Katharine's Mackinac Recommendations
Here are some of my favorite activities & places to eat, stay, & shop while visiting beautiful Mackinac Island!
Shepler's Ferry
Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry has been bringing guests to Mackinac Island with outstanding quality service since 1945. Family owned & operated for over 76 years, & offering the fastest ferries to the Island. Experience First Class Service for Every Guest, Every Day! Let Shepler’s be your gateway to Mackinac Island!
Bicycle Street Inn
Located in the heart of downtown Mackinac Island, you will be just steps away from shopping, sightseeing, & amazing dining options.
- Three distinct buildings, each offering a unique experience.
- Private balconies with views of Main Street & Lake Huron.
- Easy access to rooms from wherever your adventures take you.
Grand Hotel
Grand Hotel beckons you to a bygone era of old-world hospitality & charm. Welcoming guests since 1887, & continuing to embrace rich history with inspired enhancements & cherished traditions. Prepare to explore this top resort in the Midwest & National Historic Landmark. If you're not staying at the hotel, the $10 entrance fee is well worth it to view this beautiful & historic property! Also make sure if its after 6pm you are dressed the part!
Cindy's Riding Stable
Enjoy this lovely & historic island on horseback. Cindy's Riding Stable provides riding horses & guides to help you enjoy the beautiful trails in the Mackinac State Historic Park. The park covers 2500 acres & 83 miles of roads and trails are perfect for individual horseback riding or guided trail rides. Enjoy this affordable & fun way of experiencing Mackinac. Would you rather drive a carriage? Visit their sister company, Jack's Livery Stable, right down the road.
Lucky Bean Coffeehouse
"Go where the Local's go..." Is a common phrase that is often expressed with love from any store owner on Mackinac Island when asked where to get a good cup of coffee. Owner, Carolyn May is the sweetest & I cannot recommend her coffeehouse enough! They also have super cute merch!
Woodlands Activity Center
Slow time. Spend time. Family time. The Woodlands Activity Center brings to life the many natural wonders & family-friendly activities that are already favorites on Mackinac Island. From The Gem – Mini Golf Course & the Cedar Grove Bike Track to Recreation Courts & the Nature Center. You will be sure to have fun here!
Great Turtle Kayak Tours
Their professional guided tours & rentals give you the best experience of the water aboard your choice of single kayak, tandem kayak, or stand up paddleboard. Their guides have been paddling the local waterways for over 20 years, & will show you the best of Mackinac from the water, providing you with a safe & rewarding experience every time.
Brown Eyed Girl Charters
Time spent with your family & friends on the water is time well spent. Customize your cruise & create your own adventure - whether you choose a relaxing sightseeing tour or a sun-bathing, swimming excursion, this will be a highlight of your island vacation! Take a look at the cruise options aboard their Sea Ray Sundancer 320.
Fort Mackinac
This is Mackinac. The cannon blasts, the rifles fire, the soldiers march & history comes alive. The oldest building in Michigan & 13 other historical structures boast exhibits explaining everything from military training & battles to medical treatments to family life within the fort. I highly recommend visiting Fort Mackinac to learn the history of Mackinac.