CanadaOntarioSault Ste. Marie

Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, CA

Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, is a picturesque city rich in natural beauty and history. Situated on the Canadian-U.S. border, it offers stunning waterfront views, plenty of outdoor activities, and a cultural heritage for travelers to explore.

Location Overview

Timezone

America/Toronto

Local Time

09:52 AM

Population

74,924

Best Time to Visit

Temperature:

54-77°F (12-25°C) - Warm with decreasing daylight; summer activities c...

Best Time

Jun-Sep

Connectivity

Power

120V

Port

Type A, Type B

Internet

Great

Airport Info

YYZ

Toronto Pearson International Airport

Distance

Approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes by car via ON-17 E and Trans-Canada Hwy, covering a distance of about 700 km.

Description

Toronto Pearson is Canada's busiest airport, offering extensive dining, shopping, and lounge facilities. It provides both local and long-haul domestic flights as well as international connections.

Sault Ste. Marie, affectionately known as 'The Soo,' is a vibrant city nestled alongside the St. Marys River in Ontario, Canada. It presents an exciting mix of nature and history. Travelers can enjoy scenic strolls along the waterfront boardwalk, experience the adventure of the Algoma Central Railway's Agawa Canyon Train Tour, or delve into local history at the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Lake Superior Provincial Park, ideal for hiking and nature walks. The city's rich cultural scene includes events like the Bon Soo Winter Carnival. Sault Ste. Marie's strong sense of community welcomes tourists looking for an authentic experience.

Top trips icon

Sault Ste. Marie Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating

Safe

Exercise standard precautions.

Local Laws

Travelers should be aware of Canadian laws, including regulations on alcohol consumption and cannabis use.

Crime Rates

Sault Ste. Marie generally experiences low to moderate crime rates. Petty crimes such as theft and vandalism can occur, but violent crime is relatively rare.

Health Risks

Healthcare facilities are available and accessible. There are no significant health risks specific to the area.

Natural Disasters

Sault Ste. Marie is not prone to major natural disasters. However, winter weather can be severe, with heavy snowfall and icy conditions.

Law Enforcement

Law enforcement presence in Sault Ste. Marie is visible and effective. The local police department is proactive in community engagement and crime prevention.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Sault Ste. Marie is considered safe. The city operates a bus system that is generally reliable and secure.

Solo Travelers

Solo travelers can feel safe in Sault Ste. Marie, but should take standard precautions.

Recent Developments

There have been no significant recent developments impacting safety in Sault Ste. Marie.

No data Found...

No data Found...

Top trips icon

Sault Ste. Marie Monthly Weather Overview

Summary

arrow down icon

Average High


Average Low


Humidity


Rainy Days


Sunny Days


Wind Speed


Daylight Hours


Sunrise


Sunset


Pattern

Best season to visit

arrow down icon

Current Conditions ():

Top trips icon

Best Time to Visit Sault Ste. Marie

Summary: The best time to visit Sault Ste. Marie is from June to September, when temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This period offers comfortable weather for outdoor activities and vibrant festivals.

❄️

January

January brings winter’s chill with temperatures around -11°C to -3°C (12°F to 27°F). Enjoy winter sports and the Bon Soo Winter Carnival.

💘

February

Temperatures remain cold, ranging from -12°C to -2°C (10°F to 28°F). Ideal for snowshoeing and visiting local ice rinks.

🌱

March

March sees a gentle rise in temperature from -18°F to 37°F (8°C to 3°C). Early spring events and the thawing landscape become attractions.

🌸

April

April transitions into spring with temperatures from -28°F to 50°F (2°C to 10°C). A good time for nature walks and spring festivals.

🌷

May

Milder weather with temps from 41°F to 63°F (5°C to 17°C). Seasonal flowers and outdoor events begin.

☀️

June

Best

Pleasant weather from 50°F to 72°F (10°C to 22°C) makes June perfect for outdoor adventures and festivals.

