Consider this your ultimate Mackinac Island Travel Guide!
Stepping off the ferry onto Mackinac Island, Michigan feels like walking into a living time capsule. Motor vehicles have been banned here since 1898, replacing engine noise with bicycle bells, horse-drawn carriages, and views of Lake Huron.
Located in the Straits of Mackinac between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, this 3.8-square-mile island is one of the Midwest’s premier summer destinations. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or planning a weekend getaway, here are the 10 best things to do on Mackinac Island. Also, be sure to follow along on my Instagram for more of my content!
1. Bike the 8.2-Mile Highway Perimeter (M-185)
M-185 holds the record as the only state highway in the United States where cars are strictly prohibited. Rent a bicycle downtown or bring your own on the ferry to pedal the flat, paved 8.2-mile loop. You’ll enjoy continuous shoreline views, pebble beaches, and cool breezes off Lake Huron.
2. Marvel at Arch Rock
Located within Mackinac Island State Park, Arch Rock is a naturally carved limestone formation standing 146 feet above the water. You can reach it via a scenic coastal ride along M-185 or take the staircase hike up from the shore for panoramic photo spots.
3. Sample Hand-Poured Mackinac Island Fudge
No visit to Mackinac Island is complete without tasting its famous sweet treat. The island’s historic candy shops pour fudge daily on large marble slabs. Watch confectioners in action at iconic shops like Murdick’s Fudge, Ryba’s Fudge Shops, and Joann’s Fudge.
4. Relax on the Grand Hotel Front Porch
First opened in 1887, the historic Grand Hotel features the world’s longest porch at 660 feet. Non-hotel guests can purchase a porch pass to wander the manicured gardens, relax in a rocking chair, and enjoy Afternoon Tea or cocktails.
5. Explore Historic Fort Mackinac
Perched high on the limestone bluffs, Fort Mackinac served as a key military post for both British and American troops during the War of 1812. Today, costumed interpreters conduct live rifle and cannon firing demonstrations alongside interactive museum exhibits inside 18th-century stone quarters. Best views of the island!
6. Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour
Because personal motorized vehicles aren’t allowed, horse-drawn carriages are the primary mode of transportation. Book a guided carriage tour with Mackinac Island Carriage Tours to learn about local history while trotting past Victorian summer cottages and through state park trails.
7. Visit the Original Butterfly House & Insect World
Located near Mission Point Resort, The Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House is the third-oldest live butterfly display in the nation. Walk through a 1,800-square-foot tropical garden where hundreds of tropical butterflies fly freely among lush plants. Pro tip: Go early in your trip to be able to use your wristband for the entirety of your trip. We went here every day!
9. Stroll along the Historic Boardwalk & Windermere Point
Located on the southwest tip of downtown, Windermere Point offers wide-open lawn space along the water that’s perfect for relaxing, skipping stones, or watching Great Lakes freighters pass through the straits. Windermere Dog House offers hot dogs and other delicious lunch/snack items. From here, take a stroll along the harbor boardwalk past historic downtown homes, marina docks, and scenic waterfront views without the crowds of Main Street.
9. grab drinks at The Pink Pony
Head to the The Pink Pony, a famous downtown waterfront bar and grill, for lunch or dinner. Grab a seat on the outdoor patio overlooking Haldimand Bay, order a signature cocktail, and watch the evening ferry boats come and go. You can’t beat this view! For a fun touch, ask for the pink duckies for your drinks 🙂
10. Cruise Under the Mackinac Bridge on a Sip n’ Sail Tour
For an unforgettable evening experience, book a 90-minute sunset cruise with Sip n’ Sail Cruises. Departing from the Coal Dock downtown, these boat tours take you out onto Lake Huron and directly under the massive spans of the Mackinac Bridge. Featuring live local music, open-air top decks, and a full-service bar with Michigan craft beers, it offers the best front-row seat for sunset over the water. This was an absolute highlight of our trip! Highly, highly recommend!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do you get to Mackinac Island?
Visitors arrive via passenger ferries departing daily from St. Ignace or Mackinaw City. The ferry ride across the straits takes roughly 16–18 minutes.
What is the best month to visit Mackinac Island?
The main travel season runs from late May through October. June is popular for the annual Lilac Festival, while September and October offer cooler weather and fall foliage.
Do you need to book the Sip n’ Sail Cruise in advance?
Yes! Tickets for sunset and specialty cruises sell out quickly during peak summer months (July–August), so booking online weeks before your trip is highly recommended.
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