Discover the Gems of Mackinac Island

Stepping onto Mackinac Island is like wandering into an uncharted world—strikingly familiar yet brimming with wonder. This jewel of the Great Lakes, accessible exclusively by ferry, beckoned me to leave behind my Southern roots and the typical road and air travel I knew so well. What initially seemed daunting swiftly unfolded into one of the most remarkable vacations, with these things to do at Mackinac Island in particular, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing.

Thanks to Pure Michigan for hosting my travels. As always, opinions and reviews are 100% mine and unbiased. 

Why Visit Mackinac Island?

Mackinac Island is renowned for its timeless appeal and unique charm. Accessible only by ferry, it’s a place where the past meets the present, creating a nostalgic and refreshing atmosphere. 

The island’s ban on motor vehicles means you can explore by foot, bicycle, or horse-drawn carriage, fully immersing yourself in its serene beauty and rich history.

Add this destination to your perfect North Michigan road trip.

Getting to Mackinac Island

Your adventure begins with a convenient and scenic ferry ride across Lake Huron. Shepler’s Ferry, with its picturesque route from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island, offers a stress-free start to your journey.

Park your car in Mackinaw City and board the ferry. You can leave your luggage behind, knowing it will be whisked away and delivered directly to your island lodging. 

The ferry ride itself is a preview of the beauty that awaits. That first glimpse of the island’s silhouette growing closer set the stage for adventure.

Island Transportation

Stepping onto Mackinac Island is like entering a different world. The absence of cars means the island retains a peaceful, old-world charm. For a small fee, you are carried away to a time when the clip-clop of hooves was the soundtrack of travel.

Bikes and electric scooter rentals (if medically necessary) are available to rent around town. The island has 70 miles of natural and paved trails to keep you busy.

Exploring Mackinac Island

Discovering Downtown

Mackinac Island’s downtown area is a delightful blend of old-time charm and modern amenities. Stroll through the streets and find a treasure trove of shops, boutiques, and galleries. 

Pop into Ryba’s Fudge Shops, where the heavenly aroma of freshly made fudge fills the air. Mackinac is the Fudge Capital of the World, so you can’t miss trying some. 

Watching the master creamers craft this sweet treat is a must-do experience—and tasting it is even better!

Shopping Adventures

Local boutiques and galleries showcase Mackinac Island’s magnetic charm, featuring unique artwork, high-end products, and handcrafted goods. Amongst my favorites are Pink Pony Store, Decked Out, Poppins, and Rustic Chic Boutique.

Don’t miss Doud’s Market, a family-run store that’s been a community staple for nearly a century and a half. It offers a glimpse into the island’s history and a chance to pick up local delights and souvenirs. 

Sightseeing Highlights

One of the best ways to see the island is by taking a narrated horse-drawn carriage tour with Mackinac Island Carriage Tours. This excursion offers a fascinating peek into the island’s history and showcases exquisite Victorian homes wrapped in floral beauty and immaculate lawns. 

Stops include Surrey Hills Museum, Avenue of Flags, and the awe-inspiring Arch Rock.

For those seeking a serene and intimate experience, join a Sip and Sail cruise. This unique cruise pairs the golden hues of sunset with refreshing cocktails, offering a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the island.

Anglers will find joy in the abundant fishing opportunities, while golfers can challenge themselves at The Jewel, a golf course at the Grand Hotel that’s as unique as scenic.

Mackinac Island State Park

Step into history at Fort Mackinac, a bastion of American heritage within the Mackinac Island State Park. Costumed interpreters and interactive exhibits bring to life stories of the past, making it a rich educational and cultural adventure for visitors of all ages. 

Special kids’ quarters feature interactive games and hands-on exhibits.

Fun Fact: Mackinac Island, established in 1895, is the second oldest national park in the country. Twenty years later, the park was transferred to the state and became the first Michigan State Park.

