Soo Locks Visitor Center
Soo Locks Visitor Center things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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The Soo Locks in Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan, are a captivating testament to both engineering ingenuity and natural wonder. What truly enhances the experience at this site is the fantastic park that surrounds it, offering visitors a front-row seat to witness the mighty freighters as they make their way through the locks. The park at Soo Locks is nothing short of a hidden gem. It’s thoughtfully designed, providing ample green spaces, well-maintained pathways, and convenient seating areas for visitors to enjoy. The real highlight, however, is the opportunity to watch the enormous freighters up close as they navigate the locks. As you stroll through the park, you’ll find strategic vantage points that offer unparalleled views of these colossal vessels. It’s an awe-inspiring sight to see these massive ships gracefully enter the locks, guided by skilled crews, and then watch as the water levels rise or fall to allow their passage. The entire process is a mesmerizing dance of engineering precision. This park is a perfect destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the maritime world. The thrill of witnessing the “raiders” (as the freighters are affectionately called) as they traverse the locks is an unforgettable experience. Plus, the park’s peaceful ambiance and proximity to the locks make it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. Visiting the Soo Locks park is not just a day out in nature; it’s a chance to connect with the rich history and vibrant maritime culture of the Great Lakes region. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this park offers an enchanting glimpse into the world of shipping and a memorable opportunity to witness the impressive engineering feats of the Soo Locks. It’s an attraction that truly captures the spirit of Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan.
Chris SkinnerChris Skinner
00
Astounding the volume and size of these "Footers" that traverse the Soo Locks. The observation desk gives an up close viewing encounter of the transition from Lake Superior, 22 feet lower, to the St Mary's River. The rich history and growth planned for the locks as a vital water highway for the global economy and scale of volume moving through the locks each day is just staggering! The staff from the Army Corp Engineers made the experience very informative and fun, relating the size, life, and experience of the sailors on the "Footers" during the 42 week operating season. Edwin J. Gott imaged here was up fitted with new more efficient engines producing 19k HP and at one point held the record for the largest weight transported at over 74k Tons of cargo. Cargo varies between Iron ore, grain, and Coal throughout the Great Lakes regions.
Matthew SamplesMatthew Samples
00
In early-November the Visitor center was closed but we were still able to enter the grounds and see the locks from the 2-story glass observation deck. Pro tip: If you arrive off-season, be sure to get a bite to eat and use the bathroom facilities first. It takes a while to watch a ship traverse the locks. By sheer luck, we arrived just as the Paul R. Tregurtha, fully loaded, was approaching the locks to go onto Lake Huron. At 1,013 feet in length, the ship is the largest freighter to sail the Great Lakes. We watched the ship slowly squeeze into the lock and watched as she lowered 21 ft. and exited the lock. Very exciting.
Joseph KunkJoseph Kunk
00
This is history everybody should see this place built by the Corp of Engineers in 1867 to help commerce get out to the Atlantic Ocean via the St. Lawrence Seway. This is a gov facility the amenities are top notch and well cared for. You need to pass through a security check point to gain admittance. The is pleanty of parking on the street and great little shops for fudge to delectable treats. There is a museum a visitor center a grandstand to view the locks in operation and watch the ships pass. I was told that when the season ends they open up the locks so you can get up close and personal with the locks.
James VJames V
10
Visitor Center was closed the day we were in town, but the kinda-covered observation platform gives you a really good view of 2 of the locks. Too bad it's not like 10 stories tall to get an even better view of the whole river and well into Canada. We had perfect timing when we stopped by as we were able to watch 2 ships (one was a massive container ship, which was cool to see in person) go into the lock headed west toward Lake Superior, and watch the water level rise. They also have a hotline phone # you can call that lists when ships are expected so you can pre-plan your visit a little better.
Ryan MaddenRyan Madden
00
It was free! We up came on a whim on a weekday, we were camping at the Straits by the bridge. It was pretty cool! It’s 2 stories high with a large viewing window and rail and shelter. Some places didn’t have a window but only a rail. There’s a few benches to sit on to view too. Every once in a while someone would come on the loud speaker to explain what was on the ship in the lock and a little information about it. My husband was enthralled lol. We stayed probably 2 hours watching the ships come and go. We could’ve stayed all day if our feet weren’t tired from site seeing.
Angela CrossAngela Cross
00
Nearby Attractions Of Soo Locks Visitor Center
Soo Locks
Tower of History
Tower of History
The Hotel Ojibway, Trademark Collection by Wyndham Sault Ste. Marie
Parkers Hardware
Lockview Motel
Long Ships Motel
Island Books & Crafts
Soo Locks Park
Soo Locks Park

Soo Locks
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Tower of History
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Tower of History
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The Hotel Ojibway, Trademark Collection by Wyndham Sault Ste. Marie
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Nearby Restaurants Of Soo Locks Visitor Center
Lockview Restaurant
The Wicked Sister
The Palace Mexican Restaurant & Saloon
Moloney's Alley
Frank's Place
Zorba’s Greek American Restaurant
Penny's Kitchen
Oh Crêpe!
Bird's Eye Outfitters
Superior Cafe

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The Wicked Sister
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The Palace Mexican Restaurant & Saloon
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Moloney's Alley
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Basic Info
Address
312 W Portage Ave, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
Map
Phone
(906) 202-1333
Call
Website
lrd.usace.army.mil
Visit
Reviews
Overview
4.7
(508 reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
outdoor
scenic
family-friendly
accessibility
attractions: Soo Locks, Tower of History, Tower of History, The Hotel Ojibway, Trademark Collection by Wyndham Sault Ste. Marie, Parkers Hardware, Lockview Motel, Long Ships Motel, Island Books & Crafts, Soo Locks Park, Soo Locks Park, restaurants: Lockview Restaurant, The Wicked Sister, The Palace Mexican Restaurant & Saloon, Moloney's Alley, Frank's Place, Zorba’s Greek American Restaurant, Penny's Kitchen, Oh Crêpe!, Bird's Eye Outfitters, Superior Cafe

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