tourist attractions mackinaw city. mi

30+ Best Things to Do in Mackinaw City Michigan

Wondering what to do in Mackinaw City today or on your next “Up North” getaway? Here are the BEST things to do in Mackinaw City!

Located at the tip of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula and on the southern side of the Mackinac Bridge, Mackinaw City is the last place that you drive through before crossing the Straits of Mackinac and entering the Upper Peninsula.

The village is one of the top places to visit in Michigan because of its location and rich history as well as being one of the two main ferry ports for those wanting to visit Mackinac Island .

There are so many things to do in Mackinaw City , and we’ve put together a collection of favorite activities, historic sites, events, restaurants, and accommodations to make planning a day out or vacation easier.

Check out our Mackinaw City map of everything we recommend in this article right here.

A Brief History of Mackinaw City

Northern Michigan has a long Native American history and the area that we call Mackinaw City has always been an important place for them.

In 1715, the French arrived and settled in the area, building Fort Michilimackinac. They had a major military and trading presence on the Straits of Mackinac.

Through transport changes from railroads to automobiles and car ferries over the years, the village became a popular vacation destination.

Parks and Outdoor Things to Do in Mackinaw City

Northern Michigan is known for its love of the outdoors, and Mackinaw City has plenty of outdoor things to do.

Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park

Representing what life was like at the beginning of the industrial age in the 1700s, Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park demonstrates how the creek was used to power timber cutting. It’s one of the oldest industrial sites in the region.

Across the more than 600 acres, there are 3 miles of hiking trails and opportunities to see a range of wildlife species. You can watch live programs and tours from May to September, ride a zip line through the trees, learn about archaeological artifacts, have a picnic, and more.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park

As of 2011, the Headlands International Dark Sky Park became one of 10 in existence in the world. It’s the place to go to experience the spectacular Northern Lights in Michigan .

The International Dark Sky Park has a 1-mile discovery trail, which provides a dynamic cultural interpretation of the stars, making it one of the best Mackinaw City attractions all year long!

Animal Tracks

Animal Tracks is more than a miniature golf course — It’s an adventure that teaches you about wildlife in Northern Michigan as you play. You can match tracks to their respective animals to get a free game. The scenic environment features rock bridges and crashing waterfalls.

Adrenaline Falls Adventure Zipline

Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park isn’t the only place where you can ride a zip line in Mackinaw City.

Located in downtown Mackinaw City above Starbucks, Adrenaline Falls Adventure Zipline has two lines that pass over lush scenery and waterfalls. It’s a great place for kids to get a taste of what it’s like to soar at towering heights.

Mackinaw Parasailing

Fun for all ages, Mackinaw Parasailing gives you a bird’s view of the Straits of Mackinac. It operates a customized boat that allows parasailors to launch from and land directly on the deck, which is safe and keeps you dry.

Also, the company has a large boat — The Wild One — for Jet Boat Adventures that you can take with up to 20 people. These adventures feature high speeds and 360-degree spins in the Straits.

Fun and Entertaining Mackinaw City Attractions

Exploring Mackinaw City isn’t complete without visiting iconic Michigan history destinations and enjoying a historical reenactment.

Mackinac Bridge

As a symbol of Michigan and the connector of its two peninsulas, the Mackinac Bridge opened to traffic in 1957 and is an attraction on its own. It’s one of the most beautiful bridges in the world and one of the longest in the United States. The suspension length is 8,614 feet, but the total length is 26,372 feet (5 miles).

You might wonder which is longer: the Golden Gate Bridge or Mackinac Bridge. By comparison, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco only has a total length of 8,981 feet (1.7 miles). That means Mackinac Bridge is nearly three times as long.

Driving the bridge is already a treat — the panoramic view of the Straits of Mackinac is quite wonderful.

But, did you know that you can walk the bridge too? The Mackinac Bridge Authority organizes the Annual Mackinac Bridge Walk , and those who walk to the end and back again call themselves Double Crossers. The title is well deserved — that’s 10 miles!

Jack Pine Lumberjack Shows

Highlighting the area’s logging history, Jack Pine Lumberjack Shows are very entertaining and educational. The competitive shows take you back to the late 1800s when logging was an important part of the economy.

World-class lumberjacks compete in logrolling, chopping, ax throwing, sawing, and speed climbing for the “Bull of the Woods” title. There are chainsaw carving demonstrations and log boom runs as well. The fast pace of the shows keeps you involved.

Mackinaw Manor Haunted Mansion

If you need to know what is there to do in Mackinaw City in the winter or on rainy days, Mackinaw Manor Haunted Mansion is a unique attraction.

Located in Mackinaw Crossings, the manor is a fully automated haunted house. It uses state-of-the-art animatronics, special effects, and sound technology to create a scary experience for all who dare to enter.

Mackinaw City Historic Sites and Museums

Full of Michigan history, Mackinaw City has several historic sites and Michigan museums that you’ll want to be sure to explore. It is even home to multiple Michigan lighthouses that we recommend touring!

Colonial Michilimackinac Historic State Park

One of the most prominent things to do in Mackinaw City is visiting Colonial Michilimackinac Historic State Park . The park features a reconstructed 1700s French military outpost and fur-trading village — Fort Michilimackinac. Everything is based on historic maps and archaeological excavations.

From May to September, live programs and tours demonstrate how Native Americans, civilians, and soldiers responded to real and imagined threats as they tried to maintain the fur trade, which was their livelihood.

There are several exhibits across 16 buildings, and you can fire all of the period weapons — cannon, mortar, musket, and wall gun.

Extra note: If you wonder, “what does Michilimackinac mean?”, you’ll be glad to learn that the word is derived from an Ottawa Ojibwe name for what we now refer to as Mackinac Island and Mackinac County. Early settlers used the word too, but it has since been shortened.

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse

Located in Colonial Michilimackinac Historic State Park, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse has been a guiding light for ships navigating the Straits of Mackinac since 1889.

The Keeper’s Quarters has been authentically restored to how it looked in 1910, and you can learn about the history of the lighthouse in the gallery exhibit on the second floor.

The Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Museum is located in the reconstructed warehouse and has artifacts and audiovisual displays. There’s also a movie that you can watch — “Shipwrecks of the Straits.” At specific times, a costumed interpreter demonstrates the fog signal whistle.

McGulpin Point Lighthouse

Opposite of Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is McGulpin Point Lighthouse . You can go on self-guided tours of the grounds, using a smartphone to learn about its historical importance.

There’s a discovery trail that tells the story of the area and various stages of the property. In the McGulpin Point Lighthouse gift shop, you can grab apparel, novelties, and other souvenirs.

On the Lake Michigan shoreline of the property, you can observe McGulpin Rock, which early settlers used to gauge water levels as they navigated the tumultuous waters about 395 years ago.

Additionally, you can stay in the secluded apartment at the lighthouse for truly one-of-a-kind accommodations.

Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum

Known as the Queen of the Great Lakes, the U.S. Coast Guard Icebreaker Mackinaw WAGB-83 was decommissioned in 2006 and is set up as a museum.

The vessel was built during World War II to meet heavy material and transport demands during the winter, and some people refer to it as the Largest Icebreaker on the Great Lakes. It was also a goodwill ambassador across the region.

Now, the Icebreaker features informative displays and is open for guided tours of the bridge, captain’s quarters, engine room, mess deck, sickbay, wardroom, and more. You can even arrange group events and overnight stays. Before you leave, visit the ship’s store for military and nautical souvenirs.

Mackinaw Bridge Museum

Unlike most museums, the Mackinaw Bridge Museum is located above a restaurant — Mama Mia’s Pizza , one of the best Mackinaw City restaurants for families.