Eating at Seabiscuit Cafe

Nestled in the heart of downtown, Seabiscuit Cafe is a cozy spot perfect for grabbing a bite. The menu boasts a variety of delicious options, from hearty breakfasts to light lunches. 

The savory baked Cheese Crock served with warm garlic croutons, is a great starter, perfect for sharing. I chowed down on the World-Famous Derby Burger, with smoky bacon and BBQ sauce on a toasted brioche roll. 

Seabiscuit’s warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a great place to relax and refuel (or even watch your favorite sporting events) before continuing your island adventure. 

Staying at the Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel is Mackinac Island’s crown jewel, exuding elegance and history. Known for having the world’s longest porch, the hotel offers sweeping views of the Straits of Mackinac.

Staying at The Grand is like stepping back in time, with its classic architecture and luxurious ambiance.

Room Types and Highlights

Grand Hotel offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every traveler and at various prices. From standard rooms to luxury suites, each is uniquely decorated with a blend of historic charm and modern comfort, thanks to Dorothy Draper’s eclectic and remarkable style. 

Rooms (388 of them!) feature period furnishings, with many offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, adding a touch of natural beauty to your stay.

Fun Fact: Six US Presidents, author Mark Twain, and inventor Thomas Edison, amongst others, have stayed at the Grand Hotel.

Fun Fact #2: The 1980 film, Somewhere in Time Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour) filmed on location here. There is now a fan club and cult-like following that meet annually.

Amenities and Experiences

Guests at the Grand Hotel are privileged to enjoy a range of exclusive amenities, including fine dining, a full-service spa, and an 18-hole golf course.

The hotel’s dining options are exceptional, with each meal offering a culinary experience that highlights local ingredients and flavors, a privilege reserved for esteemed guests. You’ll have 13 restaurants and bars to choose from.

Amid the lush grandeur of the Grand Hotel’s Fort Mackinac Tea Room, lunch transcends into an experience of its own. A perfect combination of tomato basil bisque and tuna sandwich on sourdough hits the lunchtime hunger pains and is just the right amount of food.

Staying at Mission Point Resort

On Lake Huron, the award-winning Mission Point Resort, a harbinger of tranquility and refinement, is another excellent choice for lodging. Though Mackinac Island reveres the olden days, Mission Point cradles the modern traveler with amenities cohesively intertwined in luxury. 

Hotel Amenities and Spa

Onsite eateries include Round Island Bar & Grill, a beautiful place to enjoy breakfast, while the evening brings sophistication to Chianti, paying homage to northern Italy.

Sharing an Antipasti platter sets the tone, while house-made pastas, like the Fettuccine a la Carbonara (crispy pancetta, egg-cream sauce) or the Pumpkin Gnocchi (browned butter sauce and crispy sage), become the stars of your dinner.

Mission Point Resort offers a stellar spa, Lakeside Spa & Salon. This oasis of wellness is relaxation meets rejuvenation. You can choose from an array of skin treatments, massages, and a hair and nail salon.

You’ll also find bike rentals, glow golf under the stars, tennis courts, and a complimentary kids’ club.

Fun Facts About Mackinac Island

• Mackinac Island is a seasonal destination, with a population of around 3,000 workers during the warmer months and only 400 residents year-round.
• The island spans four square miles and welcomes 10,000 to 25,000 visitors annually during peak season.
• The island’s season runs from April through October, after which it prepares for the sometimes brutal winters.

Mackinac Island is a Dreamy Getaway

Mackinac Island is a testament to the quintessential American family vacation—pristine, inviting, and full of discovery. Everything from its award-winning lodging options to its delectable cuisine, from its rich history to its vibrant art scene, contributes to the island’s allure.

You might discover, as I did, that Mackinac Island is not merely a destination but also a vivid chapter in the story of the best places you have ever visited.

Read more of our Michigan suggestions here:

24 Hours in Ann Arbor

Alpena: What you Need to Know

A Perfect Michigan Road Trip