Mackinac Island Travel Guide

Explore Mackinac Island with our comprehensive tour guide featuring attractions, food, accommodations, safety tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is a small island located in Lake Huron, just off the northern coast of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. The island is known for its natural beauty, charming Victorian architecture, and lack of motorized vehicles. Visitors can only get around the island on foot, bicycle, or horse-drawn carriage, which adds to the island’s unique experience.

List of Places to Visit in Mackinac Island

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Mackinac Island has a rich history and offers a variety of museums and historical sites to explore. The most popular attractions include:

  • Fort Mackinac: This 18th-century fort was constructed by the British during the American Revolution and was later used by the Americans during the War of 1812.
  • Historic Downtown: The downtown area is filled with historic buildings, unique shops, and restaurants.
  • The Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum: This museum features paintings, photographs, and other forms of art inspired by Mackinac Island.
  • Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory: This indoor butterfly garden features hundreds of species of butterflies and tropical birds.
  • The Island House Museum: This museum is located in a historic hotel and showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the history of Mackinac Island.

Natural Attractions of Mackinac Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mackinac Island is a nature lover’s paradise, with plenty of outdoor adventures to enjoy. Some popular natural attractions include:

  • Arch Rock: This natural limestone arch offers breathtaking views of Lake Huron.
  • The Mackinac Island State Park: This park covers over 80% of the island and features miles of hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks.
  • The Butterfly House and Insect World: This outdoor attraction features a butterfly garden, an insect museum, and a petting zoo.
  • The Mackinac Island Carriage Tours: A popular way to explore the island, this tour takes you through 300 years of island history and offers a variety of routes to choose from.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is known for its scenic hiking and biking trails that take you through the natural beauty of the island. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • The Lake Shore Boulevard Trail: This 8-mile trail takes you along the scenic shoreline of Lake Huron and offers breathtaking views of the Straits of Mackinac.
  • The Tranquil Bluff Trail: This 2-mile trail winds through the woods and takes you to the top of a bluff where you can enjoy spectacular views of the lake and the mainland.
  • The M-185 Loop Trail: This 8-mile loop takes you around the perimeter of the island and offers stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge, the Round Island Lighthouse, and the Mackinac Island harbor.

Best Things to Do in Mackinac Island: Activities and Tours

Aside from exploring the island’s natural beauty and historical sites, there are plenty of other activities and tours to enjoy on Mackinac Island. Some of the best things to do include:

  • Take a Sunset Cruise: Enjoy stunning views of the sunset over Lake Huron while sipping on a cocktail on a sunset cruise.
  • Visit The Grand Hotel: A trip to Mackinac Island is not complete without a visit to the historic Grand Hotel. Take a tour of the hotel, enjoy high tea, or see a show in the theater.
  • Experience the Butterfly House and Insect World: This family-friendly attraction features a butterfly garden, an insect museum, and a petting zoo that is sure to delight visitors of all ages.
  • Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour: Explore the island’s natural beauty and history in a horse-drawn carriage tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mackinac Island

If you have a week to spend on Mackinac Island, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive on the island and explore the downtown area
Day 2 Visit Fort Mackinac and the historic sites in the downtown area
Day 3 Take a bike tour of the island and enjoy the natural beauty of Mackinac Island
Day 4 Take a sunset cruise and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Huron
Day 5 Visit The Grand Hotel and enjoy high tea or see a show in the theater
Day 6 Explore the Butterfly House and Insect World
Day 7 Take a horse-drawn carriage tour and enjoy your last day on the island

Food and Drink Scene of Mackinac Island

Must-Try Dishes

Mackinac Island is known for its delicious food and unique dishes. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Fudge: No trip to Mackinac Island is complete without trying the island’s famous fudge. There are numerous stores offering countless flavors to choose from.
  • Whitefish: This local fish is commonly served in restaurants on the island, and it’s worth trying either grilled or fried.
  • Pasties: These savory baked pastries are filled with meats and vegetables and are a popular snack on the island.
  • Cornish Pasty: These delicious pastries are filled with beef, potatoes, and carrots and are a must-try when visiting Mackinac Island.

Local Beverages

Mackinac Island offers a wide variety of beverages for visitors to try. Here are some of the must-try local beverages:

  • Mackinac Island Fudge Hot Chocolate: This hot chocolate is made with the island’s famous fudge and is the perfect treat for a chilly day.
  • Mackinac Island Bloody Mary: This spicy drink is made with fresh tomato juice, vodka, and spices and is a great way to start your day on the island.
  • Mackinac Island Craft Beer: The island is home to several breweries, offering unique craft beers for visitors to enjoy.

