Things to Do in Mackinac Island: My Favorite Stops, Views & Bites

Walking onto Mackinac Island felt like stepping back in time in the best way. With no cars, horse-drawn carriages clip-clopping through town, and Victorian charm on every corner, I instantly slowed down and let the island’s peaceful rhythm take over.

Here’s how I spent a perfect couple of days on Mackinac Island: biking the shoreline, eating my weight in fudge, and finding quiet moments between all the must-dos. Whether you’re planning a summer escape or a fall foliage trip, this list captures my favorite things to do on Mackinac plus local tips, seasonal gems, and travel updates for 2025.

Biking the Island Loop (M-185)

Biking around the entire island is a must and since no cars are allowed, it’s the easiest and most fun way to see everything. The 8.2-mile trail along M-185 hugs the coastline the whole way and is one of the most scenic, accessible routes I’ve ever biked.

I rented my bike from Mackinac Island Bike Shop super quick and close to the ferry docks. The loop took just under 2 hours with stops for photos, snacks, and a quick walk to Arch Rock.

Here’s what I recommend along the way:

• British Landing – The perfect halfway point with picnic tables, restrooms, and a tiny beach for wading.
• Devil’s Kitchen – A unique limestone cave formation right along the edge of the road. It’s eerie but cool.
• Arch Rock Detour – Lock your bike below and walk up the staircase to the overlook it’s worth the extra effort.
• Scenic Pull-Offs – You’ll pass forested bluffs, crashing waves, and open lake views that feel endless. Don’t be afraid to pause and soak it in.

Tip: Go clockwise from town for gentler inclines and easier access to landmarks.

Fort Mackinac: History & Views

Fort Mackinac sits high on the bluffs and offers one of the best views of downtown and the harbor. But it’s more than just a pretty overlook it’s also packed with living history.

As I explored the stone ramparts, I found costumed interpreters firing cannons, giving guided demonstrations, and even acting out 1880s military life. The kids around me were hooked and honestly, so was I.

Highlights:

• The Tea Room Restaurant – Located inside the fort with incredible patio seating and views of the lake.
• Historic Buildings – You can peek into the soldiers’ quarters, post hospital, and a recreated schoolhouse.
• Daily Musket Firing – Timed demos that bring the fort to life don’t miss the cannon blast if you’re nearby!

Admission was around $15 and includes access to all exhibits. It’s a surprisingly immersive way to connect with Mackinac’s colonial past.

Arch Rock

Arch Rock is the island’s most famous geological feature and once you see it, you’ll understand why. This massive 50-foot limestone arch towers over Lake Huron, with views that make you pause, even if you’ve seen dozens of photos before.

I hiked up just after sunrise and was alone with the birds and breeze for a few blissful minutes. The light through the trees and the soft glow on the water were magical.

You can reach Arch Rock in a few different ways:

• By Bike – Lock your bike at the base and climb the stairs up.
• By Carriage Tour – Many guided tours stop here briefly.
• On Foot – From downtown, it’s a moderate uphill hike around 15–20 minutes if you’re taking it slow.

Don’t forget to look back down the stairs the view facing the lake is just as stunning.

Strolling the Downtown Shops

Downtown Mackinac Island feels like something out of a storybook horse hooves clatter down Main Street, Victorian storefronts overflow with goodies, and every other shop smells like fresh fudge.

Here’s what I loved wandering through:

• Joann’s Fudge – I tried several places, but Joann’s had my favorite: peanut butter chocolate that melted in my mouth. They also ship nationwide if you’re already nostalgic before leaving.
• Murdick’s Fudge – The original Mackinac fudge shop, founded in 1887. Watching them pour hot fudge onto marble slabs is half the experience.
• Little Luxuries of Mackinac – A charming boutique filled with locally made candles, body products, and artsy home decor. Great for souvenirs that don’t scream “tourist.”
• Great Turtle Toys – If you’re traveling with kids (or just love cute plushies), this colorful shop is a delight.
• Island Bookstore – A cozy little shop tucked upstairs in the Lilac Tree Hotel. I picked up a local poetry book and chatted with the sweetest shopkeeper.

