Useful Tips & Tricks

Mackinac Island, Michigan: 4 Must-Know Things Before You Visit

How much do you know about Mackinac Island, Michigan? 

Since you’re planning to visit it, you must certainly know the basics: no cars allowed, but tons of great architecture, history, stunning natural sceneries and fudge—lots and lots of fudge. If you want a little extra flavor, we’ve got plenty of info bites to get you going.

The Mackinac Island App is your go-to audio guide for exploring the island at your own pace. But, in addition, we’ve also prepared four good-to-know facts that will get you to the island (literally) and make your stay there a treat. 

Mackinac Island App Logo
Mackinac Island App Logo

Ready? Let’s explore the must-know things about Mackinac Island, Michigan. 


1. How to correctly pronounce “Mackinac” 

Before you even set foot on the island—no, before you pack your bags or, better yet, before you book your ticket to Mackinac Island—you must learn how to pronounce its name correctly. C’mon, say it out loud. Now say it again. Did you end the sound with an “ac”? Well, that’s what you must avoid at all costs!

Hate us now, love us later. We know it’s counter-intuitive not to pronounce it “Ma-cki-nac”. After all, it seems only natural, doesn’t it? But, trust us on this. If you don’t want to be the odd one out or get frosty looks from Mackinac Island residents, start working on pronouncing it “Ma-cki-naw”. Yes, with an “aw” at the end. Always. 

Of course, there’s a reasonable explanation for this apparently nonsensical pronunciation. The origins of Mackinac Island’s name are deeply rooted in Native American culture. As the French and English explorers made their way to the straits, they brought their influences to the name in terms of spelling. However, in recognition of the island’s origins, the pronunciation has remained unchanged. 


2. The best time to visit

The best time to visit Mackinac Island, Michigan is now. Spontaneous decisions aside, there’s not necessarily a best or worst time to pay this quaint island a visit. Choosing a date for your Mackinac Island vacation depends solely on what type of vacation you’ve set your heart on. 

If you’re looking for chill vibes and relaxed fun in the sun, the best time to visit Mackinac Island is during summer. From early May to the end of September, the island bursts into life. Souvenir shops, museums and attractions open their doors to a flood of curious tourists. This is the busiest period, but also the most eventful one and can easily quench the novelty thirst of any tourist. Outdoor activities? Check! Historic tours? Double-check! Nice weather? Triple-check! 

Fort Mackinac Tea Room During Tourist Season
Fort Mackinac Tea Room During Tourist Season

Now, if you’re more of a “swim against the stream” type of tourist, you can visit Mackinac Island during winter. However, please note that this period, although lovely in its own way, is as cold as ice (winters on Mackinac Island can be harsh) and less eventful. Many of the summer businesses close up shop until May and only a handful of hotels remain open. Nonetheless, you will be able to enjoy several amazing winter activities, such as skiing, ice-fishing, cruising with snowmobiles and simply taking in the stunning snow-covered views.


3. How to get to Mackinac Island during tourist season

During tourist season, from May to October, there are two ways you can get to Mackinac Island, Michigan: by ferry or by plane. 

The most popular means of transport is, without a doubt, the ferry. Smoothly navigating the waters of the Straits of Mackinac, while offering show-stopping views of the Mackinac Bridge, several ferry services are ready to take you to Mackinac Island. 

The best-known ferry lines are The Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry and the Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry. Available from both St. Ignace and Mackinaw City, their ferries offer tourists a comfortable and hassle-free journey and promise to get you to Mackinac Island in as little as 15-50 minutes. The travel time depends on your departure location and on whether or not you opt for the scenic and enlightening Mackinac Bridge tour. The ferry lines handle everything needed for you to enjoy your trip, such as providing free secured-luggage handling, shuttle services and several complementary discounts. 

View of Mackinac Bridge on the Ferry Tour
View of Mackinac Bridge on the Ferry Tour

If you prefer air travel, the airport in Pellston, Michigan, operates flights to Mackinac Island. You can either drive to Pellson and board a flight or have a layover here and continue your journey. 


4. How to get to Mackinac Island during winter

While some might frown at the idea of going to Mackinac Island, Michigan during the winter, others might find it quite thrilling! Skiing, ice-fishing and stunning frozen sceneries make the Michigan cold much less scary. And, while it’s true that Mackinac Island isn’t so easily accessible from October onwards, it doesn’t mean that it’s impossible to get there. Nothing is impossible with the right means of transport!

Before the straits freeze over, you can still take the ferry to Mackinac Island. The Arnold Line ferry provides their services even in the early months of winter, but only from St. Ignace. They run ferries daily for as long as the weather allows, so you have a good chance of catching one if you’re planning your trip for early winter.

Another great option that can get you to Mackinac Island, Michigan during winter is taking a plane. You can hop on one from the Mackinac County Airport in St. Ignace, but make sure to check the schedule in advance. Flight times are subject to the weather. Another option would be to fly there yourself if you have a pilot’s permit. Just note that there is no aviation fuel on the island, so plan accordingly! 

Flying to Mackinac Island, Michigan
Flying to Mackinac Island, Michigan

No matter how you get to Mackinac Island, make sure to book a winter taxi in advance, because there are limited ways of navigating the Mackinac Island when the snowfall is heavy. 


Ready to go to Mackinac Island?

We say you are. Of course, there’s so much more to discover about this quaint little island. But that’s why you’re visiting it, right? To discover the real treats and hidden gems of Mackinac Island, download the Mackinac Island App and explore the island with six unique guided audio tours. 

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