5 Things I’ll Never Do Again on Mackinac Island
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Mackinac Island is a slice of Michigan magic – horse-drawn carriages, stunning lake views, and, of course, the sweet scent of world-famous fudge wafting through the air.
But not every island experience is a dream come true. After a few trips (and a few regrets), I’ve compiled a list of things I’ll never do again – so you don’t have to learn the hard way.
1. Rent a Single-Speed Bike to Tackle the Island’s Hills
At first, it seemed like a great idea—renting one of those charming, old-fashioned bikes and leisurely pedaling around the island.
Turns out, Mackinac’s interior is not as flat as the scenic M-185 road along the shoreline. Those hills will make you rethink every life choice leading up to that moment, especially if you’re stuck with a single-speed rental.
If you want to explore beyond the waterfront, splurge on a geared bike – or prepare for a thigh-burning, sweat-drenched struggle.
Related: Ultimate Guide to Mackinac Island Biking | Rentals, Trails, & More
2. Underestimate the Power of Fudge
They say Mackinac Island fudge is irresistible, and that’s no exaggeration.
It starts with a free sample (harmless, right?), then suddenly you’re seven flavors deep, debating whether chocolate mint, peanut butter, or turtle fudge is the superior choice.
Before you know it, you’re leaving with a pound per family member—and possibly a new cavity.
I’ll never again go in without a plan (or at least a spending limit).
Related: Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at These Michigan Fudge Shops
3. Expect a Peaceful Stroll Down Main Street at Noon
Mackinac Island mornings are serene. The afternoons? A stampede of tourists, horses, and aggressive cyclists with questionable steering skills.
I once thought I could casually browse the shops around midday. Rookie mistake.
If you want to experience the island’s charm without dodging stroller-wielding parents and large family reunions walking four abreast, go early in the morning or late in the evening.
4. Assume I Can Walk ‘Just a Little Further’ Without Regret
Mackinac Island looks small on a map, but your feet will tell you otherwise.
One time, I figured a “quick walk” from Main Street to Fort Holmes (the island’s highest point) would be no big deal. It was a big deal. That steep trek had me gasping for air like I’d just run a marathon.
Next time? I’ll stick to a bike – or at least bring more water and fewer layers.
5. Order a Burger and Fries at a Fancy Island Restaurant
Look, the island has some great food—but you don’t go to a place known for fresh whitefish and iconic pasties and then order a cheeseburger.
I once made the mistake of paying premium prices for a very average meal when I could have been indulging in a legendary whitefish dip or a warm, flaky pasty.
Lesson learned: Eat the local specialties.
Related: The BEST Mackinac Island Restaurants
The Bottom Line
Mackinac Island is absolutely worth visiting, but a little insider knowledge can make your trip even better.
So learn from my mistakes – rent the right bike, time your Main Street adventures wisely, and for the love of all things good, pace yourself on the fudge.
Have you ever made a Mackinac misstep? Share your funniest island regrets in the comments!
When we stay at the Grand Hotel we wish we were downtown at the Lakeview so the next year we stay at the LakeView and wish we were at the Grand. It’s an on going problem.
10000% on the “rent a nicer bike” to help on those hills and definitely be the first ferry group over so you can grab a bike and start circling the island before the majority of tourists show up! Me and my hubby felt like we had the whole place to ourselves, until lunchtime then everyone was elbow to elbow.
“for the love of all things good, pace yourself on the fudge.”
Best Line Ever! Haha!
As a family, we decided to rent push bikes. My youngest brother didn’t ride, so we got a tandem! Mistake, major mistake. We got about half way around the island, and ran into some serious wind. No problem, right? We’ll just take this nice road across the middle. Not paved. Uphill!! It was AWFUL! We ended up walking the bikes up and across. I don’t think we ever recovered!!
If your going to bike in island bike to British Landing & go inward.
Of your going to try to swim …bring water shoes it is very rocky & shallow. Again probably best place to go in is at British Landing.
Exactly on the mark for fudge.i say i am only going to get 2 flavors and end up with 6 or more.
Park your bike in a place where if one falls over, yours won’t be in the bottom of the heap! And DO ride in the rain!
Stay close to downtown if you want to see those sights. Horse drawn taxi carriages are few and far between, and can take up to an hour to arrive. Most usually need to be reserved far in advance.
Horses have the right-of-way. To be safe, pocket your phone and pay attention.