Northern Michigan’s beloved Mackinac Island offers much to explore this summer. Here’s everything you need to know to curate your ultimate island adventure.
As summer takes hold, the soaring bluffs, rocky beaches and tulip-lined streets of Mackinac Island come to life once again. One of the Midwest’s most popular summertime destinations, this island has played host to visitors for more than 150 years and been the backdrop to some of its guests’ most treasured memories. And while local institutions continue to renovate, revamp and evolve each summer, family ties reign supreme and dedication to maintaining the integrity of the island’s history is paramount to nearly 500 Michiganders who call the 3.8 square-mile place home year-round (The hottest topic around town right now? If e-bikes should be allowed on the auto-free streets).
The pace is peaceful, the people are friendly, and there truly is something for everyone here. So whether it’s your first or fiftieth time boarding the ferry to Michigan’s most charming destination, here’s your ultimate guide to Mackinac Island.
Where To Stay
View this post on Instagram
1 Lakeshore Drive / Website
Those familiar with Mission Point Resort on the southeast end of Mackinac Island will notice a new look this season. Following an extensive renovation, which included a complete transformation of the lobby, this 241-room resort is a popular stay for its beachy-chic accommodations, curated boutique, one of the island’s only spas, the sprawling Great Lawn dotted with Adirondack chairs and more.
View this post on Instagram
286 Grand Ave. / Website
Since its debut in 1887, the Grand Hotel has been a Mackinac Island icon, and today, it’s a National Historic Landmark. Its stately facade, old-world charm and celebrated accommodations (plus the world’s longest porch, which spans 660 feet) have kept guests coming back each year, and continues to be the island’s crown jewel.
Where To Eat
View this post on Instagram
1 Lakeshore Drive / Website
A harmonious medley of food and wine is served over a five-course prix-fixe meal at Mission Point Resort’s fine dining destination. Elegant yet approachable dishes like a Michigan Spring Harvest (sauteed morels, fava beans, fiddlehead ferns, shallots, almond oil pea velouté and lavender butter) paired with the aromatic J. Hofstätter pinot grigio, and a mouthwatering Wagyu served with a glass of the smooth Bindi Sergardi La Boncia Chianti are artfully plated—and all are complemented by picturesque views of Lake Huron just steps away.
View this post on Instagram
7221 Main St, #103 / Website
This restaurant/bar inside the Chippewa Hotel is just as colorful as it sounds. A popular patio, live music, extensive menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and late-night offerings like the Pony Style Nachos (smoked brisket, queso cheese, guacamole, sour cream, salsa and fresh pico de gallo) create a lively, inviting atmosphere for a quick bite or large group gathering.
View this post on Instagram
1 Lakeshore Drive / Website
Located inside the Mission Point Resort, the recently revamped Round Island Kitchen dishes up elevated classics, such as an IPA-battered Lake Superior whitefish sandwich and a local hazelnut-crusted walleye dish. Pro tip: Reservations aren’t required, but plan ahead and reserve one of the few tables by the expansive wraparound window for the best views.
Where To Relax
1 Lakeshore Drive / Website
From customized massages and reflexology to a CBD sugar scrub and the all-encompassing lilac treatment (a 75-minute medley of services using the island’s signature lilac essential oil and Shampure flower aroma), the Lakeside Spa & Salon offers a rejuvenating escape.
View this post on Instagram
1 Lakeshore Drive / Website
The Great Lawn in front of Mission Point Resort is a hot spot for lounging in one of its signature Adirondack chairs, picnicking with friends and family, stargazing and watching the sunset over the glittering waterfront.
Where To Shop
View this post on Instagram
Immediately after stepping off the ferry, visitors are immersed into the bustling stretch of Main Street in the downtown area. Here, curated boutiques like Little Luxuries of Mackinac Island, Pink Pony Store (the restaurant’s pink retail paradise), and Rustic Chic Boutique offer a plethora of unique finds. And don’t miss Joann’s Fudge to try the mouthwatering sweets Mackinac Island is famous for.
Just one block behind Main Street, this road is home to the island’s more under-the-radar shops like Lilacs and Lace, an eclectic boutique of jewelry, art and one-of-a-kind creations, and quaint clothing and gift shop Rose Gazebo. While strolling down Market Street, you’ll also pass the island’s tiny post office, where residents come to pick up their own mail.
Where To Hit The Town
View this post on Instagram
Arnold Freight/Coal Dock (between Seabiscuit Cafe and taxi office) / Website
A trip to Mackinac is not complete without a ride on a Sip n' Sail cruise. The most popular experience is the Sunset Cruise, which offers a gorgeous view of the Straits of Mackinac and a memorable ride paired with live entertainment, a full-service bar and plenty of photo ops. Looking for a more intimate experience? Book one or both of the vessels for a private gathering.
1547 Cadotte Ave. / Website
One of the Grand Hotel’s popular culinary destinations, this casual spot transforms into a lively entertainment hub at night. Sip cocktails and nibble on late-night bites like fried cheese curds and the signature Mac Daddy Burger, and dance the night away to the musical stylings of live, local performers.
Cultural Experiences & Events
View this post on Instagram
The island is synonymous with the iconic Race to Mackinac, so celebrating the culmination of the world’s oldest annual freshwater distance race is a must. This year’s race kicks off July 22, and on July 25, the Sailor’s Celebration will be held at Mission Point Resort where competitors will receive awards and celebrate with live music, food and cocktails.
View this post on Instagram
Explore Mackinac Island like a local via a peaceful jaunt through town by horse carriage. A private tour accommodates up to eight people and offers an up-close view of some of the island’s best sights paired with knowledgeable drivers who provide insightful—and sometimes insider—intel along the way.
View this post on Instagram
6131 Arch Rock Road / Website
Whether you get here on foot or stop here during a carriage tour, the famous Arch Rock is a can’t-miss. This arched limestone formation towering nearly 150 feet above Lake Huron is located within Mackinac Island State Park and offers one of the most unique vantage points on the island.
Hidden Gem
View this post on Instagram
6939 Main St. / Website
Coffee shop by day and art studio by night, the wonderfully eclectic Watercolor Cafe is a precious gem right on the water. Escape for a quiet moment over a lavender latte and a signature Poppie (oversize, homemade Pop Tarts), or swing by in the evening for one of the popular art classes such as a resin workshop, watercolor painting and floral arrangement experiences, and more. Classes fill up quickly, so plan accordingly.
Photography by: Photos courtesy of Mission Point Resort
