Want to get away to a simpler, more relaxed lifestyle, at least for a few days? Travel back in time to Mackinac Island, Michigan…. the summer resort destination which has something for everyone. You’ll need to take a ferry to Mackinac and transportation on the island is by bicycle or horse drawn carriage!
Tim and I have fallen in love with Mackinac Island, and we find ourselves going back every year. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do.
Things to do
Fort Mackinac – History comes alive at Fort Mackinac with cannon firing and other live demonstrations. The Fort was established during the American Revolution as an outpost, and to control the fur trade through the Straits of Mackinac. During the war of 1812, two battles were fought on the island. The historic Fort buildings are well maintained and available to tour. The Fort is open for tours daily from early May thru late October. Plan on about 2 hours to tour the Fort.
Shop and Dine – the quaint downtown area offers chic shops, and a variety of restaurants. And, did I mention fudge? Stroll the downtown area sampling melt-in-your-mouth fudge! Watch the fudge being made! It seems like there’s a fudge shop every 50 feet! I went on a taste testing spree to find the best fudge….. Murray Hotel Fudge Company wins for the creamiest fudge and the most unique flavors. My favorite flavor is the Irish Cream! Kilwin’s has fresh candied apples and Reba’s has delicious caramel corn. Try them for yourself and let me know your favorite.
Two restaurants that I recommend for dinner are The Woods and 1852 Grill Room. The Woods offers amazing fine dining. Reservations are required, and they book weeks in advance for prime times. 1852 Grill Room, located in the Island House, has delicious food, a romantic atmosphere, and a great view.
Tip – Schedule a horse drawn carriage one day prior if going to The Woods.
Relax and Watch the Boats Go By –Many of the hotels and restaurants have views of the harbor or Lake. We enjoyed the awesome views from Mission Point (right), the front lawn of Island House Hotel, and while having lunch on the patio at the Pink Pony. Lounge on the lawn at Mackinac Island State Park. Each vantage point offers a unique amazing view. The one not to miss – watching the sunset on the porch of The Grand Hotel overlooking the Straights of Mackinac…… Relax, have a cocktail (don’t forget the dress policy).
Bike around the Island – Biking around the island is a wonderful way to spend the day. The “road” hugs the coastline and has amazing views of Lake Huron and the Mackinac Bridge. There are numerous bike rental shops that provide both solo and tandem bikes for rental. It’s a little more than 8 miles around and it’s relatively flat except for one killer hill. (I confess, I walked my bike up the hill.) Don’t miss the stop at Arch Rock, a geological formation that looks like a window to Lake Huron, and the historic Saint Anne’s Church.
Tip – make sure your bike has a bumper guard. The first time we biked, my bike didn’t have a bumper guard. My daughter and Tim got some good laughs at the mud stripe marks up my back from the puddles. Of course, their bikes had bumper guards!
Travel Gear – Cute ….AND comfortable shoes! Check out the machine washable Pismo casual sneaker from Vionics! (Shown below)
Carraige tour around the Island – If biking isn’t for you, take the horse-drawn carriage tour of the island. This is a nice option to see Arch Rock and other highlights, especially in inclement weather. In cooler weather, they offer blankets, and the carriage is covered if it’s drizzling.
A Night on the town. – Our favorites are dancing to the big band sound in The Terrace Room and The Cupola Bar, both at The Grand Hotel, where they had live piano music when we were there for my birthday this year. The Grand Hotel requires semi-formal attire in the evenings; check out the dress policy on the website.
Getting There – Mackinac Island is a short ferry ride from Mackinaw City or St Ignace. I recommend making ferry reservations in advance with Shepler Ferry.
Where to Stay – There are numerous Bed and Breakfast, boutique hotels, and a few larger hotels/resorts. Here are a few recommendations. Book early ….I recommend booking two to eight months in advance.
- Elegant historic centrally located hotel – Island House
- Luxury Resort – The Grand Hotel
- Lovely Bed and Breakfast – The Cottage Inn
- Pet Friendly – Mission Point Resort
Money Saving Tips- We all like to save money without sacrificing quality!
- Check for reduced rates in September.
- Join 906Rewards and get credits for purchases at select merchants.
- Consider lodging in Mackinaw City and taking the ferry back and forth