It was created by ironworker J.C. Stilwell, who was on the crew that built the bridge, and many of the items in the exhibits were donated by hundreds of people. It’s free to explore the museum when the restaurant is open from spring through fall.

Tours of Mackinaw City and Michigan Lighthouses

Whether you’re more comfortable on land or water, there’s a Mackinaw City tour that’s right for you, and they’re some of the best things to do in Mackinaw City!

Mackinac Old Time Trolley

Whether you’re just starting a vacation or passing through, tours of Mackinaw City Michigan are a great way to learn about the area and discover sites to explore further.

Mackinac Old Time Trolley offers a one-hour orientation and local history tour, as well as a two-hour history tour that includes passage on the Mackinac Bridge to a park on the other side. Most of the village’s hotels sell tokens for the tours.

Shepler’s Ferry Lighthouse Cruises

The best way to tour the many lighthouses in the area is via boat, and Shepler’s Ferry offers several options. The three-hour Eastbound Lighthouse Cruise passes by lighthouses on Lake Huron around Round Island, Bois Blanc Island, Poe Reef, Fourteen Foot Shoal, and Cheboygan.

On the Lake Michigan side, the three-hour Westbound Lighthouse Cruise passes by lighthouses at Old Mackinac Point, White Shoal, Gray’s Reef, Waugoshance, and St. Helena. The extended versions of these cruises are four and four-and-a-half hours respectively and add a few more lighthouses.

In addition, Shepler’s Ferry offers a five-hour Les Cheneaux Lighthouse Cruise that features Lake Huron lighthouses nearby and beyond Bois Blanc Island. You can book the three-hour Evening Lighthouse Cruise to see nearby lights in action.

Mackinaw City Cruises on Ugly Anne

The Straits Area Tour Company offers two Mackinaw City Cruise options on its famed Ugly Anne charter boat. The Mackinaw City/Mackinac Bridge tour is a history cruise where you’ll learn the history of shipwrecks as you travel over them, local Native American Lore, learn about living in the north country, and the maritime history of the area while cruising under the “Mighty” Mackinac Bridge.

The Mackinaw City Sunset cruise will take you under the magnificent Mackinac Bridge before giving you the best seat in the house to see one of the most beautiful sunsets in North America.

Events to See in Mackinaw City

Like many other Michigan cities, events in Mackinaw City are festive and can’t-miss occasions.

Memorial Weekend Pageant

At the end of May, Mackinaw City comes alive with the Memorial Weekend Pageant, the longest-running historical performance in the country. It involves a re-enactment of the events that occurred between the Native Americans, French, and British in the 1700s.

You’ll have the chance to meet famous Native American chiefs from various tribes for free!

July 4th Fireworks

One of the prettiest things to do in Mackinaw City is to watch the July 4th Fireworks at dusk. This Independence Day celebration features the biggest display of exploding color in Northern Michigan.

During the day, families can enjoy fun games on the Mackinaw City Municipal Marina lawn.

International Ironworker Festival

Every August, ironworkers from the United States and Canada gather to compete in the International Ironworker Festival . The event is free for the public to observe, and there are free activities for kids — such as a bouncy house — and free aerial lifts.

Mackinaw City Beer & Wine Festival

During September, Conkling Heritage Park hosts the Mackinaw City Beer & Wine Festival. For just a few dollars, you can get a tasting glass and three tickets for tastings of award-winning Michigan microbrews and wines. The event usually has live music too.

Mackinaw City Shopping

Due to its close proximity to Mackinac Island, Mackinaw City is full of shops with great Michigan gift ideas , Mackinac Island fudge , and so much more to help you remember your visit.

Although it’s not as prominent as the fort and historical sites, downtown Mackinaw City is known for its shopping. There are more than 50 specialty shops, and most of them are located within Mackinaw Crossings .

This outdoor mall even has live music and concerts, a children’s play center, and a five-plex cinema. At dusk every night during the summer, you can see a free laser light show. It’s the perfect place for entertainment while you look for souvenirs or gifts.

Where to Eat in Mackinaw City

If you’re spending more than a couple of hours in Mackinaw City (and we highly recommend that you do!), you’ll need somewhere to eat. We recommend skipping the national chains and trying one of these local Mackinaw City restaurants .

P.S. Click here to learn more about the best Mackinaw City pasties !

Scalawags Whitefish & Chips

With a nautical atmosphere and name, you don’t have to guess what you’ll get at Scalawags Whitefish & Chips . The casual restaurant serves fresh fish baskets and sandwiches, and the service is fast.

For those in your party who prefer chicken or turkey, there are baskets and sandwiches for them also.

Audie’s Restaurant

Voted as the Best All-Around Restaurant by patrons, Audie’s Restaurant offers casual and fine dining in Mackinaw City Michigan. The comfortable Family Room menu features home-cooked meals all day, while The Chippewa Room menu features specialties and a huge wine selection.

On top of that, Audie’s has a Welcome Lounge where adults can have a craft beer, glass of fine wine, or glass of scotch with friends or significant others.

Nonna Lisa’s

For the best Italian meals in the village, go to Nonna Lisa’s . The restaurant specializes in outstanding pasta dishes and wood-fired pizza. Also on the menu are salads, soups, traditional entrees, and great wine pairings.

Biere De Mac Brew Works

At Bière de Mac Brew Works , you can get upscale comfort food. This gastro-bistro pub has more than a dozen hard cider and craft beers on tap all the time. The goal, though, is to serve every style of beer that has been classified by the Brewers Association as of 2016.

While you drink, you can order burgers, sandwiches, salads, and soups.

The Hook Lakeside Grill

Featuring balcony dining with a view of Lake Huron, The Hook Lakeside Grill offers a more upscale experience. The menu includes a range of beef and brisket burgers, prime rib, fresh walleye and whitefish, and specialties.

However, the star of this restaurant is the bar, which makes amazing cocktails and has 34 microbrews and beers on tap.

The Lighthouse Restaurant

If you want everything that a fine dining experience has to offer, The Lighthouse Restaurant can make it happen. All of the seafood is handpicked from local fisheries every day, and you can choose fresh lobster from its tank.

There are salads, eggplant parmigiana, prime rib, steak, and other entrees on the menu as well.

Mackinaw City Hotels and Other Lodging

There are many hotels in Mackinaw City , as well as Mackinaw City vacation rentals and camping in Mackinaw City, giving you plenty of options for lodging in Mackinaw City when you visit.

Baymont Inn & Suites

Within walking distance of downtown, the Baymont Inn & Suites is near Mackinaw Crossing, attractions, and restaurants. It offers a free breakfast in the Baymont Breakfast Corner, a whirlpool spa, and an indoor heated pool.

All of the rooms feature coffee makers, but some have microwaves and minifridges too.

Holiday Inn Express

Situated next to Interstate 75, the Holiday Inn Express is quite comfortable whether you’re staying for a day or seven days. All of the rooms have coffee makers, microwaves, and mini-fridges while some of the suites feature balconies and fireplaces.

The hotel amenities include an indoor heated pool, hot tub, sauna, and fitness center. Plus, it only takes about five minutes to walk to Colonial Michilimackinac Historic State Park and about 7 minutes to walk to Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse.

Mackinaw Beach & Bay Inn & Suites

Connected to the Mackinaw Convention Center, this beachfront hotel in Mackinaw City has a free water park for its guests to enjoy.

Just a short walk to the Mackinaw City Ferry Terminal and downtown Mackinaw City, it’s not only conveniently located, but it includes all of the amenities you’d expect in a family-friendly Mackinaw City hotel.

