Location: 46.4976734, -84.3476583
Location
Sault Ste. Marie is a border city in Chippewa County at the northern end of I-75, overlooking the St. Marys River and Canada. It anchors Michigan’s eastern Upper Peninsula and serves as a vital gateway for Great Lakes shipping.
History
Among the oldest settlements in the Midwest, Sault Ste. Marie grew around the river’s rapids and the construction of the Soo Locks, which enable ocean-going ships to move between Lake Superior and the lower lakes. Museums and waterfront landmarks preserve this maritime legacy.
Economy
Maritime operations, tourism, education, and government drive the economy. Ferries, attractions, and university programs combine with outdoor recreation—fishing, boating, and snow sports—to create a year-round destination.