Is Camping allowed on the island?
No. Camping is not allowed on the Island. For information on nearby camping (off of the Island), please call: Mackinaw City: (616) 436-5574 Or St. Ignace: (800) 338-6660
How long do the ferries run?
Both Shepler’s and Star Line ferry lines run from approximately April until the end of October. Visit our ferry listings for more information.
How far is it around the Island?
If you follow the perimeter road it is 8.3 miles. It will take approximately one hour.
How many people live on Mackinac Island year-round?
Approximately 500-600 people reside on Mackinac Island on a year-round basis.
Where do Islanders live?
The majority of people live in Harrisonville, a community located in the center of the Island. Others live downtown, at Stonecliffe, Woodbluff, and British Landing.
I want to get married on the island and would like more information.
Mackinac Island is a magical place to get married and many options are available to help plan your dream wedding. Please visit our Weddings section on Mackinac.com for a complete list of consultants and wedding services.
When does the island open for business?
The Island opens for business around the first week in May until the end of October.
What is the “ice bridge”?
Freedom! Usually in the month of February the water freezes between Mackinac Island and St. Ignace. At that time, some brave soul ventures out and spuds to check the thickness of the ice. If they make it halfway, it’s on to St. Ignace to make the call back to the Island. The residents have stockpiled their used Christmas trees out at British Landing in anticipation of this call. The trees are “planted” at intervals to mark the “highway” and the fun begins. It is the only time of the year when the residents are not dependent on a set schedule and of course it’s free!
How long does the ice bridge last?
Not long enough! We need at least a week of zero or below zero temperatures with no wind for the bridge to form. After that, it all depends on the weather. In the past five years we’ve had a bridge for as few as four days to as long as two months.
Can I take my bike to the island?
You can bring your own bike to Mackinac Island. The ferryboats charge $13.00 for each bike you bring.
Can I bring my dog to the island? Do any accommodations allow dogs.
You can bring a dog to the island provided it is on a leash and with an adult. Mission Point Resort will allow dogs but is based upon availability and some conditions apply. Phone 231-715-4900.
What is a “fudgie”?
“Fudgie” is a term of endearment given to all tourists who come to Mackinac Island. Usually most everyone buys fudge; hence the name.
I have a disability. Can you rent electric carts on the island?
Yes. There are electric carts available on the island at Ryba’s Bikes. Visit their websiteor call (906) 847-3208.
How much does it cost to rent bikes on the island?
Rates start at $7.00 per hour plus a $15 deposit. Visit our Bicycle Rentals page for a complete list of bikes and rates.
COVID-19 FAQ
Governor Gretchen Whitmersigned an executive order on July 10, 2020 requiring individuals to wear a face covering in indoor public spaces and crowded outdoor spaces. The executive order also requires that business open to the public are to refuse entry or service to anyone who refuses to wear a face covering (some exceptions apply).
Is it safe to travel to the island?
The City of Mackinac Island published a thorough COVID-19 plan, available here. Mackinac Island businesses are committed to adhering to safety protocols and procedures in alignment with guidelines for safe operations. The Island is committed to safety as their first priority and doing everything they can to ensure every visitor, worker and resident are respected and protected.
How should I prepare for my visit to the Island?
Maintain 6-feet of distance between you and others to respect social distancing procedures.
Wear a mask or face covering while in public spaces at all times.
Maintain excellent personal hygiene with hand washing and sanitizing. Hand sanitizing stations can be found throughout high traffic areas around Mackinac Island.
Are the public restrooms open to visitors?
Yes, the public restrooms are open to visitors. Mackinac Tourism Bureau as well as the Mackinac State Historic Parks Visitor Centre restrooms are open.
Are the ferry lines running?
Yes, ferry service from both Mackinaw City and St. Ignace is now available. For more information and schedules, please visit Shepler’s Ferry and Star Line Ferry. Please ensure you wear a mask and practice social distancing when possible.
Additional Resources can be accessed below.
State of Michigan Department of Public Health & Safety: www.michigan.gov/coronavirus
US Travel Association:
www.ustravel.org/toolkit/emergency-preparedness-and-response-coronavirus-covid-19?
FAQs
Mackinac Island is one of the few places you will find that doesn't mind if you bring your own food. Even though dining out is part of the vacation experience, it's not always practical, especially if you have a big group.
