Mackinac Island is a quintessential destination that lives out the epitome of ‘lazy days of summer’. Victorian storefronts and houses line the streets and beckon you to come visit and relax.
Have you ever been to an island where motorized vehicles are not allowed? The slow and steady clomping of the horses’ hooves tell you this is not your modern day Main Street. With bicycles loaded with luggage, Mackinac Island runs on a different set of transportation options. Horses and bicycling are popular, but of course, you can walk as much as you’d like.
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Getting to Mackinac Island
The island is located just east of the Mackinac Bridge. Taking a water vessel is the only option as there is not a bridge connecting the island to the mainland.
Shepler’s
Taking a ferry with Shepler’s is a quick, convenient and pleasurable option. The ride is about 15 minutes, but if you have the chance to take the Mighty Mac, I highly suggest it. The Mighty Mac takes a few minutes longer, is only available during certain run times, but does not cost extra. By taking this route, you will get to go under the impressive Mackinac Bridge and feel its majestic structure from an angle not everyone gets to experience.
Shepler’s has a dock in both Mackinaw City and St. Ignace. When you arrive at Shepler’s, parking attendants will guide you to your parking location. From there, you’ll walk to the ticket counter to get your round trip pass. The ferry has open seating, both outdoor and indoor, for you to choose from. The outdoor seating is wonderful and gives you a fantastic view, but note that it is a bit chillier and obviously windy. The indoor seating has air conditioning.
If you are pulling a camper or are driving an RV, call ahead and let Shepler’s know. They are so very accommodating! They offer an overflow parking lot that is just down the street. By letting them know ahead of time, they will tell you the correct lot to park in and arrange a complimentary shuttle to pick you up upon arrival.
Shepler’s 556 E. Central Ave. Mackinaw City, MI 49701
601 N. State St. Saint Ignace, MI 49781
What You’ll See on the Way to Mackinac Island
Did you know the Mackinac Bridge is the dividing line between Lake Michigan (to the west) and Lake Huron (to the east)? That is one of many facts you’ll learn from the attendants on Shepler’s ferry. The water is so beautiful, as well as the bridge, that it provides its own entertainment. Additionally, you’ll go by two lighthouses that stand alone on their own tiny islands: Round Island Light and Round Island Passage Light. As you approach Mackinac Island, you will see the majestic Grand Hotel on your left. Once you are approaching the dock, Fort Mackinac can be seen up on the hill to your right.
Grand Hotel
The Grand Hotel is a huge attraction on the island. Even if you don’t spend the night, you should still take the time to check it out. Such splendor! The hotel does charge $10 per person to walk through its interior and massive, sprawling porch. Come hungry if you’d like to take advantage of the huge buffet that is served. (no reservations are taken) If the wait is too long, or you’re just not that hungry, you can eat at one of the other restaurants inside the hotel or at The Jockey Club, just outside of the hotel.
If you are a chess player, you will definitely want to try your hand at the gigantic chess set located on the porch. While you are there, pick out your favorite view and enjoy a cold drink while relaxing on one of the many rocking chairs. Waiters and waitresses will come by to take your order.
A favorite of mine is the crazy, leaf couch. It’s a great photo op spot! The den/bar with floor to ceiling bookshelves is a favorite as well.
Grand Hotel 286 Grand Ave. Mackinac Island, MI 49757
What to do on Mackinac Island
For an island that is only 8 miles in diameter, it provides an amazing amount of things to do. Here’s the short list:
- Shop the downtown area
- Visit one or both of the forts
- Take a horse drawn carriage ride
- Drive your own horse drawn carriage
- Go on a horse riding tour
- Rent a bicycle (solo or tandem)
- Visit the arch
- Hike more than 70 miles of trails
We were on the island on July 4th which just so happens to be their annual Stone Skipping Competition. For over 50 years, this friendly, yet competitive, event has been taking place on the stony beach just west of the docks. There is an open class for children and adults followed by the professional stone skippers who come from all over the U.S. It’s quite fascinating to watch the various techniques and to see how nature puts its own twist on the challenge with the everchanging wind and waves.
Unique Destinations on Mackinac Island
As stated above, there are the tried-and-true touristy options. While you are in the downtown area, I suggest picking up a map of the island to help orient yourself. The roads and attractions are marked well, but a few of the locations can be a bit tricky to find otherwise. A few options that aren’t as well published include the following.
Hike and Explore
A short walk, via roads and trails, will take you to St. Ann’s Cemetery. With its distinctive stone arch, you’ll know you’ve come to the right place. If you’re a cemetery explorer, you’ll love scoping out these headstones that are 100+ and 200+ years old. You can even explore the Native American’s Spirit Garden.
After walking through St. Ann’s Cemetery, you’ll head south on the road to get to Skull Cave. Previously serving as an old Native American burial ground, it has a crazy story to go with it. You can’t go into the cave, but you can read all about its significance and see it from the road.
After passing by the cave, you’ll see the steps for Fort Holmes and Lookout Point. The steps are definitely a short cut worth taking. The fort is free to go through, albeit there’s not a whole lot to see inside. You can read about its history on several signs posted around the grounds and the view of Lake Huron is gorgeous. This is an ideal place to take a break, relax and even have a picnic.
What to Eat on Mackinac Island
Fudge! Need I say more? There has to be more fudge on this island per square foot than anywhere else in the world. All of the businesses are independently owned and have been that way for decades. The smell is deliciously intoxicating! Add in the smell of carmel corn, freshly baked pasteries, and cotton candy and you’ve got a handful of decisions to make. Oh, did I forget to mention all the hand-dipped ice cream choices?
Mackinac Island is known for their fudge. You really can’t go wrong with any of the shops. Not all the fudge businesses make the same flavors, so if there’s one you’re searching for or want to try, it’s worth popping into a few different locations.
Our choice for the day was Murdick’s Fudge. They’ve been making this savory sweetness since 1887. What I really liked about this place is the fact that you get to watch the fudge being made on one of the marble tables as you wait in line. So intriguing!
Murdick’s Fudge 190 S. Huron Ave. Mackinaw City, MI 49701
I mentioned earlier in the article that The Jockey Club is located across the street from the Grand Hotel. They offer ample seating under the tents and inside the restaurant. Their food is excellent. Two items we tried on the menu were the seafood bisque and a fried green tomato sandwich. Yum!
Mackinac Island is a destination that is enjoyed at a slower pace. The island vibe molds you into the mind frame to be present at the moment and to savor the experience. I’m not sure if it’s the sound of the horses, the lake breeze, or the delicious food coma. Regardless, it’s enjoyable and a place where the entire family can have fun together.
More Michigan Travel Ideas
Looking for more Michigan travel ideas? Read on about The Homestead Resort , the Grande Traverse Resort, and our Michigan vacation centering around Mackinaw City.
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