Location: Mackinac Island
Top Things to do in Mackinac Island
The 10 Best Free Things to do in Mackinac Island, Michigan (MI)
Charming Mackinac Island is a throwback to old-timey seaside leisure, from the candy-colored facades of downtown shops to the impressive (record-breaking, in fact) front porch of the Victorian-era Grand Hotel. Mackinac is world-famous for its homemade fudge, available in every flavor you can imagine. Work off your sugar high with a round of golf, a bike ride along a seaside trail, or exploring the limestone bluffs of Mackinac Island State Park.
Restaurants in Mackinac Island
1. Caddywampus
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 37 reviews
Reviewed By RICART75 - Peru, United States
The turtle outside of the shop, indicates this place might be a little out of the ordinary. This is a fun and unique place to explore; filled with interesting and engaging items among which one can browse and enjoy. Set back, by the entrance to the Main Street Inn; it's well worth a visit (and, likely to bring one a smile or two).
2. Little Luxuries of Mackinac Island
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 46 reviews
Reviewed By 589angiem
Every time I am back this store is a MUST! I always find a little treasure to bring back home! There is something for everyone!
3. Threads of Mackinac
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 10 reviews
Memories, stories, and experiences woven together make the fabric of our lives, bring a piece home with you from Threads of Mackinac. Our island apparel was stitched for your enjoyment with cozy t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, and items for the entire family —while paying homage to the threads of the island, the stories, and memories that give the secluded destination its charm.
Reviewed By shopgal65 - Syracuse, United States
This was the first year in 15 years that we were not able to go to Mackinac Island. I wanted to get my husband a new t-shirt for his birthday as a surprise. I ordered (via website) a blue/gold short sleeve t-shirt with the simple Macinac (M) logo. I was contacted ny the owner and told that they did not have the shirt I ordered in stock due to a vendor issue. I was given the offer to choose anything I wanted for my husband and they would expedite shipping. How awesome is that!! I chose the same t-shirt that I originally ordered, but in gold/blue. Micah shipped me the gold/blue t-shirt AND a long sleeve blue/white t-shirt with the Mackinac Island (with horses) logo!! The package came within a day or so and I was so surprised to see TWO shirts. The quality of the t-shirts is great! I can't wait to shop at Threads of Mackinac next year in person and to thank Micah in person. My husband loves his new shirts!
4. Arch Rock
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,662 reviews
Natural rock bridge soaring 149 feet above the Straits of Mackinac appears to be suspended in midair.
Reviewed By S60WIannal
We reached the arch rock at first by horse carriage tour and then returned to visit this beautiful site by bike and kayaking. You have to climbed up some stairs to reach it and take turns to do photos but it's worth it.
5. Mackinac Island State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,917 reviews
Michigan's first state park. This is Mackinac Island State Park, a landscape characterized by high limestone bluffs, beautiful vistas of sparkling water, vibrant forests, and mystical geological formations. With automobiles banned since 1898, here exists a quieter way of life away from interstate noise of cities. Over 80 percent of Mackinac Island is within Mackinac Island State Park—free of charge and open year round—where you’ll discover the true natural gems of Mackinac. Whether visiting this island parkland by foot, bike, horseback, or carriage, these many majestic geological wonders and unique historical monuments are visual treasures found only here—on the island sacred to the Ojibwa and Odawa Great Lakes Indian tribes. According to them, this is where life began. You’re invited to discover why. This is Mackinac.
Reviewed By danjfrank25 - Chicago, United States
Such a beautiful place to spend a couple days. Weather riding the 8.5 miles on a bike around the perimeter of the island or taking a carriage ride up to Fort Holmes (highly recommend Sam if you can get him), It’s very easy to relax and have a good time here
6. Great Turtle Toys
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 11 reviews
7. Fort Holmes
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 275 reviews
During the War of 1812, the British constructed a small fort on the highest point of the island, to better protect Fort Mackinac. Originally named Fort George, it was renamed by the Americans, following their return in 1815. The Americans continued to man the outpost for a few years, but eventually abandoned it. In 1934 a reconstruction, carried out by the Works Progress Administration and based on original plans, was completed. It was replaced by the current version in 2015.
Reviewed By Phliz - Naperville, United States
It's really up there but the view is stunning! The highest point on the Island. Also easy to combine with a walk to sugar loaf, skull cave and the arch.
8. Murdick's Fudge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 114 reviews
Murdick's Mackinac Island handcrafted Fudge and peanut brittle is made daily with only the finest of Michigan ingredients from our original 1887 recipe.
Reviewed By TheHoovers2019
Lots of options and our favorite fudge that we tried in the area! We got the German chocolate fudge and it was by far the best fudge I’ve ever had! So yummy!
9. Murdick's Fudge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 11 reviews
Murdick's Mackinac Island handcrafted fudge and peanut brittle is made daily with only the finest of Michigan ingredients from our original 1887 recipe.
10. Sanders Candies
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 48 reviews
Reviewed By michelepZ3018CI
On michigan vacation, visited sanders candy factory in clinton twp. On mackinac island, pleasantly surprised to find sanders store. Not a fudge fan. Sanders is perfect every where.
