Places to stay

Mackinac Island Hotels: the Shortlist that Will Help You Pick

Discover some of the most charming accommodation venues on the island frozen in time.

Even if there are quite a few Mackinac Island hotels, we know there’s just one that can make you fall head over heels. If you’re here, we assume you haven’t found “the one” yet.

Fact is, the search for the perfect accommodation is as complicated as it is pleasurable. After all, it’s the sweet prelude leading to your fabulous trip. But too much teasing can make the end result fall flat. However, worry not! We’re here to help you shortlist the best options and choose the right one—fast. 

To achieve this, we’ve put together a list of Mackinac Island hotels. From up-top venues to waterfront hotels and downtown accommodations, we’re going to present you with some of the most charming options the island has to offer. This way, it will be easier for you to choose the right accommodation and focus on exploring Mackinac Island. If you need a knowledgeable guide, don’t forget to download the Mackinac Island app.

Ready? Let’s discover the best Mackinac Island hotels! 


DOWNTOWN MACKINAC ISLAND HOTELS

Bicycle Street Inn & Suites

The first entry on our Mackinac Island hotels shortlist is not just one venue. It’s a three-in-one accommodation encompassing the flagship Bicycle Inn & Suites, the Waterfront Collection South and the Waterfront Collection North. 

The three hotels, commonly referred to as The Bicycle Street Inn & Suites, greet visitors with a prime downtown location and wow-worthy balcony views. Choose a room, unpack your bags and slip into the comfortable, yet classy atmosphere. It’s best to do so with a drink in hand as you bathe in the sunlight that illuminates the flagship’s three-story atrium. Or as you glimpse, from your balcony, at the quaint life scene unfolding right beneath your eyes.

Downton Mackinac Island hotels: Bicycle Street Inn & Suites.
Bicycle Street Inn & Suites, View from the Flagship Hotel.
Photo Credits: Bicycle Street Inn & Suites

Victorian with modern touches in just the right places, the Bicycle Street Inn & Suites is not just an accommodation, but a state of mind—one that will have you blend right into Mackinac Island’s unique atmosphere. Downtown, where it all unfolds. 


The Lilac Tree Suites & Spa

Next on our Mackinac Island hotels shortlist is a place that helps you nurture the spirit of “home” while you’re away. 

The Lilac Tree Suites & Spa offers 39 uniquely appointed rooms, each with spacious living rooms and separate bedrooms. The Master Suites also include large balconies that open onto panoramic views of the always eventful Main Street and the harbour. If you’re into something a bit more bubbly and relaxing, you can opt for the more luxurious Jacuzzi Suite.

The Lilac Tree Suites & Spa has a well-deserved place on our Mackinac Island hotels shortlist thanks to its balcony views.
Downtown Balcony View. Photo Credits: The Lilac Tree Suites & Spa Website

Downstairs, a modern spa invites you to indulge in peaceful relaxation through various treatments conducted by professional practitioners. What’s more, estheticians and nail technicians are ready to give you the pampering you deserve. 


Chippewa Hotel Waterfront

Downtown and also facing the water, the Chippewa Hotel Waterfront is the sister-hotel of the Lilac Tree Suites & Spa. Why does it deserve to be on our Mackinac Island hotels shortlist? Well, it’s home to the Pink Pony Patio Bar, one of Mackinac Island’s most popular venues for funky cocktails. And, if the innovative beverages don’t impress you, its over-the-water terrace definitely will—in the best possible way. 

The Chippewa Hotel Waterfront promises more than just a few pleasant moments by the water. With a Victorian charm and a modern attitude, the venue offers spacious two-room suites with balconies, plus special suites with a jacuzzi and other unique facilities. Oh, and once you step onto the patio, you can fully relax by dipping into the 25-person jacuzzi. 

So, if you’ve gone through all of the Mackinac Island hotels but felt that none had that easy-going vibe you were looking for, the Chippewa Hotel Waterfront might just be the one.