Over 500 reviews on Hotels.com ranks Mackinaw Beach & Bay Inn & Suites as one of the best places to stay in Mackinaw City!

Beachcomber Motel

If you’re looking for affordable accommodations with a view, Beachcomber Motel is a great choice for short getaways. The lakefront rooms have king and queen beds and minifridges, and you can request a room with a Jacuzzi tub.

The motel’s family suite has connecting rooms and a microwave. In addition to a porch, there’s a picnic area and barbecue grill.

Deer Head Inn Bed & Breakfast

Offering a more personalized stay, Deer Head Inn Bed & Breakfast is surrounded by shops and restaurants. It’s located in an Arts and Crafts Style home that was built in 1913.

The restored house has five rooms, each with its own theme, fireplace, Jacuzzi tub, and separate sitting area. The guest living room features original furnishings from the early 1900s, and you’re certain to enjoy the daily breakfast and special meals.

Mackinaw City Airbnb Vacation Rentals

For an alternative to hotels and B&Bs, there are many Airbnb vacation rentals in Mackinaw City . In some ways, they can make romantic getaways more intimate and make family vacations more comfortable. You can choose from apartments, condos, cabins, cottages, and homes of various sizes.

Camping in Mackinaw City

Whether you’re from Northern Michigan or some other part of the state, you might enjoy sleeping closer to nature than in a hotel or apartment. If that’s the case, Mackinaw City has a few places where you can go camping.

Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping and Mackinaw City KOA are our favorite Mackinaw City campgrounds.

Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping

You can find all kinds of campsites at Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping , including tent and RV sites with full hookups. The campground even has cabin rentals.

You won’t see concrete or asphalt on its sites either. Instead, the entire camp is surrounded and covered with indigenous plants and wildlife.

Also, Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping has 1 mile of waterfront on Lake Huron with beautiful views and natural beaches.

During your stay, you have access to a range of amenities — biking and hiking trails, miniature golf, heated pool, arcade and game room, discounts at Mackinaw Club Golf Course , and free shuttle service to Mackinac Island ferries.

Mackinaw City KOA

Part of the Kampgrounds of America system of privately held campgrounds, Mackinaw City KOA has a variety of wooded campsites for tents and RVs. It rents cabins as well.

There’s a Lake Michigan beach less than 2 miles away, or you can use the on-site heated pool.

You can bike or walk the campground’s nature trail to Colonial Michilimackinac, or explore the North Western State Trail , which is ideal for biking and hiking. Additionally, the camp offers free shuttle services to the Mackinac Island ferry docks.

Mackinac Island Day Trip

While the many things to do in Mackinaw City are a big draw to Northern Michigan, many people also visit the area to see Mackinac Island. It’s located to the northeast of the village and can be seen from the city’s Lake Huron beaches .

Shepler’s Ferry and Star Line Ferry operate transport to the island and have several options for tickets.

How much the ferry from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island costs depends on the ticket that you choose. You could save money, though, with combination tickets and by purchasing online. In general, the boat ride takes about 20 minutes.

Like in Mackinaw City, there are tons of things to do on Mackinac Island. Best of all, many of the best attractions are free because the majority of the island consists of Mackinac Island and Fort Mackinac Historic Park, which is a state park.

It’s possible to bike, walk, or ride a horse-drawn carriage everywhere, and there are awesome shops and restaurants downtown Mackinac Island .

You could even extend your day trip into an overnight stay in an Airbnb Mackinac Island vacation rental or Mackinac Island hotel !

More Things to Do Near Mackinac Bridge

If you’re looking for more things to do near Mackinac Bridge , you won’t want to miss our article on the best things to do in St. Ignace – just the other side of the Mackinac Bridge on the Upper Peninsula’s southern shore.

Also, be sure to check out a great day trip to experience from Mackinaw City, the amazing Michigan Tunnel of Trees drive which winds its way from Cross Village in the north to Harbor Springs in the south.

A lover of all things Michigan. Will never get tired of exploring the unique places across the state and meeting all the awesome inspiring people that are here. Always ready for a new Michigan adventure! Owner, Director, and Chief Explorer!

On the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse grounds, there is a neat Shipwreck Museum. If you go through the Gift Shop, take a left and there are two smaller buildings worth seeing. One building contains ship artifacts from numerous shipwrecks that date back to the 1800s. The second smaller building is the former lighthouse keeper’s garage. There are bench seats and a screen inside, where you can watch a short movie on the rescue of the crew of the sunken freighter called the Cedarville, a 588’ freighter that was hit in the fog of day by a Norwegian freighter called the Topdalsfjord. These two buildings were opened in 2015.

Thanks for the tip, Rick!

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Top Things to Do in Mackinaw City

Things to do in mackinaw city, explore popular experiences, top attractions in mackinaw city.

Other Top Attractions around Mackinaw City

What travellers are saying

• Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry
• Colonial Michilimackinac
• Headlands International Dark Sky Park
• Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry
• Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse
• Animal Tracks
• WaWatam Park
• Alexander Henry Park
• Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum Inc.
• McGulpin Point Lighthouse & Historic Site
• Historic Mill Creek

• Last Updated On
• June 25, 2023

17 Best Things to Do in Mackinaw City, MI — Top Activities & Places to Go!

Take a trip back to the past when you stay awhile in this Michigan Village.

From mesmerizing views of Lake Michigan to immersive 18th-century reconstructions, Mackinaw City offers you a ton of stuff to do.

It doesn’t even end during the daytime because there are still activities fit for when it gets dark like stargazing and visiting haunted places.

So don’t miss out on going to this Lower Peninsula Village.

Start planning your trip.

Here’s a list of the best things to do in Mackinaw City, MI.

1. Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry

556 E Central Avenue Mackinaw City, MI 49701 (231) 436-5023

Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry is a family-operated local ferry service that travels from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island. It was founded in 1945.

Why You Should Go

This ferry ride is among the relaxing attractions in Mackinaw City because of the idyllic views from the middle of the lake that you are sure to enjoy.

Plus, the ride takes you from the city to the beautiful Mackinac Island and near Mackinac Bridge.

Spend the 20-minute ride breathing in the lovely breeze while taking photos of the views from Lake Huron.

2. Colonial Michilimackinac

102 W Straits Avenue Mackinaw City, MI 49701 (231) 436-4100

Colonial Michilimackinac is a historical fort and trading post near Mackinac Bridge.

It was built in 1715 and became a National Historic Landmark in 1960.

Lovers of history will enjoy going around the old fortified area downtown as you’ll feel as if you really stepped into the past.

Staff and interpreters dressed in 18th-century garb make everything feel more authentic.

Discover the many artifacts excavated from this site when you visit exhibits like Treasures from the Sand.

You should also go around the many reconstructed buildings to maximize your time here.

3. Headlands International Dark Sky Park

15675 Headlands Road Mackinaw City, MI 49701 (231) 427-1001

Headlands International Dark Sky Park is 550 acres big and is located on the shores of Lake Michigan.

This county park is the perfect place to spend both day and night in as they have many varied outdoor activities.

The trails around the park are perfect for hiking, biking, or catching glimpses of wildlife like bald eagles and even black bears.

Stargazing in this park is one of the best things to do in Mackinaw City tonight.

Stay until the sky is dark, and take out your telescope to get clearer views of the sky.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Dockside Waterfront Inn

Also See: Things to Do in Ludington

4. Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse

526 N Huron Avenue Mackinaw City, MI 49701 (231) 436-4100

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is located in the area where Lake Michigan and Lake Huron meet.

