Justin and I visited Mackinac Island as a day-trip on July 4th weekend, and let me tell you - there's a lot to take in! But don't worry, we've done all the legwork (and fudge tastings) to figure out the best spots. We made plenty of rookie mistakes so you don't have to, and now we're sharing our favorite finds as Michigan locals from this charming car-free island.
In this guide, you'll discover the best times for carriage tours and biking, our top picks for fudge shops, hidden gems for photography, and insider tips for avoiding crowds. Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer stay, we'll help you make the most of your Mackinac Island adventure.
Things to do on Mackinac Island |
1. Explore Main Street of Mackinac
Did we mention there are no motor vehicles allowed on the island? Pictured below is one of your three options for getting around the island: foot, bike, or horse! From the moment you step off the ferry, you will feel as though you went back in time. From the historic buildings, to the horses and buggies, to the smell of delicious baked goods, exploring Main Street is one of the top things to do on Mackinac Island.
2. Biking on Mackinac Island
Grab your bike and head out on the M-185, an 8.2-mile trail that hugs the coastline and circles the island. You can bring your own bike on the ferries for about $13 extra, or rent one downtown. We rented at Mackinac Island Bike Shop, which was conveniently located near the ferry docks and had competitive pricing. Prices range from $10-16/hour and includes a basket, helmet & water!
We rented a tandem bicycle and thoroughly enjoyed cruising down the M-185. Non-stop biking this trail will take roughly an hour, however, there are many sights to stop at along the M-185 that would require allotting more time. There are many Native American Cultural History Trail information plaques along the trail, as well as, beaches, Mackinac Bridge lookouts, and several hiking trails within Mackinac Island State Park.
🚴 Bike Rental: $10-16/Hour and includes a basket & helmet
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3. Swimming on Mackinac Island
The crystal clear waters surrounding Mackinac Island sure are enticing. After an 8.2 mile bike ride around the island on a hot summer day the waters may feel refreshing, but beware, the water is cold! Do not expect the long, white sand beaches of a tropical island. Mackinac Island beaches are rocky, yet beautiful.
The best place to take a dip is at British Landing on the northern side of the island. Grab some fried pickles and/or ice cream at the below mentioned Cannonball Drive Inn and dip your toes in the beautiful blue waters that surround Mackinac Island.
🍦 J&L Tip: Grab some ice cream at the Cannonball Drive Inn!
4. Mackinac Island State Park
Michigan's oldest state park, established in 1895. In fact, from 1875-1895 it was actually Mackinac National Park, the USA's second national park. Now, over 80% of the island is state park property. With natural wonders, historic sites, breathtaking vistas, and lush forests throughout, it is hard not to admire the beauty of this state park while on Mackinac Island. A beautiful way to experience the park (in addition to the M-185 bike trail) is by hiking the trails from Arch Rock to Fort Homes (both described below).
📚 Also Read: Ultimate 1 Week Upper Peninsula Itinerary
5. Arch Rock
Arch rock is one of the natural wonders of Mackinac Island, made of limestone and formed by glaciers. This geological formation towers 146 feet above water and requires a short hike to get to the below pictured viewpoint. You can view Arch Rock from the M-185 bike path, however, the view from the top of the path has magnificent views of the contrasting greenery with a crystal clear water backdrop.
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6. Visit the Grand Hotel
Unless you want to spend $400/night for your lodging, you may want to consider spending the night elsewhere. However, the Grand Hotel is a must-see sight! A beautiful, elegant, and historical hotel that hosts a lovely tea time if you are looking to treat yourself to a royal experience. One activity at the Grand Hotel that is completely free is taking a stroll around the grounds & gardens. Home to over 125,000 flowers with over a ton of bulbs planted annually, the Grand Hotel gardens are a must-see for any plant lover.
🌸 Fun Fact: The Grand Hotel is home to over 125,000 flowers!
7. Enjoy the view from Fort Homes, the highest location in Mackinac
The Fort Homes redoubt was originally built in 1814 by British forces during the War of 1812. Its purpose was to aid in protection of the nearby Fort Mackinac in case of attack by the U.S. army. It just so happens that this fort is located at the highest point on Mackinac Island. While recognizing the historical importance of Fort Homes, be sure to enjoy the amazing views that surround you.
📚 Also Read: Sleeping Bear Dunes Complete Guide
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8. Take a Historic Carriage Tour
Starting your visit with a horse-drawn carriage tour is highly recommended - it's an excellent way to get oriented! These tours typically last about 1.5 hours and cover all the major attractions while knowledgeable guides share fascinating island history. For the best experience, book an early morning tour to avoid crowds and long wait times that are common during peak afternoon hours.
💰 Tickets start at $44/adult for the sightseeing tour
9. Indulge in World-Famous Mackinac Island Fudge
You absolutely can't leave without trying some fudge - trust us, we sampled way too much "for research purposes." We loved watching the fudge makers at work through the windows on Main Street. Our favorite spot was May's Candy Shop. We recommend trying their Peanut Butter, Amaretto Chocolate Chip, and Butter Pecan flavors. Not in the mood for fudge? They also have amazing peanut brittle and English Toffee.
