Mackinac Island (2024)

FAQs

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.

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.

Dock porters on Mackinac Island add to the character of the place, so please support these hard workers by tipping $3 to $5 per bag each way – once for delivery to your room at the start of your visit and once for delivery back to the dock for your return trip to the mainland.

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.

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.

You might already know that Mackinac Island is the USA's Best Summer Travel Destination. That Mackinac Island is steeped in fascinating history, renowned for world famous Mackinac Island fudge and home to stunning natural features that led Congress to establish Mackinac Island as America's second national park.

The risk for mosquito activity is extremely high. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when spending time outdoors to prevent bites.

The Mackinac Bridge is over three miles longer than the Golden Gate Bridge. The Golden Gate, however, is taller by 200 feet and is higher above the sea level by 20 feet.

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.

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? ›

Does Grand Hotel have a dress policy? 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.

Star Line. Star Line is the area's only fast, frequent, fun and friendly Hydro-Jet Ferry service with a direct line to and from Mackinac Island. Founded in 1978, the Star Line Ferry Service offers rich history, with a new, comfortable flare.

Probably the most well-known Mackinac Island treat is, of course, world-famous Mackinac Island fudge!

While you'll get a good feel for Mackinac Island by staying overnight – and we always recommend spending the night on Mackinac Island because there's something magical about it – the best way to really appreciate the vibe of Mackinac Island is to spend multiple nights. You'll get the lay of the land.

Tipping is forbidden throughout Grand Hotel. Complimentary service is offered as an added convenience to guests. You don't need to keep cash on hand for bellhops, maids, desk clerks or even waiters.

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.

Two ferry companies service Mackinac Island with rides that take 16 to 18 minutes and bring you right into the heart of town. Day-trippers can park their car for free in designated ferry lots in Mackinaw City or St. Ignace. For overnight guests, Mackinac Island ferry companies offer a range of parking options.

Many visitors enjoy riding a bicycle all the way around Mackinac Island on M-185, the only state highway in the country that prohibits automobiles. Of course, everyone's a pedestrian while visiting Mackinac Island, too. People walk to Mackinac Island's bars and restaurants.

Each and every extraordinary attraction on Mackinac Island is within walking distance. Find them on a guided tour with a resident islander or head off the beaten path on your own for an experience of Mackinac Island that's uniquely you.