Mackinac Island
Eastern Upper Peninsula - Michigan
A few personal remarks about Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island is one of the top attractions in Michigan. The island really lives up to this reputation. Everything is beautifully decorated, the Victorian houses provide a lovely setting and the lack of cars really helps to make you feel like you've stepped out of time. But... Before you visit the island, you should be aware that everything is extremely touristy and very, very expensive. We were on the island at the beginning of October and we can't imagine how many people are out and about when it's really crowded in summer.
Ferry to Mackinac Island
Description: For tourists, the ferry to Mackinac Island is the easiest and cheapest way to reach the island. During our visit, Sheppler's was the only provider. The ferries depart several times a day from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace. As the island is car-free, the most you can take on the ferry is your bike.
Prices and times
- From 34$/person - Varies seasonally, different packages can be combined with activities
- Varies seasonally, exact times can be found on the official website
Our rating: The transfer to the island is very well organized and absolutely smooth. You can buy tickets online or at one of the hotels. The tickets are not tied to specific times. If you are staying in a hotel in St. Ignace or park in one of Sheppler's parking lots, you can take a free shuttle to the boat dock. A few times a day, the boats do not go directly to the island, but make a small detour to the Mackinac Bridge. The ferry ride takes between 20 and 30 minutes.
Around the island by bike
Description: The trip around the island is about 8mi long. It takes you past some of the island's sights. For us, it was a nice way to escape the very busy small town and discover the island's nature. The island is car-free, so cycling is the best way to discover the island. There are numerous rental companies offering a wide variety of models. Reservations are not necessary.
Prices and times
- From 17$/bicycle/hour
- Varies seasonally, exact times can be found on the official website
Our rating: Für uns boten die Fahrräder eine Möglichkeit, in relativ kurzer Zeit, einen größeren Teil der Insel zu erkunden, als wir es zu Fuß geschafft hätten. Auch wenn die Miete nicht unbedingt sehr günstig ist, können wir jedem diese Art der Fortbewegung auf Mackinac Island empfehlen.
Fort Mackinac State Historic Park
Description: Fort Mackinac is a late 18th century fortress on Mackinac Island. It secured the strategically important Straits of Mackinac, the crossing between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron.
Entrance fees and opening hours
- 17$/person
- Not covered by the Recreation Passport*
- Varies seasonally, exact times can be found on the official website
*The Recration Passport is the “flat rate” for all state parks in Michigan. The pass costs a one-time fee of $40 (non-residents) and can be purchased online, at the entrance of the respective state parks or at the Customer Service Centers of the Department of Natural Resources. The pass is valid for one calendar year.
Our rating: The fort is very well preserved and very interesting. It is situated on a hill above the town. As a result, the views of the surrounding area are particularly great. A visit here should not be missed when visiting Mackinac Island.
Across the island in a horse-drawn carriage
Description: Horse-drawn carriages are another way of getting around the island. All services for the inhabitants of the island, such as the post office, are provided by horse and carriage. Several tours are offered for the numerous tourists, mainly through the interior of the island.
Prices and times
- From 41$/person
- Varies seasonally, exact times can be found on the official website
Our rating: As we were on the island at the end of the season and not all the facilities were open in the afternoon, our tour was changed considerably from the advertised tour. We mainly drove through the forest in the interior of the island. In addition, the carriages were filled to capacity despite there not being so many tourists. This is a bit cramped in the carriages. The tour was ok, but not a highlight that we absolutely have to repeat.
