Mackinac Island: Luxury Hotels & Things to Do for an Unforgettable Getaway
Discover Mackinac Island’s top luxury hotels, historic attractions, and unique experiences. From the Grand Hotel to horse-drawn carriage tours, plan the perfect island escape with our complete guide.
TRAVELNORTH AMERICAMIDWEST
8/26/202512 min read
Mackinac Island, nestled between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, is a timeless escape where cars are replaced by horse-drawn carriages and bicycles, and Victorian charm meets Great Lakes beauty. Known for its fudge, historic architecture, and sweeping lake views, this island is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a slower pace with a touch of luxury.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a summer family getaway, or a fall retreat, Mackinac Island offers world-class hotels, fine dining, and unforgettable experiences.
At A Glance:
Language: English
Currency: US Dollar
Cash + Cards: Cards widely accepted; cash helpful at markets
Transportation: No Cars, Walkable downtown; bikes, horse-drawn carriages, & golf carts
Best Time to Visit:
Summer (June–August): Peak season with warm weather, festivals, and bustling streets. Hotel prices are highest.
Fall (September–October): Gorgeous foliage, fewer crowds, cooler temperatures.
Spring (May–early June): Blooming lilacs and the famous Mackinac Lilac Festival.
Winter (November–April): Most hotels and attractions close; only year-round residents remain.
How to Get There and Around:
Closest Airport: Pellston Regional Airport (20 minutes to Mackinaw City ferry dock).
Ferry: Shepler’s or Star Line Ferry (20–25 minutes across Lake Huron).
Transport on the Island: No cars allowed. Travel by bike, horse-drawn carriage, or on foot.
Car Rentals: For exploring Michigan before or after your island trip, compare options with DiscoverCars.
Luggage: Use Radical Storage in nearby cities if you need to store bags pre- or post-ferry.
Transfers: Book a private transfer from Pellston to the ferry with WelcomePickups.
Fun Facts:
The Grand Hotel is home to The World's Largest Porch
The town served as the set for the movie Somewhere In Time
WHAT TO EXPECT ON MACKINAC ISLAND
Credit: Unsplash
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Mackinac Island is a rare destination that blends history, elegance, and natural beauty. Whether you’re here for a romantic escape, a family retreat, or a full week of relaxation, this destination has something special for every traveler.
To make your trip effortless, we’ve created detailed digital itineraries designed to guide you through every moment. These premium guides include:
Day-by-day plans of at least a week-long stay, giving you many choices for just a weekend getaway!
Hotel, dining, and attraction recommendations with direct booking links
Maps and insider tips to help you wander like a local
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From iconic resorts to charming boutique inns, Mackinac Island offers accommodations that fit every style of luxury. Whether you want historic elegance at the Grand Hotel or the intimate feel of a bed-and-breakfast, here are the top stays to consider.
WHERE TO STAY
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The Grand Hotel is the crown jewel of Mackinac Island. Famous for its sweeping white façade and the world’s longest porch, this property has welcomed presidents, celebrities, and royalty since 1887. Rooms are individually decorated with bold, colorful designs, while amenities include fine dining, afternoon tea, lawn games, and an Olympic-sized pool. Evening attire is required in the main dining room, making it an experience that blends tradition with elegance. Ideal for travelers seeking a truly iconic stay.
Credit: TripAdvisor
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Set on 18 acres along the shoreline, Mission Point Resort offers a more relaxed yet equally luxurious atmosphere. Guests enjoy a full-service spa, an 18-hole putting course, bike rentals, and five on-site restaurants. The resort’s sweeping lawns are perfect for picnics overlooking Lake Huron, and the casual vibe makes it especially family-friendly. Mission Point is also known for its sunrise views and pet-friendly policies, making it versatile for different types of travelers.
Credit: TripAdvisor
This boutique waterfront hotel combines intimate luxury with one of the island’s most beautiful settings. With just 46 rooms, Hotel Iroquois feels private and personal, perfect for a romantic getaway. The hotel’s Carriage House restaurant is one of the best on the island, serving fresh whitefish and locally inspired dishes right on the water. Many suites have sweeping lake views, and the property’s gardens create a peaceful, secluded atmosphere despite its central location.
Credit: TripAdvisor
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The Island House Hotel is the oldest operating hotel on Mackinac Island, with a history dating back to 1852. It combines Victorian charm with updated amenities like an indoor pool, hot tubs, and two restaurants. The location is just steps from downtown, making it convenient for exploring shops, attractions, and ferry docks. Perfect for those who want a historic experience without sacrificing modern comforts.
Credit: TripAdvisor
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Perched on a bluff away from downtown, the Inn at Stonecliffe offers sweeping views of the Straits of Mackinac. The setting feels more private and tranquil compared to other island hotels. Rooms are split between the historic mansion and newer suites, with outdoor space that includes gardens and a large lawn overlooking the lake. Guests love the peaceful setting, making this inn perfect for a retreat-style getaway.
