The Straits of Mackinac qualifies as an excellent bucket list destination, but it also successfully ticks multiple “must-see in your lifetime” boxes. What more could you wish for? Well, a ticket to get here, of course!
The Straits of Mackinac is a narrow strip of water that connects Michigan’s Lower and Upper Peninsulas and tempts visitors with beautiful sights, stops and activities. With fun water sports, exciting trails, historic spots and impressive architecture, the straits offer a little something for everybody. In fact, that’s what the Straits of Mackinac promise and consistently deliver. Even if you’ve decided to spend most of your vacation time on Mackinac Island, consider reserving a few of those days for exploring the straits. You definitely won’t regret it!
The Mackinac Island App contains a free guided tour that introduces you to one of the most amazing sights around the Straits of Mackinac: the Mighty Mac Bridge. But why stop there? Follow your adventurous spirit and discover the best spots in the straits. Here’s our top 5:
1. Mackinaw City, your starting point around the straits
We’ve said it before, but we’ll say it again: Mackinaw City is more than a pit stop. Whether you’re heading to Mackinac Island or somewhere else around the Straits of Mackinac, be sure to linger a while in the city of fudge, history and stargazing.
Exciting for parents, kids and even grandparents, Mackinaw City is a stop that shouldn’t be skipped on your Straits of Mackinac itinerary. Sites like Colonial Michilimackinac, the Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park, McGulpin Point or The Headlines will take you down the path of history and fun. With your newfound understanding of the city’s heritage, you’ll be ready to venture further on your journey.
2. Mackinac Bridge, the path to discovering the Straits of Mackinac
Recognized as one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, Mackinac Bridge fully deserves its “Mighty Mac” nickname. The five-mile-long bridge can be enjoyed by car or, better yet, as you traverse the Straits of Mackinac by ferry. A ferry ride will offer you the best view of Mackinac Bridge and will give you a clearer glimpse of its unrivalled grandeur. You can hop on the Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry to enjoy a sightseeing tour. To make the trip even more exciting, download the Mackinac Island App and listen to the FREE Ferry Guide, a self-guided audio tour that covers all the fascinating details about the Mighty Mac and more.
3. St. Ignace, a casual and delightful stop
Blending water sports with history, culture and romance, St. Ignace makes up in cheerfulness what it lacks in size. As one of the most recommended pit stops around the Straits of Mackinac, it offers visitors spectacular beaches and a diversity of activities to keep busy or simply relax and enjoy a well-deserved holiday. Promoting itself as the “home port for exploration”, St. Ignace can be an excellent base for day trips to the Woodland Dunes on the shore of Lake Michigan, the Garlyn Zoological Park or the Top of the Lake Snowmobile Museum, which hosts more than 80 vintage snowmobiles. For those who decide to stay put, St. Ignace is host to two delightful summer events: Music by the Bay, which gathers local talent and Movies by the Bay, an event for the entire family.
4. Bois Blanc, a blissfully remote location in the straits
A trip to the Straits of Mackinac wouldn’t be truly complete without a trip to Bois Blanc Island. Although not rich in amenities, the island has that special something that is rare to find. Head to Bois Blanc’s west end and you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of Mackinac Bridge and Mackinac Island. Move all the way up north and there in the distance, you’ll see the faint line of the Upper Peninsula. Bois Blanc is particularly well-known for a variety of activities. Canoeing, kayaking, fishing, biking, swimming, and sightseeing are among the most popular. Sure, this island might lack luxury hotels and Michelin-star restaurants, but it could be the secluded destination your mind (or heart) has been aching for.
5. Mackinac Island, the crowning jewel of the Straits of Mackinac
Many tourists who make their way through the Straits of Mackinac have one destination in mind: Mackinac Island. Since the late-1800s, this island has fascinated travelers and has become a well-known summer destination due to its cool summer weather and fabulous scenery. With history unraveling at every corner, beautiful nature trails, Native American myths, tons of family activities and good food, Mackinac Island is, indeed, a destination to remember.
To make the most of the island and discover all its delights. embark on some of our self-guided tours. Six guided tours await inside the Mackinac Island App, available in the Apple store and the Google Play store.
Create your own Straits of Mackinac itinerary
Now that you know more about the must-see spots around the Straits of Mackinac, you can create your own itinerary. Are you aiming for relaxation? Then go from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island and finish it off in Bois Blanc. Are you looking for fun activities? Maybe you should start in St. Ignace, spend some more time on Mackinac Island and then go back to Mackinaw City on the mainland. If you’re the type who wants to see it all, you stop on all these wonderful spots. Just download your Mackinac Island App and go!
Comments are closed.