Iron River, at the western edge of the Upper Peninsula, has hosted the biggest rodeo in Michigan – and only PRCA-sanctioned rodeo – since 1968. That makes this charming small town, which is a destination in its own right, the rodeo capital of Michigan.

You’ll find Iron River near the Wisconsin border on the Upper Peninsula.
City of Iron River/Facebook
This charming town was born of the area’s mining and timber industries.
Main Street Cafe/Facebook
Though neither industry is exactly thriving today, Iron River, for its part, is an upbeat community with some great businesses.
Contrast Coffee Co./Facebook
For example, you can start your morning off right with a cup of java from Contrast Coffee Co.
Contrast Coffee Co., 217 W Genesee St, Iron River, MI 49935, USA
Contrast Coffee Co./Facebook
Contrast Coffee’s Iron River shop roasts its own beans and also does so for the locations in Ironwood and Marquette.
Grab breakfast or lunch - or both - and learn what’s going on in town at Main Street Cafe.
Main Street Cafe, 321 W Genesee St, Iron River, MI 49935, USA
Dave Rucinski/Google Reviews
Main Street Cafe is the go-to spot for scratch-made comfort food in Iron River.
Although it only opened in 2022, Bump’s Burgers has quickly become a local favorite.
Bump's Burgers, 119 W Genesee St, Iron River, MI 49935, USA
M M/Google Reviews
If you’re jonesing for a burger while you’re in town, be sure to stop into Bump’s Burgers.

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As lively as Iron River is throughout the year, it really comes to life in July - when the week of this Michigan rodeo rolls around.
Upper Peninsula Championship Rodeo/Facebook
In 1969, Iron River was designated the “rodeo capital of the Upper Peninsula” by official act. So, the town has to go big when it’s rodeo time. There’s a Wild West Parade and a street fair.
Gals throw their hats in the ring, vying for a chance to be Miss U.P. Rodeo Queen or Princess.
Upper Peninsula Championship Rodeo/Facebook
And everyone heads to the grandstand for the main event: three days of cowboy and cowgirl action in the Upper Peninsula Championship Rodeo.
Upper Peninsula Championship Rodeo/Facebook
There’s barrel racing and trick riding.
Upper Peninsula Championship Rodeo/Facebook
Calf roping is always a favorite.
Upper Peninsula Championship Rodeo/Facebook
And the seconds never feel longer than when you’re rooting for you favorite cowboy to hold on… just. A little. Longer.
Upper Peninsula Championship Rodeo/Facebook
After visiting Iron River during the rodeo, you, too, will be convinced that it’s the rodeo capital of the entire state.

There really is no time quite like the days leading up to the biggest rodeo Michigan. Keep an eye on the Upper Peninsula Championship Rodeo website and the UP Rodeo’s Facebook page for event dates and schedules. Be sure to stick around the area after the rodeo and take advantage of the natural beauty and fascinating history that this part of the Upper Peninsula has to offer. You can even explore an iron mine just outside of town! Stay at one the many fine vacation rentals in the area while you take in the rodeo and explore Iron County.

Have you attended the Upper Peninsula Championship Rodeo? What event was your favorite? Let us know in the comments!

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Iron River, MI 49935, USA