Congratulations to Marquette, Michigan – CNN/Money Magazine’s 2011 best place to retire in the United States. If you have never been to Marquette, do not judge it by its winter weather – the city and its surroundings are absolutely stunning. Besides, if you are an alpine skier, cross-country nordic skier, snowshoer, snowmobiler, ice fisher, skater, sledder, tobogganer, dog sled musher, etc, you’ll love winter in Marquette.

Hugging the beautiful shores of Lake Superior, Marquette and the entire Upper Peninsula is an outdoor adventurer’s dreamland. The crystal clear lakes, rocky beaches, mountains, rushing rivers, picturesque waterfalls, hiking trails, and parks beckon the nature lover. The stunning scenery inspires the artist in everyone.

Blend in the variety of educational, historic, and cultural sites which provide numerous events and activities in the area; the low-cost of living; and the city’s role as a regional trade and health care center for the Upper Peninsula, and you have a recipe for a wonderful place to retire. Check out Marquette – I think you will be as impressed as I have been. Thumbs U.P. to Marquette for the well-deserved recognition as America’s best place to retire.