The 7 Best Things to Do on Mackinac Island Michigan

Mackinac is a small island located in the middle of a lake in Michigan. The island was started in the 19th century by Native Americans. They explore this small island, which has a lot of potential.

The coastal area of this island has beaches with quite beautiful sand. Furthermore, in the central area, there are forests that are still left untouched today.

Surrounded by beautiful Lake Huron, Mackinac Island is an attractive destination. The island is home to a lot of Michigan history, from the Revolutionary War to the fur trade, and the island is an open-air museum.

But the best things to do on Mackinac Island aren't just history and a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the cobbled streets. Eighty percent of the island is designated as a state park, giving visitors unparalleled access to towering limestone cliffs, arches, and natural springs.

Being a small island, it's easy to get around on foot or by bike, with short trips to historical sites or to immerse yourself in the local nature. Here are some things to do on Mackinac Island:

1. Mackinac Island State Park

Culture and history encourage many tourists to explore Mackinac Island. but a small area that is more than 80% protected. Away from the sacred streets of downtown, enjoy the natural beauty of Mackinac Island State Park.

Swap man-made landmarks for stunning natural landmarks, including the 146-foot Arch Rock. Perhaps the island's most memorable feature, a limestone arch, connects two tree-covered cliffs across colorful Lake Huron.

Other must-sees in the state park include Skull Cave and Dwightwood Springs. The first was created by the crashing waves of Lake Huron and a former British Army hideout. While the latter is the best source of fresh water on the island,

The park also boasts several historical sites, including Fort Holmes, an important battlefield, and several cemeteries.

2. A Bike Ride on the Island

With minimal side-to-side distance, Mackinac Island offers the chance to earn a rare distinction. After completing the 8.2-mile Coastal Trail, cyclists can tell friends and family they've explored the whole island!

For this reason, and to be able to see it all, biking around the island is one of the most popular things to do on Mackinac Island. The bike path is on the M-185 highway, the only one in the United States where cars are not allowed. With the sun shining overhead and glistening in the waters of Lake Huron, touring the island was fun.

Cyclists can complete their journey around the world in one hour. But with the many viewpoints and landmarks along the way, cyclists will need two or three hours to enjoy the experience.

3. Center for Mackinac Island

During the busy summer months, Mackinac's historic city center is open to visitors, allowing all travelers to witness island life in the early 19th century. You'll find a number of well-preserved buildings that take you back to the 1830s, when the fur trade was at its peak.

Every home, building, and business has a story to tell. Among them all are translators in period costumes who go about their daily lives as if nothing had happened. Mackinac's downtown highlights include the restored Biddle House, which dates to the 1820speriod costumes who go about their daily lives as if nothing had happened. Mackinac's downtown highlights include the restored Biddle House, which dates to the 1820s. This historic merchant's house features domestic life, where players go about their daily business, including spinning wool into yarn.

Next, explore the island's native general store, the American Fur Company Retail Store. Before visiting the museum, Dr. Beaumont a doctor who made important discoveries about the digestive system after being shot.

4. Butterfly House and Insect World

Mackinac Island's love affair with butterflies is the Home of the Butterfly and the World of Insects. This is a spectacular view of the lives of some of the world's smallest creatures. The main part is the butterfly house, with hundreds of bright colors floating around the room.

Admire the beautiful butterflies as they jump among the lush vegetation topped with warmly colored flowers, creating a natural kaleidoscope. Next, explore the educational room where you can watch a butterfly emerge from its cocoon form.

At the Insect World complex, visitors can learn about several hundred species of insects from around the world. One of them is the walking stick, the heaviest insect on earth.

5. Ride a Horse-Cart

Upon arriving on Mackinac Island, one aspect of local life that immediately catches your eye is the lack of cars. Read: none. Such chariots were banned in 1898, when they were called "horseless chariots." This forward-thinking has allowed Mackinac Island to develop a pure aura that is almost impossible to imitate in the modern world.

A popular way to get around is by horse-drawn carriage. It can serve as a taxi that takes you from A to B or even as a hop-off trip that takes you to the main attractions on Mackinac Island.

However, the best time to experience train travel is after dark. Stroll through the historic downtown streets lit by lampposts and accompanied by horseshoes for a romantic experience.

6. Mackinac Fort

One of Michigan's oldest structures, Fort Mackinac, is an excellent storehouse of early island life. The original Fort Mackinac was built by the French in 1715 before being moved to Mackinac Island by the British in 1870, where it has remained ever since.

Although the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, the British held onto the fort for nearly four decades until they relinquished power in 1815. The fort is now rebuilt to its former glory and is an interesting way to explore military life.

Walk among the 14 historic buildings that now house a series of exhibits and period actors highlighting life in the fort and its military significance. Visitors can even learn how to clean, load, and fire Fort Mackinac guns.

7. Grand Hotel

The historic Grand Hotel is a beautiful presence atop the limestone cliffs of Mackinac Island. The luxurious building, which opened in 1887, has just under 400 rooms. for months during the peak tourist season, and for good reason.

Apart from staying at the beautiful property with superb island views, visitors can experience the longest terrace in the world. Through the long terraces, you'll find nearly 150 planters and 1,400 geraniums that make up some of the hotel's 150 flower varieties.

If you are not staying at the hotel, you can explore the property for a small fee. The Grand Hotel is also a popular starting point for Mackinac Island horse and buggy rides.

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