Ive visited Marquette, Michigan, eight times for its beaches, breweries, and skiing.

Here’s how you’ve got the option to plan the perfect visit.

With just over 20,000 residents, this spot might not seem worthy of attention, but look closer.

Business district Marquette Michigan on hill side main street

Downtown Marquette, Michigan.Credit:JerryB7/Getty Images

The town doesnt sleep in winter, either.

Should you find yourself up north, regardless of season, heres what to do in Marquette.

Its well-appointed rooms, boutique feel, beautiful views, and surprisingly excellent restaurants create a charming retreat.

Hotel room

Guest room in Staybridge Suites.Courtesy of IHG

Best Things to Do

Posnov/Getty Images

Ride the Iron Ore Heritage Trail.

Explore Presque Isle Park.

Reportedly, when Frederick Law Olmsted saw Presque Isle Park, he said three words: Dont touch it.

Kayakers in state park

Presque Isle Park in Marquette, Michigan.Posnov/Getty Images

Thompson points to this spot for hiking, rockhounding, and watching the sunrise or sunset over Lake Superior.

In winter, he notes, you stand a shot at catching the northern lights, too.

Visit the citys string of beaches.

Interior of dark bar

Interior of Honorable Distillery in Marquette, Michigan.Courtesy of Honorable Distillery

Visit the 3rd Street corridor.

VisitBodegafor its vegetarian-friendly breakfasts,Blackrocks Breweryfor some signature Marquette suds, andThe CriborContrast Coffee Co.for your morning fuel.

Barrel + Beam

Barrel + Beamis a rustic craft brewery specializing in farmhouse ales and barrel-aged beers.

Colorful tacos on a plate.

Tacos in Marquette, Michigan.Tim Bieber/Getty Images

Ore Dock Brewing Co. ## Zephyr

With Michigan’s longest by-the-glass wine list,Zephyrdoesnt need more accolades.

Babycakes

Babycakesrequires a pre-9 a.m. visit for those whod like to secure a table.

Come early or grab a treat to enjoy on the water.

Hikers enjoy the view at the top of Sugarloaf Mountain in Marquette

Sugarloaf Mountain in Marquette, Michigan.Courtesy of Pure Michigan

Bonus: Its connected to Donckers and Evergreen Market.

El Santo

El Santodelivers bold Mexican flavors in a lively, modern, neon-lit setting.

Donckers

Donckersdates back to 1896, making it one of the oldest candy shops in the nation.

Aerial of lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.Jian Ren/Getty Images

Ski & Snowboard Hall of Fame and Museum and the U.P.

Fall brings gorgeous hues to the trails, and winter means fat biking and cross-country skiing.

How to Get There and Around

In short, youll want a car.

Boat Marina pier with sail boats tied next to old historic iron ore ship loading dock

Marina in Marquette, Michigan.JerryB7/Getty Images

The Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport is about 20 minutes south of town, with rental car services available.

American Airlines departs from Chicago; Delta flights leave from Detroit.

If youre looking for deals, consider flying from Green Bay, roughly three hours south.

Its 6.5 hours from both Minneapolis and Chicago, and about five hours from Milwaukee.