Get to Know Escanaba, Michigan

Escanaba

Know Before You Go: About Escanaba

Escanaba serves as your gateway to the Upper Peninsula's iconic attractions and outdoor activities.

Known as the Crossroads of the Upper Peninsula and called UP by locals, Escanaba serves as your ambassador to this region's iconic attractions and signature outdoor activities. Whatever the season and your reason to getaway, you'll hear the call of the wild inviting you to explore the area's rugged woodlands and Lake Michigan waters.

Escanaba Weather

Escape extreme weather conditions in Escanaba. The city sits in the heart of Michigan's Banana Belt—named for its climate and modest snowfall. While many Upper Peninsula cities receive a snow blanket of 200 inches annually, Escanaba usually gets about 50 inches. January days average 25 degrees. It's a nice combination for getting the family out on cross-country ski trails, ice fishing or snowmobiling. You'll experience temperatures averaging 76 in July, the warmest month. Wind speeds range from 0 to 15 miles per hour, making your kiteboarding, surfing, wind surfing and sailboat adventure one to remember. Pack your raincoat for an August visit, and something cheery to wear on December's gray days.

Natural Inspiration

Connect with Mother Nature at Ludington State Park, the epicenter of Escanaba's outdoor life. Stretching for a mile along Little Bay de Noc, it's the place you'll want to head for beach-side bliss, biking, paddling, picnics and fishing. Tour the adjacent Sand Point Lighthouse during summer months for a glimpse into Lake Michigan's maritime history. Bonifas Fine Arts Center exhibits regional and Michigan works, provides art workshops, concerts, theatrical performances and even walk-in yoga classes. Who doesn't love the sights and sounds of an old-fashioned fair? The family-oriented Upper Peninsula State Fair is held each August in Escanaba. Take in grandstand shows, a midway, amusements and the Miracle of Life Pavilion, where you can witness the birth of calves, lambs and piglets.

Sweet Success

If you're a chocolate lover, you've come to the right place. Sayklly's Confectionery (1304 Ludington St., Escanaba), dating back to 1906, is one of Escanaba's oldest businesses. Its handmade chocolates sweeten any day. Sayklly's Delta Plaza Mall and historic downtown are iconic cornerstones of the city's retail community, Escanaba's leading economic sector. Forestry keeps Escanaba's manufacturing sector humming—the town was founded as a port for shipping ore and lumber. Two major wood product manufacturers provide hundreds of jobs. Woods, waterways, parks and cultural venues within the greater Escanaba region drive a multimillion-dollar tourism industry.

Smooth Travel

Escanaba makes your land and air travel a breeze. The city sits at the crossroads of Interstate 2, Interstate 41 and Michigan Highway 35. Road crews are experts in keeping the streets open in all types of weather so you can make your connections. For moving around within the city, Delta Area Transit Authority offers fixed routes and demand-response service. Delta Airlines runs daily flights to and from Detroit from Delta County Airport, 2 miles outside of town. If you need to rent a car, head to the self-service rental kiosk near the baggage claim.

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Things to Do in Escanaba

Kick back in Michigan and enjoy Escanaba's scenic surroundings and unique attractions.