Credit: TripAdvisor
For travelers who prefer boutique charm, the Inn on Mackinac is a cozy bed-and-breakfast known for its bright gardens and welcoming atmosphere. Rooms are individually decorated with classic cottage-style touches, and a homemade breakfast is included each morning. Located just off a quaint street, it’s close to the island’s shops and attractions while still offering a quiet retreat. Perfect for couples looking for a romantic, smaller-scale stay.
Credit: TripAdvisor
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Car-free rhythms set the tone here—horse-drawn carriages clip-clop past Victorian façades while bikes glide along lakefront paths. Harbor views open and close the day, and the island’s quiet lanes make even a simple walk feel like a storybook detour.
History is everywhere, from the bluff-top cannon of Fort Mackinac to the panoramic lookout at Fort Holmes. Pair those time-travel moments with natural showstoppers like Arch Rock and Sugar Loaf, where limestone, forest, and water meet in dramatic ways.
Plan your day around light and easy distances: sunrise at Arch Rock, a leisurely loop on M-185, an afternoon carriage ride, and sunset cocktails on the Grand Hotel’s porch. In between, duck into the Butterfly House, sample a few legendary fudge shops, and let the island’s unhurried pace do the rest.
Food & Dining, Unique Experiences, and Top Attractions
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Mackinac’s dining scene blends vintage island elegance with breezy waterfront energy—whitefish fillets, cherry-laced desserts, and candlelit rooms where time slows down. From porch-side sunset dinners to tucked-away lodges in the woods, you’ll find flavors that feel both classic Great Lakes and delightfully indulgent.
Food & Dining
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Mackinac Island is filled with history and natural beauty, making it easy to fill your days with sightseeing. Whether you’re stepping into the past at Fort Mackinac, biking to Arch Rock, or wandering through state parks, every corner of the island has something to explore. Carriages clip-clop past Victorian façades while bikes glide along the shoreline and harbor views bookend the day—morning light on the bluffs, golden hour on the water.
History is everywhere, from the bluff-top cannon at Fort Mackinac to the panoramic lookout at Fort Holmes. Pair those time-travel moments with natural showstoppers like Arch Rock and Sugar Loaf, where limestone, forest, and lake meet in dramatic ways.
Plan your day around light and easy distances: sunrise at Arch Rock, a leisurely loop on the car-free M-185, an afternoon carriage ride through shaded lanes, and sunset cocktails on the Grand Hotel’s porch. In between, duck into the Butterfly House, sample a few legendary fudge shops, and let the island’s unhurried pace do the rest.
Credit: TripAdvisor
Click Below to See the Most Up-To-Date Activities:
Fort Mackinac
An 18th-century fort with reenactments, museum exhibits, and sweeping harbor views from the bluff.Arch Rock
A striking limestone arch soaring above Lake Huron—best light early morning, with panoramic photo spots nearby.Mackinac Island State Park
Trails, forests, and overlooks cover most of the island—perfect for gentle hikes, picnics, and scenic detours.M-185 Island Bike Loop
A car-free 8.2-mile shoreline ride; pause for beaches, bluffs, and lighthouse views along the way.
We've collected our choices of FUN tours below to match your experience and help you make the most of your trip!
If you're looking for the local route, here's your list below
Credit: Unsplash
Fort Holmes
A quiet hilltop redoubt above Fort Mackinac—short climb, big views, and fewer crowds at sunset.The Grand Hotel Porch
Sip something festive on the world’s longest porch and watch the light fade over the Straits.Butterfly House & Insect World
Tropical butterflies drifting through lush greenery—kid-friendly, peaceful, and photogenic.Sugar Loaf
A dramatic limestone stack rising from the forest—easy to reach, with plenty of angles for photos.
To make the most of your trip, it’s helpful to know a few insider tips. Below you’ll find practical advice, a wrap-up of why Mackinac Island is special, and our custom itineraries to help you structure your getaway.
Safety, Conclusion, & Travel Itineraries
Safety and Travel Tips
Book hotels and ferries early in peak summer season.
Bring layers; evenings are cool near the water.
Comfortable shoes are essential for walking and cycling.
Credit: UnsplashCredit: TripAdvisor
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Mackinac Island is a rare gem where history, elegance, and natural beauty meet. Whether you’re sipping cocktails on the Grand Hotel’s porch, cycling along the shoreline, or indulging in the island’s world-famous fudge, every detail creates the feeling of stepping into another world.
This is the kind of destination that leaves you with lasting memories: sunsets over Lake Huron, quiet mornings filled with birdsong, and evenings spent dining by the water. If you’re craving a getaway that blends relaxation with timeless charm, Mackinac Island belongs at the top of your list.
Ready to start planning? Book your hotel on TripAdvisor today to lock in your stay, compare the best options, and secure the perfect room for your trip.
For travelers who want a done-for-you plan, We've created detailed digital itineraries that go beyond this guide—complete with day-by-day schedules, restaurant picks, maps, and insider tips. Download yours and take the guesswork out of planning.
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