📚 Also Read: Best Fudge Shops of Mackinac Island
10. Kayak the Straits
For an unforgettable perspective of the island, book a kayak tour along the shoreline. Rental companies provide all necessary equipment and experienced guides who know the best spots. Consider booking an early morning tour when the water is calmest and wildlife is most active.
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11. Visit the Butterfly House
Step into a magical experience at the Original Butterfly House, where hundreds of tropical butterflies flutter freely in a beautiful conservatory. Plan to spend about an hour here and bring your camera to capture stunning photos in the perfect lighting.
12. Evening Sail
Take in breathtaking views of the Mackinac Bridge during a sunset sail around the island. These 1.5-hour cruises offer excellent photo opportunities while captains share fascinating local history and stories. We'd recommend the Sip n'Sail cruises that start at $55/adult. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season!
13. Horseback Riding
Explore the island's interior on horseback for a unique perspective of the landscape. Trail rides are available for all skill levels, making this activity accessible to both beginners and experienced riders. Reservations at Cindy's can only be made same-day in-person so make sure you stop as soon as you arrive to ensure availability.
🐴 Starting at $70 per person for a 1-hour ride.
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14. Gardens and Parks
Visit the stunning gardens at the Governor's Residence and Surrey Hill for impressive displays of local flora. For a peaceful break, pack a picnic and head to the centrally located Marquette Park.
15. Winter Fun
While we visited in summer, the island apparently transforms into this magical winter wonderland in the off-season. You can go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or ice skating - and the best part is you'll have the place practically to yourself!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much do Mackinac Island ferry tickets cost?
A: Adult round-trip tickets typically range from $26-30, while children (5-12) are around $14-16. Children under 5 ride free. Prices may vary by season and ferry company. We recommend checking Shepler's Ferry or Star Line for current rates and booking online to save time.
Q: What's the best time to visit Mackinac Island?
A: Peak season runs from late June through August, offering warm weather and full services. However, we prefer early June or September for fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures.
Average temperatures by month:
May: 50˚ F
June: 64˚ F
July: 70˚ F
August: 71˚ F
September: 63˚ F
Q: How do I get to Mackinac Island?
A: There are two ferry launches that will take you to Mackinac Island: St. Ignace & Mackinaw City. Both competing ferries, Shepler's Ferry and Star Line Ferry, offer ferry rides from either location depending on which you consider more convenient. Each offer a discount when purchasing online ahead of time ($27/adult round-trip) and generally offer identical services. However, we chose to use Shepler's Ferry due to its user-friendly website, amazing customer service, and high-quality reviews.
We had an amazing experience and sat on the top deck each way, which gave us excellent views of the Mackinac Bridge. We would recommend getting to the ferry dock 15-20 minutes before the ferry is scheduled to leave and plan for a 15-20 min ferry ride each way
Q: How long should I stay on Mackinac Island?
A: We recommend 2-3 days minimum to fully experience the island's attractions without rushing. However, you can also see the highlights as a day trip from Mackinaw City.
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Q: Can I camp on Mackinac Island?
A: While there are no campgrounds on Mackinac Island, that doesn not mean you cannot turn this into a camping trip. We'd recommend staying at Wilderness State Park Campground, located only a 20 min drive from Mackinaw City. This is truly a hidden gem of a park with 26 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, 20 miles of hiking trails, and a designated dark sky preserve, meaning it is one of the best places to stargaze in Michigan. Did we mention? You can reserve a campsite right along the water!
Q: Are there cars on Mackinac Island?
A: No, motor vehicles are prohibited. Transportation is limited to horses, bicycles, and walking.
Q: What should I pack for Mackinac Island?
A: Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Pack layers as weather can change quickly, and don't forget your swimsuit in summer!
Q: Where can I stay on Mackinac Island?
A: The island offers various accommodation options, from luxury hotels like the Grand Hotel to charming B&Bs and family-friendly resorts. If you are looking for a more affordable place to stay near Mackinac Island, you may consider staying off the island in one the neighboring towns of St. Ignace and Mackinaw City. While St. Ignace is a bit larger and less touristy than Mackinaw City, there are plenty of hotel and food options in both. Both cities have ferry launches which have the same duration to travel to Mackinac Island.
Q: Is Mackinac Island suitable for children?
A: Absolutely! With activities like biking, butterfly houses, fort visits, and fudge shops, the island is perfect for family vacations.
Q: What's the best way to get around the island?
A: Walking and biking are the most popular options. Horse-drawn taxis are available for luggage transport and longer distances.
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Justin and I had such a blast exploring Mackinac Island, and we know you will too! Whether you're chasing butterflies, hunting for the best fudge (tough job, but someone's gotta do it), or cruising around the island on bikes, there's something here for everyone. Head over to our travel resources section for more planning tips, and don't forget to follow our adventures on Instagram @Noms.Brews.Views - we're always sharing our favorite finds and behind-the-scenes moments from trips like these!
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