Paradise, Michigan, a small town in the eastern Upper Peninsula, serves as a gateway to Tahquamenon Falls State Park, one of the region’s most popular outdoor destinations.
The town, located just 14 miles east of the park entrance, offers visitors unique attractions, accommodations, and dining options while providing access to the natural beauty and history of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park, spanning over 50,000 acres, is known for its year-round outdoor activities and its centerpiece, the Upper Tahquamenon Falls. Measuring approximately 200 feet across and 50 feet high, the falls are Michigan’s largest and a significant natural feature east of the Mississippi River.
According to Explore, the water’s distinct rusty hue, caused by tannins from surrounding vegetation, has earned it the nickname “Root Beer Falls.”
The park is a hub for activities like hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, with lantern-lit nighttime snowshoe tours adding a memorable touch to winter visits. Seasonal highlights include ice formations in winter and vibrant foliage in the fall.
While the park is a primary draw, Paradise itself offers an array of attractions and amenities for travelers. Lodging options include motels, hotels, and cabins, some catering to unique interests, such as scuba divers.
Dining in Paradise is equally distinctive, with establishments like Wheelhouse Diner offering a menu for dogs alongside traditional fare, and Catch of the Day serving fresh Lake Superior whitefish from a food truck.
Nearby Whitefish Point, 11 miles north of Paradise, enriches the experience with its historical and natural attractions.
Visitors can explore the Whitefish Point Lighthouse, the oldest operating lighthouse on Lake Superior, and the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, which highlights the history of the 200 shipwrecks in the area. Seasonal offerings include snowy owl spotting and northern lights viewing in the winter months.
Paradise and Tahquamenon Falls State Park combine to offer a compelling mix of natural splendor, quirky local experiences, and historical depth, making them standout destinations in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