It was built in 1892.

Looking more like a castle than a lighthouse, this 50-foot tower is a shoo-in for your list of places to visit in Mackinaw City this weekend if you love history.

The inside of the tower and its original buildings house collections with artifacts like the light’s original lens.

After going around the museum’s exhibits, make sure to take photos with this unique, cream-brick lighthouse.

Also, make the most of its incredible views of the two lakes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Parkside Inn Bridgeview

5. Mackinaw Bridge Museum

231 E Central Avenue Mackinaw City, MI 49701 (231) 436-5534

Mackinaw Bridge Museum is a small museum that focuses on the history of the Mackinac Bridge’s construction.

This museum is dedicated to the steelworkers from long ago that built landmarks that we now love today.

When it comes to free things to do in Mackinaw City, a trip here is a great way to learn the history of this city’s famous bridge.

Go around the museum and check out the different things used in building the bridge displayed there, from construction hats to old construction equipment.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Baymont by Wyndham Mackinaw City

6. Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry

801 S Huron Avenue Mackinaw City, MI 49701 (800) 638-9892

Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry is a boat company that bought the longest-running ferry boat company in the city, which was founded in 1878.

The panoramic views of the Straits from inside the ferry make the trip to Mackinac Island worth it.

If you can, try boarding the ferry with barrier-free, glass-enclosed cabins to really get unobstructed and immersive views of the lakes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Court Plaza Inn & Suites of Mackinaw

7. Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum Inc.

131 S Huron Avenue Mackinaw City, MI 49701 (231) 436-9825

The Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum is a museum located inside the decommissioned USCGC Mackinaw.

This 88-foot historical vessel house exhibits that focus on its career breaking ice on the lakes as well as a World War II transport vessel.

A great way to pass the time when it’s raining or cold is to go on the tours.

Visit rooms like the Captains Quarters, the Engine Room, the Mess Deck, and the Sick Bay.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Mackinaw Beach and Bay Inn & Suites

8. Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park

9001 W US Highway 23 Mackinaw City, MI 49701 (231) 436-4100

Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park is a 600-acre state park and nature preserve.

It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978.

There are many trails that snake around the forest that nature lovers will enjoy.

But history buffs will prefer seeing the historic sites inside the park that depict life in Michigan during the 1700s.

When you’re not going on adventure tours around the park, watch the fantastic demonstrations done by costumed staff.

Some of the demos show Historic Mill Creek at work.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Lake View Hotel

9. Animal Tracks

220 S Huron Avenue Mackinaw City, MI 49701 (231) 436-7044

Animal Tracks is a mini-golf course that features local wildlife.

It is located next to Mackinac Bay Trading Company.

This mini-golf course is among the fun things to do in Mackinaw City, Michigan, because of its exciting forest and wildlife theme.

The best way to familiarize yourself with the local wildlife in Mackinaw City is to play a game on this miniature golf course.

The goal is as simple as matching animals with their tracks on the hole marker.

Out of the top things to do in Mackinaw City with kids , the easy concept of this game allows them to feel more independent while having fun.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Breakers Resort – Lakeside

Also See: What to Do in The Upper Peninsula Things to Do in Marquette Top Detroit Activities

10. McGulpin Point Lighthouse & Historic Site

500 Headlands Road Mackinaw City, MI 49701 (231) 436-5860

The McGulpin Point Lighthouse and Historic Site is located near the Straits of Mackinac.

It was opened in 1869 and operated until 1906.

Besides looking like a beautiful backdrop for photos, this 12-meter white lighthouse is among the oldest surviving lighthouses in the Strait.

Read through the little signs that tell stories about shipwrecks that happened in the area.

After that, take the short trail to the beach and chill out on the gazebo.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Murray Hotel

11. WaWatam Park

300 N Huron Avenue Mackinaw City, MI 49701

WaWatam Park is a waterside park located near Mackinac Bridge along Lake Huron.

Relaxing days are easy to achieve when you spend a few hours in this park.

A stroll here is a great way to enjoy the fantastic views of Mackinac Bridge and the refreshing waterside breeze.

An example of simple, cheap, yet romantic things to do in Mackinaw City for couples is to have a picnic in this park.

Just choose a table or lay down a blanket on the green grass, and you’re good to go.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Harbour Pointe Lakefront

12. Adrenaline Falls Zip Line

302 S Huron Avenue Mackinaw City, MI 49701 (231) 436-5630

Adrenaline Falls Zip Line is a two-zipline attraction atop the Starbucks at Huron Avenue and Crossings Drive.

The perfect way to maximize the picturesque views of the Michigan landscapes is to see them from above.

It’s one of our favorite things, as the zipline travels through scenes of lush forests and even waterfalls.

Buckle up and feel the rush of the air when you zip through this city’s fantastic natural views.

The high vantage point makes a huge difference in the experience.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Quality Inn Saint Ignace

Related: Best Restaurants in Mackinaw City

13. The Haunted Theatre and Mackinaw Haunted House

114 S Huron Avenue Mackinaw City, MI 49701 (231) 818-0527

The Haunted Theatre is a family-owned attraction that has been open since 1974.

The Mackinaw City Haunted Mansion is its newer sister.

The three-dimensional animatronics and visual effects inside both houses will tickle the fancy of paranormal fans who visit the city.

Both are included in the things to see in Mackinaw City if you like retro and modern haunted house experiences.

Choose one or do both the theater and mansion.

The theater’s older technology adds a vintage retro vibe to your tour.

At the same time, the mansion’s more modern equipment will send shivers down your spine.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Lake Front – St Ignace, an IHG Hotel

Also See: Petoskey, Michigan Things to Do Things to Do in South Haven, MI

14. Garlyn Zoological Park

US-2 Naubinway, MI 49762 (906) 477-1085

Garlyn Zoological Park is a 30-acre zoo in Naubinway, about 47 minutes away from Mackinaw City.

It opened in 1994.

This wildlife sanctuary is the largest zoo in the eastern part of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

It houses more than 400 animals, including tigers, hyenas, lemurs, sloths, and more.

Some animals in the zoo can be fed.

Buy some feed and approach gentle animals like alpacas and deers.

You can even feed apples to a few grizzly bears.

15. Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum

18335 N Whitefish Point Road Paradise, MI 49768 (888) 492-3747

The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum is a maritime museum located at Whitefish Point Light Station.

It is about an hour and a half’s drive from Mackinac Bridge.

A part of Lake Superior near the light station is well-known for hundreds of shipwrecks.

The museum’s exhibits found indoors showcase artifacts taken from the shipwrecks themselves, including the bell from the infamous SS Edmund Fitzgerald.

Besides checking out the artifacts in the museum, take a stroll around the museum complex.

Go near the light station or buy a few souvenirs from the gift shop.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Tahquamenon Suites Lodging

16. Soo Locks

515 E Portage Avenue Marie, MI 49783 (906) 632-2512

Soo Locks is a waterway system located in Sault Ste Marie, about 1 hour and 6 minutes away from Mackinaw City.

Engineering enthusiasts will enjoy seeing the world’s largest waterway traffic system.

It’s a unique attraction that you can only find in this area, and Soo Locks Park has many vantage points with great views of the system.

Get on a boat tour around the Soo Locks for a one-of-a-kind experience traveling along this engineering marvel.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Sault Ste Marie, an IHG Hotel

Related: Best Hotels in Mackinaw City

Also See: Traverse City, MI Things to Do

17. Tahquamenon Falls State Park

41382 W M-123 Paradise, MI 49768 (906) 492-3415

Tahquamenon Falls State Park is 50,000 acres big and is located in Paradise, about 1 hour and 33 minutes away from Mackinaw City.

