Why Go to Mackinac Island
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Mackinac Island is like stepping back in time. Cars have been banned here for more than a century, so you'll get around by horse-drawn carriage, bicycle or on foot, to the clip-clop of hooves and the scent of fresh fudge. The island sits in Lake Huron, in the Straits of Mackinac between Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas, and its Victorian charm makes it one of the Midwest's most beloved getaways.
Relax in a rocking chair on the famous front porch of the Grand Hotel, said to be the longest in the world. Tour Fort Mackinac, an 18th-century military outpost with costumed interpreters and cannon firings, then bike or carriage ride to Arch Rock, a natural limestone arch high above the turquoise water. Ride the 8-mile road around the island's shoreline, browse the shops on Main Street and bring home some of the island's famous fudge.
Ferries run from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace, with great views of the Mackinac Bridge on the way. The island is busiest in summer and quietest in shoulder season. I'll book your ferry and a charming inn or historic hotel and plan your island days.
BEST FOR
Families, couples, cyclists, history buffs and anyone who loves a step back in time
BEST MONTHS
June to August
EXPLORE
- Downtown: Main Street shops, restaurants and ferry docks.
- West Bluff: Grand Hotel and Victorian cottages.
- East Bluff: Quiet cottages with views.
- State Park: Trails and natural formations.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Mackinac Island
North America › Midwest › USA › Michigan
Horse-drawn carriages, famous fudge and Victorian charm with no cars allowed.
Lake & River
Historical & Heritage
Biking
Quiet
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Stay overnight if you can; once the day-trippers leave on the last ferries, the island becomes peaceful and magical.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Take the tour early in your visit to get your bearings.
Carriage Tour
A narrated horse-drawn carriage tour of the island's history and highlights.
Rent a bike near the ferry docks and stop at the beaches along the way.
Island Bike Loop
Ride the scenic 8.2-mile loop around the island on M-185, America's only state highway without cars.
Watch fudge being made on marble slabs.
Fudge Tasting
Main Street's famous fudge shops have been making this treat for generations.
Time your visit for a cannon or rifle firing.
Fort Mackinac
A historic fort with reenactments, cannon firings and sweeping views.
Non-guests can visit for a fee; enjoy lunch or lemonade on the porch.
Grand Hotel Porch
The famous Grand Hotel boasts one of the world's longest porches.
A legendary Victorian hotel with the famous porch, elegant rooms and formal dining.
Grand Hotel
West Bluff
Hotel Tags
A lakefront resort with lawns, a spa and stunning views.
Mission Point Resort
Mission Point
Hotel Tags
The island's oldest hotel, with charming rooms and a lakefront location.
Island House Hotel
Main Street
Hotel Tags
A waterfront hotel with beautiful views and an acclaimed restaurant.
Hotel Iroquois
Main Street
Hotel Tags
A historic inn with spacious grounds and a peaceful atmosphere.
Inn at Stonecliffe
West Bluff
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Mackinac Island
High 41°F · Low 30°F · Rain 2.5 in
Most businesses close for the winter.
The best time to visit Mackinac Island is June through August, when the island is lively and all attractions are open. May and September are quieter, while fall brings beautiful colors. Many businesses close in winter.
Best Times to Visit Mackinac Island
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Mackinac Island's dining ranges from casual cafés to elegant restaurants.
- Fudge: Main Street's fudge shops are a must.
- Whitefish: Try fresh Great Lakes whitefish.
- Must-try: Fudge, whitefish, pasties and a Grand Hotel Pecan Ball.
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No Cars
Motor vehicles are banned on the island, so leave your car on the mainland.
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Walking
The downtown area is compact and easy to explore on foot.
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Horse-Drawn Taxis
Horse-drawn taxis provide transportation around the island.
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Bikes
Bikes are the most popular way to get around; rentals are available near the ferry docks.
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Ferries
Ferries from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace reach the island in about 15 to 20 minutes.
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Flying In
Pellston Regional Airport (PLN) is about 20 minutes from Mackinaw City, while Detroit and Grand Rapids are a longer drive.
Most travelers drive or fly to Mackinaw City or St. Ignace and take a ferry to the island. Once you're here, bikes, horse-drawn carriages and walking are the only ways to get around.
Getting Around Mackinac Island
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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