Mackinac Island, Michigan – Best Guide

Visiting Mackinac Island, Michigan? Explore the Crown Jewel of the Great Lakes and plan the perfect trip to the carless island with this guide. Things to do, where to stay, and must-see spots!

How to Get to Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island, often called the Crown Jewel of the Great Lakes, sits between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas. Since there’s no bridge to the mainland, most people get to the island by taking a ferry.

If you’re flying in, the nearest airport is Pellston Regional Airport (PLN) in Pellston, Michigan, about 15 miles south of Mackinaw City. From there, you can take a shuttle and then a ferry to reach Mackinac Island.

Car – You can not reach the island by car; the streets of Mackinac Island have been car-free for over 100 years.

Ferries run from both Mackinaw City (in the Lower Peninsula) and St. Ignace (in the Upper Peninsula). Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry and Arnold Transit Company offer rides to and from the island about every 30 minutes during the main tourist season, which lasts from late April to the end of October. There is parking at the docks, but it is limited, so try to get on the early ferry.

Mackinac Island Transportation

Horses rule the roads on Mackinac Island. Watch out for horses and bikes, especially downtown where it gets busy. With no cars allowed, you can get around by horse-drawn carriage, horseback, bike (no e-bikes), or simply by walking.

Biking is the easiest and fastest way to see the island. Bring your own bike or rent one from the many shops on Main Street. Tandem bikes are especially popular and make for a fun ride around the island. Rental prices range from $17 per hour to $94 per day for a single-speed bike, and $25 per hour to $122 per day for a tandem.

If your hotel is outside of downtown, you can use a horse taxi to get to and from your accommodations.

Fares range from $9 to $11.50 each way, depending on the distance. Some places, like the Grand Hotel, even include carriage pick-up and drop-off with your stay.

Ferry Ticket Type	Prices
Adult	$38
Children	$26
Pets & Infants	Free
Bikes	$21

Where to Stay

Mackinac Island is home to a wide range of historic hotels and bed & breakfasts, each of which is family-owned and operated. There are no cookie-cutter chain hotels on Mackinac Island. For more budget-friendly options, you can get a hotel on the mainland in either Mackinac City or St. Ignace.

Best Accommodations on Mackinac Island

• The Grand Hotel ★★★★★ $$$$$ This historic hotel is known for its unique rooms and top-notch service. Meals are a special occasion, and guests are asked to dress up. Classic traditions like Afternoon Tea in the Parlor and evening dancing in formal attire are still part of the experience.
• Lilac Tree Suites ★★★★ $$$$ This all-suite hotel is right in the heart of downtown, close to the ferry docks. Choose from spacious master suites with big balconies, two-bedroom suites with three queen beds, or Harbor View suites.
• Murray Hotel ★★★ $$$ This hotel has a charming, old-fashioned feel, but its amenities are up to date for today’s travelers.

Dog Friendly Places to Stay on Mackinac Island

• Mission Point Resort ★★★★ $$$ On the east side of the island, Mission Point is a great place for you and your dog to enjoy beautiful sunrise views. The resort also features a huge Great Lawn and outdoor dining areas where dogs are welcome.
• Park Place Suites ★★★★ $$$$ Stay in the heart of downtown at Park Place Suites. With just three rooms available, it’s best to reserve early.
• Sunset Condos: ★★★ $$ For a peaceful retreat, try Sunset Condos at the west end of the island near Stonecliffe. It’s a relaxing spot to unwind away from the crowds.

Are you ready to explore Mackinac Island? There’s a lot of culture and interesting landmarks to discover here.

Day 1: Exploring Downtown & Biking Around the Island

Start your first day by walking along Main Street and exploring the shops and restaurants downtown. Consider having a meal before you set out on a bike ride around the island. Along the way, you will pass historic sites like Arch Rock and British Landing. If you have extra time, check out the trails in the center of the island. Afterward, visit the Butterfly House & Insect World to see thousands of colorful butterflies.

Day 2: Historic Sites

A great way to learn about the island’s history is by taking a horse-drawn carriage tour. The guides share interesting stories as you ride. After the tour, visit the Grand Hotel for a drink on its huge outdoor patio. Remember to follow the hotel’s dress code. Take a walk around the grounds to see the secret garden. Then, visit Fort Mackinac, which served as a military outpost from the late 1700s to the late 1800s.