It is most known for its undeveloped terrain.

Hiking around the whimsical woodlands of Michigan’s second-largest state park is a fun activity for any outdoorsy person.

The undeveloped woods just add to the authenticity of being one with nature.

All of which are just a few of the many reasons why it’s on our list of the best things to do in Mackinaw City, MI.

Make sure to take the time to visit the actual waterfall. Going to the Upper Falls won’t be a problem for kids and novice hikers as a short paved path easily takes you there.

A trip to the Lower Falls may require more skill as the hike is about 4 miles along the river.

Map of Things to Do in Mackinaw City, MI

Mackinaw City Things to Do: The 17 Best Activities for 2024

• Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry
• Colonial Michilimackinac
• Headlands International Dark Sky Park
• Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse
• Mackinaw Bridge Museum
• Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry
• Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum Inc.
• Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park
• Animal Tracks
• McGulpin Point Lighthouse & Historic Site
• WaWatam Park
• Adrenaline Falls Zip Line
• The Haunted Theatre and Mackinaw Haunted House
• Garlyn Zoological Park
• Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum
• Tahquamenon Falls State Park

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How To Spend A Long Weekend In Quaint Mackinaw City, Michigan

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The Mackinac Bridge, which spans the Straits of Mackinac, connects Michigan’s Upper and Lower peninsulas. At 5 miles long, the Mighty Mac is one of the longest suspension bridges in the Western Hemisphere. Situated at the tip of Michigan’s mitten, Mackinaw City sits at the southern end of the Mackinac Bridge.

Both Mackinaw and Mackinac are pronounced with the “awe” sound at the end. The French pronounced Mackinac as “awe” but spelled it “ac.” The British heard the “awe” pronunciation and spelled it as it sounded. So either way you see it spelled, it’s always pronounced “awe.”

Use this article as your initial planning guide with a starting list of things to do, where to eat and sleep, including places to camp.

Things To Do In Mackinaw City

The area is rich with outdoor experiences, such as stargazing, boating, and hiking. History buffs have opportunities to discover Michigan’s early history regarding fur trading and explorations. Every Friday night at dusk in summer, Mackinaw City features a fireworks display over Lake Huron.

Explore The Colonial Fort Michilimackinac

If you’re a history buff, be sure to explore Colonial Fort Michilimackinac, located in downtown Mackinaw City. The fort is the site of one of the most extended continuous archaeological digs in North America, where scholars have been excavating since 1959. From the beginning of June until mid-August, you can see archaeologists in action daily. With their reenactments and demonstrations, history comes alive. In addition, the fort contains 16 restored buildings, and each building, furnished in period settings, has exhibits that highlight the building’s purpose.

Pro Tip: To fully explore the fort, once a military compound and fur trading village with significant history from the Revolutionary War, requires a lot of walking. Colonial Fort Michilimackinac has a limited number of motorized wheelchairs that it lends without charge.

Play At The Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park

The Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park , a state park and historic site in Mackinaw City, was once an 18th-century water-powered sawmill. The park rests on more than 600 acres and incorporates over 3 miles of trails. First, see what life was like through Mill Creek’s at-work sawpit and sawmill demonstrations. Then, take a guided walking tour and learn what happened beyond the sawmill. Costumed interpreters provide historical demonstrations and tours that breathe life into history.

Pro Tip: Plan to spend at least 2 hours at historic Mill Creek Discovery Park.

Visit The Lighthouses

Built in 1889, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse guided ships through the Straits of Mackinac. Today, the lighthouse has been restored with the original lens. You can explore the house and take a tour of the tower. A 15-minute movie, Shipwrecks of the Straits, tells stories behind the local shipwrecks. The Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Museum provides more area history.

McGulpin Point Lighthouse , located 2 miles west of downtown Mackinaw City, offers unique views of the Mackinac Bridge and fall’s colorful show. The lighthouse, built from Cream City brick, features a Norman Gothic style marked by buttressed corners and an octagonal tower. Unfortunately, the McGulpin lighthouse was decommissioned by 1892.

Pro Tip: Tower tours of the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse are offered. Be aware. The tower is a four stories-climb up 51 narrow steps. Then, you need to climb an 11-rung, 8-foot ladder through a narrow passageway.

Stargaze At Headlands International Dark Sky Park

By design, Headlands International Dark Sky Park is very dark at night. So on your first visit, arrive while there is still daylight to get an idea of its layout and parking facilities. Each season, the sky showcases a different group of stars. So, even if you’ve been at Headlands International Dark Sky Park previously, you’ll likely notice something new. At the right time of year, you might even get lucky and catch a glimpse of the northern lights.

Pro Tip: To preserve the viewing experience, don’t use white light, including cell phones. Bring red-filtered flashlights only. You can make a red-filtered flashlight by using red plastic wrap.

Take A Cruise

Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry offers ferry service to Mackinac Island and provides various lighthouse and night sky cruises. The service features six versions of lighthouse cruises, including eastbound, westbound, and extended versions of both. It also has a night lighthouse cruise and one of Les Cheneaux lighthouses. Members of the Great Lakes Lighthouse Keepers Association narrate the lighthouse cruises.

A dark sky expert narrates the night sky cruises, where you have several choices throughout the summer. On these cruises, you’re dependent upon the weather, where clear nights provide the best viewing. I took the True Blue Moon Eve cruise and learned a lot about the night sky.

My favorite way to get to Mackinac Island is on Shepler’s ferry, where the right departure takes a detour under the Mackinac Bridge. See its website for the current schedule.

Pro Tip: If you have a particular cruise in mind, check out the cruise schedule before planning your visit, as it offers different cruises at different times throughout the summer.

Cross The Mackinac Bridge

The Mackinac Bridge is a 5-mile suspension bridge linking Michigan’s Upper and Lower peninsulas, where Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, two of the Great Lakes, meet. The Labor Day Walk, which concludes by noon, is the only day of the year when pedestrians can cross the bridge.

The Mackinac Bridge Museum upstairs at Mama Mia’s is an excellent place to investigate while you’re waiting for a table. You’ll learn how steelworkers built the bridge.

Pro Tip: The bridge service offers drivers if you’re timid about driving across the bridge due to its height and the water below. Additionally, since it is a non-pedestrian bridge, hikers can also get a ride from the bridge service for a fee.

Best Restaurants In Mackinaw City

While you’re in Mackinaw City, you’ll want to try some of Michigan’s specialties. Fish from the Great Lakes are abundant on local menus and include whitefish, walleye, and perch. Famous for cherries, the area restaurants feature them in many preparations — dried cherries on salads and fresh cherries in pies and turnovers.

Darrow’s Family Restaurant

One of the local favorites from Darrow’s Family Restaurant is the Midwest-style hot sandwiches. I grew up in Michigan and vividly remember my parents ordering hot beef sandwiches in northern Michigan while on vacation. Darrow’s, known for its pies, has every type from strawberry rhubarb to chocolate, and of course, two kinds of cherry pies — double crust and Dutch, which features a crumb topping.

Audie’s Restaurant

Audie’s offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner from its scratch kitchen. The restaurant grinds its meats for burgers and sausages, features homemade soups and bread with its sandwiches, and French toast. They also make all desserts from scratch. Fish from the Great Lakes is a regional specialty, and it offers whitefish prepared seven different ways. Walleye and perch are also on the menu. Landlubbers will enjoy its award-winning barbecue ribs and steaks.

