TheTravel has named Marquette No. 1 in its list of “10 Iconic U.S. Small Towns You Should Visit This Winter.”

“The city of Marquette is the perfect winter destination for outdoor adventurers,” the travel site wrote at www.thetravel.com. “Here visitors can take part in snow activities in the nearby forests and lakes or explore the historic town center.”

It noted that visitors can experience the UP200 sled dog race, with the approximate 200-mile race set for Feb. 17-19.

According to race organizers, the UP200 will start in downtown Marquette with festivities punctuated by excited dogs getting ready to hit the trails, and this year, end at the Ojibwa Casino in Harvey for a safer — for the dogs — finish.

Marquette’s write-up had a photo of the popular laser show at the Lower Harbor Ore Dock, which attracted many people over the holiday season.

Marquette was listed first over other desirable towns, which in order of finish were: Gatlinburg, Tennesse; Cape May, New Jersey; Frisco, Texas; Beaufort, North Carolina; Stowe, Vermont; Bar Harbor, Maine; Estes Park, Colorado; Breckenridge, Colorado; and Leavenworth, Washington.

Marquette has made several lists over the years, such as the “25 Best Places to Retire” by CNN Money and the “Smartest Cities” by the company Zippia, a website focused on career insights.

As long as there are numerous recreational opportunities, a clean environment, fun events and other amenities, we suspect Marquette will continue to make such lists in the foreseeable future.