Visit Historic Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island

For a truly unique vacation experience, Mackinac Island is the place to be. Here you'll find historic and national treasures you never knew existed and a peaceful place to relax and spend quality time with your partner or the entire family. It will be an unforgettable experience for everyone as they learn stories from the past of this great nation and find dozens of fun filled activities to keep them busy.

Fort Mackinac Overview

One of the most visited areas of Mackinac Island is Fort Mackinac. This National Historic Landmark was first built by British Soldiers during the American Revolution. Since that time it has stood watch over Mackinac Island and the Straits of Mackinac and today is open to the public. Your tour will start in the Post Commissary where you'll learn about the history of Fort Mackinac during the presentation of "Heritage of Mackinac." Afterwards, you'll walk in the steps of British and American soldiers where you'll see buildings and exhibits filled with the rich history of this bygone era.

Fort Mackinac Grounds

The grounds include 14 original buildings including Officers' Hill Quarters where costumed actors depict the life of a soldier's family during the 1880's. Period music, antique rifle and cannon firing, and re-enactments are the center of attention in the Victorian Soldier Life Interpretation where you'll learn about the life inside the walls of Fort Mackinac in the 1880's. Kid's Quarters offers curious children a hands-on opportunity to learn about this era with exhibits and costumes that they can interact with.

Fort Mackinac Exhibits

Exhibits routinely change at Fort Mackinac and it is the site for many special events. Each year the traditional Memorial Day Observance takes place at the cemetery to honor the soldiers who served at Fort Mackinac. On the 4th of July you can be sure to have a blast with the traditional 38-gun salute, fireworks, music and dancing. The Fort Mackinac Candlelight Tour takes place in August where you'll get a unique look at this landmark once the sun goes down and the candles are lit as you walk the grounds and hear haunting tales of the spirits of the past. Civil War re-enactments take place on the grounds several times a year with special presentations of the lives of local soldiers and their families along with realistic looking battles and demonstrations. You'll find gifts and memorabilia in Sutler's Store and the Fort Mackinac Tea Room serves continental breakfast, lunch and various refreshments.

This year when you plan your vacation, don't just plan to travel, plan to travel through time. Learn about the history of America through the words and objects belonging to the too often forgotten soldiers of the American Revolution at Fort Mackinac.