Mackinac Island Travel Guide

Mackinac Island is located in Lake Huron, just a few miles east of the Mackinac Bridge. The bridge connects the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan, and is the traditional dividing line between Lakes Huron and Michigan.

The Island is only accessible by water or air. No private motor vehicles are allowed. Regular passenger ferry service travels regularly to the Island from either Mackinaw City, Michigan (lower peninsula) or St. Ignace, Michigan (in the upper peninsula). There are three ferry lines that service the Island, all are very safe, all charge the same for their tickets.

Private motor vehicles were outlawed early in the twentieth century when the carriage drivers worried about the effect they might have on their employment. Tourism has been a thriving industry on this beautiful Island for several hundred years. Now, the absence of private motor vehicles adds to the island's appeal. Visitors enjoy the sight of everything being moved about by either horse or bicycle. They can also participate--bicycle rentals are available everywhere, or they can bring their own. Saddle horses, horse-drawn carriages with drivers (and without) are availabe for hire. Or the ever-practical and free method of moving about on foot is also an option.

Eighty percent of the island is undeveloped and a Michigan State Park. It is filled with both paved roads and unpaved trails to explore. There are caves, swamps, rock formations, and breath-taking views to discover.

The island also has a rich history, and there are several well-restored attractions worth a visit. Fort Mackinac sits high on a bluff overlooking the harbor. Visitors will find a nice overview of life in previous centuries between the excellent exhibits and historic interpretors on site. Along with Fort Mackinac there are several other restored buildings from the past, a few museums, and battlefields from the War of 1812.

There are a wide variety of hotels and bed and breakfasts on the island, including the world famous Grand Hotel (which claims to be the world's largest seasonal hotel), and Hotel Iroquois on the Beach. The Iroquois has been in Conde Nast's 'best in the world' list several times. The Grand Hotel has its own golf course (for the sports person) and a labyrinth (for meditating). When you book a hotel or inn, check to see if they offer to pick you and your luggage at the dock, otherwise you may be carrying them to the hotel or inn.

The Island is also famous for its delicious fudge, summer night life, beautiful lilacs in June,  cosmopolitan feel due to workers and visitors from around the world, and the yacht races that end there in July.