Mackinac Island is a gem. A trip to this island will surely make for a memorable getaway or family trip. As a Michigan local, I have made the drive to Mackinac City and taken the ferry to Mackinac Island three or four times now. It never gets old! This island is located in Lake Huron and is a popular destination for tourists. Keep reading to find out what activities you can do here that make this vacation so special and unique!

Take a ride in a horse buggy

Mackinac Island is unique, because there are no cars besides an ambulance for emergencies. After arriving to the island by ferry or boat, the visitors walk, ride bikes, or hop on a horse buggy. The horse buggy prices vary. I recommend that you ask the drivers what they charge and determine what the best rate is. You can find group tours and private tours. If you want to actually ride a horse, there is a horse stable on the island called Cindy’s Riding Stable.

Ride a bike around Mackinac Island

There are plenty of spots to rent bikes when you arrive on the island, and the prices vary between companies. You can usually rent the bikes out by the hour or per day. There are little bike trailers that attach to the bikes as well for kids or dogs to ride in. Also, there are motorized scooter rentals available for people who are unable to ride bikes.

There is a beautiful bike path that goes around the entire island. The route is about 8.2 miles long. Biking around the entire island is my favorite activity for a trip to Mackinac Island! The main downtown area is busy with people shopping and dining, but when you go around the island you are just surrounded by trees and bright blue water.

About halfway throughout the route, an individual ice cream shop pops up. Ice cream always makes for a great break! There are some small beaches scattered around the island also if you want to make it a longer excursion.

Visit the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island

The Grand Hotel is a fancy and expensive resort that has been featured in classic films. Since I tend to travel on a budget, I have never paid the hundreds to thousands of dollars that these suites cost per night. If you are not looking to spend a bunch of money but want to stay on the island overnight, there are countless lovely bed and breakfasts and small hotels scattered around the island. Regardless, a visit to this spectacular resort is necessary. I won’t spoil the experience, but be sure to hear about the construction and the history of the Grand Hotel.

See Arch Rock

Arch Rock is a famous rock formation that gathers the tourists. If you go on a bike ride around the island, this is a great stopping point. From the main path, there will be signs and stairs up to Arch Rock.

Eat lots of fudge

Fudge, fudge, and more fudge! There are numerous fudge shops on the island. It isn’t a proper trip to Mackinac Island if you don’t at least sample some fudge. I went to several shops and sampled as much fudge as possible. We were not planning on buying any, but it was too good not to!

Go shopping

There are numerous quaint boutiques along the main stretch when you arrive on Mackinac Island. Whether you are looking for a classic Michigan souvenir, a new book, fancy clothes, or a fun game or toy, you are sure to find something you will want!

Visit the Mackinac Island Public Library

Mackinac Island Public Library is a small and beautiful library right by the water. They have a lovely spot to read out back with chairs by the water. They usually have local art hanging as well that is worth taking a look at.

Visit Watercolor Cafe

Watercolor Cafe is a cute cafe with smoothies and sandwiches. Also, this cafe turns into an art studio in the evening where they host art classes for the public. Check out their website to see their menu and their art class schedule.

Explore Fort Mackinac

If you are interested in history, you will enjoy visiting Fort Mackinac. This fort was a military outpost that also hosted soldiers and their families. There are tours where you can learn about the history. Also, for an additional cost, one lucky individual gets the special opportunity to fire the Fort Mackinac cannon every morning. For hours, ticket prices, and additional information, their website is linked here.

Go golfing on Mackinac Island

Although I have never been golfing here, there is a beautiful golf course near the Grand Hotel. Also, there is a separate course for mini golf past the main street that is near the water.

Check out the weekly events

There are several public events held each week to entertain the guests and locals. They host live music nights, showings of famous movies that were filmed on the island (such as Somewhere in Time), and even activities such as scavenger hunts. Check out their website for their current schedule of events.

Conclusion

A trip to Mackinac Island is a chance to disconnect from technology and spend time being active with your loved ones. It truly is a special place. If you have never been to Mackinac Island before, I hope you find yourself walking the streets very soon!

Thanks for stopping by and cheers to making connections and memories around the world! To find my other blog posts, check out my destinations tab.