MACKINAC ISLAND HOTELS BY THE WATER

Mission Point Resort

Among Mackinac Island hotels, Mission Point Resort stands out as the most spectacular sunrise location. Situated where the waters of Lake Huron kiss the shore of Mackinac Island, the venue has been recognized by Conde Nast Traveler as one of the best accommodations in Michigan. 

Mission Point Resort.
Photo Credits: Mission Point Website.

Mission Point Resort is the type of accommodation that manages to capture the essence of Mackinac Island through simple pleasures that ooze authenticity. The rustic elegance of this hotel induces relaxation, contemplation and full immersion into Mackinac Island’s summer lifestyle. With various activities for kids and pet-friendly amenities, Mission Point Resort is among the hotels on Mackinac Island that are ideal for the whole family. 

You can get accommodated in one of the two available lodges—the Main Lodge or the Straits Lodge—and find out for yourself why Mission Point Resort is a stand-out among Mackinac Island hotels.


Harbour View Inn

The Harbour View Inn couldn’t be missing from our Mackinac Island hotels shortlist. Its proximity to the harbour makes it perfect for yacht enthusiasts and for anybody who yearns for tranquil views. 

Harbour View Inn
Photo Credits: Harbour View Inn Website.

Only a heartbeat away from all the major landmarks and points of interest on Mackinac Island, Harbour View Inn is one of those hotels that makes exploration easy. You can opt for a room in one of the four buildings available on-premises, each with its own style and atmosphere: the French-Victorian Chateau LaFramboise (once the home of Madame Magdelaine LaFramboise), the cottage-themed Carriage House, the Guest House or the recently built Cottage at the Harbour View Inn. All the buildings are surrounded by beautifully landscaped areas and manicured courtyards. However, if you want to bring your pet along, you’ll unfortunately have to look for other accommodation, as the Harbour View Inn has a “no pets” policy. 


BLUFF-TOP MACKINAC ISLAND HOTELS

The Inn at Stonecliffe

Mackinac Island hotels come in many shapes and forms, each one offering different atmospheres. The Inn at Stonecliffe comes with a tranquil vibe, lush gardens and a history that spans more than 120 years. Thanks to its bluff-top location, this stunning inn offers some of the most scenic views on the island and soul-touching sunsets. 

A tranquil entrance on our Mackinac Island hotels shortlist: The Inn at Stonecliffe.
Photo Credits: The Inn at Stonecliffe Website

What started as the summer residence of famous industrialist Michael Cudahy has been transformed over the decades into a splendid accommodation. We cover the entire history of Stonecliffe in the West Island Tour of our Mackinac Island App. But, until you take our audio-guided tour, we’re willing to let you in on some insider info about this accommodation venue.

If you choose to stay at the Inn at Stonecliffe, you can opt to stay in one of the sixteen Cudahy Mansion guest rooms or in one of the thirty-one Summer Houses Suites that offer Victorian flair and modern amenities. No matter which one you choose, you’re invited to start the day with a delicious complimentary hot buffet breakfast. In addition to a comfortable overnight stay, the Inn at Stonecliffe also proposes some fun day activities, such as plunging into the swimming pool or going on a horseback or biking adventure.


Grand Hotel 

When it comes to Mackinac Island hotels that carry a piece of the island’s heritage, few can surpass the Grand Hotel. The Grand Hotel boasts more than 120 years of famous guests and a priceless history of traditions. Even to this day, dinners at the Grand Hotel have maintained that old-world elegance and charm. All guests are required to dress up for the event. This way, they experience a taste of the past with a dash of class.  

Grand Hotel Mackinac Island Facade

The Grand Hotel Features almost 400 uniquely decorated rooms and prides itself on having the largest porch in the world. The venue even has several rooms designed by some of the most loved First Ladies of the United States. And yes, you can book a stay in one! With such spectacular suites, you’ll be in danger of not wanting to leave your room. Luckily, the Grand Hotel also has a large list of activities that will definitely tempt you out. 

And, even if you don’t get to stay at the Grand Hotel, you can still pay it a visit. Download the Mackinac Island app and listen to our West Island Tour to learn more about Grand Hotel’s history. 

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