Outdoor Things to Do in Houghton, MI<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Swimming](\"https:\/\/coldcoasttravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/things-to-do-Houghton-michigan-outdoors-768x1024.jpg\")
A visit to Lake Superior is one of the most popular things to do in Houghton, MI<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nHoughton is known for its exceptional outdoor access. Within 15 minutes of town, you can be chilling by Lake Superior, hiking through the forest, or gliding along the Keweenaw Waterway. These are our favorite outdoor things to do in Houghton, MI, from spring to fall. (Is the snow falling? Jump to winter activities<\/a>.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n1. Swim in Lake Superior (or Portage Lake)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
When the weather’s warm, gather your courage for a U.P. rite of passage \u2014 jumping in the ice-cold waters of Lake Superior. (It usually warms to comfortable temperatures by late July.) Feeling nervous about the cold? Head to Misery Bay<\/a> or Agate Beach<\/a>; the lake is super-shallow near the beach, so it always has the warmest water. Alternatively, head to one of the other beaches near Houghton, MI<\/a>, to swim in the Portage Canal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n2. Go waterfalling<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The waterfalls near Houghton, MI<\/a>, are the most exciting in the spring, but they’re worth visiting year-round. Summer brings lush greenery and beautiful hiking; in the fall, the leaves turn to wild shades of red, orange, and yellow. Our favorite is Hungarian Falls<\/a> \u2014 there are multiple waterfalls to explore, and you can opt for the short, flat upper trail or a fun uphill hike. (Don’t miss the hidden waterfall.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Build a bonfire on the beach<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
You haven’t had the full <\/em>U.P. experience until you’ve relaxed by a bonfire on the shores of Lake Superior. To go full Yooper, pick up a pack of Vollwerth’s hot dogs (natural casing is best) to roast over the fire. Stick around for sunset \u2014 they’re spectacular, especially on the western side of the Keweenaw. <\/p>\n\n\n\nNot all beaches allow fires, so check the rules first. When in doubt, head to North Canal Township Park<\/a>; you can build your bonfire in the established rings on the beach. Buy firewood at a local gas stations or at one of the many self-service spots alongside the road (bring cash if you’re going this route).<\/p>\n\n\n\n4. Attend a community festival<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/coldcoasttravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/houghton-county-fair-michigan-768x1024.jpg\")
The Houghton County Fair happens every August<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nHoughton might be a small town, but its calendar is overflowing with fun festivals. We love the Parade of Nations<\/a> in September, which is followed by an excellent international food festival in the Dee Stadium. If you’re a beer drinker, don’t miss out on Keweenaw Brewfest<\/a> in August. For a full list, check out our guide to the local events in Houghton, MI<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n5. Explore the Nara boardwalks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
As you drive out of Houghton, you\u2019ll see a small dirt parking lot on the left (map<\/a>), just before the Pilgrim River bridge. This is the starting point for the Nara Nature Park<\/a> boardwalks. They\u2019re newly built; the original boardwalks were wiped out by severe flooding in 2018. This is a great place to fish, stroll, run, or just hang out on the benches on the end of each trail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n6. Paddle Portage Lake<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you’re looking for active things to do in Houghton, MI, when it’s hot, head straight down to the Houghton Waterfront Park<\/a>. Rent a paddleboard or a kayak, and spend a couple hours paddling along the shore. (It’s particularly fun to go under the Portage lift bridge.) Jump in the water when you need to cool off, and reward yourself with an ice cream cone from the park’s concession stand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n7. Go for a hike<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
With more than 50 miles of trails, Houghton offers endless opportunities to explore the local woods and wetlands . Our favorite spots for hiking near Houghton<\/a> are accessible to everyone \u2014 the terrain is pretty gentle. Don’t worry about special gear; any athletic shoes will do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n8. Pick thimbleberries at Prince’s Point<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019ve never had a thimbleberry, you\u2019re missing out! These tart, sweet berries are found only in a few places in the United States. In the summer, they line the sides of the waterfront trail below Michigan Tech; the most fruitful stretch (couldn’t resist) is near Prince’s Point<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/coldcoasttravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/things-to-do-houghton-michigan-fall-768x1024.jpg\")
Fall colors in Houghton, Michigan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n9. See the fall colors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The fall colors in the Upper Peninsula are one of the best-kept secrets in the United States. Every October, the forests turn to a sea of red, gold, and orange. You don’t need to leave town to marvel at the changing leaves \u2014 there are plenty of places to see fall colors in Houghton, MI. They’re especially spectacular at the Michigan Tech Trails and the Houghton Waterfront Trail near Nara Nature Park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