What is the best month to visit Mackinac Island? ›
Spring is called pre-season, summer is peak season, and fall can be described as the perfect season on Mackinac Island. In September, Mackinac Island transforms into a tranquil paradise, where the fading warmth of summer meets the crisp anticipation of autumn.
How many days is enough on Mackinac Island? ›
For a relaxed visit that gives you time to really get to know Mackinac Island, you may want to consider spending an entire weekend, or even an entire week.
Are Mackinac Island ferry tickets cheaper online? ›
Save $2 off the regular adult ticket price of $36 by purchasing online in advance of your Mackinac Island visit!
What is not allowed on Mackinac Island? ›
No cars, no horns, no sirens and no motorcycles. Of course, getting around on foot is always allowed. Does this sound like a step back in time? It is, and has been this way of life on Michigan's Mackinac Island since the late 1800s.
Do you tip carriage drivers on Mackinac Island? ›
Tips for horse-drawn carriage drivers on Mackinac Island
Whether you're taking a horse-drawn carriage tour of Mackinac Island or just catching a horse-drawn taxi for a ride down the street, tipping a few bucks per person is a fine way to express thanks for high-quality transportation service.
What is the busiest day on Mackinac Island? ›
July and August tend to be the busiest times of the year on Mackinac Island. As you might expect, dates during these months often sell out the fastest – especially around the Fourth of July, during the yacht races that take place in July and during the annual Mackinac Island Fudge Festival in August.
What food is Mackinac Island known for? ›
You can find Mackinac Island Fudge and two dozen other flavors of Michigan-made Guernsey Ice Cream at Sadie's Ice Cream Parlor on the grounds of Grand Hotel. Many of the downtown fudge shops also serve ice cream, so you can chase your Mackinac Island fudge with a cone or bowl of Mackinac Island Fudge!
How long is the carriage ride on Mackinac Island? ›
Come take an one hour and 45 minute narrated historic and scenic horse carriage tour through the island. Open May through October. The rest of the year you can take a tour by appointment only.
Is it better to stay on Mackinaw City or Mackinac Island? ›
Many people choose to stay in Mackinaw City vs. on Mackinac Island. It's a lot less expensive and regardless of where you stay, you still need to take the ferry over to Mackinac Island. Mackinaw City has more modern, less expensive rooms and more extensive night life.
If you decide to make your way around the coast of Mackinac Island, walking will take approximately 2.5-4 hours without stopping. You can also bring your own bicycle or rent one from one of the many bicycle shops located on Mackinac Island. It will take you approximately 1 hour to bike without stopping.
Is Mackinac Bridge cash only? ›
The Mackinac Bridge currently accepts the following payment types at our toll booths: cash, credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. If you are a frequent crosser or would like the convenience of a prepaid account, check out our MacPass.
How early should you arrive for the ferry? ›
Make sure you leave in plenty of time – check-in closes 90 minutes prior to scheduled departure time for foot passengers and customers travelling with pets, and 60 minutes for all other categories of traffic. Need more flexibility to your booking?
How much does it cost to cross the Mackinaw bridge? ›
Passenger Vehicle – $2.00 per axle or $4.00 per car
Passenger car, van, motorcycle, station wagon, SUV, pick-up truck, and school bus. (A van is a two-axle four tire vehicle not primarily intended for carrying cargo or commercial goods.)
Can you picnic on Mackinac Island? ›
Enjoy some of Mackinac Island's best picnic provisions at Mission Point Resort in one of the island's best picnic locations, the Great Lawn.
Is Mackinac Island cashless? ›
Bring cash for tips and horse-drawn taxis on Mackinac Island. There are ATMs located on Mackinac Island, but it's a good idea to have cash on you from the beginning.
How strict is the Grand Hotel dress code? ›
Since Grand Hotel is a resort, we want you to feel at ease and dress comfortably. During the day, casual resort clothing is appropriate. Prior to 6:30 PM, please no midriff-baring tops, sweatpants or cut-off shorts for ladies. For gentlemen, no sleeveless shirts, sweatpants or cut-off shorts.
Is there an open container law on Mackinac Island? ›
No person shall possess open containers of alcohol beverages in or on any land in any location within the City of Mackinac Island that is either owned or used generally by the public, including but not limited to, any road, street, alley, school ground or sidewalk, unless such location is licensed to sell and serve ...
