Nestled in the Straits of Mackinac, unmoved by the hectic rhythm of modern deadlines and far removed from the frenzy of traffic, there’s an island that appears to be frozen in time. The unassuming Mackinac Island (pronounced macki-naw) is brimming with stories, lush natural scenery, and historic landmarks—plus horses, but we’ll get to that later.
If it sounds like a perfect vacation destination, it’s because it really is. How so? Well, don’t confuse Mackinac Island’s affinity for the past with a lack of excitement or activities. The island can be vibrant and eventful, laidback and relaxing, insightful and revealing, or warm and sociable, depending on what you make of it.
We took it upon ourselves to explore the best of what this little island in Michigan has to offer and pay it forward. From uncovering Native American legends to admiring the Victorian architecture, visiting museums, eating fudge, forging swords and much more, we’ve put together a list with the top reasons why you should book a trip to Mackinac Island. Now.
Cars are banned on this secluded island
If traffic is your nemesis, Mackinac Island is the perfect place to take refuge. With a car ban in place since 1898, moving from one place to another is only done by horse, horse-carriage, bike, or plain old-fashioned walking. The island is very walkable indeed, with everything of interest within a short distance, but we’d recommend you to rent a bike or get back in the saddle if you feel your adventurous side calling.
Mackinac Island is the mother of fudge
Well, fudge! Even those on a diet won’t be able to resist tasting the crazy-delicious fudge on Mackinac Island. And we bet you won’t be any stronger-willed either. How could you be when you’re visiting the place that perfected fudge?! Mackinac Island is fudge-famous throughout the entire US and even the world. The first ever fudge and candy shop on the island, Murdick’s Fudge Shop, still exists today and continues to craft fudge using traditional recipes and real ingredients, much to the sweet delight of visitors.
Myths and legends are alive and well
First inhabited by Native Americans, Mackinac Island served, through the centuries, as a sacred burial ground for their chiefs. So, it’s no wonder that today, according to Native American creation myths, their spirits also linger on the island. But, besides following the spoken trail of Native American stories, you can also embark on a physical trail recently put in place on M-185 that highlights the key milestones regarding the history of Native Americans on Mackinac Island through six markers.
The island serves history for breakfast, lunch and dinner
Metaphorically, of course, but also literally.
Metaphorically, because the island is filled with remnants of centuries past. As you explore Mackinac Island, you’ll discover plenty of historic landmarks that reveal interesting stories about the first European settlers (take, for example, Fort Mackinac, built by the British in 1780), the rise of the fur industry driven by the American Fur Company, and the grand epoch of tourism, which was advanced by the Grand Hotel and the magnetism of Mackinac Island’s summer atmosphere—an atmosphere that still attracts thousands of visitors yearly.
Literally, because on Mackinac Island, you can embark on historic food tastings. You’ll have the pleasure of sampling a variety of traditional dishes sprinkled with delicious bites of history.
Mackinac Island is a catch for fishing enthusiasts
Floating atop Lake Huron, Mackinac Island is, indeed, a real catch for fishing buffs. Lake Huron’s crystal clear freshwaters are bountiful, with more than twenty-five fish species calling it home. Mackinac Island has various fishing centers that offer complete fishing experiences and equipment, both in the summertime and during the winter. So, throw your rod and get ready for a real fishing marathon.
Kids won’t suffer a boring moment
Mackinac Island is a holiday destination for the entire family; for parents, grandparents and children—no matter how young or old (we know you, too, are still a kid at heart). Here, kids can enjoy fun activities such as firing the cannon at Fort Mackinac, visiting the Original Butterfly House and Insect World, mini-golf, art workshops, stone skipping and green playgrounds. With so many to choose from, they’ll definitely have a blast. And did we mention the island is the mother of fudge? Oh yes, we did.
Mackinac Island is an open-air museum of Victorian architecture
A simple stroll down Main Street will teleport you into the era of Victorian flair. Up on the West Bluff, Victorian summer cottages still sparkle with glamour. Designed in the 19th century by some of America’s most fashionable architects, these cottages can offer enough entertainment (and relaxation) for days.
Mackinac Island is Michigan’s oldest state park
A lesser known fact is that Mackinac Island was once a natural park. In fact, it was America’s second natural park, right after Yellowstone. However, its status changed in 1875 when it became the first state park in Michigan. And, you assume correctly, it has several glorious hiking trails and stunning sights. Mackinac Island State Park is home to gorgeous shorelines, natural caves, a unique limestone arch and many other geological formations that will make you stop, stare and congratulate yourself for visiting this charming, surprising island.
Year-round festivals and events animate the island
Every June, Mackinac Island celebrates, for ten full days, its blooming lilacs with the Mackinac Island Lilac Festival. The festival features parades, concerts, culinary events and other types of locally flavored entertainment. Speaking of great flavor, the Mackinac Island Fudge Festival takes place in August—our mouths are watering just mentioning its name! Sure, the fudge-making demonstrations are a spectacle, but the real show happens when you begin to actually taste the unbelievable varieties of fudge. To burn off the extra calories, the island also hosts several marathons and trail runs. To chill out after expending all that effort, the Grand Hotel invites all visitors to listen to some quality tunes during the Labor Day Jazz Festival. We’ll stop here, but the festivals do not.
Convinced that Mackinac Island is worth exploring?
If the answer is yes, then you might find the Mackinac Island App helpful.
The app contains six unique audio guides that will show you around the must-see places on the island and delve into the exciting legends and stories about its history.
Have a safe trip and take loads of photos!
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