Growing up in Indiana, I (Alexis) used to visit Mackinac Island almost every summer as a kid. I have so many wonderful memories of this charming island, where you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. It was so much fun to bring our kids here with their cousins and my sister-in-law for a memorable day trip from St. Ignace during our summer lake trip to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula!
If you just have one day to visit @mackinacisle, here’s what we recommend- (save this for future trip planning)
Take an early morning ferry from either St. Ignace or Mackinac City. We took @sheplersferry which had a scenic detour under Mackinac Bridge. Make sure to arrive early to get seats on the top deck for the best views arriving to the island!
Take @mackinacislandcarriagetours to learn the history of the island and see the main highlights. Our guides were very entertaining and knowledgeable, and the kids appreciated not having to walk everywhere. Make sure to get the combo ticket that includes Wings of Mackinac butterfly conservatory. We stayed there for an hour, and this was the highlight of our tour for the kids!
Enjoy afternoon tea at @thegrandhotel with live harp music in the elegant parlor. Explore the beautiful gardens and play lawn games. Sip champagne (that comes with afternoon tea) on the world’s longest front porch while enjoying the view of Lake Huron.
Stroll around town shopping for souvenirs and tasting fudge from 17 different fudge shops on the island. Make sure to take some home! Peanut butter is our favorite. 🤤
Grab some takeaway from Doud’s Market and head to Marquette Park for a picnic. Or head to the Pink Pony for dinner overlooking the harbor with live music.
The last ferry leaves the island at 9pm, so you may still have time to wander around admiring the colorful Victorian mansions.
Have you been to Mackinac Island? What’s your favorite thing to do there? Thank you Mackinac Island for hosting us!
#hosted #mymackinac #mackinacislandiscool #mackinacisland #visitmichigan #thegrandhotel #michigantravel #luxuryfamilytravel #familyvacations