While waiting for your meal, explore the pictorial story and artifacts that tell the story of building the Mackinac Bridge.

Murdick’s Fudge

Since 1887, Murdick’s Famous Fudge has been a family-owned business. The family started with real butter, fresh cream, and 100 percent Belgium chocolate, and transforms the ingredients into fudge. I enjoy taking it home to extend my memories of Mackinaw City just a bit longer. If you’re not a chocolate lover, the store also offers flavors that don’t include chocolate, like the Michigan cherry fudge.

Best Hotels In Mackinaw City

Mackinaw City has a variety of national chain hotels. I usually stay at the Holiday Inn Express, close to downtown and across the street from Darrow’s, making it easy to stop by for some of its pie. However, if you’re looking for a more unusual stay, try the private apartment on the grounds of the McGulpin Point Lighthouse . Located next to the Headlands International Dark Sky Park, the apartment sleeps four and has a complete kitchen. Note, Headlands International Dark Sky Park does not allow camping.

For those who enjoy camping, located 11 miles west of Mackinaw City is Wilderness State Park . Whether your idea of camping is a simple tent or pulling in your luxury RV, the park has various camping options, from backcountry camping to rustic cabins.

Pro Tip: If you take a side trip to Mackinac Island, be aware that camping isn’t allowed on the Island. While you’re in the area, cross the Mackinac Bridge and visit St. Ignace. Mackinaw City also makes a great jumping-off point to visit Mackinac Island. 

Check out some of these articles that will provide more tips on the region:

• How To Spend A Long Weekend In Quaint St. Ignace, Michigan
• 7 Adorable Michigan Towns To Visit On Lake Huron
• Michigan’ Best Food And Drink: What To Try And Where To Find It
• Mackinac Island: 9 Things To Know Before You Go

Amy Piper is a travel writer and publisher of Follow the Piper , a blog focusing on luxury travel and food experiences. Her passion for travel has taken her to 41 countries. Amy resides in Lansing, Michigan, and as a Michigan expert, she is currently writing the Michigan chapter in four anthologies about the Midwest.

8 Top Attractions & Things to Do on Mackinac Island, MI

Written by Lura Seavey Updated Mar 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Mackinac Island is one of Michigan's most popular places to visit in the summer, situated in Lake Huron along the Straits of Mackinac . More than 80 percent of the island is a State Park, offering beautiful scenery of high cliffs, ravines, natural bridges, caves, and rock formations. What really sets Mackinac Island apart from other places to visit, however, is its unique historic ambience, punctuated by the lack of motorized vehicles anywhere on the island.

You truly step back in time when you arrive on Mackinac Island, a unique place where the immersive living history experience is so complete that aircraft are the only exception to the rule. You are only able to arrive by ferry or via plane at the island's tiny airport, and from here you're brought to their destination by horse-drawn carriage "taxis." These carriages can be found throughout the island; however, most tourists walk and bicycle within the historic downtown area.

You'll that many of Mackinac Island's top attractions use living history interpreters to further immerse visitors in the experience. National Historic Landmarks, including Colonial Michilimackinac , Fort Mackinac , and the Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park , all provide demonstrations by costumed interpreters, and the Historic Downtown area has maintained an authentic feel.

Despite this, you will have no trouble finding lovely hotels with all the modern amenities, fine-dining options, or simple places to eat, and plenty of things to do day and night.

Plan your sightseeing and find the best places to visit with our list of the top things to do in Mackinac Island.

1. Mackinac Island State Park

2. historic downtown, 3. colonial michilimackinac, 4. fort mackinac, 5. richard and jane manoogian mackinac art museum, 6. old mackinac point lighthouse, 7. the original mackinac island butterfly house & insect world, 8. mackinac island carriage tours, mackinac island, mi - climate chart.

Mackinac Island State Park covers more than 80 percent of the island's 3.75 square miles, encompassing most of the island's historic and natural sights and offering a plethora of free things to do.

The park's most impressive natural feature is Arch Rock , a natural limestone formation, which sits on the shore at a height of 146 feet with a width of as much as fifty feet.

Another major natural landmark is Sugar Loaf , a 75-foot stack of breccia limestone, which was formed as the surrounding stone was eroded. Skull Cave , a natural cave carved by the waters of Lake Huron, is famous as the hiding place for the few British troops to survive Pontiac's uprising. Due to the region's unique geology, the island is also home to several freshwater springs, the best-known being Dwightwood Springs , where tourists can relax in the pergola.

Among historic sites in the park, you will find Fort Holmes , which was built by the British during the War of 1812 as a lookout spot for the larger Fort Mackinac, the 1814 Battlefield , and three historic cemeteries. There are also numerous monuments that commemorate various people important to Mackinac's past, including the Father Marquette Statue in Marquette Park .

Anne's Tablet is dedicated to author Constance Fenimore Woolson, and Cass Monument honors former governor and civil servant Lewis Cass. Among the park's historic buildings are the Michigan Governor's Summer Residence and the Scout Barracks , which has hosted Girl and Boy Scout troops since 1934.

Where to Stay: Those wanting to stay at one of the island's most iconic resorts should consider the Grand Hotel , which offers amenities including a pool, tennis court, and golf course and services like babysitting and a full-service spa. It is located on the southwest shore of the island, surrounded by the State Park and the shore, boasting the world's largest porch, which looks out over the Straits of Mackinac. Visitors should be aware that there is a dress code at the Grand Hotel: after 6pm, coat and tie are required for all men, and women must wear pantsuits or dresses.

Open during the summer months, Historic Downtown Mackinac is an extension of the island's living history tradition. Home to several historic homes and businesses, the district offers visitors a glimpse into the everyday lives of those who lived here at the height of the fur trade era of the 1820s and 30s. Each building focuses on a different aspect of life and culture, and includes costumed interpreters who perform demonstrations and answer questions.

The Biddle House has been fully restored to its state as an 1820s merchant-class home. Here, the focus is on domestic life, and the interpreters go about their daily chores of cooking and taking care of household needs. Domestic crafts are highlighted, from the process of transforming sheep's wool into yarn to knitting and sewing.

The McGulpin House , set in the same era, focuses on architecture and the restoration process used to return the building to its original condition. A "working-class" home, it was originally constructed on the mainland and moved to the island in 1780. Exhibits include models of the home, which highlight various aspects of its French-Canadian architecture, and an account of the building's original construction and restoration.

One of the most popular spots in the Historic Downtown area is the American Fur Company Retail Store , where tourists can see what Mackinac's original general store looked like, complete with products from grocery items to housewares and cloth. In the same building, the Dr. Beaumont Museum contains exhibits about Dr. William Beaumont's discoveries related to the digestive system, initiated by a gunshot wound sustained in the store by a customer.

The Benjamin Blacksmith House provides a firsthand look at another local business, this time focusing on the time period of the 1950s. Here, you can watch the interpreters make various steel creations, and even give it a try yourself.

Where to Stay: Just one street over from the Blacksmith house is Lilac Tree Suites , which features all-suite accommodations equipped with kitchenettes, private balconies, and roomy living areas. The property is also known for its full-service spa, and those with younger kids can enjoy a spa day with the hotel's in-room babysitting services.

Hotel Iroquois is also right in the Historic Downtown area, a lovely beachfront hotel that offers bright, spacious rooms. The downtown area is also where you can find the majority of Mackinac Island's restaurants, with a wide variety of places to eat within easy walking distance.

Another top place to stay is the Chippewa Hotel Waterfront , also located downtown. For an extra-special stay, book a water-view suite that offers a separate living area and balconies. Guests can enjoy fine dining on-site at the Pink Pony, and have access to spa services at its sister property, Lilac Tree Suites.

