MACKINAC ISLAND – TOP SITES TO SEE

Biking the outside of the island is easily one of the best things to do on Mackinac Island Michigan. The island is 8 miles around and is paved the entire way! It’s a pretty quick bike ride around but I highly recommend leaving time to stop for photos or to explore along the way. The entire island is gorgeous so the views are incredible. My favorite views were between miles 4-6 when the Mackinac Island bridge came into view.

The Fort is a must when visiting Mackinac! Not only is Fort Mackinac filled with history but it also has one of the best view points on the island. I would recommend setting aside about an hour to wander around the Fort. An hour should be plenty of time to walk around a few of the sites and museums scattered throughout. If you’re a huge history buff, I would allot more time here.

If you’re looking for a lunch spot with a great view, there’s a restaurant at Fort Mackinac that overlooks the city.

Fort Mackinac Pricing: $13.50 (adult) & $7.75 (age 5-12)

The fort closes at 6 pm during the summer (June 8 – September 1) and between 3 and 4:30 the rest of the year.

Arch Rock is a beautiful spot to see! It’s about a mile from the main street making it easy to access by biking or walking there. If you decide to bike (or walk) around the island you can make a stop at Arch Rock on your way around. The entrance is close to mile marker number one. There will be a sign next to a staircase pointing to Arch Rock. Follow the stairs and you will make it there! It was really crowded when we went because a tour had just gotten dropped off. If you wait a few minutes it will most likely clear up and you can enjoy the view!

Enjoying Mackinac Island fudge is an obvious! The town is filled with fudge shops making it impossible not to get reeled in. Most places make the fudge fresh daily meaning the shops smell delicious. There’s also usually someone making fudge inside the shop which is fun to watch.

Personally my favorite fudge shops were Murdicks Famous Fudge and Kilwins* but you really can’t go wrong. Most places offer samples so make sure to try before you buy!

*Kilwins is located in Mackinac City rather than on the island. Kilwins actually has a number of locations throughout the United States so even if you’re not in Mackinac you can enjoy some good Mackinac Island fudge!

The Mackinac Island Grand Hotel is a site to see! The hotel is rich in history and offers incredible views of Lake Huron. The Grand Hotel Mackinac Island has been open since 1887 and has hosted a number of presidents. There is a 600 foot front porch at the hotel that quickly became well-known at the hotel. The hotel is visible from the water and you will be able to see it on the ferry from Mackinac City or St. Ignace.

You’re able to stay at the Grand Hotel or you can come for the day to explore the grounds and grab something to eat. If you want to get drinks and appetizers at the hotel, there is a great spot called Cupola Bar with an incredible view!

Mackinac Island Grand Hotel entrance fee: $10 (adult)

I hope you enjoy Mackinac Island Michigan as much as we did! The views are absolutely stunning between the crystal clear waters and views of the Mackinac Island bridge. We are both already looking forward to our next trip to the top of the mitten.

If you love traveling to small towns like I do, I’ve linked a few of my favorite small towns in the USA below.

• Beaufort, South Carolina
• Blowing Rock, North Carolina

Safe Travels,

Sarah :)