10. Plan a camping trip<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Ditch civilization and head out into the wilderness for a camping trip. Drive a few miles from town, and the lights and sounds fade away fast. Whether you prefer a rustic campground or an RV park with full hookups, the campgrounds near Houghton, MI<\/a>, have you covered. Don’t have camping gear? You can rent everything you need from the Michigan Tech Outdoor Adventure Program<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n11. Take a boat tour of the Keweenaw Waterway<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Glide along the Keweenaw Waterway aboard the S.S. Dragonfly with Copper Country Boat Tours<\/a>. The boat is electric, so it runs silently and allows you to take in the beauty of Portage Lake. Occasionally, you can also book a scenic cruise aboard the Ranger III<\/a> \u2014 the boat that transports passengers to Isle Royale \u2014 but dates are extremely limited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n12. Catch a waterfront concert<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you’re visiting Houghton in the summer, check out the city’s outdoor concerts. On Wednesdays, listen to live music on the downtown Houghton pier. Chairs are provided, or you can hang out on one of the waterfront picnic tables. (Huron Street Waterfront Park<\/a> on Google Maps.) On Thursdays in August, head to the band shell Houghton Waterfront Park for the Century 21 Summer Concert Series \u2014 but make sure to bring a blanket or chair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n13. Go fishing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Take advantage of Houghton’s many waterways with a fishing trip. Favorite local fishing holes include Portage Lake, the Pilgrim River (access it at the Boundary Road Trails<\/a> or the Pilgrim Community Forest<\/a>), and the Salmon Trout River near the Redridge Steel Dam<\/a>. Make sure to get a fishing license<\/a> for anglers who are 17 or older.<\/p>\n\n\n\n14. Bike or walk the Houghton Waterfront Trail<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Want to stretch your legs? Head straight for the Houghton Waterfront Trail<\/a>, which runs along the Portage Canal. Start at Houghton Waterfront Park<\/a> and walk downtown, or ride your bike the full 9 miles to Chassell Beach<\/a>. We love popping down for a stroll after dinner at one of the downtown restaurants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n15. Watch a Michigan Tech football game<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Join the community at a Michigan Tech home football game. They’re the perfect fall experience \u2014 the weather\u2019s crisp, the pep band is playing, and there are plenty of delicious snacks at the concession stand. Check out the schedule<\/a> to find dates; you can buy tickets online or in person at the gate.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIndoor Things to Do in Houghton, MI<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/coldcoasttravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/things-to-do-Houghton-michigan-rozsa.jpg\")
Explore the local performing arts scene at the 1,067-seat Rozsa Center<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nPrefer to stay inside? These are some of our favorite indoor things to do in Houghton, MI. You can do them any time of year, regardless of the weather. (But when it’s cold outside, you can’t beat #33!)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
16. Beer and takeout at the KBC<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
When the weather isn’t cooperating (or even if it is), take part in a beloved Houghton tradition: beer and takeout at the Keweenaw Brewing Company (KBC). Enjoy the high ceilings and cozy fireplace in the taproom, or soak up the sunshine by the colorful mural on the outdoor deck. You\u2019re welcome to bring your own food \u2014 pick up a tostada pizza from the Ambassador Restaurant a few blocks away, or run across the street and pick up sushi from Sky Sushi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
17. Listen to live music at the Continental Fire Co.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
On Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, the Bonfire at the Continental Fire Co. hosts a lineup of live music. Most bands play a mix of classic rock, country, or top 40. See who’s playing next on the Continental’s Facebook page<\/a>. Feel like dancing? Head to the Continental at 11 PM on Saturday for Club Night. <\/p>\n\n\n\n18. Go to the movies<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Houghton has just one movie theater \u2014 Rogers Cinema<\/a> \u2014 so it\u2019s pretty easy to narrow down your options. The theater has five screens, and most of the movies that come in are the latest blockbusters. Tickets are $7.50 before 5:30 PM and $9.50 after that. If you’re looking for a bargain, go to the moves on Tuesday \u2014 all tickets are $5.00. The Houghton movie theater is closed on Mondays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n19. Visit the mineral museum<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/coldcoasttravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/seaman-mineral-museum-houghton-michigan.jpg\")
