Sault Ste. Marie, or “The Soo”, as locals affectionately call it, is a small city destination that straddles St. Mary’s River which is also the border between Michigan and Ontario.
Sault Ste. Marie is one of the oldest European settlements in North America, with a history dating back over 350 years. The name “Sault” comes from the French word for “rapids”, referencing the swift waters of the river, which were once a major obstacle to navigation of the area.
Historically, this was a gathering point for Indigenous peoples long before European explorers arrived. In the early 17th century, French missionaries and fur traders established settlements on both sides of the river, making the area a vital hub in the North American fur trade. After the War of 1812, the international border was drawn, dividing the city into Canadian and American counterparts. Today, both cities are linked by the International Bridge, but each retains a unique identity.