Colonial Michilimackinac is the largest of the island's living history areas, set on the actual site of an early fur trading village and fortification. The year is 1775, and everything from the furnishings to the costumed interpreters provide the authenticity needed to fully immerse yourself in the past.

There are a total of 16 historic buildings, which house various demonstrations and exhibits, and guided tours led by interpreters are available. In addition to watching villagers go about their daily routine of cooking and learning about handcrafts, visitors can see (and hear) musket drills and even the canon, once daily.

Various exhibits can be found throughout the village as well, providing more information on topics like the French occupation of the island, life as a British soldier, and the chance to explore various archaeological dig sites, including the fort's powder magazine and other sites. Those interested in the dig can also watch excavation efforts on-site, ongoing since 1959.

Colonial Michilimackinac is open during the summer season, but also offers special seasonal events including an annual "Colonial Christmas" celebration in December that re-creates a 17th- and 18th-century holidays. Other winter events include snowshoeing treks that are complete with hot cocoa and s'mores.

Fort Mackinac was the main military post on the island and housed the soldiers and their families. The fort is now fully restored, and costumed living history interpreters provide visitors with a look at what life was like while the fort was active.

There are a total of 14 buildings, which house a variety of exhibits, each focusing on a different aspect of the fort's history, function, and operations, as well as a look at the history of the island and its strategic importance.

The Post Hospital is home to an extensive exhibit about military medicine between 1780 and 1895, and the Post Guardhouse provides visitors with a look at how justice was served on post, using examples of actual cases tried here. Tourists will also enjoy the fort's own regular demonstrations and tours, including military exercises and the cannon firing.

The Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum occupies the historic building known as the Indian Dormitory. Built in 1838 and intended as a residence for displaced native Americans, it was never used for this purpose. By 1850, the building had been re-appointed as the island's schoolhouse, which it remained for almost a century. After falling out of use and into disrepair, it was finally restored to its original condition by the Manoogian Foundation and houses the island's only art museum.

The galleries display a variety of Mackinac-related art, including beaded clothing and Native American arts. A large section of the museum is dedicated to photography, displaying images that were taken from the mid-19th century through the next 100 years.

Other exhibits include artifacts like early maps from the 1600s and 1700s, various decorative items, and audiovisual displays. During the summer, the museum also offers several art activities, which provide kids with fun things to do while parents explore.

Where to Stay: Just up the street from the museum is Mackinac Island's oldest hotel, Island House Hotel , which offers excellent waterfront views and has multiple restaurants on-site with outdoor dining options. The hotel also has a sun deck and outdoor fireplace, and picnic areas throughout the property. There is an indoor heated pool, as well as both indoor and outdoor hot tubs, and bicycle rental is available on-site for guests.

The Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse first guided ships through the treacherous Straits of Mackinac in 1889. Tourists can now tour the lighthouse, which houses its original lens, fully restored keeper's quarters, a film, and several exhibits.

These exhibits include original items from the lighthouse, descriptions of its history, and a look at the ways that lighthouses use optics and sound to warn vessels. Free tours are available on a limited, first-come basis for those who would like to see inside the tower.

The lighthouse grounds are also home to the Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Museum , which features recovered artifacts and stories about the surprising number of ships that did not make it through. Part of the museum's mission is to illustrate the causes behind the wrecks—over 100 of them—in an effort to demonstrate how preparedness and planning can make all the difference.

The shipwreck museum also presents a film, "Shipwrecks of the Straits," as well as footage from various dives to the nearby wreck sites.

The tiny Mackinac Island is home to not just one, but two places where you can walk among live butterflies. The largest of these is the original, a status that was recently added to the Butterfly House's name.

Opened in 1991 as a simple greenhouse occupied by a variety of local butterflies, the Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House & Insect World is the third oldest live butterfly exhibit in the country and the first in its state. The Butterfly House is now an extensive tropical enclosure with an 1,800-square-foot indoor garden that is home to butterflies native to four continents.

Visitors are provided with a butterfly identification chart with admission, and guests may choose to continue to Insect World, an informative exhibit that explores the importance of insects and houses several species, including the impressive Goliath beetle.

The Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory is Mackinac Island's second butterfly house, first opened in 1997. It is open seasonally from Mother's Day weekend through October and features a wide variety of imported butterfly species, as well as a butterfly pupa viewing area. It is also home to a good gift shop that features books and butterfly-related souvenirs.

Address: 6750 McGulpin Street, Mackinac Island, Michigan

In keeping with the island's historic authenticity, those who do not want to travel by foot or bicycle have only one choice—carriage ride.

Mackinac Island Carriage Tours provides guided tours of the island, which last just under two hours and include the ability to "hop off" and experience some of the sights along the way, including Fort Mackinac and the Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory , as well as a brief stop at Arch Rock .

The tour also includes admission to the Surrey Hills Museum , operated by the carriage tours, which provides a look at the history of the island's horse-powered vehicles, including a hearse and even a fire vehicle. Tourists are also able to call a ride to get a horse-drawn taxi, arriving at dinner or perhaps the airport in Mackinac style.

An evening carriage ride through Historic Downtown is a particularly romantic option for couples looking for things to do at night on Mackinac Island.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Michigan Vacation Ideas: Mackinac Island is one of the top-rated resort destinations in Michigan, including other waterside resorts in Bay Harbor and St. Joseph. Michigan is also famous for its golf resorts, as well as its many excellent ski resorts , which are known for their excellent conditions and reasonable prices. The island is also a top destination for weekend getaways in Michigan , among other relaxing summer destinations like Lake Michigan and Traverse City. In winter, hit the slopes on the top ski resorts in Michigan.

Michigan City Sights: Tourists will find plenty of excellent tourist attractions in Grand Rapids and endless possibilities in Detroit , the Motor City and birthplace of Motown.

More on Michigan

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Mackinaw City

Things to do in mackinaw city, explore popular experiences, top attractions in mackinaw city.

Other Top Attractions around Mackinaw City

What travellers are saying

• Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry
• Colonial Michilimackinac
• Headlands International Dark Sky Park
• Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry
• Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse
• Animal Tracks
• WaWatam Park
• Alexander Henry Park
• Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum Inc.
• McGulpin Point Lighthouse & Historic Site
• Historic Mill Creek

Mackinaw City Chamber of Tourism

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Stay in Mackinaw City

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Explore Mackinaw!

Mackinaw City's historical and outdoor tourist attractions send you back in time and captivate your senses.

Dine in Mackinaw

Mackinaw City is home to a number of great restaurants and eateries.

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Mackinaw City is well know for it's unique shopping experience. Take a look at everything downtown Mackinaw City has to offer.

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Take a look at everything that is going on in Mackinaw City and the surrounding area that gives Mackinaw it's unique flavor year round.

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• 34th Annual Zoo-De-Mackinac - Harbor Springs & Mackinaw City, MI
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• 4th Annual Mackinaw City Motorcycle Rally
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History of Mackinac

Learn about the history rich Mackinac region, from early fur trading through the construction of the Mackinac Bridge.

• History of the Mackinac Region
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Mackinaw City Attractions

Many opportunities await you in Mackinaw City! Explore the historical Mackinac parks, take a ferry to timeless Mackinac Island, or enjoy everything downtown Mackinaw City has to offer.