Fluorescent rocks at the mineral museum<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nCheck out 4,000+ wild and wonderful rock specimens at the A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum<\/a>. There’s something new around every corner, from the 19-ton chunk of Lake Superior copper in the garden to the neon yellow sulphur crystals inside the museum. Our favorite part is the fluorescent mineral display (above). Tickets are affordable ($8 for adults, free for kids younger than 8) and good for two days; admission is free for Michigan Tech students and employees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n20. Watch a show at the Rozsa Center<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Catch a touring Broadway show or a concert at the Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts<\/a>. Michigan Tech’s world-class theater hosts a regular lineup of events throughout the year; the 2023-2024 season includes the musical My Fair Lady<\/em>, the Charlie Berens Good Old Fashioned Tour, and a Canadian circus troupe, just to name a few. Feel like learning something new? There’s also a fascinating lecture series.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Rozsa is also home to the Michigan Tech performing arts ensembles. Check the calendar for performances from the Keweenaw Symphony Orchestra, Michigan Tech Concert Choir, Jazz Lab Band, theater department, and more. Some productions take place on the main stage, while others happen in the Walker black-box theater next door.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
21. Go out for dinner and drinks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Experience the Houghton nightlife with an evening of dinner and drinks. Start at one of the restaurants in Houghton<\/a>; there’s no need to make a reservation. End the night with a drink at one of the bars in Houghton \u2014 we love beer at the KBC or playing pool at the Doghouse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n22. Get active at the SDC<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Michigan Tech Student Development Complex (SDC) has plenty to do for both kids and adults. Go for a swim in the pool, get in a workout in the fitness center, or sign up for one of the HuskiesFit group classes. Bring a friend and head to the multipurpose room \u2014 you can check out basketballs, badminton gear, and other sporting equipment from the front desk, and grab a spot on the gym floor to play. There\u2019s also a track for walking and running, so you won’t go stir crazy in the winter. You can buy a day pass<\/a>, but the action passes and longer memberships are a better value.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThings to Do in Houghton, MI, with Kids<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/coldcoasttravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/things-to-do-with-kids-houghton-michigan-768x1024.jpg\")
Tiny hiker at the Nara boardwalks (#5<\/a>)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nTrying to find kid-friendly things to do in Houghton? Most of the outdoor and indoor activities are appropriate for little ones, but here are a few favorites for local families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
23. Burn off some energy at Chutes and Ladders<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Chutes and Ladders<\/a> is a kid’s paradise \u2014 this massive play structure features steps, ladders, tunnels, swinging bridges, and slides of all sizes. Let your little ones loose, and they’ll be entertained for hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n24. Check out the skate park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Break out your skateboard, bike, or scooter and head to the Houghton Skate Park. Located in East Houghton Waterfront Park<\/a>, this professional concrete park features a series of ramps, boxes, and rails. The best part? You can work on your skills with a view of Portage Lake and Mont Ripley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n25. Play at the Portage Lake District Library<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Located on the waterfront in Houghton, the Portage Lake District Library<\/a> is a fantastic community hub. Small children love the kids’ section, which features a play corner, beanbag chairs, computers, and a coloring area. While the little ones play, you can grab a $1 coffee and relax in a rocking chair with a view of the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThings to Do in Houghton, MI, in the Winter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Cross-country](\"https:\/\/coldcoasttravel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/things-to-do-Houghton-michigan-winter-768x1024.jpg\")
Michigan Tech Trails in the winter<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nIf you’ve ever been to Houghton, MI, in the winter, you know that it’s not for the faint of heart. The snow is serious business \u2014 and whether you’re here for the weekend or the whole winter, your best best is to embrace it! If you want to learn to love the cold, our favorite things to do in Houghton in the winter will definitely do the trick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
26. Cross-country ski the Michigan Tech Trails<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Michigan Tech Trails<\/a> are a highlight of winter in Houghton \u2014 with miles and miles of groomed trails, you can glide peacefully through the silent, snowy forest or test your skills on intense hills. Some of the trails are lighted, and there’s nothing more magical than skiing after dark (especially when it’s snowing). Bring your cross-country skis or rent them; discover all the details in our guide to the Tech Trails. <\/p>\n\n\n\n27. Snowshoe through the forest<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Prefer a relaxing hike through the woods to a high-intensity ski session? Houghton offers some of the best snowshoeing in Michigan! Check out North Canal Township Park<\/a>, Nara Nature Park, Many of the Tech Trails<\/a> allow snowshoe access; just check the maps at the trailhead for usage restrictions. You can rent snowshoes<\/a> from the MTU Outdoor Adventure Program; as of 2023, it\u2019s $12 for an overnight rental for non-students and $10 for Tech students. <\/p>\n\n\n\n28. Try