Epic Day Trip to Mackinac Island, Michigan Guide
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Planning a day trip to Mackinac Island? You’re in for a treat! While you can easily spend more time soaking in all the island has to offer, we found that one day and one night was the perfect amount to experience the island’s unique charm.
Mackinac Island truly feels like stepping into a storybook, with its no-car rule, historic architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty. The moment you arrive, you’re greeted by the clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages, the sweet scent of blooming flowers, and the picturesque views of the Great Lakes.
This magical Michigan destination is truly a must-visit with its unforgettable mix of relaxation, adventure, and timeless appeal. Whether you’re sampling the famous fudge, biking around the island, or simply strolling down Main Street, Mackinac Island is a Northern Michigan getaway that everyone should experience at least once!
How to get to Mackinac Island
Getting to Mackinac Island is part of the adventure! Since the island is car-free, you’ll need to catch a ferry. Ferries depart regularly from the mainland, including from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace.
Two primary ferry companies operate in the region:
- Star Line Ferry— With a reputation for excellent service, Star Line also departs from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace, offering a relaxing cruise with stunning views of the Straits of Mackinac. You can purchase a fastPASS (around $31) for the hydro-jet ferry or the classicPASS for a little bit less (around $23). Check the website for current pricing.
- Shepler’s Ferry— Known for its fast and frequent services, Shepler’s offers a variety of departure times from both Mackinaw City and St. Ignace. Their fleet includes traditional ferries and larger vessels for a quick and comfortable ride. Shepler’s Ferry is slightly more expensive than Star Line (around $33).
For our trip, we flew into Traverse City, went from Traverse City to Mackinac City to catch the ferry, spent one day on Mackinac Island, one day in St. Ignace so we could check out Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and then went back to spend four amazing days in Traverse City! It felt like the perfect little Northern Michigan road trip.
If you need a rental car to get you from Traverse City to Mackinac City, use the tool below to find the best pricing and availability for your dates.
Things to do on Mackinac Island
Start your day trip with a cup of local coffee
Kick off your day trip to Mackinac Island with a delicious iced latte from Lucky Bean Coffee House. This popular spot is a favorite among locals and visitors because of its warm, inviting atmosphere and yummy coffee. Whether you prefer a classic drip coffee or a frothy latte, Lucky Bean has you covered.
There’s something special about sipping a perfectly brewed coffee while soaking in the island vibes and planning your day’s activities!
Stroll down Main Street
Main Street is the heart of Mackinac Island, and I can promise you you will be enchanted by the blooming flowers, the charming homes, and the adorable shops lining the street. Every corner offers a new photo opportunity, from historic buildings to horse-drawn carriages trotting by.
Take your time to pop into unique boutiques, admire the architecture, and maybe even pick up a souvenir or two!
Sample fudge
Mackinac Island is famous for its fudge, and no day trip is complete without indulging in this sweet treat! The island is home to 13 fudge shops, each offering their own unique flavors and recipes.
From classic chocolate and vanilla to more adventurous options like peanut butter chocolate and maple walnut. One of my favorite fudge shops on Mackinac Island just so happened to be at the Murray Hotel where we were staying! After sampling a few, I ended up getting the carrot cake fudge which was amazing. And the best part was we even got a little discount since we were staying there.
Visit the Grand Hotel
Even if you’re not staying at the Grand Hotel, visiting this iconic landmark is a must. Visible from miles away as you approach the island, the Grand Hotel is truly a sight! Once you step inside, you’ll be transported to a world of elegance. Stroll the world’s longest porch, enjoy a meal at one of their exquisite restaurants, or sip a cocktail while soaking in the breathtaking views. We loved the vibes at the Cupola Bar!
The hotel also offers afternoon tea, live music, and beautifully manicured gardens to explore. It’s the perfect spot to experience the grandeur and history of Mackinac Island.
Discover the Secret Garden at the Grand Hotel
Speaking of manicured gardens, tucked away at the Grand Hotel is the Secret Garden, a hidden gem that feels like stepping into a fairytale! This enchanting garden is filled with beautiful flowers, winding paths, and peaceful spots perfect for a quiet moment or a photo op.
When we turned the corner to see it, my jaw literally dropped! It’s one of the most stunning things to do on Mackinac Island.