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Mackinaw City Transportation

• Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry
• Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry
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About Mackinaw City

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Mackinac Area Attractions

• Colonial Michilimackinac
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• Old Mill Creek
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• Straits Area Tour Company
• © Mackinaw City Chamber of Tourism, Inc. A Michigan Small Business. all rights reserved.
• Call us Toll Free 1-800-577-3113 | 312 S Huron Avenue, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
• Call us Toll Free 1-800-577-3113
• 312 S Huron Avenue, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
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• This site and all the hotels on this site have common ownership by a 5th generation local family that has owned, developed, and personally managed Mackinaw City hotels since 1955.

Mackinaw City Vacation, Explore Mackinaw City | Mackinaw Area Visitors Bureau

DAY TRIPS: Roadside Attractions Around Mackinaw City

October 5, 2023

By Scott Winters

As a child, one of my family’s favorite places to visit for vacation was the area around the  Straits of Mackinac .

My father was one of those travelers that would have the station wagon packed the night before, and we’d get up in the middle of the night so that we could hit the road for “vacation” no later than 5 am. Dad believed in getting from point A to point B in the quickest way possible…with no stops whatsoever (sometimes requesting potty-breaks even became a challenge).

As we traveled to our destination, I remember seeing the signs for the various roadside attractions and wanting to stop in the worst way. Oh, how many times I would see the tourist attractions pass by the car window… and then fade off into the distance as I sat in that far back seat of the station wagon looking at what was behind us. I tried to imagine what I had just missed.

As an adult, I have found myself trying to make up for all those roadside attractions that I missed while growing up. Now, it seems like I stop at just about everyone along the way – which makes getting from point A to point B a much longer process than what it was when traveling with the family. I actually search out cool places to visit and plan my vacation around them. Many of these roadside attractions have become a favorite – and frequent – stop.

Here are a few attractions within an hour of Mackinaw City…

The Giant Hot Dog Wienerlicious, 102 Central Ave, Mackinaw City This 60 foot weiner may be the largest hot dog statue in the United States.

Mackinaw Bridge Museum Above Mama Mia’s Pizza, 231 East Central Ave., Mackinaw City The museum was created by the restaurant’s owner – J. C. Stilwell. He was one of many iron workers who helped construct the “Mighty Mac” Bridge. The first artifact in the museum was a spinning wheel that was used to pull the wire across the towers to complete the 24-inch main cables. Soon other iron workers from around the country began donating additional items to the museum – documents, photographs, other tools and a diving suit that were used during construction of the Mackinac Bridge.

Lady Liberty on Mackinac Island 7199 Main St., Mackinac Island (approximately 7 miles northeast of Mackinaw City, accessible by ferry) This 8.5-foot Statue of Liberty replica was originally donated to the Island in 1950 by the Boy Scouts of America. Over 200 of these statues were donated to communities in 39 different states, but this was the only statue given to the State of Michigan. After battling the elements and overlooking the harbor for over 50 years, the statue was restored in 2014

Indian Village 499 N State St, St. Ignace (approximately 8 miles north of Mackinaw City) This was the place to stop and get souvenirs as a child! I can still remember most of the items I was allowed to purchase over the years…from the little birch bark canoe and teepee to the rubber tomahawk adorned with brightly colored feathers. And the smell of pine still sticks with me from all of the ashtray, toothpick and trinket souvenirs that were made from wood. The building is said to have been built on the exact spot where missionary Father Marquette landed in 1671 to begin saving the souls of the Chippewa and Ottawa Indians.

Wooden Observation Tower Curio Fair, 1101-1147 U.S. 2, St. Ignace (approximately 9 miles northwest of Mackinaw City) This is one of the best views of the Mackinac Bridge. I make this stop every time I’m in the area. It costs just a small fee to climb the tower to see a spectacular view of the “Mighty Mac” Bridge.

Mystery Spot N916 Martin Lake Rd, St Ignace (approximately 12 miles northwest of Mackinaw City) The story of Mystery Spot goes back to the early 1950’s. Three surveyors came to the area to explore the Upper Peninsula. They found an area where their surveying equipment just would not work properly. The equipment only seemed to malfunction in an area about 300 feet in diameter…a place they called the “Mystery Spot”. This roadside attraction was one of similar type venues across the country decades ago. Most have closed, but this one still remains. Visitors get a guided tour of the building that was erected on the “Mystery Spot” and witness balls rolling uphill along with other strange gravitational illusions. They have also added a maze, mini golf and zip lines

Castle Rock N2690 Castle Rock Rd, St Ignace (approximately 17 miles north of Mackinaw City) Another long-standing roadside attraction, this is one that my family actually would get to stop at from time to time. Castle Rock, a limestone sea stack or sea chimney, is 195.8 feet tall. The property was purchased in 1928 by C.C. Eby and opened as a tourist attraction. The same family runs the site today. You can take the walk to the top of Castle Rock for a small fee. The view is spectacular. Statues of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox sit next to the souvenir store.

Sea Shell City 7075 Levering Rd, Cheboygan (approximately 14 miles south of Mackinaw City) Located right alongside I-75 in Cheboygan, this tourist attraction intrigued me for many years. My father would never stop for us to see the “Man Eating Clam” or Davy Jones Locker. (It wasn’t until I visited as an adult that I realized it was the pirate Davy Jones and not Davy Jones from “The Monkees”…I always wondered why people would want to stop and see his locker!) If you want any souvenirs made out of shells, you will probably find them at Sea Shell City.

Legs Inn 6425 N. Lake Shore Drive (M-119 – “Tunnel of Trees”), Cross Village (approximately 24 miles southwest of Mackinaw City) This unique restaurant is quite the site to see. It is stone on the outside and hand-crafted wood on the inside. The restaurant has been run by the same family for 90 years and features authentic Polish food and draft beer. The restaurant gets its name from the old stove legs that were used along the roof of the building.

Cross in the Woods 7078 M-68, Indian River (approximately 29 miles south of Mackinaw City) The Man on the Cross is made of bronze and is 28 feet tall from head to toe. This is the largest crucifix in the world. The sculpture towers above the surrounding trees. The shrine was declared a National Shrine in 2006. There are only 120 National Shrines in the U.S., and only two in Michigan (the other being the National Shrine of the Little Flower in Royal Oak). There is also a museum of over 500 nun dolls dressed in traditional habits.

The Grotto to the Archangels Marian Center, 2680 Maxwell Rd, Petoskey (approximately 44 miles southwest of Mackinaw City) The Grotto is dedicated to the three archangels: Raphael, Michael and Gabriel. The statues are 9-foot- tall and are surrounded by the huge stone structure. The statues serve as a reminder of the constant protection the angels have in our lives.

Giant Metal Heads of George Washington and Gerald R. Ford Moran Iron Works, 11739 Hwy 33-68, Onaway (approximately 45 miles SE of Mackinaw City) See giant metal sculptures of the heads of George Washington and Gerald R. Ford. These works of art were created by Tom Moran of Moran Iron Works. He unveiled his Gerald R. Ford sculpture in 2012 and it was entered into the ArtPrize competition in Grand Rapids a few years ago. He has also done a large eagle head and a replica of the Statue of Liberty’s torch. (PS…Moran Iron Works built the Miss Margy, the latest ferry to join the Shepler’s fleet last summer).

Happy Travels around our beautiful state. I’ll see you on the Michigan road!

Make Mackinaw City your home base when traveling around northern Michigan in search of these “roadside attractions.” For lodging options, visit  www.MackinawCity.com/stay/

Scott Winters has been a radio personality in Grand Rapids for over 25 years. He is currently on 98.7 WFGR weekdays from 3-8 pm. He is also a licensed realtor in the state of Michigan. He maintains his own blog at  www.ScottWintersBlog.com .

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