Mackinac Island: Simpler Times & Family Fun

Have you ever imagined a place where life was a little more simple? An escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, the traffic, the noise? A place where you can wander through miles of beautiful walking trails and stroll pristine beaches? Well, we found it:  Mackinac Island, Michigan!

Squeezed between the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan, Mackinac Island is a step back in time. There are no cars on the Island (save for a few emergency vehicles). Your travel choices include walking, bike or horse. Within a few minutes of stepping out of your hotel room, you are walking on the beach, or several beautiful trails meandering through the woods. But wait, there’s more!

Here is a rundown of some of the things we loved the most about Mackinac Island.

Mackinaw Bridge at Sunset

Traveling To Mackinac Island

First a bit of logistics. Travel to the island is primarily via ferry. There are two main ferry services: Starline and Shepler’s. Both peninsulas are serviced, the Upper from St. Ignace and the Lower from Mackinaw City. The ferries run between the hours of 7:30AM and 11:59PM every 15-30 minutes during the summer (the schedule changes according to season). I suggest booking in advance to make sure you get your desired time.  Also arrive early, especially during the busy seasons, since you will probably need to park offsite and catch a shuttle to the ferry landing. We planned a sunset cruise so we could enjoy beautiful views of Mackinac Bridge. One last tip, keep your ticket stub for the return journey.

Carriage Ride through the State Park

Carriage Tours

Once you arrive on Mackinac, I highly recommend a carriage tour of the island. This is a great way to learn basic and fun facts about the island. For example, did you know that Somewhere in Time was filmed on Mackinac Island? Or that there is a post office on Mackinac that has never delivered a letter? The first part of the tour takes you through town up to Surrey Hill.  You then transfer to a second carriage for the final part of the tour through the state park, with a “layover” at Arch Rock so you get to see a little bit of everything. Make sure to check out the Grand Hotel’s stables and the blacksmith at Surrey Hill.

For the daring traveler, you can rent and drive your own carriage at Jack’s Livery Stables – no experience necessary.

Also keep in mind that 24/7 horse and carriage taxi services will take you wherever you want to go. Just make sure to book in advance (I would plan on an hour ahead of when you need the ride).

Live Demonstration of a Cannon at Fort Mackinac

The Historic Fort Mackinac

A visit to Mackinac Island is not complete without a trip to Fort Mackinac. Countless exhibits detail life for soldiers stationed on Fort Mackinac. Also, interesting animated exhibits recount the more famous battles at the Fort.  Did you know the first battle in the War of 1812 occurred at Fort Mackinac? We loved the live demonstrations.  Experiencing a real cannon and rifle firing were our favorite parts! When purchasing your tickets, pick up the extensive schedule of events, most of which repeat throughout the day.

The View from above Arch Rock

Mackinac Island State Park

If you want to escape the crowds on Main Street, spend the day at Mackinac Island State Park.  There are many opportunities to enjoy Michigan’s first state park.  After all, the park makes up the majority of the Island, roughly 80%. In addition to the Carriage Tour, you can easily access the state park by walking or by bicycle.  Once inside, the most famous site is Arch Rock. Adjacent is Nicolet Watchtower, which offers great views of Lake Michigan. Besides these landmarks miles of beautiful, easy-to-walk trails await, suitable for the whole family.

Sunset Kayak Tour

Kayaking on the Great Lakes

So if you are looking for something a little more exhilarating, consider an evening kayak trip. Great Turtle Kayak Tours has you covered for all your kayak needs. Our tour was awesome!  Our guide Q recounted the physical changes the Island has gone through over time, especially the impacts on water level and shore access.  He also led us to incredible spots where we enjoyed the sunset with Mackinac Island as the backdrop. If traveling with your significant other or kids,  Great Turtle Kayak Tours offers tandem kayaks. Just remember – the rear paddler is by default the decision maker!

Lunch Buffet at The Grand Hotel

Dining on Mackinac Island

Inevitably you will want food on this trip. Thankfully, there is no shortage of choices on Mackinac. For an incredible lunch buffet, check out the Grand Hotel. I have NEVER been to a buffet this good before. The buffet includes every dish you can imagine served inside one of the most famous and beautiful buildings on the island. Even if you are not hungry, the Grand Hotel is worth visiting since it is one of only 11 wood framed buildings of its size and period in the United States.

The Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel was built by a group of transportation companies (rail and steamship) to spur travel to the Island, on their trains and ships of course. It is now a National Historic Landmark. Wander around the hotel and enjoy the decor. Enjoy lounging on the porch. Come back for dinner when the dress code is more formal. The architectural side of me is impressed with the mere existence of the building! And then I began to think about the upkeep cost of a wood framed building of this size – three times the normal maintenance cost for a building of this era. There are not many buildings left like this, so enjoy it!

Great Mural at the Pink Pony

If you are looking for something more low-key, check out Pink Pony. The decor is cool, no matter what you think of pink or ponies. They offer great drinks and a solid variety of dinner choices. On top of that, the Pink Pony features live music right next to the lake! Ask for seating outside so you can enjoy the lakeside view.

Stunning View of Mackinaw Bridge

Sunset Romance

Sunsets on the Island are a magical time. Whether it is a just a stroll along the beach or a kayak trip, the views cannot be beat. Another great option is a Sip n’ Sail cruise around the island. Get someone to watch the kids and enjoy a romantic tour around Mackinac Island and under Mackinac Bridge. Live music, drinks and the views make this trip impossible not to love!

Wide Selection of Beers on tap at Mary’s Bistro Draught House

After Hours on Mackinac Island

After the kids are in bed, there are a number of fine establishments to keep you entertained. Plus, most of them feature live music. If you are a beer fan, try Mary’s Bistro Draught House – by far the largest selection of beer on the Island, complete with live music. Horn’s Gaslight Bar and Restaurant offers cocktails and more live music. Of course you can return to the aforementioned Pink Pony. Finally, The Mustang Lounge boasts the most historic pub on Mackinac.

If this list seems long, it isn’t. There are so many other attractions to enjoy on Mackinac. I’ve never traveled somewhere where the water is so clear, the views are so plentiful and the people are so friendly. Whether you want to cruise through the state park on a bike, enjoy a carriage ride through town or just sip a beer while enjoying a view, Mackinac Island has you covered.

For more Michigan fun, check out our Outdoor Adventures in Grand Rapids!

This post is sponsored by Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, but of course thoughts and opinions are my own.

Pulling out of the Harbor