What to Do, Eat, and See in Mackinac Island
If you live in Michigan like I do, you know that for 9 months out of the year it’s gray and there's nowhere you would rather be less. But for those 3 precious summer months, there is nowhere I would rather be more. You’d be hard pressed to find somewhere better than northern Michigan in the summertime. One place in particular that has my heart is Mackinac Island. Mackinac Island is a quaint, 8.2 mile island in between Michigan’s Upper and Lower peninsulas. The trek to get there includes a road trip to Mackinaw City, and from there a 15 minute ferry ride to the island’s boat dock. Once you get off the boat, you’ll see and smell two things: fudge and horses. Trust me, it adds to the charm. You really feel like you are transported back in time, as there are no cars or motorized vehicles of any kind on the island. Your only mode of transportation is biking or a horse-drawn carriage. You either love it or hate it, and I love nothing more. If you ever find yourself in this one-of-a-kind place, this is how I would do it.
WHERE TO STAY:
A Mackinac Island staple that definitely lives up to its name. The most famous hotel on the island, and arguably in all of Michigan. If you can, I would stay here to get the full Mackinac Island experience. It’s walking distance from town, and has a bunch of amenities to keep everybody in your family entertained. Such as a golf course across the street, outdoor swimming pool, mini golf, and lawn games. There is a little something for everybody.
Right in town and walking distance from almost all the shops and restaurants on the island. This airy, boutique hotel sits right on the water where you can dine, sip, or simply enjoy the views.
Walkable from town, but not directly in all the chaos. I love this part of the island and how serene the views are. With an outdoor pool, tennis court, and mini golf course, you’ll find yourself very content here.
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK:
This is my favorite place on the whole island. I love coming here every single morning for a fudge shop latte and a poppy; their famous take on a homemade poptart. I look forward to having one every day I’m on the island. If you can, make sure to book one of their art classes for a relaxed and creative evening by the water.
Two words. Breakfast burrito. For the best, quick breakfast and lunch on the island. It’s greasy and satisfying and all the things a small diner on Mackinac Island should be. I crave the breakfast burrito all year round because it’s that good. I add hashbrowns inside of mine and get a side of their chipotle aioli. Chefs kiss.
I have committed to trying every single fudge shop on the island at some point or another. So I can spare you the stomach ache by confidently guiding you to one of two must try fudge shops on the island; starting with the Murray. Just trust me and get the Tiger Butter and Maple Walnut.
The second best place to get fudge on the island is Joann’s. You cannot go wrong with any flavor here. But my personal favorites are Chocolate Toffee and Maple Walnut. I can’t end the night without a bite.
Literally in the woods. This restaurant is a nice change up, as it’s a little ways from town. I love the ambience and beauty of being totally surrounded by nature. If you love schnitzel, spaetzle, and cabbage, you’ve come to the right place.
WHAT TO SEE
If you love natural beauty and the outdoors, you will love Mackinac Island. Truthfully, there is not a whole lot to do unless you’re shoving your face with various types of fudge, but there is so much to see. I would bike to Mission Point and put it in park at the big chairs that face the water across the street from the hotel. You can’t miss it. There is nothing more peaceful on a sunny day than sitting and watching diamonds dance on Lake Huron. While you’re on that side of the island, you’re only a 10 minute bike ride from Arch Rock. You take a few stairs to the top for yet another picturesque view.
What I love about this little hidden gem of a place is that you can bike up, down, and all around and constantly be mesmerized by the simplicity and beauty of life. This island really brings me true peace and I hope at least one person who reads this is inspired to take a little trip up north and feel the same.
WHAT I'M PACKING
