Mackinac Island’s history is tightly connected to Fort Mackinac. As Europeans in the 1700s made their way across the Atlantic and arrived in Michigan, they started looking for strategic outposts to defend their new territories. Their first option was present-day Mackinaw City, where they built the now-famous Fort Michilimackinac.
However, as time passed, the fort became increasingly difficult to defend. Mackinac Island, however, seemed like the perfect isolated ground to re-establish camp. So, between 1780 and 1781, the British rebuilt the fort high on a bluff on Mackinac Island. Throughout the decades, Fort Mackinac saw several confrontations that shaped the island. Its fascinating story is vividly captured in the self-guided Historic Tour available on the Mackinac Island App, which perfectly complements a real-life visit to the site. Once you finish listening to the audio guide, make sure to also engage in the various activities available at Fort Mackinac. Here’s what you can enjoy:
Fire the Fort Mackinac Cannon
Fire in the hole! You’d better take cover because history is blasting at Fort Mackinac. And you can be a part of it. The firing of the fort’s cannon is a favorite activity among kids and adults alike—especially those who want to pay homage to a bygone era. Firing the Fort Mackinac cannon involves going through the very same steps the fort’s soldiers took hundreds of years ago. You’ll clean, load and prime the cannon. Then, you’ll wait — heart beating faster and faster — for the signal to…fire! Once the booming sound of the cannon has dissipated into silence, why not take a moment to steer your eyes to the horizon, where you’ll find a great view of the Mighty Mac bridge.
The cannon firing experience is available at Fort Mackinac during visitors season, from May to October. What’s more, the cannon can only be fired by one person each day at 9:15 am. Thus, be sure to book at least three days in advance if you want to take part in this unique activity.
Enjoy a Demonstration by Costumed Interpreters
What better way to capture the essence of the past than by stepping right into it? At Fort Mackinac, you can actually walk among people from two hundred years ago. Each season, the talented actors from Fort Mackinac prepare a wide range of demonstrations and tours designed to give visitors an authentic taste of the past. In 2019, the Fort’s programs included the Woman of the Fort Mackinac Tour, which shed light on the role of women on Mackinac Island, a drill program that demonstrated how crisis situations were solved, and a bayonet demonstration combined with an exciting spectacle of skill and pure entertainment. Each experience was made even more special with music, dances, games and unique interactions.
The 2020 program is still to be announced, but it’s guaranteed to contain several exciting tours and demonstrations that will help you immerse yourself in Mackinac Island’s unique history. Be sure to check the schedule before your visit and make reservations in advance.
Visit a Fort Mackinac Exhibition
Fort Mackinac encloses fourteen original buildings decorated with period furnishings. Each building is specifically designed around a theme to help visitors better understand its past function. For an even more insightful perspective on the past and Fort Mackinac’s place in history, several exhibits are hosted throughout the year.
For example, the Military Medicine at Mackinac: 1780-1895 exhibit provides a closer look at the changing medical scene during the 19th century and delves into the medical practices of that time. Another informative exhibition is Post Guardhouse, which focuses on trials held at Fort Mackinac in the 1900s. Visitors can enjoy a modern, immersive multimedia experience at the North Blockhouse, while children can learn and play at the Kids’ Quarters where many interactive games await.
If you have your heart set on any of these exhibits, make sure to check Fort Mackinac’s agenda in advance. Displays are available exclusively during visitors season (May to October).
Watch a Historical Movie
Although nothing compares to an actual visit to Fort Mackinac, after you’ve taken the Historic Mackinac Tour (available inside the Mackinac Island App) and experienced all the immersive activities on-site, we recommend that you also check out the historic movie at Post Commissary. The Heritage of Mackinac is a short movie that provides a brief visual introduction to Fort Mackinac’s history. No reservations are necessary. The film has several screenings daily, repeating every twenty minutes.
Unwind at the Fort Mackinac Tea Room
With one of the most amazing panoramas available on Mackinac Island, Fort Mackinac Tea Room is the perfect spot to unwind. Whether you’re craving a hearty lunch, a quick snack or a refreshment, grab a spot on its terrace and just relax.
The exceptional view alone will keep you hooked, but the dishes rise to the occasion just as well. Expect delicious meals to suit a variety of dietary requirements and a delightful atmosphere. After all, this is a Grand Hotel venue, so the standards are ultra-high.
Fort Mackinac Tea Room is open only during visitors season (May to October) and greets guests everyday from 11:00am to 03:00pm.
Before you go…
Don’t forget to download the Mackinac Island App and listen to the Historic Mackinac Tour. The self-guided audio tour will take you on a historical trail at Fort Mackinac. You’ll dive into the depths of Mackinac Island’s past and learn exciting details, stories and myths. Be sure to pack a comfortable pair of shoes!
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