Embrace the Slower Pace of Michigan’s Mackinac Island

Text by Holly Seng

Whether you travel by ferry or airplane, once you’ve arrived in Mackinac Island, Michigan, you’ll find yourself transported back to a time before motor vehicles rushed passengers from one place to another—a unique quality that sets this special destination apart. Catch a ride in a horse-drawn carriage, rent a bicycle, or opt to explore the island by foot. One thing’s for sure, the leisurely pace of this May to October tourist locale sets a tranquil tone for sightseeing and lends itself well to a multiday stay for those wanting to fully appreciate all the island has to offer.

History and nature enthusiasts alike will find plenty of attractions to fill their days—from touring Fort Mackinac, which dates back to the American Revolution, to hiking or biking a portion of the island’s 70 miles of trail. Stop by the Grand Hotel, where the movie Somewhere in Time was filmed, and sip an afternoon cocktail outside on the world’s longest porch, measuring 660 feet in length. Also known as the fudge capital of the world, Mackinac Island boasts 13 fudge shops that offer a plethora of flavors to sample.

With over 40 unique places to stay, overnight guests can choose from one of the two resorts or a variety of boutique hotels and bed-and-breakfasts. Located on the waterfront, Hotel Iroquois offers breathtaking views of the marina. Nestled in downtown, Bicycle Street Inn is just steps away from charming shops and eateries. As a destination admired for both its picturesque setting and its nostalgic spirit, Mackinac Island captures the sweet simplicity of a bygone era, making it an idyllic retreat.

For more information, visit mackinacisland.org.