🏖️

July

Best

July offers warm temperatures ranging from 57°F to 77°F (14°C to 25°C), great for water activities and the Rotaryfest.

🌞

August

Best

August remains warm with temps of 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C), ideal for visiting parks and local attractions.

🍂

September

Best

Early fall charm with temperatures from 48°F to 66°F (9°C to 19°C), offering vibrant foliage and cultural festivals.

🍁

October

Cooling down with temperatures from 37°F to 52°F (3°C to 11°C). Scenic autumn landscapes and harvest events.

November

Chillier weather ranges from -28°F to 39°F (2°C to 4°C). Perfect for early winter events and indoor activities.

🎄

December

Cold winter sets in with temperatures from -8°C to -2°C (18°F to 28°F). A festive time with holiday events and winter sports.

Top trips icon

Seasonal Events in Sault Ste. Marie

January - February

Bon Soo Winter Carnival

A lively winter festival featuring events, games, and family fun activities.

Bon Soo
July

Rotaryfest

Sault Ste. Marie’s summer festival with parades, live music, and food.

Rotaryfest
October

Algoma Fall Festival

An annual arts festival showcasing music, theatre, and visual arts.

Algoma Fall Festival
November

Festival of Trees

A festive event featuring a beautiful display of decorated trees and holiday spirit.

Festival of Trees
Top trips icon

Popular Foods in Sault Ste. Marie

Perogies

Dumplings filled with potato, cheese, and sometimes meat, reflecting the city’s Polish community influence.

Maple Syrup Butter Tarts

A Canadian classic dessert featuring a flaky pastry filled with a sweet, buttery filling containing maple syrup.

Pickerel

A freshwater fish commonly found in local lakes, often fried or grilled and served with herbs.

Poutine

A beloved Canadian dish of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, found in many local eateries.

Cabbage Rolls

A traditional meal featuring cabbage leaves stuffed with beef, rice, and spices, often served with tomato sauce.

Top trips icon

Closest Airports to Sault Ste. Marie

Regional Airport

Top trips icon

Sault Ste. Marie Airport (YAM)

Sault Ste. Marie Airport offers regional services with a focus on Northern Ontario. It provides basic amenities and is easily accessible.

Approximately 25 minutes by car, covering a distance of about 24 km via Airport Rd and ON-550.

Rental car services available onsite; small airport with quick check-ins.

YAM Website

International Airport

Top trips icon

Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)

Toronto Pearson is Canada's busiest airport, offering extensive dining, shopping, and lounge facilities. It provides both local and long-haul domestic flights as well as international connections.

Approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes by car via ON-17 E and Trans-Canada Hwy, covering a distance of about 700 km.

Arrive early due to heavy traffic potential; consider using the UP Express train for city transit.

YYZ Website

Top trips icon

Popular Trip Types

Family Vacation Icon

Family Vacation

Sault Ste. Marie is an excellent destination for family vacations with attractions suitable for all ages. The city offers beautiful outdoor spaces like Bellevue Park and the Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site. Families can explore the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, enjoy boat tours in the Saint Marys River, or experience the nearby nature trails and scenic views of the Agawa Canyon.

Nature and Adventure Trip

For those seeking adventure, Sault Ste. Marie serves as a gateway to the rugged beauty of Northern Ontario. The area is perfect for hiking, camping, and fishing enthusiasts, with access to Lake Superior Provincial Park and the Great Lakes Basin. The regional landscape offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, kayaking, and even exploring the majestic rivers and forests of Algoma Country.

Cultural Exploration Icon

Cultural Exploration

Sault Ste. Marie has a rich cultural history influenced by its Indigenous roots and colonial past, making it an intriguing destination for cultural exploration. The Art Gallery of Algoma, the Sault Ste. Marie Museum, and various cultural festivals throughout the year provide insights into the local history and artistic expression. Visitors can immerse themselves in the area's heritage while enjoying local crafts and culinary delights.

