Michigan Roadside Attractions: Da Yoopers Tourist Trap in Ishpeming

July 9, 2016 · by Jonathan Katje · in Roadside Attractions

Michigan Roadside Attractions is a periodic feature on Travel the Mitten that will explore the many interesting things that can be found on the highways, byways and back roads of Michigan, ranging from the interesting to unusual.

The Upper Peninsula is home to some of Michigan’s most unique roadside attractions, including Castle Rock, the Mystery Spot, Lakenenland Junkyard Art Sculpture Park, Hiawatha – the World’s Largest Indian, and several Paul Bunyan statues. We recently stopped at another spot that deserves to be addded to that list: Da Yoopers Tourist Trap in Ishpeming. Featuring many oddball items and homages to the “yooper” lifestyle, this is one of Michigan’s most unique and easily accessible roadside attractions.

You can find Da Yoopers Tourist trap on the south side of US-41, just west of Ishpeming. It’s hard to miss thanks to its bright-colored sign, promise of “free bathrooms.” and the giant chainsaw sitting out on the front lawn. That chainsaw is “Big Gus,” the world’s largest working chainsaw. Just a few feet away sits another one of the world’s largest things – “Big Ernie,” the world’s largest working rifle. Both of these unique pieces were crafted by Moran Iron Works in Onaway, which is also where the Stainless Steel Eagle in Alpena that we previously featured was crafted.

There are certainly plenty of things to see in front of the store, on the lawn, and behind the store. Inside the store you will find plenty of souvenirs to choose from, most of which help celebrate a visit to “God’s Country.” The Rock Knockers rock shop features plenty of native rocks and minerals for sale. Lake Superior Magazine readers voted this the best gift shop on the Michigan portion of the route in 2015.

Da Yoopers are a musical comedy group that have been performing and touring for more than 30 years. They put a funny spin on Upper Peninsula stereotypes and are best known for their songs “The Second Week of Deer Camp” and “Rusty Chevrolet.” Be sure to stop by this unique Michigan attraction the next time you drive through Marquette County. Check out the photo gallery below to see a few more pictures from our visit.