Mackinac Island

Ever since I watched Somewhere In Time, the 1980 movie starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour, I dreamed about going to Mackinac Island. The movie was set in 1972, yet it showed a Michigan paradise focused on a historic Grand Hotel and an island with no cars. That place still exists, and I’ve been lucky enough to visit twice (and plan to go again soon).

Mackinac Island is at the intersection of Great Lakes Huron and Michigan and does not allow motorized vehicles or chain hotels. Transportation is with bicycles, and horse-drawn carriages are the taxis.

Getting There

Although some people remain on Mackinac through the winter, the season when everything is open is May to October. The most popular way to get to Mackinac Island is by ferry. Two public companies go back and forth to the island from April (the exact date depends on weather) through the end of October. Before that, you will have to travel on the ice. Sheplers Ferry goes from two Michigan ports, Mackinaw City and St. Ignace. I’ve done both rides. The trips are scenic with views of the “Mighty Mac” Bridge and only takes about 20 minutes. Star Line Ferry travels the same path and does adult-only and family-friendly cruises from the island. Parking at both ferry lines is free of charge, and there are workers to take your bags. They will be loaded onto the horse carriage when you arrive on Mackinac and taken directly to your hotel. You can bring bicycles and pets. Both ferries are accessible to wheelchairs and medical scooters. If you are coming from further away, you can fly into Pellston Regional Airport (PLN) near Mackinaw City or Chippewa County International Airport (CIU) close to St. Ignace and take a shuttle to the ferry dock. Another idea is to fly into Detroit or Grand Rapids, rent a car, and enjoy more of the trip to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Where to Stay

Mackinac Island has many places to stay, with Inns and smaller Bed & Breakfast accommodations. There are also condominiums to rent for more space. Two large resorts hold many of the hotel rooms on the island. I’ve stayed at both. The Mission Point Resort, which was beautiful when I was there, improved even more with a complete renovation that included adding the Lakeside Spa. The most striking thing about this property is the stunning view of Lake Huron, especially if you are up for the sunrise. As great as this property is, there’s nothing quite like experiencing the grandeur of Mackinac Island than staying at The Grand.

Life at The Grand

I had seen lots of photos and the Somewhere in Time movie, but my first sight of The Grand Hotel was still mesmerizing. As you pull up in the horse-drawn carriage up the hill, you will see the red phone booth still left over from the movie set. Then there’s the stunning entrance with a large, majestic staircase. The Grand Hotel opened in 1887. It isn’t just rich in history. It is a National Historic Landmark and the top hotel on the Historical Hotels Registry. Its accolades are too many to mention but include the best in hotels by USA Today, Travel + Leisure, and Condé Nast Traveler. Every room is uniquely decorated. Four-poster beds and nightly chocolates at turndown are just a few amenities. It’s all bright and cheery, and the rooms all have views. The most common package includes breakfast and dinner in the Main Dining Room. Breakfast is either a full buffet, or you can order at your table. The baked goods and fruit are fresh and delicious. Meals are part of the experience at this historic hotel. Dinner is five-course and is served in a semi-formal setting by highly trained waiters in white gloves. One of my most memorable meals was a grilled pineapple and ham appetizer, salad, gazpacho soup, spinach asiago ravioli, and marshmallow Nutella bread pudding for dessert. The menu changes every night with choices in every course and dietary needs. If you prefer to dine on your own and not take the package, you have a selection of 14 bars and restaurants on the property and restaurants downtown. After dinner at The Grand is another experience not to be missed. It’s time to make your way to the longest porch in the world so you can sit in a rocking chair and watch the sunset. You can see the Straits of Magellan and the Mackinac Bridge from the property. You’ll find live music in the parlor and plenty of welcoming staff as you relax with cocktails or dance the rest of the night away.

Island Activities

I recommend starting with Mackinac Island Carriage Tours to get acquainted with the island. The ride will take you through many of the Island’s highlights. Among the places they will take you are the historical Market Street, Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory, Mackinac Island State Park, Arch Rock, and the Grand Hotel. Don’t forget your camera because there are Kodak moments around every corner of the island. Once you’ve toured and noted where you want to go back, there’s plenty to do. Bike rentals are available downtown and at most hotels. There are plenty of hiking trails, kayaks to rent, and golf to play. The Grand has an Afternoon Tea available even if you aren’t a guest, as is the spa at Mission Point. Downtown is filled with shopping, from souvenirs to boutique clothing. The most popular item for sale is an edible one. Mackinac Island has a dozen shops with fudge to sample. You can buy unique flavors such as Traverse City Cherry, Pumpkin, Espresso, and Michigan Maple Walnut, but rest assured there’s plenty of the favorite for you to bring home - Chocolate, of course.