Tip: Visit the shops in the morning or after 6 p.m. to avoid mid-day ferry crowds. Many offer shipping if you’re traveling light!

Where I Ate on Mackinac Island

The food scene on Mackinac Island is much more diverse than I expected everything from lake-to-table fish dishes to hearty breakfasts and cocktails with a view.

Pink Pony

This spot is an institution, and after one visit, I totally got why. Live music, harbor views, and a breezy open-air dining room create the perfect dinner vibe. I had the whitefish tacos and a Pink Pony Rum Runner on the patio as the sun dipped low. Honestly? One of the best meals of my trip.

Pro tip: Go early or expect a wait. The patio fills up fast, especially around sunset.

Chuckwagon

Tucked on a little side street, this old-school diner might be tiny, but it’s big on flavor. I grabbed a counter seat and ordered their famous breakfast sandwich with sausage, egg, and cheese on a toasted bun. It hit the spot after my early morning ride.

Cash only and limited seating go early!

Yankee Rebel Tavern

Warm lighting, vintage decor, and a surprisingly refined menu. This was my favorite dinner splurge. I had the pot roast with mashed potatoes and a local craft beer. Cozy, filling, and just what I needed after a long day of exploring.

Other spots I bookmarked for next time:

• The Seabiscuit Café – Great cocktails and a lively lunch crowd.
• Good Day Café – For grab-and-go smoothies and breakfast burritos.
• Boxwood Coffeeshop & Café – Light salads and great coffee near Mission Point.

Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory

This little glass greenhouse filled with tropical butterflies is one of the island’s quieter joys. The moment I stepped inside, I was enveloped in warmth, humidity, and color dozens of butterflies fluttering around in slow motion.

What made it memorable:

• They give you a laminated guide to butterfly types fun for kids and adults alike.
• The greenhouse is small, but peaceful and beautifully landscaped with flowers, benches, and a koi pond.
• One butterfly landed right on my shoulder and stayed there for several minutes. I felt like a Disney princess.

Located near Surrey Hill, it’s easy to combine with a carriage ride or fudge shop visit nearby. Allow about 30–45 minutes here.

Where to Stay on Mackinac Island

• Mission Point Resort – Quiet, scenic, and perfect for relaxing with a glass of wine in the Adirondack chairs facing the lake.
• Hotel Iroquois – More central and great for sunset views over the harbor.
• The Grand Hotel (if you’re splurging) – Iconic and formal. I didn’t stay here but did visit for tea it’s worth seeing at least once.

When to Visit Mackinac Island

• Spring (May–early June) – Blooming lilacs and fewer tourists
• Summer (late June–August) – Peak season with ideal weather
• Fall (September–early October) – Stunning fall colors, quieter vibes
• Winter – See special section below

I visited in late September and loved the cool mornings and fewer crowds.

How to Get Around Mackinac Island

There are only 3 ways to get around:

• Bike (rentals available everywhere)
• Horse-drawn carriages (book a full tour or use the horse taxi)
• Walking (everything in town is walkable)

Tip: Many hotels include horse-taxi service from the ferry docks.

What to Pack for Mackinac Island

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Light jacket or sweater (even in summer)
• Small backpack for biking
• Sunglasses + sunblock
• Reusable water bottle
• Cash for small shops
• Portable charger or tripod for photos

Mackinac Itinerary

1-Day Trip:

• Morning: Ferry + bike the loop
• Afternoon: Fort Mackinac + lunch at Pink Pony
• Evening: Butterfly House + fudge + sunset at Windermere Point

2-Day Trip:

• Day 1: Downtown shops + Fort + Grand Hotel visit
• Day 2: Bike loop + Arch Rock + relax at Mission Point

Best Sunset and Sunrise Spots

Some of the most magical moments on Mackinac Island happen when everything slows down right at sunrise and sunset. Whether you’re up early with coffee or out for an after-dinner stroll, here are the best places I found to soak in the golden hour.