Take a carriage ride
Experience the island with a horse-drawn carriage ride! You will see them all over for tours or labeled taxi. Like I’ve mentioned, Mackinac Island is known for its lack of cars, and the carriage rides are not just a nod to tradition but a serene way to explore.
You can trot past historic sites, lush gardens, and stunning waterfront views while learning about the island’s rich history from your guide. It’s a relaxing, romantic, and informative way to see the island, making it a perfect activity for your day trip to Mackinac Island.
Bike the island
Biking around Mackinac is a great way to see the island at your own pace, plus with no cars to worry about, you can truly enjoy the scenic beauty of the island. We only had a little over an hour to bike, but we made the most of it by checking out Sugar Loaf Rock, the overlook (right by Sugar Loaf Rock), and Arch Rock. You can also pop by The Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House.
If you want to learn more about Mackinac Island, check out this awesome self-guided cycling audio tour for your bike ride.
There are plenty of trails and routes to explore, and the northern Michigan weather is refreshingly cool compared to Florida’s humidity. While some hills are a bit challenging, the stunning views and sense of accomplishment make it totally worth it!
Visit Fort Mackinac
History buffs, this one’s for you! Fort Mackinac is perched high on a bluff, offering not only insight into the island’s past but also stunning views of the harbor below. The fort dates back to the late 18th century and is filled with exhibits, reenactments, and interactive displays that bring history to life.
You can watch soldiers fire cannons, explore historic buildings, and even participate in activities that show what life was like back in the day. Get your tickets here!
Round Island Lighthouse
Don’t miss the chance to capture an iconic photo of the Round Island Lighthouse. This picturesque lighthouse is a symbol of Mackinac Island and makes for a stunning backdrop. Whether you’re cruising by on a boat tour or catching a glimpse from the shore, the lighthouse is a beautiful sight that’s a quintessential Mackinac Island shot!
Enjoy some of the local restaurants
With just a day on Mackinac Island it’s hard to enjoy all of the amazing eateries the area has to offer! Here are some solid Mackinac Island restaurants options you should squeeze in if you have the time!
- The Pink Pony— Named the most iconic bar in Michigan by Thrillist, this is a place you can’t miss out on! It’s a gorgeous spot with waterfront views, an amazing menu, and delicious cocktails. I recommend the calamari and the whitefish which had the most amazing lemon butter caper sauce!
- The Mustang Lounge— This spot feels like a local hangout. The menu is filled with hearty comfort food, including delicious sandwiches, burgers, and a variety of tasty appetizers. There’s no other choice but to start with the smoked whitefish dip, it’s phenomenal, and it’s a Mackinac Island staple. For my meal I went with their server’s recommendation, the chicken katsu sandwich, and it was a 10/10!
- Seabiscuit Cafe— A great breakfast or lunch spot. We couldn’t stop going in on their nacho appetizer, and their lobster roll was delicious as well!
Where to stay on Mackinac Island
While a day trip to Mackinac Island is a fantastic way to experience its charm, I highly recommend staying at least one night to fully soak in its magic. If you plan on going during busy season, booking in advance is essential—lots of places were already fully booked when we tried to secure our stay in early July. That being said, I ended up at the adorable Murray Hotel, and it was such a treat!
The Murray Hotel is right off the ferry dock, making it super convenient for arriving and departing. The location couldn’t be better! Plus, they have the most amazing fudge, and guests get a discount—talk about a sweet deal! The hotel is incredibly charming and has that classic Mackinac Island vibe. And don’t even get me started on the free donuts they offer in the morning. They were SO GOOD.
If you’re up for a splurge, the Grand Hotel is definitely the most iconic place to stay on Mackinac Island. It’s absolutely stunning and oozes old-world elegance. Staying here would be a luxurious treat, but even just a visit to explore the grandiosity of the place is worth it.
Are you ready for your day trip to Mackinac Island?!
And there you have it—a perfect guide to your day trip to Mackinac Island! From its charming streets and historic sites to mouthwatering restaurants and cozy places to stay, Mackinac Island is sure to steal your heart. I have no doubt that your visit will leave you head over heels for this adorable Northern Michigan gem!
Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Michigan blog posts:
Must visit coffee shops in Traverse City
Best Old Mission Peninsula wineries
