Things to do in Mackinac Island
Summer brings warm Great Lakes days, blooming lilacs in June, and the island in full swing; September layers in quieter streets and early fall color. The island is highly seasonal, with most hotels, shops, fudge makers, and attractions closed from late October to early May.
Best months: June, July, August, September
What is worth your time in Mackinac Island
Arch RockDo not miss
A 50-foot limestone arch towering over Lake Huron, the island's signature natural wonder framed in brilliant blue water.
Viewpoint · 53 min4.8
M-185 Island LoopDo not miss
The only car-free state highway in America, an 8.2-mile flat ride hugging the shoreline past beaches, rocks, and lighthouse views.
Scenic Route · 3 hr4.8
Mackinac BridgeDo not miss
The five-mile Mighty Mac spans the Straits of Mackinac, one of the world's longest suspension bridges and an iconic Michigan sight.
Landmark · 1 hr4.8
Mackinac Island State ParkDo not miss
Covering more than 80 percent of the island, this woodland park threads quiet trails to rock formations, bluffs, and overlooks.
Nature · 2.8 hr4.8
Sugar LoafDo not miss
A dramatic 75-foot limestone sea stack rising from the island's interior forest, steeped in Anishinaabe legend.
Viewpoint · 53 min4.8
Colonial MichilimackinacDo not miss
A reconstructed 1700s fur-trade fort and village in Mackinaw City with live musket firings, archaeology digs, and costumed interpreters.
Historic Site · 2.5 hr4.7
Fort MackinacDo not miss
A restored 18th-century hilltop fort with costumed reenactors, cannon and rifle demonstrations, and a commanding harbor view.
Historic Site · 2.8 hr4.7
Grand HotelDo not miss
An 1887 summer palace famous for the world's longest porch, sweeping Straits views, and old-world Gilded Age grandeur.
Landmark · 1.8 hr4.5
Main Street Fudge ShopsDo not miss
A sweet-scented strip of historic fudge makers pulling and slicing slabs on marble counters, the island's most beloved tradition.
Food District · 1.4 hr4.4
Mackinac Island Carriage ToursDo not miss
The world's largest horse-and-buggy livery narrates the island's history on a relaxing loop past its landmarks and woods.
Activity · 1.9 hr4.3
Tranquil Bluff Trail
The island's longest and most secluded trail, tracing the high eastern bluff through deep woods with peekaboo lake views.
Activity · 2.3 hr5
American Fur Co. Store and Dr. Beaumont Museum
The site where Dr. Beaumont's stomach experiments advanced medical science, set in a restored fur-company store and museum.
Museum · 45 min4.9
Great Turtle Kayak Tours
Paddle the clear shallows around the island on guided kayak tours for a water-level view of the bluffs and Round Island Lighthouse.
Activity · 2.5 hr4.9
Round Island Lighthouse
The red-and-white 1895 lighthouse offshore, instantly recognizable from the film Somewhere in Time and best seen from the shore or ferry.
Landmark · 30 min4.9
And 31 more, which the planner picks between based on your dates, pace and what you are into.
Worth knowing
- No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island; everyone travels by bicycle, on foot, or by horse-drawn carriage, so pack light and wear comfortable shoes.
- Reach the island by passenger ferry from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, then plan around the boat schedule since the last evening departures are early.
- Rent a bike and ride the flat 8.2-mile M-185 loop around the shoreline; it is the only state highway in the country with no motor vehicles.
- Save room for fudge: Main Street has more than a dozen makers, and watching it pulled on marble slabs is a local rite of passage.
- Most of the island and the surrounding Straits towns shut down for winter, so confirm seasonal hours before visiting in spring or late fall.