Travel Marquette Highlights What's New and Upcoming for 2025

From Exciting Programming to New Hotels, Marquette County Looks Ahead

MARQUETTE, Mich., February 4, 2025 – As the new year unfolds, Travel Marquette welcomes visitors and locals to explore the Upper Peninsula's pristine landscapes, vibrant culture, cherished traditions and new developments. From thrilling outdoor adventures to the opening of new hotels and cultural experiences, the city has something for everyone in the year ahead.

“We are excited to welcome 2025 with new experiences that will make Marquette County an even more unforgettable destination,” says Susan Estler, CEO of Travel Marquette. “With new projects underway, from state-of-the-art accommodations to exciting cultural events, the community is poised for a year full of adventure, growth and community spirit.” 

See below for what to expect this year.

Groundbreakings and New Developments

• Best Western Plus Marquette Hotel & Suites – The recently opened Best Western Plus Marquette Hotel & Suites offers an exceptional stay in the heart of the city. Designed for both business and leisure travelers, this brand-new hotel provides a modern retreat with all the amenities needed to feel right at home. Located just off US Highway 41, the hotel is minutes from downtown Marquette, providing easy access to the area's attractions and experiences.

New Events For 2025

• Lasers on the Ore Dock (Monthly) – Due to the overwhelming success of the laser programming, Lasers on the Ore Dock will debut monthly shows in 2025. Running on select Thursdays through Saturdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. (beginning approximately 20 minutes after sunset), this mesmerizing light display will illuminate the Lower Harbor Ore Dock with regular shows. Expanding beyond its previous holiday-only schedule, the enhanced showcase promises a captivating experience for visitors throughout the season. Each month will feature new themes, guest artists and unique experiences, offering spectators at Mattson Lower Harbor Park, along the Lake Superior shoreline, or from their vehicles, an ever-changing visual spectacle. This light display is presented by Fresh Coast Light Lab and Travel Marquette.
• Wings Over Marquette (August 2 - 3, 2025) – The Michigan Flight Museum, in partnership with the Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport, will launch Wings Over Marquette, a high-flying aviation experience featuring historic aircraft, thrilling aerobatic performances and interactive ground entertainment. Guests can witness award-winning pilots in action and even take rides aboard vintage aircraft for a truly unforgettable experience.

Upcoming Events

• Heikki Lunta Festival (February 7 - 9, 2025) – For an authentic “Yooper” celebration of Finnish heritage, the Heikki Lunta Festival is an annual mythology-themed event created for the fictional Heikki Lunta, a snow-god that would perform a dance to bring the destination snow. The weekend will be filled with beloved traditions, including an ice fishing tournament, snowshoeing through historic lantern-lit mine ruins and more.
• Meijer Winter State Games (February 7 - 9, 2025) – A celebration of sportsmanship and camaraderie, the Meijer Winter State Games in Marquette invites participants of all ages to compete in various winter competitions. Kicking off with Friday's Opening Ceremony, the weekend event will showcase thrilling winter sports including figure skating, curling, downhill snow sports, luge and more. With a lively atmosphere filled with cheering spectators and passionate competitors, the Meijer Winter State Games embody the spirit of sportsmanship and the joy of winter activities.
• UP200 (February 14 - 17, 2025) – The UP200 is one of America's premier 12-dog, mid-distance sled dog races and draws mushers from around the United States and Canada. The current race covers approximately 220 miles from Marquette to Grand Marais, with a return to Marquette along the same trail. Mushers often call this one of their favorite races—not just for the challenging course, but for the breathtaking trails, enthusiastic crowds and the warm hospitality they receive at every checkpoint along the Upper Peninsula route.
• Downtown Marquette Restaurant Week (March 9 - 15, 2025) – This week-long celebration showcases the region's culinary talent with creative menus, limited-time specials and incredible deals at participating restaurants—a perfect way to sample Marquette's dynamic food scene.
• Spring Carnival (March 14 - 16, 2025) – Marquette Mountain Resort hosts its annual Spring Carnival, a family friendly festival marking the arrival of the season. Highlights include the iconic Slush Cup, thrilling race events, a festive pig roast and lively indoor and outdoor bars. Visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding while savoring the final days of winter in a joyful, spirited atmosphere.

For more information on events, please visit:  https://www.travelmarquette.com/.

About Travel Marquette

On the shores of Lake Superior, Marquette, Michigan is a community where nature's assets are on display through scenic vistas, rugged trails and rushing waterfalls. Marquette's historic downtown pays homage to the rich mineral deposits, dense forests, and maritime markers that have helped to shape its story. From unique dining experiences, award-winning craft breweries and a thriving art scene, Marquette embraces a culture anchored in artisanship and ingenuity. For more information, visit travelmarquette.com or call 1-906-228-7749.

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Contact:

LOU HAMMOND GROUP   

travelmarquette@louhammond.com                         

843.647.7358 / 843.647.7389