Mackinac Island: An Unforgettable Summer Getaway

Introduction to Mackinac Island

You won’t find chain hotels on Mackinac Island. This oval isle, which the Ojibwes called Mishimikinaak, or “Big Turtle,” spans 3.8 square miles and serves as a captivating summer resort area on Lake Huron, situated between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas. The charming landscape appears to be frozen in time, with wooden architecture dating back to the late Victorian era, while most motor vehicles have been banned since 1898. Consequently, horse-drawn carriages and bicycles have become the preferred modes of transportation, allowing visitors to experience unique family-owned and award-winning accommodations.

Historic Architecture and Culture

Approximately 80 percent of the lushly green island features eight miles of pristine sandy beaches, which was designated as America’s second national park—Mackinac National Park—in 1875. Furthermore, the entire island has been recognized as a National Historic Landmark since 1960. Through extensive historical preservation and restoration initiatives, eight locations on the island are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There are even fragile structural remnants that date back 700 years to the island’s Native American history before European explorers arrived in the early 1600s.

Award-Winning Accommodations

To ensure a rewarding getaway on this enchanting northern island, choosing the right accommodation is key. Below are some of the best places to unwind on historic Mackinac Island. Each option, from larger resorts to quaint bed-and-breakfasts, specializes in delivering a charming early 1900s atmosphere.

Grand Hotel

Address

286 Grand Ave, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA

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Phone +1 906-847-3331

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The Grand Hotel is a point-of-destination resort, known for its rich history, captivating amenities, exceptional hospitality, and prime location. The hotel provides a luxurious getaway, harkening back to a time when guests would dress elegantly for dinner and journey by horse-drawn carriage.

Amenities: Guests can enjoy packages that include access to the world’s longest front porch, meticulously maintained lawns, entertainment, and gourmet meals. Multi-course dinners are served under the ambiance of chandelier lights in the grand dining room.

Rooms and Building: The rooms are quite spacious, having been nicely updated and decorated, with an abundance of cozy pillows and extra coffee. However, it is advisable to request a room with a water view, as some rooms located at the back of the hotel may lack scenic views. The building, while charming, has signs of age in several areas.

Mission Point Resort

Address

One Lake Shore Dr, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA

Get directions

Phone +1 906-847-3000

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Mission Point is an award-winning lakefront resort situated a short 10-minute walk from the Star Line Ferry dock. Consequently, this expansive, family-friendly establishment offers a distinct lodging experience in terms of service and amenities when compared to the Grand Hotel. While Mission Point boasts its own rich history—including buildings that once served as an Indian school in the 1820s and a 1950s Moral Re-Armament Conference Center—the amenities provided may not always be included in guest packages. Guests should inquire about additional fees that may apply.

Amenities: The resort’s most appealing feature is its location facing the waterfront along what is known as the “bicycle highway,” M-185 or Lake Shore Boulevard. The property boasts tennis courts, a putting green, and spacious lawns adorned with Adirondack chairs. Its impressive lobby, featuring four fireplaces and a unique tepee-like atrium made of rough-hewn logs, welcomes visitors in style. Although many amenities are available at Mission Point, most can be accessed whether or not you are a registered guest.

Lake View Hotel

Address

7452 Main St, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA

Get directions

Phone +1 906-847-3384

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Established in 1858, Lake View Hotel is a family-friendly venue conveniently located across the street from the Arnold Mackinac Island Ferry harbor and just a four-minute stroll from Jewel Golf Course. While its name suggests a view of the lake, the hotel primarily overlooks Lake Shore Boulevard. Despite its somewhat tired exterior, the interior has been extensively updated, offering rooms surrounding a multi-story atrium that overlooks an indoor pool.

Address: 7452 Main Street,
Mackinac Island, MI 49757

Phone: (906) 847-3384

Hotel Iroquois

Address

7485 Main St, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA

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Phone +1 906-847-3321

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Awarded the title of Condé Nast Traveler‘s “Best Small Hotel in the World” for three consecutive years, the refined Hotel Iroquois is ideally located a mere three-minute walk from the Star Line Ferry dock and a short distance from Fort Mackinac. This exquisite boutique hotel provides easy access to the shopping district along the scenic waterfront. Guests will find comfortable Adirondack chairs scattered throughout the lawn, along with a fine-dining restaurant, attentive hospitality, and beautifully decorated rooms with thoughtful touches.

