Each summer, Mackinac Island feels like stepping into another era.

Horse-drawn carriages are the only vehicles on the road. Bicycles circle the shoreline. The scent of freshly made fudge drifts through the streets of a preserved historic downtown. Rising above it all is the legendary Grand Hotel.

We flew into the island’s tiny airport on a bright July afternoon. A horse-drawn carriage taxi (the only kind) transported to our home for the next three days: The Grand Hotel Mackinac Island.

Our visit quickly turned into the perfect romantic Mackinac Island getaway. Equal parts historic charm, quiet nature, and indulgent meals overlooking Lake Huron.

If you’re planning your own trip, here are 7 memorable things to do on Mackinac Island.

The Grand Hotel Mackinac Island: What Makes It So Iconic

For many travelers, The Grand Hotel, nicknamed America’s Summer Palace, is the reason to visit Mackinac Island in the first place.

The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is one of the most famous historic hotels in the United States.
The regal Queen Anne-style hotel opened in 1887 as a summer retreat for wealthy travelers from the Northeast and Canada. Known for its sweeping 660-foot veranda—the longest porch in the world—the hotel continues to welcome guests seeking an elegant summer retreat.

Fans of the film Somewhere in Time will recognize the property immediately. With its grand veranda, manicured gardens, and elegant public rooms, the hotel feels almost cinematic.

Inside, the interiors are equally unforgettable. Designer Carleton Varney, a protégé of Dorothy Draper, reimagined the hotel in 1977 with the bold color palettes and kaleidoscopic patterns that define its signature style today.

While staying overnight can be a splurge, visitors can also purchase a day pass to explore the grounds and experience the atmosphere. Afternoon Tea in the Parlor is a refined day trip experience as well.

Walk Through the Woods to Arch Rock

All trails wind through tall pine forests where sunlight filters softly through the trees. It’s quiet, peaceful, and feels far removed from the busy streets of downtown.

If you start your walk from the downtown area, be sure to admire historic St Anne’s church and The Butterfly House. There’s a named path between woods and houses. Take that trail.

One of the most rewarding walks leads to Arch Rock, a dramatic limestone formation rising 146 feet above the Lake Huron shoreline.

When you reach the viewing platform, the sweeping lake views make the climb well worth it.

Explore the Island’s History

History lovers will find plenty to explore on Mackinac Island.

Historic markers throughout town tell stories of fur trading, military forts, and early American industry. For a deeper dive, visitors can tour Fort Mackinac, historic homes, or the island’s quiet cemeteries.

Wander the Historic Downtown

The town of Mackinac Island is charmingly walkable and wonderfully nostalgic.

Colorful storefronts line the main street, bicycles pass by in steady streams, and the unmistakable scent of fudge drifts from the island’s famous confectioneries.

Watching fudge being made in the shop windows is practically a Mackinac Island tradition. At some point, nearly everyone gives in and buys a slice.

Possibly two.

Experience Mackinac Island by Horse or Carriage

Because cars are prohibited on Mackinac Island, horses remain one of the island’s primary modes of transportation.

Horse-drawn taxis shuttle visitors from the small island airport, carriage tours circle the island’s scenic roads, and horseback riding trails wind through the surrounding forest.

For couples planning a romantic trip, a private carriage ride or horseback excursion through the quieter parts of the island would be a particularly memorable experience.

In fact, during our trip we met a couple who had just gotten engaged at Arch Rock after arriving there by private carriage from the Grand Hotel.

It was the perfect Mackinac Island proposal story.

Take a Sunset Cruise

Seeing Mackinac Island from the water offers a completely different perspective.

We joined a Sip n’ Sail sunset cruise, which glided past the island as the sky shifted into soft gold and pink over Lake Huron. In the distance, the Mackinac Bridge stretched across the horizon.

We savored the music, the breeze, and the changing light along the picturesque Lake Huron coast. We marveled at the Mackinac Island Bridge up close. The cruise was easily one of the most memorable moments of the trip.

Where to Eat on Mackinac Island

Despite its small size, Mackinac Island offers an impressive range of dining options.

Many visitors come to Mackinac Island specifically to experience the Grand Hotel’s famous dining room and veranda views.

During our stay we enjoyed the Grand Hotel’s extravagant breakfasts and multi-course dinners, which are included with many overnight packages. Evening attire is required after 6 p.m. (including littlest guests), a tradition that adds to the hotel’s timeless atmosphere.

For lunch, we stopped at The Carriage House at Hotel Iroquois. The smoked whitefish dip—made with fresh Lake Michigan whitefish, lemon, dill, and cream cheese—was unforgettable. If the weather allows, sit outside for lakeside views.

Another regional classic to try wherever it’s on offer is planked whitefish. It’s traditionally roasted on cedar and served with duchess potatoes piped around the fillet.

It’s one of northern Michigan’s most beloved dishes for good reason.

For a historic venue serving up Mackinac Island-specific cocktails, head to the Seabiscuit Cafe. Order their famed Mackinac Island fudge martini. It’s a decadent dessert in a glass.

Somewhere in Time Farewell

Few places in the Midwest capture the feeling of stepping back in time quite like Mackinac Island.

The historic elegance of the Grand Hotel. Quiet forest trails leading to Arch Rock. Evenings spent watching the sunset over Lake Huron. No matter what you choose, the island offers a rare blend of nostalgia and natural beauty.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a relaxed summer escape, Mackinac Island remains one of America’s most charming small-town destinations.

For another summer destination defined by seaside atmosphere, explore our 3-day Hamptons guide based in Montauk.