Mackinac Island Outdoor Vacation Ideas

Wings of Mackinac - Mackinac Island

Wings of Mackinac

This beautiful addition to Mackinac Island is a beautiful glass-enclosed atrium filled with carefully tended botanicals and free-flying butterflies from around the world.

Mackinac Island is the perfect vacation spot for the outdoor enthusiast. Since there are no cars or motorized vehicles allowed on the island, the area is a perfect and beautiful place to walk or bicycle through and the scenery is awe-inspiring.

Mackinac Island Biking & Hiking

Biking and hiking on the island are very popular activities. You can rent bicycles from a number of rental operations. Island Bicycle Rental offers high-quality Schwinn rentals at affordable prices. And Orr Kids Bike Shop has tandem bicycles available for rent and sale for a romantic bike-ride for two.

If you are looking for an interesting and unique way to explore the island and learn about its history, Great Turtle Tales has just what you are looking for. This 1 1/2 hour walking tour will take you on a stroll from Market Street to the East Bluff and you will explore some of the island's historic landmarks including Metivier Inn, churches, historic homes and hotels. The tour is guided by an educator/historian who can provide you with detailed knowledge of the area.

Mackinac Island State Park

Mackinac Island State Park is a free park that is open to the public. The park is made up of 1,800 acres. The park has numerous trails that are perfect for hiking or riding a bike. You can find cottages, historic cemeteries and monuments throughout the area.

Historic Downtown Mackinac Island

Take a relaxing walk among Historic Downtown. Mackinac Island used to serve as a commercial depot for fur trappers and traders. Now it is home to five historic buildings that are open for tours. The buildings include the Dr. Beaumot Museum/1820 American Fur Company Store, Biddle House, the Blacksmith Shop, McGulpin House and Mission Church.

Mackinac Island Motorized Vehicle Ban

One of the most charming aspects of Mackinac Island is that motor vehicles are not permitted on the island. Mackinac Carriage Tours offers a horse-drawn carriage tour that will take you on a narrated tour of the island and its beauty and history. This 20-seat carriage is the best way to get to the Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory.

Mackinac Island's Fort Mackinac

When visiting the area, you'll definitely want to make a stop at Fort Mackinac. This National Historic Landmark used to serve as a sentinel in the Straights of Mackinac for 115 years. The fort was constructed by British soldiers during the period of the American Revolution.

Mackinaw City's Colonial Michilimackinac

Colonial Michilimackinac is located in Mackinaw City. There you can see 18th century life recreated as you watch the detailed re-enactments and see soldiers demonstrate their skills. Stroll through the village and meet village residents.