Sault Ste. Marie‎ : Place of Rapids Famous for the Red Sandstone Buildings

Sault Ste. Marie‎, commonly referred to as 'The Soo,' sits majestically between Lake Huron and Lake Superior. The genesis of the name came from French fur traders but still remains a strong first nations area. Being a small area, it is less frequented by tourists but still an important passage between the US and Canada. Sault Ste. Marie‎ has been seen to be growing throughout the years offering sightseeing opportunities to visitors. Below are some good places to try out in Sault Ste. Marie‎:

1. Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre

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Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre is a bush plane museum in Sault Ste. Marie‎ housing around 29 different types of planes. The first beaver float plane that took part in two award-winning movies. Aside from the displays, there are interactive exhibits such as the 3D firefighting adventure where one samples the flight simulator and climbs a fire tower. This exhibit is very intriguing, especially for the children. People are also allowed to get into the many planes and explore as well as touch the buttons. There is also a video on fighting forest fires that is quite informative.

2. Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site

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Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site is the world’s first electrical powered canal. The site was once the longest lock in the world. Sightseeing tourists now visit Sault Ste. Marie‎ to watch boats as they pass through the locks. You will find individuals biking or walking along. Fat bikes are available for rent which will make the experience more adventurous. Since there are no entrance charges, you can stroll through the paths where you can get a better glimpse of the rapids on the river. There is also a visitors center as well as a gift shop in the vicinity.

3. OLG Casino Sault Ste. Marie‎

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OLG Casino Sault Ste is a grand casino area in Sault Ste. Marie‎. The casino is well equipped with over 400 slot machines plus other table games. Some of the most popular games include Texas Hold’em poker. The best time to visit is Thursday through to Sunday when it is open 24 hours. The atmosphere is electric with many people flocking to the scene. It is the perfect place to experience the big-hearted spirit of Sault Ste. Marie‎. The restaurant also serves great meals with prompt service to accompany it.

4. Sault ste Marie Boardwalk

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Sault Ste Marie Boardwalk is a waterfront 5km walk from Sault Ste. Marie‎ library. The walk usually leads to the whitefish island which has a path full of nature with chipmunks and birds gracing the vicinity. One is able to get a great river view from all sides of the boardwalk which is amazing. There is not much happening around the walk aside from one restaurant and one bar which are available at the nearby Delta hotel. The end of the walk, however, does lead you to the Mill Farmers market as well as a neat shopping complex.

5. Bellevue Park

Bellevue Park is a beautiful large park in the heart of Sault Ste. Marie‎. The park is all rounded for recreational purposes hance famous to the locals. The large space has been able to facilitate an excellent playground area for the kids, a dog path, canteen as well as a greenhouse project. Since it is right by the water, the backdrop provides is scenic for photographs. You will find many lovebirds posing for wedding photos at this park. The playground is very interesting having some tree climbs and zip lines for the children. A water fountain has also been set strategically for those water stops on a hot sunny day. People watching can also be a pastime activity as you watch sailboats and people go about their daily life.

6. Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site

Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site has the best collection of Canadian history touching on Sault Ste Marie. Mainly, it has great details on the war that happened in 1812 as well as the evolution of traders and industrialists on the frontier. This historical site is set on a residential house, the second oldest in Ontario, that was home to Francis H Clergue. On the first part of the tour, visitors are showcased to a short film which gives them a historical insight on what to expect. There are even dress up options too to add to the interaction.

7. Sault Ste. Marie Museum

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Sault Ste. Marie Museum is a historical museum that not only collects and exhibits artifacts but also preserves and study them. Most of the collections illustrate the history and development over time of Sault Ste. Marie‎ and its neighbors. There are various galleries showcased making it more interesting The skylight gallery is the most intriguing of all. There is an 1848 snowmobile as well as other interesting facts on the /great lakes around Sault Ste. Marie‎. Most tourists appreciate exhibits on the 2nd and 3rd floor. Aside from the boring history stuff, some eye-catching comics and cameras can be found there too.

8. Art Gallery of Algoma

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Art Gallery of Algoma is a great collaborative project showcasing Canadian art through a chronological order. One is able to book tickets online as well as painting classes if they so wish. Since the project is collaborative, you will find works of many local artists at the gallery. The guides at the gallery are very welcoming and will give you a memorable tour of the place. The main art piece is a watercolor painting by John Hartman which is in the front foyer. Aside from the art on display, one can walk away with amazing souvenirs from the gift shop.

9. Mockingbird Hill Farm

Mockingbird Hill Farm is a beautiful farm owned by Farmer Bob of Sault Ste. Marie‎. The farm features many animals, as well as vegetables it just depends on the season. For children visiting the farm, they absolutely will love all the activities installed for them. From the hayrides to the walks across the haunted corn maze during the fall season. Pumpkins and guards are also sold in masses during this period. The wildflower walk is also great but most enjoyable in May and June. Entry is charged at $11 per adult.

10. Algoma Central Railway

Photo by Joe Ross

Algoma Central Railway is the start of an adventure while at Sault Ste. Marie‎. Dubbed ‘Tour of the line’ tourists get to enjoy 592-miles of a round trip that begins at the Algoma Central Railway depot through the rugged mixed forests of the Canadian Shield. This does not limit it to just this, tourists get to also explore the Agawa as well as the boreal forests of the Great Clay Belt region. The adventure takes up a full day but is totally worth it. There is an hour stop while at the canyons which gives the tourists time to picnic as they enjoy the views.

◎ Closing

Even though Sault Ste. Marie‎ comes off as a chill place, it has diverse sightseeing activities that cut across a broad spectrum. It will wow history buffs, art enthusiasts, and nature lovers the most with the many places inclining towards such nature. As a travel destination, it is ideal for escapes from the bustling city areas that tend to be congested.

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