Mackinac Island is home to a rich history. It sits in the Straits of Mackinac and visiting is like stepping back in time.
The main way is via a short (15-20 minutes) ferry ride from either Mackinaw City or St. Ignace. If you sail from St. Ignace you will drive over the famous Mackinac Bridge!
How To Get To Mackinac Island
Fort Mackinac
This historic fort above Marquette Park was the headquarters for Mackinac National Park until 1895. Fort Mackinac is now still managed as part of the larger Mackinac Island State Park.
The Tea Room
Fort Mackinac is home to The Tea Room, which is an informal cafe operated by The Grand Hotel. The patio has an amazing view and it is a great place to grab lunch.
The gardens at The Grand Hotel are filled with perennials and are at their peak during the late spring and summer. You don't have to be staying here to enjoy it.
If you're visiting Mackinac Island during the summer months, then you can expect very long days. Take advantage of the daylight and go for a walk in the evening along the boardwalk.
Downtown
Fun Tours
The most popular activity on Mackinac Island is a horse-drawn carriage tour but in the summer months, Great Turtle Kayak Tours offers kayak and paddleboard rentals.
A popular activity on Mackinac Island is golfing. Greens of Mackinac at Mission Point Resort has a 18-hole putting course on the edge of Lake Huron, suitable for the whole family.
You can get a rented bike and bike ride over to Arch Rock or to the Lake Shore Nature Trail. The trails are nice and flat, so don't worry about the ride being too strenuous.