Couples Retreat Icon

Couples Retreat

Couples seeking a romantic or relaxing getaway will find Sault Ste. Marie to be a cozy and inviting destination. The city offers charming bed-and-breakfast accommodations, waterfront dining with stunning views of the Saint Marys River, and serene nature spots for intimate walks. The peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty provide the perfect backdrop for a couple's retreat, fostering relaxation and connection.

Winter Sports Vacation

With its proximity to well-maintained trails and snowy landscapes, Sault Ste. Marie is an excellent choice for winter sports enthusiasts. The city offers excellent opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling, with local spots like Searchmont Resort providing a range of slopes for various skill levels. Additionally, cross-country skiing and ice fishing are popular winter activities, making it a great choice for a winter sports vacation.

Top trips icon

Custom Language

Eh

Pardon me

Frequently used at the end of a sentence to imply a question or seek agreement.

Toque

Knit cap

Refers to a warm winter hat, especially in the context of Canadian winters.

Pop

Soda

Common term used in Canada to refer to carbonated soft drinks.

Double-Double

Coffee order

A popular coffee order at Tim Hortons with two creams and two sugars.

Loonie

One-dollar coin

Nickname for the Canadian one-dollar coin, derived from the loon depicted on one side.

Top trips icon

Popular Sports & Teams in Sault Ste. Marie

Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds

The Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds are a major junior ice hockey team in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), known for developing many future NHL players.

Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds Official Site

Sault College Cougars

The Sault College Cougars are the athletic teams representing Sault College, which compete in various sports including hockey, soccer, and volleyball.

Sault College Athletics

Algoma University Thunderbirds

The Algoma University Thunderbirds compete in the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) conference, participating in sports such as basketball, soccer, and curling.

Algoma University Athletics

Soo Thunderbirds

The Soo Thunderbirds are a Junior A ice hockey team in the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League (NOJHL), known for competitive play and strong community support.

Soo Thunderbirds Official Site

Sault Sabercats

The Sault Sabercats are a local football team competing in the Ontario Football Conference, providing opportunities for youth progression in the sport.

Sault Sabercats Official Site

Top trips icon

Unique customs/traditions

Smelt Fishing

A local tradition in the spring months where people fish for smelt, a small freshwater fish, often eaten fresh or pickled.

Pow Wows

Indigenous cultural celebrations with traditional dancing, singing, and crafts reflecting rich Native American heritage.

Maple Syrup Making

Involves tapping maple trees to collect sap, which is then boiled down to create syrup, a popular local activity in spring.

Canoe Building

Traditional crafting of canoes, reflecting the historical importance of water travel and trade in the region.

Moose Hunt

A customary fall hunting activity that is both a food source and a tradition among locals, emphasizing wildlife management.

Top trips icon

Recommended Activities by Group Type

St. Marys River

Take a boat tour on the St. Marys River

Tour (Half-day)

Family boat tours allow everyone to enjoy scenic views and learn more about the area's nature and history.

Great Lakes Maritime Center

Explore the Great Lakes Maritime Center

Museum (1-2 hours)

An interactive center where families can learn about the maritime history and the importance of the Great Lakes.

Agawa Canyon Tour Train

Visit the Agawa Canyon Tour Train

Tour (Full-day)

An exciting train ride that provides breathtaking views of the canyon and opportunities for family photos and hikes.

Bellevue Park

Spend the day at Bellevue Park

Outdoor (Half-day)

This park offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and beautiful walking paths that are perfect for a family day out.

Sault Ste. Marie Cinema

Enjoy a family-friendly movie at the cinema

Entertainment (2-3 hours)

Catch the latest family-friendly movies at the local cinema, offering a fun indoor activity, especially during rainy days.

Ticket to travel

Pass along this location with your friends!

Our journey partners

Viator Logo
Google Logo
TripAdvisor Logo
BBB Logo
IATA Logo
Duffel Logo
AWS Logo
footer_linear_gradiant_image

Copyright © 2025 Trip Tap Inc | All Rights Reserved