10 Reasons Why You Need to Visit Mackinac Island

          If you haven’t been to Mackinac Island and are even the least bit entertained by nature, cute architecture, history, island life, flowers, or entertainment you will want to read this. 

1. No Cars

          There are no cars on Mackinac Island.  The way that people get around is mostly by bike, on foot or horse.  It’s nice because you don’t have to worry about renting a car (it’s a pretty small island anyway).  You can rent bikes from a variety of places or bring your own.  The ferries charge a bit extra to bring a bike or if you come on a private boat you don’t have to worry about paying.  When I was there recently I saw a delivery wagon dropping off amazon packages and it was pulled by horse.  It’s just a unique experience.  Do watch out for horse droppings though and avoid “puddles.”  There is normally somebody cleaning up droppings in the street but it can get a little stinky.  

2. Flowers

          There are flowers all over the island.  You can find perfectly manicured gardens, wildflowers, and everything in-between.  The Grand Hotel also has a Secret Garden.  It’s actually pretty difficult to find so I suggest watching some TikToks or asking around.  It’s on Google Maps but it’s still hard to find the entrance.  The way I found it was just by overhearing a lady tell somebody else where it is.  I can try to explain it. If you go down by the giant chess set, walk on the wood chip path and head East.  You will pass the Woodlands Activity Center on your left.  There are tall white posts in the ground.  Turn left after the last post.  There are hedges and another wood chip path.  The entrance is right before the hedges.  Don’t take the wider path, take the skinner one.  It looks like it’s not even a trail but it is.  

3. Fudge and Sweet Treats

          the phrase “Mackinac Island fudge” probably sounds familiar to you.  The island is known for making really good fudge.  When I think of Michigan summers, I always think of fudge and ice cream.  There are plenty of places on the island to choose from when it comes to sweet treats.  Joann’s Fudge is my favorite place to get it.  It can be a little pricy but it’s worth it.  My favorite flavors are peanut butter and maple.  You need to try some when you come.  

4. Boats

          Obviously since Mackinac Island is an island you will most likely come by boat.  There is an airport on the island but it’s not for commercial flights.  The way most people come is by ferry.  You can catch the ferry in Mackinaw City, or St. Ignace.  The ferry ride isn’t too long and it’s a fun ride.  Also, on the island there is a marina with private boats.  If you have a boat, you can rent a transient slip.  I always love being around boats in general.  It’s just very relaxing.  

5. One of a Kind

          Mackinac Island is a very unique place.  Most popular vacation islands are found in oceans or seas but Mackinac is found in the Great Lakes.  The Great Lakes are the largest group of freshwater lakes on earth.  It feels like you are at an ocean but without the saltwater and sharks.  Mackinac is a truly unique place. With its lack of cars, architecture, history, scenery, shopping and restaurants, etc. its not like any other island.  The feel is completely different.  Not to mention, there are 4 seasons here so there is so much to explore.  

6. Nature

          The natural beauty of Mackinac Island is amazing.  There are beautiful rocky beaches, small caves, arch rock, wildflower fields, and so much more.  Since the island is so far north, the water is super clear and sparkly.  The elevation on the island changes as well.  There are many hills and rock formations the provide added visual interest.  

7. Shops and Restaurants

          I won’t pretend like I don’t love shopping.  I alway look forward to a good souvenir shop or local boutique when on a trip.  It’s one of my favorite things about traveling.  There are tons of shops, art galleries, and restaurants on the island to explore.  My newest discovery is Mighty Mac.  It’s an affordable cheeseburger place, if you’re looking to save some money and get good food.  I really wanted to buy this beautiful mug on my last trip but it was a bit pricy.  I kind of regret not getting it though. 

8. History

         Mackinac is full of history.  It was settled in 1671.  There are two forts on the island.  One dates all the way back to 1780.  You can find loads of historical landmarks and buildings all over the island.  The Grand Hotel was build in 1887, if you want to stay in a beautiful historical building.  Prices are pretty high but you can find them as low as $199 in the fall.  If you’re a history lover, you can’t miss these sites.  

9. Architecture

          The architecture goes hand in hand with the history on the island.  There is the beautiful Grand Hotel, which I already mentioned.  there are tons of victorian style homes you can find scattered around as well.  Practically every building is interesting in some way.  There are so many cute buildings it’s hard to not get overwhelmed.  Keep an eye out for the churches on the island as well.  They are so interesting even if you aren’t religious.  Also, when you come into Mackinaw City, I recommend crossing the Mackinac Island bridge.  It’s amazing and has set many records in the past.  It’s $4 to cross (for a car).  

10. Lighthouses

          Lastly, lighthouses are one of those quintessential things you have to see when visiting the Great Lakes.  If you are coming by ferry, you will be sure to pass by a few.  If you don’t see any you can see two on the island from this beach.  There is also a really nice one in the city of Mackinaw City.