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Welcome to the wild, wonderful world of hospitality in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and Northern Wisconsin!
If you’re looking to work in a place where flannel is a fashion statement, Friday fish fries are a sacred tradition, and lake life is more than just an aesthetic, you’re in the right spot.
The hospitality industry here isn’t just about clocking in and slinging drinks or making beds. It’s about crafting experiences, creating memories, and keeping things rolling smoothly — often with a little bit of Midwestern charm and a whole lot of hustle.
Let’s dive into what you need to know if you’re looking to land (and thrive in) a hospitality gig in the U.P. or Northern Wisconsin.
Why Work Hospitality in the U.P. & Northern Wisconsin?
If you’ve ever worked in hospitality before, you know it’s not for the faint of heart. It’s fast-paced, unpredictable, and, let’s be real, often exhausting. But it’s also one of the most rewarding industries out there.
Here, you’re not just serving customers — you’re helping folks make memories against the backdrop of pristine lakes, towering pines, and historic small towns.
Seasonal tourism is huge here, which means during peak times, places are hopping. That means plenty of job openings at resorts, restaurants, bars, and adventure outfitters. Winter? If you’re into skiing, snowmobiling, or just embracing the cold, resorts and lodges are always looking for reliable help.
Most Common Types of Hospitality Businesses in The Upper Peninsula of Michigan & Northern Wisconsin
The hospitality scene in the U.P. and Northern Wisconsin is a mix of rustic charm, cozy comfort, and a touch of the unexpected. Here’s a breakdown of what’s most common:
● Lodging: You won’t find a ton of big-name luxury hotels here, but there’s no shortage of charming lakeside resorts, rustic lodges, and budget-friendly motels. Campgrounds, cabins, and Airbnb-style rentals are also a major part of the hospitality industry.
● Restaurants: The region leans heavily into small family-owned restaurants, supper clubs, diners, and casual spots serving up local specialties like pasties and fresh-caught whitefish. High-end, Michelin-star-level dining? Not so much — though a few standout fine-dining establishments exist, particularly in tourist-heavy areas.
● Bars & Breweries: This is where the action is. Dive bars, supper club lounges, and craft breweries dominate the scene. Wisconsin, in particular, is known for its love of beer, and microbreweries are thriving.
● Coffee Shops & Cafés: You’ll find cozy coffee shops and bakeries in most small towns, often featuring locally roasted beans and homemade pastries.
● Adventure & Outdoor Tourism: From fishing charters to snowmobile rentals to guided hiking tours, outdoor adventure businesses are a major draw.
The Hospitality Roles You’ll Find
Here’s a quick rundown of some of the most common (and some not-so-common) hospitality gigs in the area:
● Bartender/Server: If you’ve got the right mix of speed, patience, and people skills, this is where the money’s at. Tipping culture here is solid, especially if you get in good with the regulars.
● Lodge/Resort Staff: From front desk workers to housekeepers to activities coordinators, these spots need people to keep the gears turning smoothly. ● Adventure Guide: Got experience in kayaking, hiking, or snowmobiling? People will pay for that! Bonus points if you know how to tell a great story.
● Cook/Chef: With all the supper clubs and up-north diners, there’s no shortage of kitchens needing skilled (or willing-to-learn) hands.
● Maintenance & Groundskeeping: Someone’s gotta keep the cabins in check, and trust us, nature doesn’t take a break up here.
● Brewery/Distillery Staff: The craft beer and spirits scene is booming, and they need knowledgeable, friendly staff to keep the drinks flowing.
Insider Tips for Landing (and Keeping) a Job in the U.P. & Northern Wisconsin
1. “Know a guy” culture is real — network!
Up here, it’s all about who you know. If you’re applying blind, your resume might get lost in the shuffle. Show up in person, introduce yourself, and — if you can — try to chat with a manager. If you don’t have connections yet, start hanging out at local spots where industry folks go after work.
2. Show up early, stay late, and be willing to hustle
Hospitality managers can sniff out a slacker faster than a Yooper can spot a pasty that’s missing rutabaga. If you show up a little early, offer to stay late when needed, and genuinely hustle, you’ll stand out.
3. Don’t overlook mid-week gigs
Sure, Friday and Saturday nights are prime money-making shifts, but don’t sleep on mid-week opportunities. Tourists don’t always travel on the weekend, and locals come out when the crowds aren’t so crazy. Plus, managers take notice when someone willingly picks up a Monday lunch shift.
4. If you can clean a fish or start a campfire, you might just be a VIP
A lot of the hospitality work up here is tied to the great outdoors. If you know your way around a fishing pole or can start a fire with damp wood, mention it. You might land a guide gig or find yourself hosting fish fries at a resort.
5. Learn the difference between a Troll and a Yooper
If you don’t know, a Yooper is someone from the U.P., and a Troll is someone from below the Mackinac Bridge. Understanding this (and a few other regional quirks) will help you blend in and maybe even get some extra tips from amused locals.
6. Hospitality isn’t just about serving — it’s about storytelling
People love a good story, especially when they’re on vacation. Know a little history about the area, be ready with a solid recommendation (that’s not just the most popular place in town), and don’t be afraid to chat. Just like Anthony Bourdain always said — it’s about human connection.
7. Get comfortable with weird hours and side gigs
This isn’t your standard 9-to-5 life. Expect late nights, early mornings, and weird gaps in between. Many locals work multiple hospitality jobs to make it work — maybe bartending at night and guiding kayak tours by day. Embrace the hustle.
What Can You Expect to Make in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan & Northern Wisconsin?
Pay varies depending on the job, location, and season. Here’s a rough breakdown:
● Servers/Bartenders: $3-$5/hour plus tips (can easily reach $20-$30/hour or more on busy nights)
● Front Desk Staff: $12-$16/hour
● Housekeeping: $12-$18/hour
● Cooks: $14-$20/hour, more for skilled chefs
● Adventure Guides: $15-$25/hour plus tips
● Brewery/Distillery Staff: $12-$18/hour plus tips
● Maintenance/Groundskeeping: $15-$22/hour
While wages may not seem high, tips often make a huge difference — especially in bars, restaurants, and guiding jobs.
For a deeper dive into top hospitality roles, pay rates and job opportunities in the area, check out https://oysterlink.com/.
Final Thoughts
If you love people, enjoy working in fast-paced environments, and don’t mind a little unpredictability, hospitality in the U.P. and Northern Wisconsin is a goldmine of opportunity.
Sure, it’s hard work. But it’s also the kind of job where you meet unforgettable people, hear wild stories, and maybe even get paid to spend your summer on the water.
And hey, at the very least, you’ll walk away with some legendary stories of your own. The Northwoods hospitality industry is waiting for you!
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