Some would describe Mackinac Island as the model town for a rom-com backdrop: the car-free island is adorned with cream buildings sprinkled with pastel signages; steel lampposts garnished with bouquets of bougainvilleas; smoothly-paved streets flooded with bike riders as horse-drawn carriages gallop alongside them. It’s the type of place a city dweller goes to when they need a change of scenery. Luckily for Chicagoans, it’s only a drive away.
Besides all the aforementioned rom-com setting details, visitors have been enchanted by the town trapped in amber. Mackinac Island is home to the historic Fort Mackinac, world-renowned Mackinac Island fudge, and, most notably, streets without cars. The utopia island is a road trip destination with breathtaking natural landmarks, Claude Monte-painted sunrises, and indelible sunsets.
Where is Mackinac Island?
About seven hours from Chicago, Mackinac Island sits in Lake Huron, between Michigan’s Upper and Lower peninsulas.
How to get there?
Ferry: The Mackinac Island Ferry Company and Schepler’s Ferry offer ferry service from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace, Michigan, with roundtrip tickets starting at $22.95.
Private boat: There are 76 boat slips in the Mackinac Island harbor.
Charter flight: There is a 7-minute charter flight from the mainland. Some airports around Michigan offer charter flights to Mackinac Island Airport.
What to do in Mackinac Island?
Mackinac Island is a destination for those who want to flee the chaos of everyday life and unwind. So, you’ll be pleased to know there are ample things to do.
You can visit historic forts, play golf on unique courses, take a horse-drawn carriage tour, try the world-renowned fudge, and enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the lakeshore, and even the ferry ride to Mackinac Island is an experience in itself. Regardless of your age or travel companions, Mackinac Island offers something for everyone, no matter the weather.