20 Things You Didn’t Know About Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is one of Michigan’s most beloved destinations, known for its Victorian charm, breathtaking lake views, and the ever-present scent of freshly made fudge.

Visitors flock here for a step back in time, where horse-drawn carriages replace cars and history is alive in every cobblestone and clapboard building.

But beyond the well-known attractions, Mackinac Island is home to some truly fascinating—and often overlooked—facts. From its deep Indigenous roots to record-breaking landmarks, here are 20 things you probably didn’t know about Mackinac Island...

1. A Turtle by Any Other Name

Mackinac Island’s name isn’t just a collection of random letters—it comes from the Ojibwe word Mitchimakinak, meaning “Big Turtle.” The Indigenous people who first lived in the region thought the island’s shape resembled a turtle rising from the waters of Lake Huron.

2. A Presidential Retreat

The Grand Hotel isn’t just for vacationers—six U.S. Presidents have walked its legendary 660-foot porch, including Biden, Clinton, Bush, Ford, Kennedy, and Truman. Whether for political events or a luxurious getaway, it’s clear that even world leaders can’t resist Mackinac’s charm.

3. A Horse Lover’s Paradise

Since motor vehicles are banned on Mackinac Island, horses reign supreme. Around 600 horses arrive on the island every summer to work as taxis, tour carriages, and personal transportation, making it one of the most equine-friendly places in America.

4. A Culinary Feat

Feeding guests at the Grand Hotel is no small task. With a kitchen staff of over 100 people, the hotel prepares up to 4,000 meals per day during peak season – talk about a high-pressure dinner service!

5. A Fudge Fanatic’s Dream

Mackinac Island takes its title as the Fudge Capital of the World very seriously. The island has 14 fudge shops, churning out massive amounts of the sweet treat. Every year, nearly 10 tons of butter are shipped in just to keep up with demand.

6. A Geocacher’s Playground

Love a good treasure hunt? Mackinac Island has over 120 active geocaches, making it a hotspot for those who enjoy the thrill of discovering hidden surprises.

7. A Natural High Point

One of the island’s most striking landmarks, Arch Rock, rises 145 feet above the Lake Huron shoreline, offering breathtaking views and a perfect photo op for visitors.

8. A Literary Landmark

A scenic blufftop on the island is home to Anne’s Tablet, an Art Nouveau sculpture installed in 1916 to honor the writer Constance Fenimore Woolson, who had deep ties to Mackinac Island.

9. A Record-Breaking Porch

The Grand Hotel boasts the longest front porch in the world, stretching 660 feet – perfect for rocking chairs, leisurely strolls, and unbeatable views of the Straits of Mackinac.

10. A Botanical Bonanza

Every fall, over one ton of flower bulbs are planted to maintain the Grand Hotel’s stunning gardens, ensuring vibrant tulips, daffodils, and geraniums bloom each year.

11. A Historic First

Mackinac Island was the site of the first battle of the War of 1812 when British forces captured Fort Mackinac from the Americans.

12. A Unique Highway

The only state highway in the U.S. where motor vehicles are banned is right here. M-185 is an 8.2-mile scenic road that encircles the island.

13. A Presidential Connection

Before he was the 38th President of the U.S., Gerald Ford served as an Eagle Scout on Mackinac Island in 1929.

14. A Film Favorite

The 1980 romantic drama Somewhere in Time starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour was primarily filmed on Mackinac Island, cementing its status as a bucket-list destination for fans.

15. A Winter Wonderland

Though the island is bustling in summer, many locals stay through the winter, relying on snowmobiles for transportation around the island.

16. A Religious Relic

The Mission Church, built in 1829, is the oldest surviving church building in Michigan, beautifully restored to its 1830s appearance.

17. A Maritime Marker

The Round Island Lighthouse, built in 1894, stands just south of Mackinac Island and has been extensively restored over the years.

18. A Golfing Gem

The Wawashkamo Golf Club, established in 1898, is Michigan’s oldest continuously played golf course, featuring a classic Scottish links-style layout.

19. A Governor’s Getaway

The Michigan Governor’s Summer Residence, built in 1902, has been used by Michigan’s governors since 1943.

20. A Cultural Celebration

Mackinac Island’s annual Lilac Festival, dating back to 1949, is a 10-day event celebrating the island’s fragrant lilac blooms – culminating in a horse-drawn parade.

How Many Mackinac Island Facts Did You Know?

Mackinac Island is more than just horse-drawn carriages and fudge – it’s a place rich with history, nature, and fascinating quirks.

How many of these facts surprised you? Let us know in the comments how well you did!

0-5: Mackinac First-Timer 🐢

You’re just dipping your toes into the waters of Mackinac Island knowledge! Like the island’s namesake Big Turtle, you’re taking things slow, and that’s okay—there’s so much to discover. Time to book a trip, eat some fudge, and brush up on your history!

6-10: Straits Explorer 🚲

You’ve pedaled past the basics and uncovered some of Mackinac’s hidden gems! Whether it’s the historic fort, scenic trails, or legendary fudge shops, you’ve got a solid foundation. Keep exploring—there’s always more to learn about this fascinating island.

11-15: Island Insider 🏝️

You’ve gone beyond the surface and know Mackinac Island like a seasoned traveler. Whether it’s unique traditions, little-known history, or hidden spots most tourists miss, your knowledge sets you apart. You could probably stump a few visitors with your fun facts!

16-20: Mighty Mackinac Expert 🎖️

Are you sure you don’t live on Mackinac Island? Your knowledge is next level—you’ve mastered the history, trivia, and secrets that most people never discover. If there were a Mackinac Island trivia championship, you’d take home the gold!