Mackinac Island, Michigan: Sights, Occasions, and Pursuits (Updated 2024)
Mackinac Island
An island brimming with traditional charm
One could argue that Mackinac Island, Michigan, is devoid of certain elements, such as automobiles, traffic, and pollution. This is due to the 1898 ban on “horseless carriages,” or powered vehicles. The only ways to get to the island that separates Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas are by ferry or private aircraft. Take a horse-drawn carriage trip, rent a bicycle, or walk about on your own two feet. You’ll have more time to take in Mackinac’s old-world charm with its gorgeous Victorian architecture, vibrant seasonal foliage, the sound of hoof hoofs clopping, the smell of homemade fudge, and the sound of waves lapping on the coast thanks to this slower pace of life.
A History of an Island
French fur traders and later British soldiers were particularly interested in Mackinac Island because of its strategic location. In 1780, the British built Fort Mackinac. One of the most visited sights in Mackinac and the oldest building in Michigan is the exquisitely restored fort. There are tours and historical reenactments with live cannon firings conducted by interpreters dressed in period attire. Built-in 1814, Fort Holmes is a modest garrison situated at the highest point on the island. For breathtaking vistas, hike up the Point Lookout trek. Make sure you capture a picture of the beach-side cannon at British Landing, the location of the 1812 British invasion. Other fascinating historical facts: the oldest grocery store in the United States (Doud’s Market, 1884), the oldest golf course in Michigan (Wawashkamo Golf Club, 1898), and the oldest Catholic church in Michigan (Sainte Anne’s, original mission dating to 1670) are all located on Mackinac Island.
Mackinac Outdoors & Nature
Mackinac Island State Park occupies more than 80% of the 10 square kilometers of the island. There are endless photo options due to its remarkably varied topography, which includes marine caves, woods, and limestone rock formations. Snap a selfie at some of these historic limestone formations, such as Sugar Loaf, Devil’s Kitchen, Eagle Point, and Skull Cave. Arch Rock is a naturally occurring limestone arch that provides a view of Lake Huron through its archway. Enjoy the fragrance of flowering lilac bushes in the spring, hike along more than 110 kilometers of paths, take a boat ride, go fishing, kayaking, parasailing, or take a beautiful cruise while surrounded by hundreds of butterflies at the Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservancy. A walking, biking, or carriage tour with a guide is the most efficient way to see everything.
Dining, Shopping, and Lodging
With 14 confectionery stores producing enough fudge to make Mackinac Island known as America’s Fudge Capital, the smell of homemade fudge fills the air in downtown Mackinac. See how the delicious chocolate is prepared at Ryba’s, Joann’s, and Murdick’s. Make time to attend the annual Fudge Festival if you’re visiting in August. Discover the ideal mementos at 40 downtown stores, such as the unique presents at Caddywampus, Michigan specialties at Loonfeather and Balsam Shop, and handcrafted bath items at Little Luxuries of Mackinac Island. Check out the Pink Pony for dinner and beverages by the water after dark. The Grand Hotel, a National Historic Landmark constructed in 1887, and Mission Point Resort, a Condé Nast reader choice on the shores of Lake Huron, are two well-liked lodging options.