ice skating<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Ice skating is a popular winter activity in Houghton, MI \u2014 it is the birthplace of professional hockey<\/a>, after all. There are plenty of ice rinks around town, but the most comfortable is the MacInnes Student Ice Arena at Michigan Tech. Public skating<\/a> is $10, and you can rent skates for an additional $5. If you have skates and you want a more local experience, go ice skating at the Dee Stadium<\/a>, the Dodgeville Ice Rink<\/a>, or the Kenner Dome<\/a> (also known as the Oskar Dome). When it’s cold enough, you can also skate outdoors at the neighborhood rink in West Houghton Park<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n29. Cheer for the Husky hockey players<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Houghton is known for its exceptional outdoor access. Within 15 minutes of town, you can be chilling by Lake Superior, hiking through the forest, or gliding along the Keweenaw Waterway. These are our favorite outdoor things to do in Houghton, MI, from spring to fall. (Is the snow falling? Jump to winter activities<\/a>.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n When the weather’s warm, gather your courage for a U.P. rite of passage \u2014 jumping in the ice-cold waters of Lake Superior. (It usually warms to comfortable temperatures by late July.) Feeling nervous about the cold? Head to Misery Bay<\/a> or Agate Beach<\/a>; the lake is super-shallow near the beach, so it always has the warmest water. Alternatively, head to one of the other beaches near Houghton, MI<\/a>, to swim in the Portage Canal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The waterfalls near Houghton, MI<\/a>, are the most exciting in the spring, but they’re worth visiting year-round. Summer brings lush greenery and beautiful hiking; in the fall, the leaves turn to wild shades of red, orange, and yellow. Our favorite is Hungarian Falls<\/a> \u2014 there are multiple waterfalls to explore, and you can opt for the short, flat upper trail or a fun uphill hike. (Don’t miss the hidden waterfall.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n You haven’t had the full <\/em>U.P. experience until you’ve relaxed by a bonfire on the shores of Lake Superior. To go full Yooper, pick up a pack of Vollwerth’s hot dogs (natural casing is best) to roast over the fire. Stick around for sunset \u2014 they’re spectacular, especially on the western side of the Keweenaw. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Not all beaches allow fires, so check the rules first. When in doubt, head to North Canal Township Park<\/a>; you can build your bonfire in the established rings on the beach. Buy firewood at a local gas stations or at one of the many self-service spots alongside the road (bring cash if you’re going this route).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Houghton might be a small town, but its calendar is overflowing with fun festivals. We love the Parade of Nations<\/a> in September, which is followed by an excellent international food festival in the Dee Stadium. If you’re a beer drinker, don’t miss out on Keweenaw Brewfest<\/a> in August. For a full list, check out our guide to the local events in Houghton, MI<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As you drive out of Houghton, you\u2019ll see a small dirt parking lot on the left (map<\/a>), just before the Pilgrim River bridge. This is the starting point for the Nara Nature Park<\/a> boardwalks. They\u2019re newly built; the original boardwalks were wiped out by severe flooding in 2018. This is a great place to fish, stroll, run, or just hang out on the benches on the end of each trail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re looking for active things to do in Houghton, MI, when it’s hot, head straight down to the Houghton Waterfront Park<\/a>. Rent a paddleboard or a kayak, and spend a couple hours paddling along the shore. (It’s particularly fun to go under the Portage lift bridge.) Jump in the water when you need to cool off, and reward yourself with an ice cream cone from the park’s concession stand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With more than 50 miles of trails, Houghton offers endless opportunities to explore the local woods and wetlands . Our favorite spots for hiking near Houghton<\/a> are accessible to everyone \u2014 the terrain is pretty gentle. Don’t worry about special gear; any athletic shoes will do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019ve never had a thimbleberry, you\u2019re missing out! These tart, sweet berries are found only in a few places in the United States. In the summer, they line the sides of the waterfront trail below Michigan Tech; the most fruitful stretch (couldn’t resist) is near Prince’s Point<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The fall colors in the Upper Peninsula are one of the best-kept secrets in the United States. Every October, the forests turn to a sea of red, gold, and orange. You don’t need to leave town to marvel at the changing leaves \u2014 there are plenty of places to see fall colors in Houghton, MI. They’re especially spectacular at the Michigan Tech Trails and the Houghton Waterfront Trail near Nara Nature Park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ditch civilization and head out into the wilderness for a camping trip. Drive a few miles from town, and the lights and sounds fade away fast. Whether you prefer a rustic campground or an RV park with full hookups, the campgrounds near Houghton, MI<\/a>, have you covered. Don’t have camping gear? You can rent everything you need from the Michigan Tech Outdoor Adventure Program<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Glide along the Keweenaw Waterway aboard the S.S. Dragonfly with Copper Country Boat Tours<\/a>. The boat is electric, so it runs