Discovering Mackinac Island: A Charming Escape in Michigan's Great Lakes

Bike around the island: Explore the scenic beauty of Mackinac Island by renting a bicycle and riding along the eight-mile loop around the perimeter of the island, taking in breathtaking views of Lake Huron and the Mackinac Bridge.

Visit Fort Mackinac: Step back in time at Fort Mackinac, a historic military outpost dating back to the American Revolution, where you can tour period buildings, watch reenactments and learn about the island's rich history.

Sample fudge: Indulge in Mackinac Island's famous fudge at one of the many local shops, where you can watch artisans handcrafting a variety of flavors, from classic chocolate to unique creations like peanut butter or maple walnut.

Hike the trails: Lace up your hiking boots and explore Mackinac Island's network of scenic trails, including the Arch Rock Trail, Sugar Loaf Trail and British Landing Nature Trail, offering stunning views of the island's natural beauty.

Visit Mackinac Island State Park: Spend the day exploring Mackinac Island State Park, a sprawling natural oasis covering over 80% of the island, with opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife spotting amidst lush forests and rocky shores.

Take a carriage tour: Enjoy a leisurely carriage tour of Mackinac Island, where you can sit back and relax while a knowledgeable guide narrates the island's history and points out key landmarks and attractions.

Visit Mackinac Island Butterfly House: Step into a tropical paradise at the Mackinac Island Butterfly House, where you can stroll among thousands of colorful butterflies, tropical plants and exotic birds in a climate-controlled atrium.

Explore downtown: Wander through downtown Mackinac Island, lined with charming shops, boutiques and restaurants housed in historic buildings, where you can find unique souvenirs, local crafts and delicious treats.

Take a ferry ride: Arrive on Mackinac Island in style by taking a ferry ride across Lake Huron from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, enjoying scenic views of the Straits of Mackinac and the Mackinac Bridge along the way.

Play golf: Tee off at one of Mackinac Island's scenic golf courses, including Wawashkamo Golf Club or The Jewel at Grand Hotel, where you can enjoy challenging play and panoramic views of Lake Huron.

Visit Grand Hotel: Experience the grandeur of Grand Hotel, a historic Victorian-era resort known for its iconic white facade, expansive grounds, and luxurious amenities, including horse-drawn carriage rides and afternoon tea on the veranda.

Relax on the beach: Unwind on Mackinac Island's sandy beaches, such as British Landing Beach or Mission Point Beach, where you can soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Huron or enjoy a picnic with stunning waterfront views.

Day trips

Mackinaw City: Take a ferry ride from Mackinac Island to Mackinaw City, located on the mainland, where you can explore attractions such as Fort Michilimackinac, Colonial Michilimackinac, and Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse. Stroll along the waterfront, visit local shops and restaurants and enjoy scenic views of the Mackinac Bridge and Straits of Mackinac.

Mackinac Bridge: Embark on a scenic drive across the Mackinac Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, connecting the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan. Stop at the Mackinac Bridge Museum to learn about the bridge's history and engineering marvels and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Huron and Lake Michigan from the bridge's observation areas.

Les Cheneaux Islands: Explore the Les Cheneaux Islands, a picturesque archipelago located east of Mackinac Island along Lake Huron's northern shore. Take a ferry or boat tour to visit islands such as Marquette, Hessel and Cedarville, where you can enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking and exploring charming waterfront communities with historic homes, shops, and restaurants.

The Woods Restaurant: Located at the historic Grand Hotel, The Woods Restaurant offers upscale dining with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors, complemented by panoramic views of the Straits of Mackinac.

The Gate House: Enjoy casual dining with a view at The Gate House, housed in a historic building overlooking the Mackinac Island harbor, offering a menu of American classics, seafood dishes and craft cocktails.

Carriage House Dining Room: Indulge in fine dining at the Carriage House Dining Room, located at the historic Iroquois Hotel, featuring elegant cuisine, impeccable service and stunning waterfront views of Lake Huron.

Mary's Bistro Draught House: Savor pub fare and craft beers at Mary's Bistro Draught House, a lively waterfront restaurant offering a diverse menu of burgers, sandwiches, seafood and local brews in a casual atmosphere.

Pink Pony: Dine al fresco at the Pink Pony, a popular waterfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood, juicy burgers and signature Pink Pony Punch, as well as live music and stunning sunset views over the harbor.

Seabiscuit Cafe: Enjoy casual dining at the Seabiscuit Cafe, located in the heart of downtown Mackinac Island, offering a menu of American comfort food, including sandwiches, salads and homemade desserts, in a charming and relaxed atmosphere.

Chuckwagon of Mackinac: Delight in traditional barbecue fare at Chuckwagon of Mackinac, featuring slow-smoked meats, savory sides and homemade sauces, as well as outdoor seating with views of the bustling Main Street.

Mission Point Resort Restaurants: Explore the dining options at Mission Point Resort, including Chianti Italian Grill, Round Island Bar and Grill and Boxwood Coffeeshop & Cafe, offering a variety of cuisines and dining experiences amid scenic surroundings.

1852 Grill Room: Dine in elegance at the 1852 Grill Room, located at Island House Hotel, offering a menu of steak and seafood dishes, as well as locally sourced ingredients and seasonal specialties, in a historic and intimate setting.