5 Sault Ste. Marie Must-Dos

The beautiful waterfront city of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant arts scene, this charming city is a must-visit destination for travellers seeking an authentic Canadian experience. Here are the five must-do experiences in Sault Ste. Marie.

1. Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site

The first must-do experience on our list is to step back in time at the Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site. This historic site consists of the two oldest stone buildings northwest of Toronto, surrounded by period gardens. The “Old Stone House” was once the home of Charles Oakes Ermatinger, his wife Mananowe and their children. Mr. Ermatinger was a fur trader, and his home also served as his place of business. As you walk the restored grounds and house, you’ll get a glimpse of life between 1808 and 1870. The Heritage Discovery Visitors Centre is an introduction to the site. Watch the short film Stories Steeped in Stone, visit the War of 1812 Gallery and stop by The Post Gift Shop. In 1996, the Clergue Blockhouse was relocated to the historic site. The blockhouse was the home of industrialist Francis Hector Clergue from 1894 to 1908.

2. Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre

The second must-do experience is a simple walk across the street from the Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site, where you’ll find the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre. Explore the history and adventure of flight and forest fire protection at this beautiful centre. You will be blown away by the number of full-size aircraft on display. The best part is that the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre is one of the few aviation museums that allows you to get up close and personal with the aircraft. You can take a seat in the plane’s cockpit or climb into the hold of a water bomber!

3. Art Gallery Of Algoma

The third must-do experience on our list is on the St. Mary River waterfront, where you can stroll from the Bushplane Museum to the Art Gallery of Algoma. The gallery has over 5,000 art pieces in its collection, as well as artworks by members of the Group of Seven. Exhibits rotate throughout the year with pieces from their personal collection as well as travelling exhibits. Walk through the Elsie Savoie Sculpture Park featuring unique displays overlooking the city’s waterfront. See the Group of Seven panel that rests just before the boardwalk, which shares the story of their first exhibition in 1920.

4. Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site

The next must-do experience is along Sault Ste. Marie’s beautiful boardwalk ends at a Parks Canada National Historic Site. When strolling the site, don’t be surprised if you see boaters inside the historical locks preparing to either leave or enter the waters that link to the Mighty Lake Superior. For those who want to continue their stroll, you can cross over the locks and get up close and personal with the St. Marys River rapids. Renowned in North America as a body of water with a high variety of fish species, you are sure to catch fly fishers in the rapids, hopeful that the next cast will see them hook the catch of a lifetime.

5. Agawa Canyon Tour Train

Ok, we get it. The canyon is not in Sault Ste. Marie. But the station is, and it’s the place that starts your journey 114 miles north into the Agawa Canyon. Located in the Canal District, the Train Station is not only the place to start but is a hub of activity. Restaurants and lounges, a brewery and events take place all year long. Once aboard the train, you will be whisked along the historic Algoma Central Railway line, the same one taken by members of the Group of Seven over 100 years ago. While in the canyon, see Bridal Falls, painted by both J.E.H. MacDonald and Lawren Harris. See the Agawa River, Black Beaver Falls and Otter Creek Falls. Or take in the exhilarating staircase with over 300 steps to the top, the lookout for a 360-degree view. It will give you bragging rights!

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From the historic grandeur of the Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site to the breathtaking vistas of Agawa Canyon, Sault Ste. Marie offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors of all ages. Whether a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or an art lover, find attractions to inspire and delight in this city. So, pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to see these five must-do experiences in Sault Ste. Marie.