Escape to Mackinac Island, jewel of the Great Lakes
Mackinac Island has been wowing Michigan’s vacationers for over a century. Its old-world charm, picturesque pastel-hued main street brimming with giftshops and charming cafes, and stunning golden beaches are a magnet for families and couples alike. If you’re lucky enough to snag a Mackinac Island vacation rental, leave the car in Mackinac City or St Ignace on the Lower Peninsula, and take the ferry to be transported to another, more genteel era. Alternatively, a beautiful lakeside home with views out over Lake Huron to Mackinac Island and neighboring Bois Blanc Island offers the perfect base for a day trip.
Your Mackinac Island lookout
On the highest point of Mackinac Island sits Fort Holmes, a fortified defensive earthwork dating back to the War of 1812. Climb the meandering wooden stairway up the hillside under the broadleaf canopy for a view out over the glittering waters of Lake Huron. Close to the fort, Anne's Tablet is an Art Nouveau sculpture featuring stone benches and a bronze plaque, built in 1916 as a memorial to tragic local author Constance Fenimore Woolson. Follow up your stroll by enjoying a picnic on the beach, or take afternoon tea at the island’s impressive Victorian Grand Hotel.
Enjoy Mackinac Island summers
Between May and September, you can expect high temperatures into the 60s and 70s; a pleasant clime for exploring. Although summertime might be the best time to visit Mackinac Island, renting a Mackinac Island vacation rental in springtime or fall can be equally, if not more, pleasurable, as you avoid the height of the crowds. With very cold winters, December through March can be freezing – but the wild, Great Lakes scenery is no less stunning. At this time of year, the ferries can stop running and the best way to get around town is by carriage ride or snowmobile.
Explore Mackinac Island State Park
More than 80 percent of the island is preserved as Mackinac Island State Park. It was designated as the second national park, Mackinac National Park, in 1875, just 3 years after Yellowstone National Park was named as the nation’s first. The island is a great place to spot wildflowers, for birdwatching, exploring the golden, sandy coves sheltered by craggy limestone bluffs, or simply relaxing. Keen sailors will enjoy skimming across the glittering waters of Lake Huron. The island plays host to sailing races each year – there’s no better way to arrive than via the island’s pretty harbor.
Traveling to and around Mackinac Island
The nearest airport is in Pellston, MI (PLN-Pellston Regional), located 20.8 mi (33.5 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you could also fly into Sault Ste. Marie, MI (CIU-Chippewa County Intl.), which is 29 mi (46.7 km) away.
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