36 Things You Can ONLY Do on Mackinac Island: Attractions, Activities, & Awesome Adventures

Mackinac Island has a way of sticking with you. Maybe it’s the lack of cars. Maybe it’s the fudge. Or maybe it’s just that everything slows down a little once you step off the ferry. One visit probably won’t be enough — and that’s okay. It gives you a reason to come back.

Hop in a horse-drawn taxi, treat yourself to way too much fudge, take a long bike ride around the island, or just sit and breathe in the lake air. Whether you’re into history, hiking, shopping, or simply soaking up time with the people you love, this place makes it easy to unplug and enjoy the moment.

These are a few of our favorite things to do on Mackinac Island…

Free Things to Do on the Island

On a budget? You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to enjoy a visit to Mackinac Island… there are many free or nearly free things to experience on the island. Here are just a few of them…

Explore Mackinac Island State Park

Mackinac Island State Park makes up most of the island. Only 20% of the island isn’t in the park.

No matter what you like — history, natural wonders, or hiking — you’ll find it in abundance, and there are many possible combinations!

Combining all three is probably the way to go to get the most out of your visit. One option is to hike from town to visit Fort Mackinac, then head to Arch Rock.

Climb the Stairs to Arch Rock

If you hike to Arch Rock on the lower trail (M-185), you’ll climb 207 steps to the top and see the spectacular views. These are actually nice wooden steps, so if you’re in reasonably good shape, it shouldn’t be too hard.

Luckily, for those who don’t have the legs or knees for stair climbing, you can visit Arch Rock from above without climbing any steps!

Skip Rocks on Lake Huron

Who doesn’t enjoy skipping rocks? Half the fun is finding the right stone and practicing flicking your wrist. Of course, you have to find the perfect spot on Lake Huron to do it.

When you’re visiting Mackinac Island, the beach is never far away.

Some people think that skipping rocks at sunrise or sunset is ideal. But when you’re on vacation, sunrise may be too early, so you may want to wait until later in the day.

Hike to Sugar Loaf Rock

Depending on what kind of terrain and distance you prefer, there are several options for hiking to Sugar Loaf.

The most direct route from Main Street is to take Bogan Lane to Huron Road and walk east until you come to Winnebago Trail. This connects to Sugar Loaf Road, which takes you to Sugar Loaf for great views from Lookout Point.

TIP: Climb down the stairs if you want to get up close.

Visit the Little Stone Church

This small church (more of a chapel, really) is a popular spot for couples wanting to get married on Mackinac.

Constructed from local fieldstone with cut granite, Union Congregational Church is over 100 years old.

The stained glass windows depict historical events in the island’s history. You’ll get a warm welcome if you stop in for a tour or a service.

Explore the Island Library

Bibliophiles take note: This pretty little library is a quiet haven in a crowded and hectic place. While you won’t be able to check out a book, you can take one onto the back porch.

You can sit in one of the Adirondack chairs and read to your heart’s content while enjoying the stunning waterfront views.

TIP: The library sells used books too, so you may find one to take home.

See Skull Cave

Skull Cave has the unique distinction of being named for the pile of skulls and bones discovered by fur trader Alexander Henry. You can’t enter the cave, but a sign gives you information.

The best way to see the cave is on a horse-drawn wagon tour. Your driver will have stories that make the cave come to life.

Take a Hike on Over 70 Miles of Trails

No matter the level of hiking that you enjoy, you’ll find a trail on the island. You can pick up a map at the Tourist Information Center.

If you forget, chances are the Mackinac hotel or bed and breakfast where you’re staying will have one.

With all the things to see, you may want to design your hike to combine a few of them into one.

Note: Some interior trails remain closed for the 2025 season due to damage from the March 2025 ice storms.

Surrey Hills Carriage Museum

If you take a carriage tour, this will be your first stop. You can walk from downtown if you aren’t taking a carriage tour.

The museum celebrates the evolution of the carriage on Mackinac Island and includes a horse-drawn fire engine.

One of the most popular vehicles is the horse-drawn hearse, which is still used.

While you’re here, you can shop and have a snack before heading back out on your carriage tour.

Grand Hotel Stables and Antique Carriage Museum

Located in Surrey Hills near the Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory, this is the perfect place to take any of your horse-loving family members. The horses are beautiful, and so are the antique carriages and sleighs on display.

Twelve horses live here, and there are 30 carriages and sleighs. If you’re in Surrey Hill, this self-guided tour is worth a stop.