Best Sunrise Spots

1. Arch Rock
Watching the sun rise through this massive limestone arch is pure magic. The first light of day hits the lake just beyond the arch, creating a glowing blue-and-gold backdrop. I walked up here just after 6:00 AM with a travel mug of coffee, and it felt like I had the whole island to myself.

Go early this is one of the few times you’ll find it empty. There are benches nearby if you want to sit and stay awhile.

2. Fort Holmes
The highest point on Mackinac Island, Fort Holmes gives you panoramic views of the island and the horizon beyond. It’s a bit of a climb (or bike ride), but worth it for the 360° sunrise glow. You’ll see the rooftops of town, the lake stretching out to the mainland, and the fort ruins silhouetted in the light.

It’s quiet and breezy in the morning, and ideal for photos without crowds.

Best Sunset Spots

1. Windermere Point
Just west of the ferry docks, Windermere Point offers an open, grassy space where locals and visitors gather each evening to catch the sunset. I loved sitting on the rocks with an ice cream cone from nearby JoAnn’s, watching the sun dip behind the Mackinac Bridge.

Bring a blanket or find a bench this is a perfect picnic sunset spot with views across the Straits of Mackinac.

2. Sunset Rock (near Stonecliffe)
This hidden overlook is tucked behind The Inn at Stonecliffe on the island’s quieter west side. You’ll need to bike or walk uphill through a wooded trail to get there, but the payoff is a peaceful, west-facing perch high above the trees. The view of the sun sinking into Lake Huron is unforgettable and often completely crowd-free.

This was my favorite sunset on the island. Peaceful, romantic, and surprisingly easy to miss if you don’t know where to look.

Tip: Sunrise tends to be quiet and reflective, while sunset draws more of a social, picnic crowd. Try to experience both for totally different island moods.

Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting

• Ferry lines get long book online in advance
• Some restaurants close early in shoulder season
• No Uber/Lyft arrange transport to ferry in advance
• The island gets chilly at night even in summer

Seasonal Events & Festivals

• Lilac Festival (early to mid-June) – Parades, garden tours, and local crafts
• Fudge Festival (late August) – Tasting events and contests
• Feast of Epona (June) – Horse-themed parade honoring the island’s equestrian heritage
• Halloween Weekend (late October) – Family-friendly fun before the island closes

Accessibility Tips

• Ferries have ramps for wheelchairs/strollers
• Many bike shops offer adult trikes or tandem bikes
• Downtown is walkable; Fort Mackinac and Arch Rock involve stairs and hills

Hidden Gems & Quiet Corners

Mackinac Island is known for its big attractions but some of my favorite moments happened in the quiet, lesser-known corners where I could slow down and just be.

• Anne’s Tablet – This art-nouveau memorial honors 19th-century author Constance Fenimore Woolson and sits perched above Marquette Park. It’s a short hike uphill (near Fort Mackinac), and once you reach the tablet and bench, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of the harbor and peaceful solitude. Bring a book or journal it’s that kind of spot.
• Skull Cave & Devil’s Kitchen – These limestone formations are steeped in legend. Skull Cave sits in the forest and was once used as a burial site by Native Americans; Devil’s Kitchen is closer to the shoreline and looks like a mini sea cave. Neither are huge, but both are fun detours that give a glimpse into the island’s wilder side. Perfect for curious kids or geology buffs.
• Fort Holmes at Night – The island’s highest point, Fort Holmes is usually visited for panoramic views during the day but it’s absolutely magical after sunset. With little to no light pollution, this is one of the best stargazing spots on the island. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights on a clear night.
• Tranquil Bluff & Partridge Trails – These shaded trails are some of the quietest I found on the island. Winding through old-growth forest and along limestone ridges, they’re ideal for a morning walk or trail run away from the bike path crowds. I barely passed anyone during my hike, which made the birdsong and lake breeze even more peaceful.
• Mackinac Island Airport – Even if you’re not arriving by air, this small, windswept landing strip at the island’s crest is worth a visit. There’s something oddly cinematic about standing near the runway, looking out over the forest and Lake Huron in the distance. If you happen to be there when a tiny plane lands or takes off, it’s a treat to witness.

