5 Things to Do This Summer in Escanaba
Shandra Martinez
| 3 min read
Escanaba, commonly shortened to Esky, sits on Little Bay de Noc. This port town, with a population of more than 12,000, is the third-largest city in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. During the summer, the community is a draw for visitors who want to spend time outdoors boating in Big and Little Bays de Noc, and hiking or biking down trails.
Ludington Park: This mile-long coastal park along Lake Michigan is a favorite spot. An easy-to-navigate bicycle path leads to the swimming beach and bathhouse facilities and connects with Aronson Island, a natural park setting with a barrier-free fishing pier. Other attractions include a 18-station self-guided fitness circuit, lighted tennis courts, sand volleyball court, picnic pavilion, a gazebo ideal for weddings, and Harbor Hideout playground, which was designed by the children of Escanaba and built with volunteer labor and citizen contributions.
Sand Point Lighthouse: Restored by the Delta County Historical Society, the Sand Point Lighthouse is open to the public from Memorial Day weekend through September. A focal point in Ludington Park, the lighthouse was built in 1867 on the northeast shore of Lake Michigan to warn the ships about Sand Point and the sand reef which reached out into Little Bay De Noc. It was in service until 1939.
Gladstone Berry Farm: This family-owned farm is known for its 6 acres of u-pick strawberries and pure maple syrup. It has a farm market stand stocked with seasonal produce, from asparagus to pumpkins, along with local honey and homemade jams and jellies.
Delta County Historical Museum: Decades of memorabilia are housed in the museum, including vintage clothing, furniture, a blacksmith shop, and bank and post office displays. An entire room is devoted to the area’s railroad history. The dome of the Railroad Room is the original cupola from Escanaba’s main depot. Outdoor displays include a logging sleigh, antique school bell and a rudder from one of the area’s notable shipwrecks. Located next to Sand Point Lighthouse, the museum is open daily through the summer.
Waterfront Art Festival: Started more than a half-century ago, the Waterfront Art Festival is the area’s largest and longest-running art festival. Artists from the Upper Peninsula and beyond will display their artwork, including jewelry, photography, and pottery. There’s also a Young Artist’s Market, where youths sell their handmade artwork. There’s also a kids activity tent, a wide selection of food vendors, an art raffle tent and live entertainment. Held in Ludington Park, the free festival is in early August.
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There’s lots to see and do in Escanaba during the summer. Check out the highlights in this video.
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Photo credit: Getty Images