More Historic Things to Do on Mackinac

The history of Mackinac Island begins with the Native Americans and includes the French, the British, and the Americans. History lovers won’t be disappointed with all of the historic sites!

Mackinac State Historic Parks

Mackinac State Historic Parks includes many sites visitors consider a must-see on the island. They include:

• Fort Mackinac
• The Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum
• The Biddle House
• Benjamin Blacksmith Shop
• American Fur Co. Store & Dr. Beaumont Museum 

Other sites, which are part of the Mackinac State Historic Parks (like Fort Michilimackinac), are in Mackinaw City. 

Fort Mackinac

This former British fort dates from the American Revolution. Fourteen restored buildings can be visited, and the exhibits include interactive ones to engage the attention of children and adults.

Costumed interpreters make you a part of the experience.

You can watch soldiers marching in formation, try on costumes, listen to period musical performances, and watch muskets and cannons being fired. For something unique, plan to enjoy tea at the tea shop.

Fort Holmes

Located on the island’s highest point, Fort Homes is constructed from wood and earth. The current version is a 2015 reconstruction.

The original British fort was built in 1814 and named Fort George.

You can walk inside the stockade and into the blockhouse for stellar views. If you plan enough time, you can read all the markers for more information about the fort. No entrance fee is charged.

Benjamin Blacksmith Shop

Though it isn’t the original location of Benjamin’s Blacksmith Shop, the shop’s contents are original.

This is a fun stop because you can watch a blacksmith perform blacksmithing tasks.

He happily explains what he’s doing and answers any questions you or your children have. You can even buy some of the things he makes. Entrance into the shop is included with entrance into the Biddle House.

American Fur Co. Store & Dr. Beaumont Museum

The early history of Mackinac Island includes a connection to the fur trade. Voyageurs were the French Canadian fur traders who came down into the area as adventurers around the late 17th century.

John Jacob Astor’s American Fur Company had a strong presence here by the early 1800s. This building was the company store where it sold its surplus to the locals and people who lived at Fort Mackinac.

It’s an interesting place to learn about early island history.

Visit Historic Homes

Biddle House

The Biddle House is a living history museum, bringing to life the period around 1830. It was the home of Edward and Agatha Biddle.

The house offers cooking demonstrations throughout the day. Special programs are offered each day at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. The history lesson takes place inside and outside the house.

Also located at the Biddle House, the Mackinac Island Native American Museum is a tribute to Agatha de LaVigne Biddle’s Anishnaabek heritage.

An archaeological dig in a privy from 1820 produced some amazing results, which are displayed here.

You’ll see what well-to-do merchants on the island used in their homes in the 1820s, with the unique addition of native birchbark items.

McGulpin House

The McGulpin House is a piece of Mackinac Island and Michigan history. It was moved from the mainland and built in the French Canadian style.

It dates from before 1780, possibly making it the oldest surviving house in Michigan.

It’s a working-class family home and not to be compared with the many homes of the wealthy in the area. The house has been left in a way that shows the interior construction details.

Take a Ghost Tour

Taking a ghost tour is always lots of fun. We recommend dressing in comfortable shoes because you’ll be walking around in the dark.

Your cloaked guide from Haunts of Mackinac will share historical facts and some that might not be included on other tours.

TIP: It isn’t a scary tour, but Mission Point Resort is known to have a ghost named Harvey, whom you’ll learn about.

Explore Historic Cemeteries

Visiting Mackinac’s historic cemeteries is pretty simple. They’re all located near each other on Garrison Road.

St. Anne’s Catholic Church has its own cemetery, which features the oldest known grave. It’s also the resting place of Marry, the daughter of Edward and Agatha Biddle.

Then, there’s the Post Cemetery. British and American soldiers from the War of 1812 are buried here, but the markers have long since deteriorated, so the names and locations aren’t known.

Finally, there’s the Mackinac Island Cemetery. As one of the civilian cemeteries, it’s only reserved for Island residents.

Unusual Things to Do on the Island

After you’ve done the first tier of must-do things, it’s time to look for unique things to do on Mackinac Island. There’s more to do than can be done in a single visit, so take note of which ones you’ll want to come back and try!

Visit a Fudge Shop

You can’t walk down Main Street without the enticing smell of fudge distracting you. You might as well give in because Mackinac Island fudge is legendary and irresistible!

Samples are provided to help you decide which of the decadent flavors is your favorite.

TIP: You can watch the fudge being made in a time-honored way in most shops.

You may be able to get some tips for making your own. If not, you can have fudge shipped to you.