Address: 7485 Main Street,
Mackinac Island, MI 49757

Phone: (906) 847-3321

Bay View Inn

Address

100 Huron St, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA

Get directions

Phone +1 906-847-3295

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Great Location and Meals: Bay View of Mackinac is set right on the waterfront, providing stunning views of the docks. Although the rooms might be relatively small, the inn compensates with charm from additional touches. For example, the building features a rooftop patio that offers an unparalleled view of the lake and downtown area. The Inn also includes a sit-down breakfast and dessert hour served by waitstaff in a beautifully appointed dining room.

Address: Mackinac Island State Park, Huron Street,
Mackinac Island, MI 49757

Phone: (906) 847-3295

Cottage Inn

Address

7267 Market St, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA

Get directions

Phone +1 906-847-4000

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Good Value: The Cottage Inn of Mackinac is a quaint bed-and-breakfast located just off Market Street. With recently updated rooms and suites, it offers some of the most competitive rates in town. The charming owners provide a complimentary homemade breakfast along with delightful afternoon treats, ensuring guests enjoy a refreshing stay. Additionally, you can look forward to restful nights on plush pillow-top mattresses.

Address: 7237 Market Street,
Mackinac Island, MI 49757

Phone: (906) 847-4000

Inn on Mackinac

Address

6896 Main St, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA

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Phone +1 855-784-3846

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Good Combination of Amenities: The peaceful Inn on Mackinac is positioned on Lake Shore Boulevard, roughly halfway to Mission Point. Despite the colorful exterior, many of its small yet nicely furnished rooms may not provide a view of the lake. The bed-and-breakfast features attractive characteristics, including a rooftop pool, balconies, and a cozy coffee café that overlooks the boulevard. Breakfast is served buffet-style in the inviting dining area.

Address: 6896 Main Street,
Mackinac Island, MI 49757

Phone: (855) 784-3846

Island House Hotel

Address

6966 Main St, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA

Get directions

Phone +1 906-847-3347

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Large Inn with Great Location: The Island House Hotel enjoys a prime location on Lake Shore Boulevard, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling tourist shops and restaurants. Recognized as a Historic Hotel of America and a notable State of Michigan landmark, it provides sweeping harbor views and a complete range of amenities, including a heated indoor pool with a hot tub and sauna, two dining options, on-site bike rentals, and a charming terrace and veranda.

Address: Mackinac Island State Park, 6966 Main Street,
Mackinac Island, MI 49757

Phone: (906) 847-3347

Market Street Inn

Address

7237 Market St, Mackinac Island, MI 49757-5171, USA

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Phone +1 906-847-3811

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Romantic: Built in 1900, the Market Street Inn exudes charm as a quaint bed-and-breakfast with spacious, newly renovated rooms designed with romance in mind. Some rooms come equipped with cozy fireplaces and Jacuzzi tubs large enough for two. The breakfast experience is quite unique, as orders are taken through a door-knob the night before, with the meal delivered outside your room the next morning.

Address: 7237 Market Street,
Mackinac Island, MI 49757

Phone: (906) 847-3811

Metivier Inn

Address

7466 Market St, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA

Get directions

Phone +1 906-847-6234

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Large Rooms and Grounds: The charming pastel Metivier Inn is one of the larger bed-and-breakfasts on the island, conveniently located away from the heaviest tourist traffic on Market Street. The rooms are well-decorated and spacious, complemented by a large wraparound porch—an ideal spot to soak up the delightful atmosphere of Mackinac Island.

Address: 7466 Market Street,
Mackinac Island, MI 49757

Phone: (906) 847-6234

Condos and Apartment Suites

Address

7274 Main St, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA

Get directions

Phone +1 906-847-3783

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Mackinac Island boasts over 1,500 lodging options, including condos and apartment suites. While several new waterfront condos are available for rent, the larger condo communities lie approximately two miles into the island’s interior, situated on a historic estate. The condos offer beautiful views and serene surroundings, although reaching them may involve a challenging two-mile ascent by bike, on foot, or via a horse-drawn taxi.

Amenities: The condos and apartments represent modern additions to the island’s lodging scene, featuring increased living space compared to traditional options. Many condos are equipped with kitchens and living areas, enhancing the overall guest experience.

The Mackinac Tourism Bureau offers a comprehensive list of properties and their contact information.

Address: Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau
7274 Main Street,
Mackinac Island, MI 49757

Phone: (906) 847-3783