Mackinac Island Things To Do

Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry - Mackinaw City

Gateway

Shepler's offers more departures from Mackinaw City than any other ferry service going to the island.

Mackinac Island, Michigan, is a dazzling gem sure to please young and old alike for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. Nestled between the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan, surrounded by the deep blue waters of Lake Huron, this island has a rich history as a home to Native Americans, fur-trading center, British and American military fortress, commercial fishing site and popular resort destination. Prepare to leave the hustle and bustle of modern life behind, as motor vehicles are not allowed on the island, and where traffic is limited to horseback, carriage, bicycle and foot. Mackinac Island boasts fun and unique attractions that will leave visitors feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Mackinac Island Ferry

To get to the island, catch a 16-minute ride on Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry. The Shepler family has been ferrying visitors to Mackinac since 1945, and offers valet parking and free shuttles to hotels and other attractions.

Mackinac Island Tours

Once you land on Mackinac Island, choose from one of two great guided tour options to get a good overview of island scenery, folklore and historic sites. Hop aboard a Mackinac Island Carriage Tour for a two-hour, narrated ride between several stops such as the Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory, Arch Rock limestone formation and the avenue of flags at Ft. Mackinac. For those who wish to don their walking shoes, another excellent island tour choice is a 1 1/2 hour walking tour with Great Turtle Tales. Join guide Lisa Craig Brisson for an exploration of several historic sites including Marquette Park, the Visitor's Center, Trinity Church, the Governor's summer house and Ft. Mackinac.

After a guided tour of Mackinac Island, it's time to do some exploring on your own. Rent a bicycle and zip between shops, hotels and the shoreline, or to enjoy a leisurely ride through one of the island's wooded, scenic parks. A few bike rental companies include Island Bike Rentals, Orr-Kids Bike Shop and Lakeside Bike Rental. Several island hotels also feature bicycle rentals.

Mackinac Island Fudge

After touring the island, you have doubtlessly sniffed the tantalizing scent of rich homemade fudge drifting on the island breezes. Stop into one of the island's many candy shops to enjoy some real, old-fashioned, handmade fudge. The Straits of Mackinac have been famous for this confection since the 1880s, and so much fudge is sold here that tourists are lovingly referred to as "fudgies." Marshall's Fudge, Joann's Fudge, Murdick's Fudge Kitchen and Murray Hotel Fudge Company are just a few of the island's fantastic candy shops, and each offers numerous other sweet and tasty treats besides fudge!

Historic Mackinac Island Sights

After treating yourself to some of the island's historic goodies, perhaps you're in the mood to experience some other kinds of Mackinac Island history. Mackinac Island has a vibrant history, and features exhibits, demonstrations and parks spanning centuries of time. Visit Fort Mackinac, sitting atop a limestone bluff above the city streets. At this National Historical Landmark, visitors can see 14 historic buildings and experience firsthand the social life, historical events and soldiers' duties of the 1880s through demonstrations and re-enactments. Another interesting district is Historical Downtown. This area includes the Dr. Beaumont Museum, Mission Church and the Blacksmith Shop, to name a few.

Mackinac Island Cruises

After your forays into the history of Mackinac Island, the sun is sinking off the horizon of the "Land of the Great Turtle," and the maritime breezes make it a perfect setting for a sunset cruise. Enjoy a one-hour ride on a Mackinaw Breeze Catamaran Cruise for some relaxation and beautiful sunset-watching.

Mackinac Island Lodging

After such a fun-filled day, it's time to retire to first-class lodging. Book a room at the Island House Hotel, the only hotel in Mackinac Island State Park, where you can relax in the whirlpool and steam room after a scrumptious dinner in the 1852 Grill Room. Or, if you prefer, enjoy the rich and historical Victorian setting of the Lake View Hotel, the island's oldest continuously operational hotel, open since 1858.

Mackinac Island is rich in all dimensions: rich history, rich natural treasures, and of course, rich fudge. Mackinac Island charms its way into visitors' hearts with its unique history, scenic splendor and spirited downtown.