See Anne’s Tablet

Anne’s Tablet is a lovely sculpture honoring the heroine of Constance Fenimore Woolson’s novel “Anne,” which takes place partly on Mackinac Island.

Constance spent summers on the island as a child and was the great-niece of James Fenimore Cooper.

The tablet was commissioned by Woolson’s nephew on one of the most scenic overlooks on the island.

Some suggest that the location is no coincidence since he wanted to preserve the view for cottage owners at the time, being one of them himself.

Visit the “Somewhere in Time” Movie Locations

“Somewhere in Time” starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour, was filmed on Mackinac Island. You’ll recognize the Grand Hotel in the film, but other places may not be as familiar.

Luckily, they’re all just a short walk from the Grand Hotel.

For example, you can visit the famous gazebo and tree. Even better, you could attend the Somewhere in Time Weekend at the Grand Hotel.

Find Sunset Rock

Sunset Rock is considered the most beautiful place on Mackinac to view a sunset. It’s located near The Woods Restaurant, giving visitors a great view and a great meal nearby.

On the island’s western shore, directly below Heriot Point, the easiest route goes to the Inn at Stonecliffe and heads through the apple orchard toward Lake Huron.

Follow the trail until you reach the bluff. After a short walk, you’ll see the stone stairs to Sunset Rock.

More Outdoor Island Attractions

Mackinac Island is an outdoor lover’s paradise, and enjoying the outdoors when the weather is sunny and warm is the ideal way to spend your days. There are so many things to do that you’ll need to spread them over multiple visits.

Beaches on the Island

Mackinac is surrounded by water. It’s an island after all. But if you’re looking for a sandy beach to lounge on, you might be slightly disappointed.

The beaches here are rocky, but the water on a hot day is just as refreshing. You can dip your feet in the water at sunset and cool off with a spectacular view. If you have sensitive feet, water shoes will help.

Take a Bike Ride

Since cars aren’t allowed, biking on the island is a primary form of transportation, and bike rental options are everywhere. You won’t have trouble finding one — your accommodations may even rent them.

You can rent the type of bike you’re comfortable with — one-speed, multispeed, tandem, mountain bike, adult tricycle, or motorized. Rentals are usually by the hour with discounts for half or whole days.

The trail around the island is 8.2 miles, so you can decide how long you need your bike.

Bike Trails

The most popular route is the perimeter route along the island’s shore. If you just ride, it can be done in about two hours.

However, if you enjoy being distracted by the scenery, historic sites, and food along the way, it can take a lot longer. The wonderful thing about biking on Mackinac is that you get to decide what you want to do.

Mackinac Island Carriage Tours

If you aren’t up to hiking and biking, you’re not without a way to see all the great Mackinac attractions. You can take a horse-drawn carriage ride or tour with a group or privately.

The carriage drivers share stories about life on the island and its history. Even if you can hike and bike, the enjoyment of the carriage rides makes them a must-do experience. It’s all part of the island’s charm.

Golf Courses on Mackinac

Wawashkamo Golf Club

Wawashkamo Golf Club is historic for two reasons. First, it was the location of the Battle of Mackinac Island during the War of 1812. More than that, this golf course dates from 1898, and it’s pretty much original.

What makes it special are the natural hazards, not ones that had to be created. It only has nine holes, but they’re challenging enough to provide a great round of golf.

Jewel Golf Course

Imagine taking a 30-minute horse-drawn carriage ride from the front nine to the back nine. That’s what happens at Jewel Golf Course at the Grand Hotel.

This historic course was designed in 1901 and re-imagined in 1987. The views of the Straits of Mackinac and the Mackinac Bridge are stunning. Playing here is a great way to have the Grand Hotel experience, even if you’re not staying there.

Take Gardens Tours

One of the best things to do on the island is to take garden tours. Two resorts offer tours of exceptionally beautiful gardens — Grand Hotel and Mission Point Resort.

The Grand Hotel’s garden has thousands of flowers and is famous for its lilacs, which are in full bloom for the Lilac Festival. For $10, you can take a self-guided tour.

A free, guided tour by the horticulturalists at Mission Point Resort is offered on Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 10:30 a.m.

Paddle the Straits

For a Mackinac Island adventure, consider paddling the Straits of Mackinac with Great Turtle Kayak Tours. You can rent a single or double kayak for a private adventure or take a tour.

You can also rent a paddleboard if that’s more your speed.

The water surrounding Mackinac is crystal clear, and spending time enjoying it is invigorating. On a tour, you’ll have an expert guide, which is a good option for amateurs. Sunset and sunrise tours are offered.