silently and allows you to take in the beauty of Portage Lake. Occasionally, you can also book a scenic cruise aboard the Ranger III<\/a> \u2014 the boat that transports passengers to Isle Royale \u2014 but dates are extremely limited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re visiting Houghton in the summer, check out the city’s outdoor concerts. On Wednesdays, listen to live music on the downtown Houghton pier. Chairs are provided, or you can hang out on one of the waterfront picnic tables. (Huron Street Waterfront Park<\/a> on Google Maps.) On Thursdays in August, head to the band shell Houghton Waterfront Park for the Century 21 Summer Concert Series \u2014 but make sure to bring a blanket or chair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Take advantage of Houghton’s many waterways with a fishing trip. Favorite local fishing holes include Portage Lake, the Pilgrim River (access it at the Boundary Road Trails<\/a> or the Pilgrim Community Forest<\/a>), and the Salmon Trout River near the Redridge Steel Dam<\/a>. Make sure to get a fishing license<\/a> for anglers who are 17 or older.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Want to stretch your legs? Head straight for the Houghton Waterfront Trail<\/a>, which runs along the Portage Canal. Start at Houghton Waterfront Park<\/a> and walk downtown, or ride your bike the full 9 miles to Chassell Beach<\/a>. We love popping down for a stroll after dinner at one of the downtown restaurants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Join the community at a Michigan Tech home football game. They’re the perfect fall experience \u2014 the weather\u2019s crisp, the pep band is playing, and there are plenty of delicious snacks at the concession stand. Check out the schedule<\/a> to find dates; you can buy tickets online or in person at the gate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Prefer to stay inside? These are some of our favorite indoor things to do in Houghton, MI. You can do them any time of year, regardless of the weather. (But when it’s cold outside, you can’t beat #33!)<\/p>\n\n\n\n When the weather isn’t cooperating (or even if it is), take part in a beloved Houghton tradition: beer and takeout at the Keweenaw Brewing Company (KBC). Enjoy the high ceilings and cozy fireplace in the taproom, or soak up the sunshine by the colorful mural on the outdoor deck. You\u2019re welcome to bring your own food \u2014 pick up a tostada pizza from the Ambassador Restaurant a few blocks away, or run across the street and pick up sushi from Sky Sushi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, the Bonfire at the Continental Fire Co. hosts a lineup of live music. Most bands play a mix of classic rock, country, or top 40. See who’s playing next on the Continental’s Facebook page<\/a>. Feel like dancing? Head to the Continental at 11 PM on Saturday for Club Night. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Houghton has just one movie theater \u2014 Rogers Cinema<\/a> \u2014 so it\u2019s pretty easy to narrow down your options. The theater has five screens, and most of the movies that come in are the latest blockbusters. Tickets are $7.50 before 5:30 PM and $9.50 after that. If you’re looking for a bargain, go to the moves on Tuesday \u2014 all tickets are $5.00. The Houghton movie theater is closed on Mondays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Check out 4,000+ wild and wonderful rock specimens at the A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum<\/a>. There’s something new around every corner, from the 19-ton chunk of Lake Superior copper in the garden to the neon yellow sulphur crystals inside the museum. Our favorite part is the fluorescent mineral display (above). Tickets are affordable ($8 for adults, free for kids younger than 8) and good for two days; admission is free for Michigan Tech students and employees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Catch a touring Broadway show or a concert at the Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts<\/a>. Michigan Tech’s world-class theater hosts a regular lineup of events throughout the year; the 2023-2024 season includes the musical My Fair Lady<\/em>, the Charlie Berens Good Old Fashioned Tour, and a Canadian circus troupe, just to name a few. Feel like learning something new? There’s also a fascinating lecture series.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Rozsa is also home to the Michigan Tech performing arts ensembles. Check the calendar for performances from the Keweenaw Symphony Orchestra, Michigan Tech Concert Choir, Jazz Lab Band, theater department, and more. Some productions take place on the main stage, while others happen in the Walker black-box theater next door.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Experience the Houghton nightlife with an evening of dinner and drinks. Start at one of the restaurants in Houghton<\/a>; there’s no need to make a reservation. End the night with a drink at one of the bars in Houghton \u2014 we love beer at the KBC or playing pool at the Doghouse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Michigan Tech Student Development Complex (SDC) has plenty to do for both kids and adults. Go for a swim in the pool, get in a workout in the fitness center, or sign up for one of the HuskiesFit group classes. Bring a friend and head to the multipurpose room \u2014 you can check out basketballs, badminton gear, and other sporting equipment from the front desk, and grab a spot on the gym floor to play. There\u2019s also a track for walking and running, so you won’t go stir crazy in the winter. You can buy a day pass<\/a>, but the action passes and longer memberships are a better value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Trying to find kid-friendly things to do in Houghton? Most of the outdoor and indoor activities