Recently, my husband, two kids, and I embarked on a much-anticipated trip to Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island. Having heard so much about the island’s beauty, we were eager to experience it firsthand, along with the famed Mackinac Bridge and the surrounding areas. Leaving our baby with Grandma, we set off on a family adventure that promised a mix of history, natural beauty, and a touch of time-travel.
We decided to stay on a hotel that was on the beach in Mackinaw City as there was a bit more to do for the kids. We specifically chose the Best Western Plus Dockside Waterfront Inn as it was closest to Shepler’s Ferry which is one of the primary ferries that transports people to Macinac Island.
Discovering Mackinaw City
Mackinaw City greeted us with its charming simplicity. We stayed in the downtown area, a convenient choice due to its proximity to Shepler’s Ferry, which would be our gateway to Mackinac Island. Our hotel, the Best Western Plus Dockside, was situated right on the beach, offering us easy access to the ferry and the convenience of being close to everything we wanted to explore in the city.
The city itself had a quaint, relaxed vibe, perfect for a family looking to unwind and explore. We spent our days enjoying the local attractions and soaking in the laid-back atmosphere. One of our favorite activities was taking a trolley ride, which not only gave us a tour of the area but also took us over the magnificent Mackinac Bridge. This experience provided a fascinating overview of the region, and the views from the bridge were nothing short of spectacular.
When it came to dining, we found a few gems in Mackinaw City. Our first dinner was at Dixie Saloon, a cozy spot that set the tone for our culinary adventures. The following day, we had lunch at Nonna Lisa’s, where we indulged in delicious pizza, and we wrapped up our dining experiences at Rusted Spoke Brewery, where the atmosphere was as enjoyable as the food. While the hotel’s free breakfast wasn’t exactly a highlight, it was convenient and filled us up for the day’s adventures.
Our trolley ride also took us to Colonial Michilimackinac, a historic site that we were eager to explore. Unfortunately, it was closed during our visit, but we made the most of the opportunity by scoping out the area and imagining what life must have been like in that early settlement. We also stopped at the Mackinac Bridge Visitor Center, where we learned fascinating facts about the engineering marvel that connects Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas.
The Timeless Beauty of Mackinac Island
Sunday, our last full day, was reserved for what we had been most looking forward to—our visit to Mackinac Island. The moment we stepped off Shepler’s Ferry, we were captivated by the island’s breathtaking beauty. It felt like we had been transported back in time, with horse-drawn carriages replacing cars and historic buildings lining the streets.
We spent only a few hours on the island, but it was enough to leave a lasting impression. The highlight of our visit was a horse carriage ride that took us on a tour of the island’s major sites. We visited Fort Mackinac, where history seemed to come alive, and marveled at the natural wonder of Arch Rock. The carriage ride also took us through the island’s state park, offering stunning views and a sense of tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere.
One of the unique experiences on the island was our visit to Ryba’s Fudge Shop, where we treated ourselves to some of the island’s famous fudge. We also explored old-style churches, including one that dated back to the 1600s, adding to the sense of stepping back in time. For lunch, we dined at Mighty Mac, a delightful spot where the food was as impressive as the island itself.
Throughout our visit, we were struck by the island’s atmosphere. It was incredibly relaxing, with an almost magical quality to it. The immaculate views, combined with the island’s rich history and unique vibe, made it a place unlike any other we’ve visited. Despite the challenges of rainy and cloudy weather in Mackinaw City on Friday and Saturday, Sunday’s weather was perfect for exploring Mackinac Island, with clear skies and warm temperatures that showcased the island’s beauty in all its glory.
Reflections on Our Trip
As we boarded the ferry back to Mackinaw City, we couldn’t help but reflect on what a unique and memorable experience the trip had been. One of our key takeaways was the realization that next time, we would opt to stay on Mackinac Island itself. Spending more time on the island would allow us to fully immerse ourselves in its charm and explore everything it has to offer without feeling rushed.
Would we recommend this trip to others? Absolutely. Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island offer something for everyone, from history buffs to nature lovers to families looking for a relaxing getaway. If you’re planning a visit, I’d recommend going in the summer or fall when the weather is most favorable. Even then, be prepared for slightly cooler temperatures, thanks to the lake’s influence.
Compared to other trips we’ve taken, this one stands out for its sense of time travel and the complete absence of cars on Mackinac Island. The island’s old-world charm, combined with its natural beauty, makes it a destination that feels both unique and timeless. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, enjoying scenic views, or simply soaking in the island’s relaxing atmosphere, Mackinac Island offers an experience that’s hard to match.
In conclusion, our trip to Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island was everything we hoped it would be and more. It was a journey into the past, a chance to connect with nature, and an opportunity to create lasting family memories. We’re already looking forward to our next visit, and this time, we’ll make sure to stay on the island to fully enjoy all that it has to offer. If you haven’t been to Mackinac Island yet, put it on your travel list—you won’t be disappointed.
