TO DO & TO EAT
We are so happy you could make the trip! We know getting to Mackinac takes a little extra effort, and it means more to us than we can say that you made the journey. Whether you’re staying for the weekend or extending your trip, here are a few of our favorite ways to enjoy the island!
FOR THE HISTORY BUFF
By the 1700s, the Straits of Mackinac was a vital transportation route, and the island became a key stop for fur traders. However, it wasn’t until after the War of 1812 and the pivotal Battle of Mackinac that the United States took control of the island.
Fort Mackinac
Cost: Adult $17.50
With admission to the Fort, you can visit the Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum, Biddle House, the Mackinac Island Native American Museum, and the Benjamin Blacksmith Shop. You can also watch several demonstrations, including the firing of the cannon.
More details here.
Grand Hotel Stables & Carriage Museum
Cost: Free self-guided tour
The Grand Stables is a working stable that is home to a dozen horses. It is also known for its antique carriage museum that houses approximately 30 antique carriages and sleighs.
More details here.
Hit the Trails
Whether you’re on a bike, or take a hike, we highly recommend hitting the trails. One of our favorites is the M-185 Route, an 8.2 mile journey around the entire circumference of the island.
Mackinac Island Bike Shop
Our favorite way to meet a city is by bike! From London and Paris to Amsterdam, Barcelona, Tokyo, and even Dallas… Mackinac is no exception! Mackinac Island Bike Shop offers traditional bicycle rentals, as well as, tandem and tricycle rentals.
More details here.
Cindy’s Riding Stable
It’s no secret that horses set the pace of the island. A ride with Cindy’s Riding Stable offers a classic way to experience Mackinac’s wooded interior, quiet trails, and limestone bluffs.
More details here.
Lace up your walking shoes! With over 70 miles of trails, the island invites long afternoons of biking, or horseback riding through the island.
FOR THE EXPLORER
FOR THE LEISURE SEEKER
While you’re here, we hope you’ll embrace the slower rhythm of the island. Spend the morning exploring Main Street, pause in an Adirondack overlooking the water, or enjoy a round on the course!
Grand Hotel Front Porch
Few places capture the spirit of the island like Grand Hotel’s front porch. At over 660 feet long, Grand Hotel is home to the longest front porch in the world. Settle into a rocking chair and watch the boats drift by. There is no better vantage point!
Golf on The Jewel
Something different, something unique, The Jewel is the only golf course in the United States with horse-drawn carriage rides between nines. Add in a fantastic layout and beautiful location, and no wonder it’s been awarded Editor’s Choice “Best Grand & Boutique Golf Hotels” by Golf Digest.
Start off on the "Grand Nine", which is played next to the Grand Hotel and has views of Lake Huron and Round Island. You will then be transported on a 15-minute horse and carriage ride, through parts of the island unseen by many visitors, to the "Woods Nine," in the interior of the island. There, you will find views of the Upper Peninsula and the Mackinac Bridge. To reserve your tee time, click here.
Mackinac Island is also home to one of Michigan's oldest active courses, the Wawashkamo Golf Club. This 9-hole course is within the Mackinac Island State Park, and was originally laid out in 1898 on the site of the 1814 Battle of Mackinac. To reserve your tee time, click here.
Mackinac Island Carriage Tours
Hop aboard a 1 hour and 45 minute carriage tour around the island, making stops at some of our favorite sights! The guides will provide you with all you wish to know about Mackinac, while you get to sit back and enjoy the views.
Sip N’ Sail Cruises
Cruise the Straits of Mackinac with Sip N’ Sail Cruises! Sip N’ Sail offers several cruise options, including the Michigan Craft Beer Bridge tour and the Easy Like Sunday Morning cruise.
FOR THE FOODIE
Meals tend to anchor our travels. We’re usually thinking about lunch while finishing breakfast and thinking about dinner while finishing lunch, so sharing a few island favorites felt essential – from harbor cocktails to dinner reservations and everything in between.
Pink Pony
Right on the waterfront, Pink Pony is one of Mackinac’s most iconic tables. The harbor views and lively energy make it an easy choice for lunch, sunset drinks, or a relaxed dinner by the water. If you can, grab a seat on the back patio that hangs right over the water and order their famous island Rum Runner – their signature cocktail and a true island classic.
As the night unfolds, it becomes one of the livelier spots on the island! Don’t be surprised if you see us there continuing the celebration post-reception!
Woods Restaurant
Often described at Mackinac Island’s culinary hideaway chalet, Woods is tucked away on the grounds of Grand Hotel and feels like a destination all its own. Voted “Best Resort Restaurant” by USA Today, Woods is especially known for its steaks and classic dishes. A true Mackinac institution!
The Jockey Club
The Jockey Club is located on the grounds of Grand Hotel. Featuring the only wood-fire grill on Mackinac, The Jockey Club serves up mouth-watering dishes incorporating ingredients from local farms and the finest purveyors of filet mignon and whitefish. Indoors, you’ll find a warm and inviting atmosphere with a stone fireplace, cozy leather booths, and unique artwork. Outside, the dining patio overlooks the first hole of The Jewel golf course. Great for people and carriage watching!
Great Turtle Brewery & Distillery
Great Turtle Brewery & Distillery is a great casual spot for craft beer, house-made spirits, and a laid-back meal. It’s an easy place to drop in after a bike ride or while exploring Main Street. While you can’t go wrong with ordering anything off the menu, we highly recommend their smoked whitefish hushpuppies and any of their great burgers! But you’ll be remiss if you don’t try any of their expertly crafted beers or their Painted Turtle cocktail flight made with their own Great Turtle vodka, rum, whiskey, and gin. Solid choice for a low-key lunch or early evening drink!
Carriage House
Set along the harbor at Hotel Iroquois, Carriage House features a glass-enclosed dining room with panoramic water views and outdoor verandas right on the waterfront. Carriage House is known for their fresh Great Lakes whitefish, perfectly prepared steaks, and seasonal dishes that feel thoughtful without being fussy. Perfect for a long lunch and unhurried dinner! The piano bar comes alive with nightly entertainment, which makes for a fun stop after dinner or a place to linger a little longer.
Murdick’s Fudge Kitchen
No trip to Mackinac is complete without fudge, and Murdick’s Fudge Kitchen is the original. Family-owned since the late 1800s, it’s part of what give the island its well-earned nickname as the “Fudge Capital of the World.” Stop in to watch fudge being made on marble slabs and pick up a box to share (or keep for yourself). It’s a Mackinac tradition!
The Doghouse
Right on Main Street, The Doghouse is a classic island stop for a quick, no-frills bite. It is a classic walk-up stand with picnic tables along the water. There are no reservations or formalities – just step up to the window, order your dog or brat, and enjoy the view! While we may have suggested a few fine-dining spots, it’s no secret that a hot dog is one of Presley’s lifelong guilty pleasures! Proof that even the most special weekends still leave room for ketchup and mustard (or chili, cheese, and onions)!
Mackinac Island Cookie Company
Right in the heart of town, Mackinac Island Cookie Company is known for warm, fresh-baked cookies that rarely make it back to your room. An easy, irresistible stop while exploring Main Street!
Additional Noteworthy Options:
Mackinac Island Pizza Company
Seabiscuit Café
Ice House BBQ
Lucky Bean Coffeehouse
Mustang Lounge
Patrick Doud’s Irish Pub