A Weekend on Mackinac Island
Transportation
Mackinac Island has been car-free for over 125 years and remains the only car-free location in the US. Since cars have become so ingrained in our lifestyle, I want to dedicate the start of this itinerary to how to get to the island and how to travel around it.
Accessing the Island - Boat
The most popular way to access Mackinac Island is through the ferries that depart from St. Ignace (at the north end of Mackinac Bridge) or Mackinac City (at the south end of Mackinac Bridge). There are many parking options there. The ferry company includes free off-site parking lots with a shuttle that takes you to the ferry. The ferry website outlines these options.
If the ferry isn't for you, you can tkae a private boat to Mackinac Island.
Accessing the Island - Plane
Mackinac Island does have an airport. The airport is called Mackinac Island Airport and is easily accessible.
Getting Around the Island
Visitors generally travel around the island by foot, bicycle, horse, or horse-drawn taxi. You are welcome to bring your own bike onto the island. If this isn't an option, there are many locations to rent a bike on the island, or your hotel may have bicycles available for guests. In regards to riding horses, there are several locations on the island to take a trail ride through Mackinac Island State Park.
Day 1
Ride the Ferry Over
As mentioned in the section above, the ferry is the most popular way to arrive on Mackinac Island. That's also how I did it! We took one of the morning ferries and, after boarding, were on the island about 25 minutes later.
Upon arrival, we took a horse-drawn taxi with our luggage to our hotel. We were too early to check in but were able to leave our luggage.
Main Street
After checking in to the hotel, we headed into town for lunch. Mackinac's Main Street is gorgeous and has many boutiques, fudge shops, and restaurants to wander through. If you want a map for your stay, the Mackinac Island Tourist Information Booth is across from the Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry Dock and provides maps and guides.
We had lunch at the Pink Pony, one of Mackinac's most iconic restaurants. If they have room aim to be seated on their patio for a great view over the lake.
Biking Mackinac Island
Mackinac's most famous bike path is 8.2 miles and takes you around the whole island. It takes about 1 hour to bike or 2.5-4 hours to walk. It's a great way to see the island's natural beauty, and it is almost entirely flat. The trail is well marked and easy to follow. It's an easy-going trail for every kind of biker!
This link outlines the main highlights of the trail that you should look out for:
One that I want to point out is Arch Rock. It is visible from the path, but getting off your bike and hiking the staircase (207 steps) to see the rock from above is worth it.
If you're renting a bike, there are several places to do this on Main Street. These include Mackinac Island Bike Shop, Mackinac Wheels, and Ryba's Bicycle Rentals.
Enjoy an afternoon sweet
Mackinac is famous for fudge! There are 13 fudge shops on this small island, and a favorite activity for visitors is sampling all the options. The most iconic is Original Murdick's Fudge. It is the original fudge place on the island and opened in 1887.
Another popular option is Joann's due to its diversity of flavors. It currently offers 29 flavors made daily in its shop.
Waterfront Dinner
The Carriage House Restaurant attached to the Iroqouis Hotel is a must for fine dining! The restaurant was one of the most relaxing places we ate at during the whole trip.
Day 2
Fort Mackinac
This morning you'll tour the historic Fort Mackinac. This visit will provide insight into life on old Mackinac and Mackinac's historical significance. A single-day admission ticket to the fort costs $15.50.
Visit Mackinac Island's Grand Hotel
The Grand Hotel was built in 1887 and is one of Mackinac's most iconic landmarks. Even if you're not staying here, it is well worth a visit. The hotel charges a small fee of $10 for non-guests to visit, which allows visitors to see the hotel, grands, and the world's longest porch. The porch is 660 feet from end to end! It is a great place to take a moment and enjoy the wonderful weather.
The gardens and landscaping are gorgeous, and one of the most fun places to meander around.
If you want to see some views, visit the Cupola Bar. It sits at the very top of the Grand Hotel and offers panoramic views of the Straits of Mackinac and the Mackinac Bridge.
Need More?
Hiking and Biking on the Island
There are a few ways to spend your afternoon based on your interests. If you want to bike around the island more, there are several other train options throughout Mackinac Island State Park. The Tranquil Bluff Trail with mountain bikes is a popular option.
The link below outlines several trail options:
Horse Carriage Ride
If you prefer, you can take a horse carriage ride. These start on main street and take visitors throughout the island, providing commentary.
Enjoy Main Street
If you want to relax and enjoy the waterfront, several good taprooms and cafes are along the main street. A few recommendations -
Get out on the water
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