Tip: Bring a trail map or use offline GPS. Many of these spots aren’t marked clearly from the main roads.

Cultural & Historic Stops

If you’re someone who loves local stories, architecture, and glimpses into the past, these cultural stops are absolute musts:

Mission Church

Built in 1829, this is Michigan’s oldest surviving church. Nestled on a quiet road between Mission Point and downtown, it’s worth stepping inside for its simple wooden pews and peaceful atmosphere. The stained-glass windows catch the late afternoon light beautifully, and there’s often a docent around to share fascinating tidbits about their role in missionary history.

Mackinac Art Museum (Indian Dormitory)

Housed in the 1837 Indian Dormitory, this museum blends Native American history with rotating art exhibits and archival photography. It’s air-conditioned (a great summer bonus) and offers a deeper understanding of the island’s layered past from indigenous heritage to its tourism evolution. The upstairs gallery often features contemporary works inspired by island life, making it both educational and creative.

Biddle House

Built around 1780, the Biddle House is one of the oldest structures on the island. Originally home to fur trader Edward Biddle and his Odawa wife Agatha, it offers a unique look at early colonial life. Inside, you’ll find authentic period furnishings and live demonstrations of hearth cooking at the open fireplace. It’s a quiet, immersive step back in time and a lovely mid-afternoon detour when downtown gets busy.

Benjamin Blacksmith Shop

Still in operation since the late 1800s, this traditional blacksmith shop is part museum, part living history. You can watch blacksmiths at work, hammering red-hot steel into horseshoes, tools, and decorative iron goods. There’s a surprising artistry to it and it’s fun to chat with the craftsmen and browse the small shop for handmade souvenirs. Admission is included with a Fort Mackinac combo ticket.

Colonial Michilimackinac (Just Off-Island)

If you’re passing through Mackinaw City before or after your island visit, make time for Colonial Michilimackinac, a fully reconstructed 18th-century French fort and fur trading village. Costumed interpreters bring the site to life with musket drills, interactive exhibits, and hands-on stations. It’s one of the best places to understand life before British rule and the early trading history of the Great Lakes. I visited in the morning before my ferry and was genuinely impressed with how detailed and kid-friendly it was.

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse

Just steps from the ferry dock in Mackinaw City, this 50-foot red brick lighthouse feels like a castle by the water. Built in 1892, it guided ships through the foggy Straits of Mackinac until 1957. Today, you can tour the keeper’s quarters, climb the tower, and see original lens components up close. The panoramic views of the Mackinac Bridge and the lake are picture-perfect and a great way to kick off or wrap up your Mackinac adventure.

Winter on Mackinac Island

While most visitors come in spring through fall, Mackinac Island transforms into a snowy, hushed wonderland come winter. It’s not for everyone but if you’re seeking solitude, silence, and serious charm, this could be your dream off-season escape.

• Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing – The island’s trails, normally filled with bikers and hikers, become serene routes through snow-dusted woods. You can rent gear on the mainland and bring it over, or check with your lodging if they provide any.
• Quiet Downtown Strolls – The shops and crowds vanish, but the Victorian architecture stays. It’s eerie in the best way just you, snow-crunchy sidewalks, and the occasional horse-drawn sleigh.
• The Ice Bridge – When Lake Huron freezes solid between St. Ignace and Mackinac Island, a natural road forms. Locals mark the path with pine trees so snowmobiles can cross safely. It’s not guaranteed every year, and crossing is only done at your own risk but it’s an iconic example of how resilient and resourceful this island community is.

Note: Very few businesses stay open in winter. If you’re planning a visit, research lodging, dining, and ferry availability carefully and be prepared for very limited services.

2025 Travel Updates

• Ferry Operators – Shepler’s and Star Line run daily routes from both Mackinaw City and St. Ignace. Book early.
• Advanced Bookings – Hotels, bike rentals, and tours now open reservations months in advance.
• Midweek Advantage – Tuesdays to Thursdays offer better rates and fewer crowds than weekends.

FAQs About Mackinac Island