Mackinac Island’s Grand Hotel is, indeed, grand. And not just because of its impressive architecture. Its name embodies decades of history and a unique atmosphere that elevates hospitality standards. Yes, the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is a real American classic and one of the best summer residencies in existence.
Rock on a chair on the world’s longest porch. Get all dressed up in classical attire for dinner. Sip meditatively out of a fine teacup during the traditional Afternoon Tea. Dance it off like it’s 1887. Indulge in the many modern amenities that will alleviate your stresses better than any lotion, potion or ointment. Here are several reasons why you should live your vacation in a grand way at the Grand Hotel. And, while you’re there, download the Mackinac Island app—you audio guide through the past and into the present of this exceptional island. But for now, let’s focus on the Grand Hotel.
Rooms with thematic designs and American character
The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island has a classical American atmosphere that is best expressed through its almost 400 rooms. Individually decorated with unique details, the suites are a perfect blend between traditional design and modern flair with state-of-the-art amenities.
Photo Credits: Grand Hotel website 
Photo Credits: Grand Hotel website
Here, guests feel pampered beyond comfort. Elevated by the small, surprising details, the grand experience promises to be unforgettable. To give you an idea, imagine yourself waking up to the smell of strong American coffee and the fresh news of the day with a New York Times Digest under the door. It’s a slow-paced start to the day that will get you all warmed up for the eventful schedule ahead.
A 130-year history of distinguished guests
The Grand Hotel is Mackinac Island’s meeting point for the crème de la crème. Entertainers, politicians, sports figures, entrepreneurs and various notable personalities have always been drawn to the Grand’s atmosphere and hospitality.
Back in the day, John Jacob Astor IV, America’s first billionaire, was a regular guest. Mark Twain was also enchanted by the Grand Hotel and Mackinac Island’s charm, and Thomas Edison even presented a few of his contraptions here.
An all-time favorite for various presidents, the Grand Hotel even has seven rooms designed by their first ladies. Today, you can sleep in a room designed by Jacqueline Kennedy herself or wake up in a bed chosen by Rosalyn Carter.
If you’re lucky enough, you might even bump into contemporary distinguished guests such as Madonna, Robert de Niro or Joe Biden, to name just a few. The Grand Hotel is their top choice on Mackinac Island.
Grand Hotel spoils guests for choice
You could spend several consecutive days at the Grand Hotel without leaving its premises. And if Mackinac Island wasn’t so spectacular, we’d even encourage you to. However, we suggest you balance activities at the Grand Hotel with Mackinac Island’s other charms.
From lawn games to lush gardens and wonderful spas, there’s nothing missing from the Grand. Biking, live music, shopping, activities for kids, the famous Afternoon Tea experience—all just a few steps from your room. Of course, the Grand Hotel also features a pool, and not just any kind of pool. The Esther Williams pool is named after the very actress who starred in This Time For Keeps, which was filmed at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island.
Photo Credits: Grand Hotel website
And, since a stay at the Grand Hotel promises utter pampering, the venue also offers concierge services to help guests better explore the island.
Meals are always an event at the Grand Hotel
Nothing quite compares with a meal at the Grand Hotel. Classical American flavors mix with older traditions, all in a tasty atmosphere. Of course, the dishes themselves are delicious. After all, only the best, most ingenious chefs get to work at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. But there’s more.
Here, getting ready for a meal is a pleasure all by itself. Guests at the Grand Hotel are required to wear elegant attire in order to attend dinner. The whole idea of dressing up completely shifts the guests’ mindset, making them more attentive to the surroundings, their company and, of course, the food.
A dinner at the Grand Hotel means returning to a calmer past. A past in which the finer things were given their due time and enjoyment was not a guilty pleasure squeezed between two meetings. And, enjoying a bewilderingly delicious dinner in the Main Dining Room is one of the best experiences you could hope to have on Mackinac Island.
Discover the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island with the Mackinac Island App
No matter if you book a stay at the Grand Hotel or not, you are welcome to enjoy the cool summer evening breeze from its porch (if you’re not a guest here, you can do so in exchange for a fee).
As you sit and admire the wonderful views over Mackinac Island, you can drift into the Grand Hotel’s story as you listening to the West Island Tour inside the Mackinac Island App.
The tour will take you on an exploration journey of the Grand Hotel’s fascinating history. You’ll learn more about its role in the island’s affairs and how it slowly, yet decisively, became a landmark.
The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is a great way to discover the lost American classic atmosphere. And, of course, make the most out of summer!
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