Discover the Marvel of Soo Locks: A Gateway of Engineering and Nature
Experience the engineering wonder of Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, where history and nature meet in a breathtaking maritime spectacle.
Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, is a remarkable engineering feat that allows ships to navigate between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes. This iconic tourist attraction offers stunning views of massive vessels as they pass through the locks, providing a unique insight into maritime operations and the history of the region. Visitors can explore the surrounding area, learn about the locks' construction, and enjoy picturesque landscapes. It's an experience that combines history, education, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for any traveler in the area.
A brief summary to Soo Locks
- Soo Locks, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, 49783, US
- +1906-632-3366
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-10 pm
- Thursday 9 am-10 pm
- Friday 9 am-10 pm
- Saturday 9 am-10 pm
- Sunday 9 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit in the summer months for the best chance to see large ships passing through the locks.
- Bring a camera to capture the incredible views and the impressive scale of the freighters.
- Check the lock schedules online to plan your visit around the ship traffic for a more dynamic experience.
- Take advantage of the nearby park for a picnic or to relax while watching the locks in operation.
- Don’t miss the maritime museum nearby for a deeper insight into the region's rich shipping history.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, you can start your journey from any location in the Maritimes. Use the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 104) to head towards New Brunswick. Then, continue on Route 11 North to reach the border with the United States. Once you cross into the U.S., follow I-95 North towards Michigan. When you approach Sault Ste. Marie, take exit 394 for US-2 W. Continue on US-2 W for about 6 miles, then take the exit for I-75 N, which will lead you directly to the Soo Locks. The entire trip may take approximately 12-15 hours depending on your starting point and traffic conditions.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, start by taking a bus from your location in the Maritimes to Moncton or Halifax. From there, you can take a Greyhound bus heading towards Detroit, Michigan. Once you arrive in Detroit, transfer to a Greyhound bus heading to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Upon arrival in Sault Ste. Marie, you can take a local taxi or rideshare service to reach the Soo Locks, which is about a 10-minute drive from the bus station. This entire journey may take a full day, so plan accordingly.
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Air Travel
If you prefer to fly, book a flight from any major airport in the Maritimes to Sault Ste. Marie Airport (YAM) in Michigan. While direct flights may not be available, you can typically find connecting flights through major hubs like Toronto or Detroit. Once you arrive at Sault Ste. Marie Airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi to the Soo Locks, which is approximately 15 minutes away by car. Be sure to check for any baggage fees with your airline, as this may incur additional costs.
Discover more about Soo Locks
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fort Creek Conservation Area
4.1 km
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Crystal Falls
11.5 km
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Tahquamenon Falls State Park Rivermouth Campgrounds
52.6 km
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Curley Lewis Memorial Highway
56.5 km
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Tahquamenon State Park - Lower Falls Hemlock
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Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub
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British Landing
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Sugar Loaf Rock
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Nicolet Watch Tower
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Forge a Memory
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Somewhere In Time Gazebo
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Harbour View Inn - Mackinac Island, MI
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Sunset Rock
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Marquette Statue
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Original Murdick's Fudge
75.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Soo Locks Visitor Center
0.2 km
Discover the engineering marvels of the Great Lakes at the Soo Locks Visitor Center in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, a must-visit for maritime enthusiasts.
Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site
1.1 km
Explore the enchanting Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site, where history and nature blend in a stunning park setting.
Sault Ste. Marie Boardwalk
1.2 km
Explore nature and culture at the stunning Sault Ste. Marie Boardwalk, where scenic views meet outdoor adventure along the St. Mary's River.
Clergue Park
1.7 km
Explore Clergue Park for stunning river views, recreational activities, and family-friendly spaces in Sault Ste. Marie.
Sault Ste. Marie Museum
1.9 km
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Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site
2.1 km
Explore the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site, a heritage museum in Sault Ste. Marie offering insights into local history and culture.
Ermatinger Old Stone House
2.1 km
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Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre
2.1 km
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Gros Cap Conservation Area
18.4 km
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Loon Dollar Monument
21.4 km
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Point Iroquois Lighthouse
21.6 km
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West Sister Rock Lighthouse, llc
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St. Joseph Island Museum
40.4 km
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Halfway Point of the Trans-Canada Highway
47.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ontario at the Halfway Point of the Trans-Canada Highway, a scenic stop for all travelers.
The Bruce Mines Museum
48.8 km
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Essential places to dine
A&W Canada
3.7 km
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Pizza Hut Sault Ste. Marie
3.9 km
Discover delicious pizzas and friendly service at Pizza Hut Sault Ste. Marie - your perfect dining destination in Ontario.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
4.0 km
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Giovanni's Restaurant
5.0 km
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The INN
54.1 km
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Little Falls Inn
54.1 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Little Falls Inn in Paradise, MI - where local flavors meet stunning natural beauty.
Fresh Coast Cafe'
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Ebby’s
54.6 km
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Wheelhouse Diner & Goatlocker Saloon
54.7 km
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Brown Fisheries Fish House
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Tahquamenon Pizza
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Cannonball Oasis
73.2 km
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Woods Restaurant
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Chianti
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Round Island Kitchen
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Great Lakes Gifts
0.2 km
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The Mole Hole
0.4 km
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The Little Gift Shop
0.5 km
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UP North Wilderness
0.7 km
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Soo Source For Sports
1.7 km
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Manufacture Art
10.6 km
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The North Corner Store
54.2 km
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Bearadice Gift Shop
54.3 km
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Agawa Crafts and the Canadian Carver
56.5 km
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Tahquamenon Falls Camp Store
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Gene's Tahquamenon General Store
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GENES TAHQUAMENON
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Lower Tahquamenon Café and Gift Shop
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Solid Wooden Products Slovakia s.r.o.
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Tahquamenon Upper Falls Parking Lot
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Outspoken Brewing
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The Whisky Barrel
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Water Tower Pub
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The Zone Roadhouse
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Whisky Rocks
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McCauley's Havilland Bay
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Huck's Pub & Grill
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Magnuson Grand Hotel Lakefront Paradise
54.0 km
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Curley's Paradise Motel
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Lake Superior Whitefish
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Snowflake
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Catch of the Day
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Paradise Inn & Suites
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Freighters View On the Bay
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Tahquamenon Falls State Park - Lower Falls Portage Campground
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Experience the stunning natural beauty of Tahquamenon Falls State Park - Lower Falls Portage Campground, a serene retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
