3 Days of Thrilling Adventures in Marquette, Michigan with Kids
If you’re looking for a family trip that’s packed with fresh air, big adventures, and just the right amount of “wow factor” for kids of all ages, Marquette, Michigan, needs to be on your list. Our family of six recently spent three unforgettable days exploring this beautiful corner of the Upper Peninsula—and let me tell you, it was equal parts thrilling and magical.
We camped at Tourist Park Campground, which turned out to be the perfect home base. From there, we biked straight into the action—whether that meant pedaling down to the lake for a jump into the chilly waters or heading in to town. Here’s how our adventure-filled three days went:
Cliff Jumping at Black Rock
Day 1: Black Rocks & Sunset Magic at Presque Isle Park
Bike Ride to Presque Isle Park – Just a few miles from Tourist Park, our family pedaled to Marquette’s crown jewel: Presque Isle Park. The ride is scenic, safe, and a great way to burn off some kid energy before the real fun begins. Go before 11, when there are no cars allowed.
Black Rock Jumping – This was the highlight for our crew! Our entire family braved the cliffs, even my seven year old made the daring jump. Follow the trail to the basalt cliffs and make the iconic leap into Lake Superior’s chilly waters. Climb up and jump again and again. For younger kids or more cautious jumpers, there’s still plenty of fun in watching and splashing along the rocky shoreline.
Lighthouse Sunset Walk – In the evening, we clamored over orange barnacled ladened boulders to reach the Presque Isle Lighthouse. The trek is longer and more challenging than it looks at first glance.
For an easier stroll, stop at the Marquette Harbor Lighthouse and watch the sun sink behind the horizon over Lake Superior.
Yooperlite Hunting – After the sun went down, we scoured the rocky shore for Yooperlites. Armed with UV flashlights —these rocks are unique to the U.P. The kids thought it was like a real-life treasure hunt. A perfect ending to a day of thrills.* Remember taking rocks from national parks is prohibited, so be aware of where you are hunting.
Day 2: Trails & Treats
Mural Downtown Marquette
Chase Waterfalls at Dead River Falls - A 1.5 mile round trip hike is a moderate hike that takes you along cascading waterfalls tucked into the forest. The trail is adventurous with rocky terrain and roots, but the views of multiple falls make it a must-visit spot.
Hike Sugarloaf Mountain – This trail is a must-do. It’s a short but steep climb (perfect for families—it feels like a workout, but it’s not too long), and at the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forests.
Donckers for Ice Cream & Sweet Treats – After our hikes, we headed downtown Marquette, admired the mural, and checked out a few shops. We couldn’t miss, Donckers, a Marquette favorite since 1896. Between the ice cream, chocolate, and fun soda fountain vibe, it was a kid-approved stop.
Day 3: Mountain Biking, Sculptures & Beach Time
Marquette South Trails Mountain Biking – Marquette is known for its miles of trails, and Tourist Park makes it easy to hop right onto trails leading to Presque Isle. We drove to the South Trails NTN- which were perfect for all ages. While some trails are more advanced, there are family-friendly loops that gave us just the right amount of challenge. Definitely start at the pump track to get your kids warmed up. Then head to the Kids Grom Trail, this 1 mile loop is ideal for beginner mountain bikers. The trail system continues with intermediate and advanced trails.
Mountain Bike Trails
When traveling from Marquette to Munising, home of the Picture Rock National Lakeshore, we made two interesting stops.
Lakeland Sculpture Park —a quirky, free roadside attraction filled with giant scrap metal sculptures that delighted both our kids and us parents.
Au Train Beach – After three days of non-stop adventure, we wrapped up our time in Marquette with some downtime at Au Train Beach. The sandy shoreline and gentler waves made it the perfect pit stop for the kids to play. This gem of a beach offers warm waters & a shallow swim area ideal for families with children where the Au Train River flows into Lake Superior.
Au Train Beach- Swim in Warm Waters where AuTrain River meets Lake Superior
Marquette Lodging Options
We highly recommend staying and exploring multiple days in Marquette. Thankfully, we had three days to enjoy the areas attractions and beauty. From cliff jumping at Black Rock, to the extensive mountain biking trails and scenic hiking- you’ll want to stay longer. Below are some great lodging options for families.
Campgrounds Tourist Park Campground – Close to town and Lake Superior, sandy beach, can ride bikes into town.
American Best Value Inn – Great budget-friendly hotel with pool and included breakfast
Holiday Inn Marquette Large pool and hot tub, great location spacious rooms, & onsite restaurant.
Why We Loved It
Marquette gave us the best of both worlds—thrilling adventures for our older kids, simple joys like ice cream and sandy beaches for the younger ones, and plenty of chances to connect as a family in the great outdoors.
If you’re planning a trip, my biggest tip is to balance the high-energy activities (like Black Rock jumping and mountain biking) with slower moments (like sunsets and sweet treats). That way, everyone ends the trip happy—and maybe a little tired in the best way.
Marquette was just one stop on our 10 day Upper Peninsula family vacation. Check out our full itinerary here, so you can experience the best of the Upper Peninsula.
More Michigan Family Adventures You’ll Love:
Plan 3 days of family adventures in Marquette, Michigan! From Black Rocks cliff jumping and hiking Sugarloaf Mountain to Yooperlite hunting, biking, ice cream at Donckers, and relaxing at Au Train Beach—this itinerary is packed with thrills and kid-friendly fun.