The world’s largest freshwater lake looks different every day: blue, gray, choppy, glassy, intimidating, exhilarating. The legendary 1,200-mile drive that loops Superior has just as many personalities: arty, woodsy, upscale, blue-collar. Whether you travel with a tent in your trunk or hop inn to inn, savor the variety—and bring a passport for entering Canada.

Fuel up The quality of food can get patchy along the Circle Tour, but you’ll find some of the Midwest’s best restaurants, too. Nosh on fresh-caught fish and chips (served on local pottery) at the Angry Trout Cafe in Grand Marais, Minnesota. In Bayfield, Wisconsin, indulge in an elegant feast at the Rittenhouse Inn’s Landmark Restaurant.

More from Midwest Living

Our trip: Lake Superior Circle Tour [1]

Bayfield trip guide [2]

Upper Peninsula trip guide [3]

North Shore trip guide [4]

Upper Peninsula attractions [5]

North Shore attractions [6]

For maps and trip planning

Lake Superior Circle Tour [7]