More Mackinac Island Things to Do Indoors

Tour the Grand Hotel

If you’re not an overnight guest of the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, you’ll need to pay $10 to enjoy touring the hotel and grounds. But it’s a fee well spent. All the glory of a bygone age will be around you.

For the fee, you’ll receive a map of the hotel and the gardens for the full experience.

If you’ve ever dreamed of having afternoon tea in a historic hotel, this is your chance. Every afternoon between 3 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., you can indulge in fresh-baked scones, little tea sandwiches, and delectable pastries while sipping tea.

If you prefer, you can have coffee, sherry, or Champagne instead.

Visit Butterfly Houses

Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House

There’s something so peaceful about butterflies. You can get up close and personal with some gorgeous specimens at the Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House. Watching the butterflies escape from their chrysalides and take their first flight is a popular attraction here.

Bring your camera, because you’ll have the chance to take stunning pictures everywhere. It just takes a little patience. Butterflies seem to know when you have them in focus and then fly away.

Our family had an awe-inspiring experience at the Original Butterfly House here on Mackinac Island! ✨ You can find the butterfly house off the beaten path, and surrounded by historic homes. It is also located near the iconic Arch Rock and Fort Mackinac.

From the moment we stepped inside, we were greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors, lush greenery and the air was filled with the delicate flutter of wings. There were marvelous chrysalises hanging just inside the doorway, where we could witness each step of metamorphosis. 🐛

We were given a brochure, which was amazing for our children to play ‘I-spy’ while we walked through the winding pathways. The informative staff truly rounded out the whole experience, walking through each section with us and engaging with our children. 

While we stood to witness each species, time seemingly stood still. After walking out of the butterfly room, the kids and my husband explored the Insect World while I headed to the quaint gift shop in search of presents for the family. 

If you ever find yourself on Mackinac Island, be sure to pay a visit to this hidden gem – it’s an experience you won’t soon forget! 🌈🦋

Searra Liggett

Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory

Can there ever be too many butterflies? Not likely. Nothing is quite as awe-inspiring as sitting quietly and having a butterfly land on you. It takes your breath away, so have someone nearby with a camera to catch the moment for you.

At the Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory, you can visit hundreds of unusual butterflies and stunning plants. It’s a very peaceful place to enjoy some downtime.

Explore The Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum

The museum’s focus is Mackinac, and art, photography, and Native American beadwork are all displayed.

The exhibits cover hundreds of years of local history in art and decorative arts. It’s a good place to spend a leisurely hour away from the heat of summer and the hustle and bustle of Main Street.

Play at Admiral Dave’s Arcade at Mission Point Resort

Is your pocket full of quarters? If not, there’s no need to worry. The arcade at Mission Point Resort has a machine to change dollar bills into the necessary change.

This attraction is the perfect way to let your kids wind down when they have energy left after a day of sightseeing. The selection includes classic arcade and video games.

Visit the Island Bookstore

Open seasonally from May through October, the Island Book Store specializes in everything Mackinac. If you want a book, calendar, or DVD about the area, this is the perfect place to visit.

Are you looking for a good book to read? Stop in to browse. There’s an excellent selection of bestsellers, children’s books, and, of course, travel books.

Things to Do on the Way to the Island

From the Lower Peninsula

If you’re coming to Mackinac Island from the south, consider making Mackinaw City a vacation stop instead of just passing through. Whether your interest is history, nature, or just family fun, you’ll find lots of things to do in Mackinaw City.

You can visit Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, Colonial Michilimackinac, Headlands International Dark Sky Park, and Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park. Or, play a round of mini-golf at Animal Tracks, and enjoy the haunted attractions downtown.

From the Upper Peninsula

If you’re coming to Mackinac from the north, there are plenty of things to do in St. Ignace. For instance, you can get a great view of the Mackinac Bridge from Bridge View Park, and stop at Bessie’s Homemade Pasties to pick up one of the favorite grab-and-go foods in the Upper Peninsula.

Native American culture has an important place in St Ignace — so you could visit the Museum of Ojibwa Culture, Fort de Baude, and Father Marquette National Memorial.

Discover Even More Things to Do on Mackinac

This list barely scratches the surface of all the fun waiting for you on Mackinac Island. Most spots are buzzing from May to October, but the sunsets over Lake Huron? They show off all year long.

And don’t rule out a winter visit — Mackinac turns into a quiet, snow-covered escape that’s pure magic. Oh, and the food? No matter when you go, you’re in for something delicious.