There are enough things to do in the Mackinac, Michigan area to keep a visitor busy for weeks. For shorter visits, there are several activities that should not be missed.
One of the charms of this tiny island is that no motorized vehicles are allowed. All travel is done via bicycle, horse, or on foot. That, and the island’s predominantly Victorian architecture, make a visit here feel like a trip back in time.
One of the island’s highlights is the Grand Hotel, which was built in 1887 and is featured in the film Somewhere in Time, starring the late Christopher Reeve. Overnight stays are not cheap, but a day visit is a great alternative. There is a charge to walk around the hotel’s lobbies and grounds. Some of that fee can be used as a credit toward a meal in the hotel’s restaurant.
A favorite activity is to sit on the world famous porch (said to be the longest in the world) and enjoy the stunning views of the Straits of Mackinac while sipping a cup of tea or a cocktail.
Another spot to visit on the island is the historic Fort Mackinac, which was built by the British in 1780. Visitors can tour original buildings that contain museum displays and dwellings furnished as they would have been back then. Cannons are set off, children are taught how to play with Victorian toys and lunch is served at the Teahouse overlooking the marina.
Arch rock is the most spectacular of the area’s many unusual rock formations. Visitors can get there via bike, or by taking one of the horse and buggy tours that are available. Arch rock is situated within the bounds of the State Park, which occupies 80% of the island and is full of nature trails, hiking paths and wooded bike trails.
Mackinaw City, Michigan
Mackinaw City, on the southern end of the Mackinac Bridge, is one of the two places where visitors can board a ferry to Mackinac Island.
This town is where the original Fort Michilimackinac stood before it was disassembled and moved to Mackinac Island. There is now a detailed reproduction in its spot with ongoing archaeology. A visit to this historic site is a great way to see what life was like back in 1715 when the fort was built. Staff in costume do samples of cooking and spin wool. A blacksmith forges and rifles are shot off.
Visitors can watch archaeologists at work and ask questions. Also on site is the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, where visitors can climb the light tower and look across the Straits.
Mill Creek, about a mile away, is another part of the Fort Mackinac Historic Park. This working reproduction of the old mill was also the sight of a farm and dwellings, which have been reconstructed. There are hiking trails, interactive exhibits, zip lines through the forest and a climbing wall.
Other sights to visit in Mackinaw City include the recently opened McGulpin’s Point Lighthouse, Trail’s End, the town's public swimming beach, Mackinaw Crossings shopping area, the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum, and Thunder Falls Family Water Park.
Wilderness State Park
Directly west of Mackinaw City is Wilderness State Park. For visitors who enjoy camping, this park offers stunning lakeside camping spots. It is also possible to rent one of several rustic cabins.
The park offers miles of wooded hiking trails, and many more miles of beach hiking. Sturgeon Bay, at the southern end of the park, is one of the areas most beautiful beaches. Visitors can swim here, or sit and enjoy a picnic or a sunset walk. Along the beaches are nesting areas for the endangered Piping Plover.
The Mackinac Bridge
The historic, five-mile long bridge that connects the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan is a tourist destination in and of itself. The Mackinac Bridge was built in 1957 to replace the State Ferry System after many decades of debate. A drive across offers stunning views of the Straits of Mackinac and Mackinac Island.
Labor Day weekend is the only time foot traffic over the bridge is allowed. The annual Labor Day Bridge Walk attracts visitors from all over the country.
St. Ignace, Michigan
Across the bridge lies St. Ignace. This is the only other ferry port available for tourists who wish to visit Mackinac Island.
Some activities in St. Ignace include Castle Rock, a 200 foot tall natural rock formation that can be climbed, the Carolina Barn Stormers, which offers bi-plane rides, and Starline Sunset Cruises, which go under the bridge and near Mackinac Island.
This is a taste of what the Straits of Mackinac area has to offer. For a blend of historic and recreational activities, this is a great spot that travelers of all kinds can enjoy.
More information:
Greetings from Mackinac Island
Vacation in Mackinaw, Michigan: Top Rated Hotels in Mackinaw City
Wendy Ponte - Wendy Ponte has been a freelance writer for 13 years and has written numerous articles on topics ranging from parenting and childbirth to ...
