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Sault Ste. Marie
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Sault Ste. Marie: A Hidden Gem in Ontario

Sault Ste. Marie, located in Ontario, Canada, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities. This city is situated on the St. Marys River, which connects Lake Superior and Lake Huron, making it a popular destination for boating and fishing enthusiasts. In addition to its natural wonders, Sault Ste. Marie is home to several attractions, parks, and festivals that make it a must-visit destination for tourists.

Attractions

Sault Ste. Marie has several attractions that cater to different interests. The following are some of the top attractions in the city:

  • Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre: This museum showcases the history of bushplanes and their role in Canada's aviation industry. Visitors can explore the museum's collection of vintage aircraft, interactive exhibits, and flight simulators.

  • Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site: This site is a testament to the engineering marvels of the 19th century. Visitors can take a guided tour of the canal and learn about its history and significance.

  • Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site: This site is a restored 19th-century trading post that offers a glimpse into the lives of early settlers in the region. Visitors can explore the site's historic buildings, gardens, and artifacts.

  • Art Gallery of Algoma: This gallery showcases the works of local and regional artists. Visitors can view a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and other art forms.

Natural Wonders

Sault Ste. Marie is surrounded by natural wonders that offer breathtaking views and outdoor activities. The following are some of the top natural wonders in the city:

  • Agawa Canyon: This canyon is located in the Algoma Highlands and is accessible by train. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the canyon, waterfalls, and forests.

  • Hiawatha Highlands: This park offers over 50 kilometers of trails for hiking, biking, and skiing. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, canoeing, and camping in the park.

  • Lake Superior Provincial Park: This park is located on the shores of Lake Superior and offers stunning views of the lake, forests, and wildlife. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and fishing in the park.

Festivals

Sault Ste. Marie hosts several festivals throughout the year that celebrate the city's culture and heritage. The following are some of the top festivals in the city:

  • Bon Soo Winter Carnival: This festival is held in February and features winter sports, ice sculptures, and live entertainment.

  • Algoma Fall Festival: This festival is held in October and features music, theater, and visual arts performances.

  • Rotaryfest: This festival is held in July and features live music, food vendors, and a midway.

History

Sault Ste. Marie was established in 1668 by French Jesuit missionaries. The city was incorporated in 1887 and was named after the rapids on the St. Marys River. The city's founder is Jacques Marquette, a French Jesuit missionary who explored the Great Lakes region in the 17th century.

Conclusion

Sault Ste. Marie is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities. Visitors can explore the city's attractions, natural wonders, and festivals to experience the best of what the city has to offer. Whether you're a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or art lover, Sault Ste. Marie has something for everyone.

Sources

  • "Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario." Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 22 June 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sault_Ste._Marie,_Ontario.

  • "Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre." Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, bushplane.com/.

  • "Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site." Parks Canada, Government of Canada, 22 June 2021, pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/on/ssmarie.

  • "Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site." Parks Canada, Government of Canada, 22 June 2021, pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/on/ermatinger.

  • "Art Gallery of Algoma." Art Gallery of Algoma, artgalleryofalgoma.com/.

  • "Agawa Canyon." Algoma Central Railway, algomacentralrailway.com/agawa-canyon-tour-train/.

  • "Hiawatha Highlands." Sault Ste. Marie Region Conservation Authority, ssmrca.ca/conservation-areas/hiawatha-highlands/.

  • "Lake Superior Provincial Park." Ontario Parks, Government of Ontario, ontarioparks.com/park/lakesuperior.

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