Mackinac Island is one of the many hidden treasures that the state of Michigan has to offer. Growing up, I spent many a summer traipsing around this little island located in the middle of Lake Huron, in between the Lower and Upper Peninsulas. Although it is quite small (only about 4 square miles) and secluded (only reachable by ferryboat!), it is full of history and there are so many sights to see and adventures to experience. It may be impossible to list everything you could possibly take in, but these are some of my favorite parts of visiting Mackinac!
1. The Fudge
Let's be real. We all know that the best part of going to Mackinac Island is eating some of the town's world-famous fudge. There are so many different flavors to choose from, and once you've tasted some, you'll wonder why you ever bothered to eat any other dessert in your life. The toughest decision you'll have to make, however, is which shop you buy from--are you loyal to Ryba's, Murdick's, or Joann's fudge? I myself am a Joann's fan!
2. The Slower Pace
Another great thing about traveling to Mackinac during the summer is that because there are no cars on the island, everything there moves at a leisurely pace. It really gives you a chance to take a breath, relax, and enjoy your vacation.
3. The Horses
Since there are no cars on the island, there are a couple of ways to get yourself around besides just walking. Horse-drawn carriages take you to your destination in style or, if you feel like roughing it a bit, you can ride right on a horse's back!
4. The Biking
Another mode of transportation on Mackinac is bicycles. Along with main routes, there are several different bike paths that will take you all over and they are a great way to sight-see some of the attractions the island has to offer!
5. The Authenticity
Perhaps my favorite aspect of Mackinac Island is how you feel as though you're entering another world when you step off the ferry. Suddenly, you're in a much simpler time, a time of bonnets and ankle-length dresses, of churning butter and blacksmith shops. It really makes you feel as though you're back in the 19th century, which is a pretty magical experience.
6. The Grand Hotel
Speaking of attractions, one of the first things you will notice on the ferry ride over is a giant white building looming over the rest of the island. This is the Grand Hotel, which was built in the 1800s and is by far the prettiest--and the most expensive--place to stay on the island. There are gorgeous gardens surrounding the hotel, and they also provide an afternoon tea so that even if you're not able to book a room, you can still imagine you're living the posh lifestyle of the Grand.
7. The Historic Museums
One of the best parts of Mackinac Island is that although it seems to be disconnected from the rest of the world, the list of things to do there is by no means short. One of my favorite parts of the island is learning about the history, and what better place to do that than a museum? There are art and history museums, as well as other places that are brimming with interesting information about Mackinac and its past.
8. The Fort Mackinac
Another gem containing a considerable amount of the island's history is Fort Mackinac, which was once used as a military outpost and a home for soldiers. Today, it is filled with costumed interpreters showing vacationers just what life was like in the 1800s with exhibits and rifle demonstrations, among other exciting things.
9. The Sightseeing
There are also a few landmarks on the island that are must-sees. Some of the slightly "boulder" attractions include Sugar Loaf, a 75-ft-fall stacked rock in the middle of the island, and Arch Rock, a rock formation on the outskirts near the coastline. Both of these spots have old Native American legends attached to them, and are great for photo opportunities too!
10. The Sports
If you're looking for a more modern kind of fun, there are plenty of awesome sporting opportunities on Mackinac as well. You can take a jet ski out into the waves or, for more sophisticated fun, can explore one of the golf courses on the island.
11. The Lilac Festival
Another event not to be missed during a summer on Mackinac Island is the annual Lilac Festival. During this time, the wide variety of lilacs on the island are in full bloom and activities abound, including a 10K race, parade, shows, and the coronation of the Lilac Festival Queen!
12. The Friendly Faces
Definitely the most noticeable aspect you will find on a vacation to Mackinac Island is just how welcoming those who frequent the island are. No matter where you go on the island, both the locals and the Boy and Girl Scouts who spend their summer patrolling the island are always willing to share a smile, say hello, and point you in the right direction. It is such a pleasant place to travel to during the summer months, and if you have not made the trip up to the top of the Lower Peninsula, I would highly suggest it. You won't be disappointed!
