried and true institutions like Karl's, Clyde's Drive In and the Lockview Restaurant. Become accustomed to whitefish and pasties, as these are local delicacies and often made with fresh, local ingredients. There are a couple of Chinese restaurants and a saloon that serves Mexican fare, but most locals cook at home or eat hearty, diner fare. If desiring organic foods, Harmony Health Foods ought be the destination.
Beware when relying too heavily on local establishments to fulfill you, some are open seasonally and can't be trusted to get you through the winter lull.
Residing downtown will also give you access to the Soo locks boat tour, Point Iroquois lighthouse, and Kewadin Casino, all invaluable when boredom sets in.
Rosedale / Baie de Wasai: This section of town encompasses the lakefront and a bit of farmland, it's sprawling and rural. A car is a necessary commodity to get around. Single-family homes, studio apartments and vacation rentals abound. The best options for the hard earned paycheck are the three-bedroom houses for rent. Affordable and spacious, set back off the beaten path, these homes provide solace and plenty of space to entertain friends and family members.
While there aren't as many businesses that thrive here, you're a simple drive away from it all. The Rosedale Airport is nearby and offers private charter flights for the enthusiast. The area also provides access to I-75, which transports residents as far south as Florida, road trips from town are simple when residing this close to the freeway.
After you've settled in and met a few folks, you become an official Yopper, which means you're now a resident of the Upper Peninsula. Not merely a Michigander, a Yooper has certain privilege, never complains of the bitter winter weather and takes a more down to earth approach to everyday living.
Sault Ste. Marie has a twin city, just over the border in Canada. It's beautiful there, as well. Once the birth certificate and passport have been inspected by customs, residents are able to enjoy a day trip or, better yet, a week's travel through Canada, land of adventure.
Summer activities include fishing, a picnic or two at the Soo Locks, endless strolls around town, and water sport. In the winter, it's cold, however locals still get out to support winter sports. Whether it's skiing, snowmobiling, sledding or ice skating, locals don't allow below average temps to spoil their fun. Snowshoeing is also an option that might seem odd but offers a full cardio workout, as body weight is tugged through the tundra. Those that prefer that they be tugged by something else, dog sleds are also available. Not quite animal cruelty, but I'm certain animal rights groups aren't amused.
When you live in town, refer to it as, "The Soo." It's short, it's sweet, and it allows you to blend in far more than those referring to Chicago as Chi-Town.
