Our Favorite Things to Do at Mackinac Island

Located just ferry ride from the shores of St. Ignace & Mackinaw City Michigan, Mackinac Island has been one of Michigan’s prime tourist destination attracting a million visitors each year. With its rustic charms and majestic allure, who can resist the temptation of going back in time and immerse in the timeless thrill of the good old days?

A 15-minute ferry ride from the docks of St. Ignace or Mackinaw City takes you to an island where streets are lined with people in horse-drawn carriages, while some enjoying the scenery on foot or on a bicycle savoring a most welcome summer breeze.

If your trotters take you to this unique island on Lake Michigan, here are some of our favorite things to do on Mackinac Island.

#1 Enjoy a Relaxing Bicycle Ride

Whether you bring your own bicycle, or rent a bicycle on the island, riding one is a great way get around and enjoy the numerous sights Mackinac island offers.

You can find several bicycle rental stalls on main street. You can rent bicycles by the hour, half a day or for the entire day depending on what your whim takes you. It’s a lot of fun and a perfect activity for the entire family.

#2 Sampling The Island’s Delectable

Hungry for a sweet treat? Main street permeates with the aroma of freshly made fudge and other sweet treats. Ice cream is also a popular delight with a rainbow if delicious flavors you’d crave.

But that’s not all. Walk around and you’ll come across several restaurants and cafe’s including some with gorgeous views of the harbor.

Here are some our favorite places to eat on the island:
a. The Pink Pony (Best view of the harbor)
b. Kingston Kitchen
c. The Gate House

#3 Interact with the Island’s Horses

Apart from the common sight of bicycle riders on the island, you’ll find horses and carriages all over. Horse-drawn taxis are popular modes of transportation that you can take from the docks to your accommodations.
Tours are available on a reservation basis and is a great way to learn those fun historical tidbits around the island. You can also engage in horseback riding or even rent your own private horse carriage for a romantic ride for two or for the entire group.

#4 Immerse in the Island’s History

For all you history buffs out there, Mackinac island literally inundates with interesting historical tidbits you won’t want to miss. Beautiful archaic architecture and classic Victorian houses add to the appeal of this romantic island. Every corner marks the telling of a tale that has been around for a century or two. Imagine the discoveries you’ll find and pieces of history laid out in plain sight all over the island.

#5 Tea time at the Grand Hotel

Having high tea at the Grand Hotel defines glamour, sophistication and style as you indulge yourself in a lovely afternoon sipping English tea, feasting on bite-sized sandwiches, pastries and desserts while savoring a glass of champagne. Live piano music and the elegant decor of the tea room adds a dash of enticing authenticity to the entire experience.

For non-registered guests, the Grand Hotel charges $10 day pass to check out the hotel and its grounds. Afternoon tea is charged at $59 per adult.

#6 Take a Leisurely Stroll

If you are not in the mood for bike rides, one of best ways to explore the island is by putting on a comfortable pair of shoes, start walking around the island and enjoy a relaxing stroll.

Once you’re there, you won’t run out of gorgeous sights to behold, delicious treats to find, and countless opportunities to people watch. What a great way to incorporate a bit of health and exercise while you’re on vacation. If you want, you can even jog around the island and really sweat it out.

#7 Shopping

Strolling down Main Street, you’ll find several shops and boutiques that are worth stopping by. From clothing & apparels to colorful figurines and trinkets, you can definitely surprise yourself with whatever treasure catches your eyes.

Some of the popular shopping options include:
a. Little Luxuries
b. Doud’s Market
c. Balsam Shops Inc

#8 Enjoy the Island’s Nightlife

The action never stops even after the sun fades much deeper into the horizon. While several restaurants and bars offer outdoor seating with a gorgeous view of the harbor, some of them have musicians playing live music especially on the weekends. What a great way to relax, have fun, listen to your favorite songs and while enjoying your favorite cocktail.

Even towards the evening, the streets overflow with tourists and visitors, some in formal attire to dine at the Grand Hotel’s main dining room. Formal dress code is a must at this classy venue. Definitely a must try.

#9 Explore Different Activities around the Island

Beyond the perks of sightseeing and unceasing explorations, Mackinac Island offers abounding options to choose from no matter what your whims may be.

Complete your visit with water sports like boating, kayaking, or even parasailing. Soak in some sunshine with a few rounds of golf, or admire the natural beauty of our winged friends at the Butterfly House, and of course you can always find yourself reveling in intricate art collection at the Art Museum. You can even stop by the Haunted Theater where you take a glimpse of the monsters that haunted the island’s past.