Getting From Traverse City to Mackinac Island: Everything You Need to Know
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Ready for an unforgettable adventure in Northern Michigan? Getting from Traverse City to Mackinac Island is super simple, and both spots are absolute must-visits! Traverse City kicks things off with stunning bay views, a buzzing downtown, and wineries that will have you planning a second trip. Mackinac Island, on the other hand, feels like stepping into another world with its car-free streets, historic vibes, gorgeous scenery, and charming little shops.
This guide has everything you need to know about making the trip—distance, transportation options, and some tips to keep things easy and fun. Whether you’re planning a quick visit or a longer getaway, I’ve got you covered!
Distance From Traverse City to Mackinac Island
The distance from Traverse City to Mackinac Island is about 100 miles. Getting there involves a scenic drive and ferry ride, making the trip feel like part of the adventure! It’s roughly a 2-hour drive from Traverse City to Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, where you can hop on a ferry to the island.
The drive offers picturesque views of Lake Michigan, quaint small towns, and plenty of photo-worthy spots. You’ll travel along US-31 and I-75, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery. Once you reach the ferry dock, it’s a quick 16-20-minute boat ride to Mackinac Island.
How to Get From Traverse City to Mackinac Island
Getting from Traverse City to Mackinac Island is pretty easy, and you have options! Here’s a breakdown of your travel choices:
By Car + Ferry
This is the most common route and the route we took for our trip. Start by driving approximately 2 hours from Traverse City to either Mackinaw City or St. Ignace. Both towns have ferry services that will whisk you away to Mackinac Island.
I love this tool for finding the best rental car prices! Also, be sure to book in advance especially if you’re going during the summer or another busy season. We canceled our rental car because our friends offered to give us a ride, then later wanted to rent a car for another part of our trip and they were completely sold out!
The drive is straightforward, with US-31 and I-75 being your main highways. Once you arrive, you can choose between two main ferry companies: Shepler’s Ferry and Star Line Ferry. Both have frequent departures, and the ferry ride itself takes about 16-20 minutes. You’ll get fantastic views of the Mackinac Bridge and the island as you approach. (More on those services below.)
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.
By Bus + Ferry
If you prefer not to drive, you can take a bus from Traverse City to Mackinaw City. Indian Trails offers bus services that connect Traverse City to Mackinaw City, a great option if you want to sit back and relax, or avoid renting a car.
From Mackinaw City, you can catch a ferry to Mackinac Island just as you would if you were driving.
We considered this option initially, but they only offer one bus per day and it isn’t until 7 PM, and you won’t arrive at Mackinac City until around 10 PM.
Ferry Services to Mackinac Island
Once you reach Mackinac City or St. Ignace from Traverse City, the next step in your journey will be hopping on a ferry! The ferries provide a picturesque ride across the water, giving you a glimpse of the island before you even set foot on it. Two primary ferry companies operate in the region:
- Star Line Ferry— With a reputation for excellent service, Star Line 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 also 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).
Reservations are not required and they run pretty frequently, but arriving 45 minutes prior to desired leave time is recommended.
Tips for Ferry Travel:
- Check the schedule: Ferry times can vary depending on the season and weather conditions, so make sure to check the latest schedule on the ferry company’s website.
- Arrive early: Especially during peak season, it’s a good idea to arrive at the dock early to secure your spot and ensure a smooth boarding process.
- Luggage: Most ferry services offer luggage transport, but it’s a good idea to pack light and bring only what you need for the day to make your trip easier.
- Tickets: You can purchase tickets online in advance or at the dock. Booking ahead is recommended (but not required) during busy times if you want to avoid long waits.
Where to Stay on Mackinac Island
If I can give you one piece of advice, it’s to book your stay as soon as you can because many of these charming inns and hotels book up quickly during peak season. Here are a couple of great options:
- Murray Hotel— This adorable and affordable hotel offers free donuts in the morning, a discount on their delicious fudge, and a perfect location right off the ferry, placing you in the heart of the action. We stayed here and loved it!
- Grand Hotel— A bit pricier, but trust me, it’s worth every penny. This hotel is truly GRAND in every sense of the word. From its stunning lawn and pool to the elegant bars and restaurants, everything is absolutely stunning. You can see it from miles away as you approach the island on the ferry. If we go back, I’ll 100% be staying here for a night.
Each place on Mackinac Island has its own unique charm. Check out what’s available for your dates here!
Are you ready to have an amazing time on Mackinac Island?!
And there you have it, everything you need to know for an unforgettable adventure from Traverse City to Mackinac Island! Whether you’re cruising the scenic highways, hopping on a ferry, or exploring the charming island, this trip promises memories you’ll cherish forever. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to fall in love with this magical Michigan destination! Happy travels!
If there’s anything I forgot, please don’t hesitate to ask! And, before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Midwest blog posts:
