Mackinac Island’s Original Butterfly House and Insect Museum was established in 1991 and is the first of its kind in the state. More impressive is that the 1,800-square-foot facility is the third oldest live butterfly exhibit in the country.
With various live programs and tours from May through October, Fort Mackinac is the home of Michigan’s oldest building. The former military outpost contains 14 historical structures, all of which have been restored with period furnishings and are open to the public as exhibits.
Like the lodging options, there’s no shortage of places to eat on Mackinac Island. Best of all, the cuisine is diverse, so everyone will find something to suit their tastes. If you have dietary restrictions, it might be a good idea to check out some of the restaurants beforehand and create a meal plan for your visit.
A day of biking Mackinac Island is an excellent way to experience its natural wonders. M-185 is 8.2 miles and circles the edge of the island. At a leisurely pace, it takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to bike it.
There’s no way to visit Mackinac Island without checking out its diverse assortment of local boutiques, galleries, and shops. You’ll need a good pair of shoes to explore the downtown storefronts and four small malls.