Where to Stay in Mackinac Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mackinac Island offers a variety of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses for visitors to choose from. Some of the best options include:

  • The Grand Hotel: This iconic hotel is one of the most famous and luxurious options on the island.
  • The Mission Point Resort: This resort is located on the east side of the island and offers stunning views of Lake Huron.
  • The Harbour View Inn: This historic inn is located in the heart of the downtown area and offers easy access to the island’s attractions.
  • The Main Street Inn and Suites: This budget-friendly option is located on the main street of the downtown area and offers comfortable accommodations at an affordable price.

What to Buy in Mackinac Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Mackinac Island offers a variety of unique souvenirs and local products to bring home as a reminder of your trip. Here are some of the best options:

  • Fudge: This sweet treat is the perfect souvenir and is available in countless flavors.
  • Mackinac Island T-Shirts and Sweatshirts: Show off your love for the island with a Mackinac Island t-shirt or sweatshirt.
  • Local Art and Handicrafts: Many of the island’s shops sell local art and handicrafts, including jewelry, pottery, and paintings.
  • Postcards and Magnets: Pick up a postcard or magnet featuring a scenic view of the island to add to your collection.

Local Culture and Customs of Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island has a unique culture and customs that visitors should be aware of. Here are some important things to know:

  • No Motorized Vehicles: There are no cars or other motorized vehicles allowed on the island, which adds to the island’s peaceful atmosphere.
  • Horses are revered: Horses play an important role on the island and are treated with respect and care.
  • The island’s history: The island played a key role in the history of the Great Lakes region, and visitors should take the time to learn about the island’s history and culture.

Best Time to Visit Mackinac Island

The best time to visit Mackinac Island is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and all of the island’s attractions are open. However, visitors should be prepared for crowds and higher prices during the peak season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mackinac Island

Do:

  • Do explore the island on foot or by bike: This is the best way to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and take in the sights and sounds of the island.
  • Do try the island’s famous fudge: You can’t visit Mackinac Island without trying the island’s famous fudge.
  • Do learn about the island’s history: The island played a key role in the history of the Great Lakes region, and visitors should take the time to learn about the island’s history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Don’t bring your car: Cars are not allowed on the island, so don’t bother bringing one.
  • Don’t ignore safety precautions: Visitors should be careful when hiking or biking on the island to avoid accidents and injuries.
  • Don’t litter: Visitors should respect the island’s natural beauty and dispose of their trash properly.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is a very safe destination, with a low crime rate and a strong sense of community. Visitors should still take basic safety precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings, locking their rooms when leaving, and avoiding secluded areas at night.

Health in Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island has a small medical center that can provide basic medical care to visitors. Visitors should also be aware of the island’s high pollen count and should take precautions if they suffer from allergies.

Getting to Mackinac Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mackinac Island is only accessible by boat or plane. Visitors can take a ferry from both the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan, or they can fly into the island’s small airport. Some transportation options to consider include:

Airports Near Mackinac Island

  • Mackinac Island Airport: This small airport is located on the southern end of the island and offers daily flights to and from the mainland.

Bus Stations Near Mackinac Island

  • Indian Trails Bus Station: This bus station is located in St. Ignace, Michigan, and offers bus service to several destinations in the upper peninsula and the lower peninsula of Michigan.

Other Options

  • Ferry Services: Several ferry companies offer service to Mackinac Island from both the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan.

How to Get Around in Mackinac Island

The best way to get around Mackinac Island is by bike or on foot. Visitors can also take a horse-drawn carriage tour to explore the island’s natural beauty and historical sites. Taxis and shuttle buses are also available for visitors with special needs or limited mobility.

Where to Go Next from Mackinac Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mackinac Island is a great starting point for exploring the rest of Michigan and the Great Lakes region. Some nearby destinations and excursions to consider include:

  • The Mackinac Bridge: This iconic bridge spans the straits of Mackinac, connecting the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan.
  • The City of Mackinac Island: The mainland city of Mackinac Island offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions for visitors to explore.
  • Pictured Rocks: This stunning lakeshore area is located in the upper peninsula of Michigan and is known for its scenic cliffs and rock formations.
  • Tahquamenon Falls: This beautiful waterfall is located in the upper peninsula of Michigan and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.

Conclusion

Mackinac Island is a unique and charming destination that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and foodies alike. With its charming Victorian architecture, natural beauty, and lack of motorized vehicles, it offers a truly immersive vacation experience. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical sites, delicious food, or relaxing accommodations, Mackinac Island has something for everyone.

Map of Mackinac Island Map of Mackinac Island The Grand Hotel The Grand Hotel Arch Rock Arch Rock Mackinac Island's main street Mackinac Island's main street