are appropriate for little ones, but here are a few favorites for local families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chutes and Ladders<\/a> is a kid’s paradise \u2014 this massive play structure features steps, ladders, tunnels, swinging bridges, and slides of all sizes. Let your little ones loose, and they’ll be entertained for hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Break out your skateboard, bike, or scooter and head to the Houghton Skate Park. Located in East Houghton Waterfront Park<\/a>, this professional concrete park features a series of ramps, boxes, and rails. The best part? You can work on your skills with a view of Portage Lake and Mont Ripley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Located on the waterfront in Houghton, the Portage Lake District Library<\/a> is a fantastic community hub. Small children love the kids’ section, which features a play corner, beanbag chairs, computers, and a coloring area. While the little ones play, you can grab a $1 coffee and relax in a rocking chair with a view of the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’ve ever been to Houghton, MI, in the winter, you know that it’s not for the faint of heart. The snow is serious business \u2014 and whether you’re here for the weekend or the whole winter, your best best is to embrace it! If you want to learn to love the cold, our favorite things to do in Houghton in the winter will definitely do the trick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Michigan Tech Trails<\/a> are a highlight of winter in Houghton \u2014 with miles and miles of groomed trails, you can glide peacefully through the silent, snowy forest or test your skills on intense hills. Some of the trails are lighted, and there’s nothing more magical than skiing after dark (especially when it’s snowing). Bring your cross-country skis or rent them; discover all the details in our guide to the Tech Trails. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Prefer a relaxing hike through the woods to a high-intensity ski session? Houghton offers some of the best snowshoeing in Michigan! Check out North Canal Township Park<\/a>, Nara Nature Park, Many of the Tech Trails<\/a> allow snowshoe access; just check the maps at the trailhead for usage restrictions. You can rent snowshoes<\/a> from the MTU Outdoor Adventure Program; as of 2023, it\u2019s $12 for an overnight rental for non-students and $10 for Tech students. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Ice skating is a popular winter activity in Houghton, MI \u2014 it is the birthplace of professional hockey<\/a>, after all. There are plenty of ice rinks around town, but the most comfortable is the MacInnes Student Ice Arena at Michigan Tech. Public skating<\/a> is $10, and you can rent skates for an additional $5. If you have skates and you want a more local experience, go ice skating at the Dee Stadium<\/a>, the Dodgeville Ice Rink<\/a>, or the Kenner Dome<\/a> (also known as the Oskar Dome). When it’s cold enough, you can also skate outdoors at the neighborhood rink in West Houghton Park<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n1. Swim in Lake Superior (or Portage Lake)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Go waterfalling<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Build a bonfire on the beach<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Attend a community festival<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5. Explore the Nara boardwalks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. Paddle Portage Lake<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
7. Go for a hike<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
8. Pick thimbleberries at Prince’s Point<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
9. See the fall colors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
10. Plan a camping trip<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
11. Take a boat tour of the Keweenaw Waterway<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
12. Catch a waterfront concert<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
13. Go fishing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
14. Bike or walk the Houghton Waterfront Trail<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
15. Watch a Michigan Tech football game<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Indoor Things to Do in Houghton, MI<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
16. Beer and takeout at the KBC<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
17. Listen to live music at the Continental Fire Co.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
18. Go to the movies<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
19. Visit the mineral museum<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
20. Watch a show at the Rozsa Center<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
21. Go out for dinner and drinks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
22. Get active at the SDC<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Things to Do in Houghton, MI, with Kids<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
23. Burn off some energy at Chutes and Ladders<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
24. Check out the skate park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
25. Play at the Portage Lake District Library<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Things to Do in Houghton, MI, in the Winter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
26. Cross-country ski the Michigan Tech Trails<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
27. Snowshoe through the forest<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
28. Try ice skating<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
29. Cheer for the Husky hockey players<\/h3>\n\n\n\n