Mackinac Island MichiganATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Mackinac Island, Michigan.
1. Arch Rock
NATURAL LIMESTONE WONDER
Arch Rock is a breathtaking natural limestone formation that stands 146 feet above Lake Huron, offering panoramic views of the surrounding waters. Visitors can reach this iconic attraction via scenic bike and carriage paths that wind through tranquil surroundings, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination. This natural wonder serves as one of the most photographed spots on Mackinac Island, drawing thousands of visitors who marvel at its unique arch shape carved by centuries of wind and water erosion.
2. Fort Mackinac
HISTORIC MILITARY OUTPOST
Fort Mackinac stands as a well-preserved military outpost featuring costumed interpreters, interactive exhibits, and live demonstrations that bring history to life. Perched on a limestone bluff overlooking the Straits of Mackinac, the fort offers some of the most spectacular views on the island and includes a restaurant with panoramic vistas. Visitors typically spend about an hour exploring the various buildings and museums that showcase military life and the strategic importance of this historic site dating back to the American Revolution.
3. Mackinac Island State Park
VERDANT ISLAND PARADISE
Mackinac Island State Park encompasses over 80% of the island, featuring miles of scenic bike trails, horseback riding opportunities, and historic carriage tours through lush forests. This car-free paradise allows visitors to experience the natural beauty of Michigan's first state park at a leisurely pace, while enjoying the sight of limestone formations and pristine shorelines. The park's well-maintained paths lead to numerous points of interest including Arch Rock, Fort Holmes, and the Grand Hotel gardens, making it the perfect backdrop for a day of exploration and outdoor recreation.
4. Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory
TROPICAL BUTTERFLY SANCTUARY
Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory offers an intimate encounter with hundreds of colorful butterfly species fluttering freely in a controlled tropical environment. Located on Surrey Hill, this serene attraction features both live butterflies and preserved specimens, allowing visitors to observe these delicate creatures up close amid vibrant flora. Knowledgeable staff provide educational information about butterfly lifecycles and conservation efforts, making this a perfect family-friendly destination that combines beauty and learning.
5. The Jewel at the Grand Hotel
UNIQUE SPLIT-COURSE GOLFING
The Jewel at the Grand Hotel presents a distinctive golfing experience with its unusual split-course design that includes the lakeside front nine and the woodland back nine. Golfers are transported between the two courses via horse-drawn carriage, maintaining the island's no-motorized-vehicle tradition while enjoying spectacular views of the Straits of Mackinac. This meticulously maintained course combines challenging play with historic charm, offering a golfing adventure unlike any other in America.
6. St. Anne's Catholic Church
HISTORIC SPIRITUAL LANDMARK
St. Anne's Catholic Church stands as a beautiful spiritual sanctuary on Mackinac Island, its distinctive architecture and stained glass windows drawing visitors of all faiths. Dating back to the 1800s, this historic church represents one of the oldest parish communities in the region and continues to serve as both a place of worship and a cultural landmark. Visitors are welcome to explore the peaceful interior, admire the ornate details, and learn about the church's significant role in the island's religious and social history.
7. Fort Holmes
HIGHEST POINT FORTRESS
Fort Holmes sits at the highest point on Mackinac Island, originally constructed by British forces during the War of 1812 to bolster the defense of Fort Mackinac. This restored outpost offers visitors an opportunity to explore a piece of military history while enjoying unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding waters and neighboring islands. The fort's strategic location and well-preserved structures provide insights into early 19th-century military tactics and the importance of Mackinac Island during a pivotal time in American history.
8. Biddle House
MERCHANT FAMILY HERITAGE
Biddle House offers visitors a glimpse into the 1830s home of Agatha and Edward Biddle, prominent merchants who lived during a critical period of cultural and economic change on Mackinac Island. This well-preserved historic site showcases the lifestyle of a successful mixed-heritage family (Edward was white while Agatha was Odawa) during the fur trade era. Through authentic period furnishings and interpretive displays, the house tells the story of cultural intersection and adaptation that characterized Mackinac Island's dynamic history.
9. Round Island Lighthouse
ICONIC MARITIME BEACON
Round Island Lighthouse stands as a picturesque maritime landmark visible from Mackinac Island's shores and often photographed from the ferry during crossings. Built in 1895, this distinctive red and white structure has guided vessels through the Straits of Mackinac for generations and has been featured in films including 'Somewhere in Time.' While the lighthouse itself is on nearby Round Island, excellent views can be captured from various vantage points on Mackinac Island, including Fort Holmes and the island's southern shore.
10. The Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum
ISLAND-INSPIRED ART COLLECTION
The Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum houses an exceptional collection of Mackinac-related art and photography that chronicles the island's rich cultural and natural history. Located in a beautifully restored Indian Dormitory building, the museum features Native American baskets, Victorian-era decorative arts, and contemporary pieces that all draw inspiration from the island's unique character. Visitors can explore changing exhibits throughout the year, participate in hands-on activities, and gain a deeper appreciation for how this special place has inspired artists for centuries.
11. Shopping
UNIQUE ISLAND BOUTIQUES
Shopping on Mackinac Island offers visitors a delightful array of specialty stores, from fudge shops and clothing boutiques to art galleries and gift emporiums lining the charming Main Street. Visitors can browse through unique island-themed merchandise, handcrafted items, and locally made products while enjoying the historic Victorian ambiance of the downtown district. The car-free environment creates a relaxed shopping experience where pedestrians can leisurely stroll between stores, stopping to admire window displays and sample famous Mackinac fudge along the way.
12. Dining
CULINARY ISLAND DELIGHTS
Dining on Mackinac Island presents a diverse culinary landscape ranging from casual waterfront eateries to elegant fine dining establishments in historic hotels. Visitors can savor fresh local whitefish, indulge in the island's signature fudge desserts, and enjoy meals on scenic porches overlooking the Straits of Mackinac. Many restaurants feature locally sourced ingredients and seasonal specialties, offering authentic tastes of Michigan in settings that range from quaint pub atmospheres to grand dining rooms with Gilded Age elegance.
13. Hiking
WOODLAND TRAIL ADVENTURES
Hiking on Mackinac Island provides nature enthusiasts with over 70 miles of trails winding through lush forests, along limestone bluffs, and past historic landmarks within the expansive state park. Trails range from easy walks to more challenging routes, allowing visitors to explore hidden caves, peaceful inland lakes, and elevated viewpoints that showcase the island's natural beauty. Hikers frequently encounter wildlife including white-tailed deer and various bird species while traversing paths that have been used since Native Americans first inhabited the island centuries ago.
14. Fishing
GREAT LAKES ANGLING EXPERIENCE
Fishing around Mackinac Island offers anglers the opportunity to catch lake trout, salmon, perch, and pike in the pristine waters of Lake Huron surrounding this historic destination. Visitors can arrange charter boat excursions, fish from designated shoreline spots, or venture to inland lakes within the state park for different fishing environments. The island's position at the junction of Lake Huron and Lake Michigan creates rich fishing grounds that have sustained residents for centuries and now provide recreational opportunities for tourists seeking to combine outdoor sport with scenic beauty.
15. Camping
RUSTIC ISLAND OVERNIGHT
Camping on Mackinac Island is limited to a primitive experience at the small rustic campground located within Mackinac Island State Park, offering a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Campers must obtain permits in advance and can expect minimal facilities in this remote setting that provides a stark contrast to the bustling tourist areas near downtown. The quiet camping experience allows visitors to connect with the island's natural environment, observe spectacular starlit skies free from light pollution, and wake to the sounds of birds and lake waters lapping against distant shores.