Mackinac Island is a great place to pedal a bike, ride a horse, or go for a hike. You'll find no cars on the roads that are occupied by bicycles, horseback riders, and horse-drawn carriages. There are many bike rental shops and several horse stables that can assist you when you visit. You can also bring your bike across on a ferry (for a fee) from
Mackinaw City or
St. Ignace.
The Island's hilly landscape features many scenic views of the Mackinac Straits, the Mackinac Bridge, beautiful architecture, and many unique land features, like Arch Rock. Whether you are riding a bike or hiking, be prepared for hilly climbs and sometimes dramatic descents. Hiking trails are plentiful, offering easy hikes and more challenging adventures. Mosquitos and biting insects aren't usually a problem, unless you go deep into the woods.
There are many historic places to see on the Island. Fort Mackinac, a Revolutionary War-era fort strategically perched on the hills overlooking Mackinac Island's harbor, offers re-enactments of life at the fort. Other historic places include a battlefield from 1814, the 1812 British landing site, picturesque churches, the William Backhouse Astor House, the American Fur Company Store, Mackinac Island's courthouse and community hall, and much more.
There's a variety of lodging on Mackinac Island, from spectacular resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts. The Grand Hotel, which was featured in the movie "Somewhere in Time," offers an elegant night's stay. You can visit the hotel's porch (for a fee) if you're not a guest. You will need to be dressed appropriately, though, to gain admittance.
Mackinac Island has many eateries, fudge/candy stores, gift shops, clothing stores and specialty retailers on the Main Street and Market Street.
