Romantic Mackinac Island In Michigan

Less than a day's drive from most of the Midwest's major cities, is a most romantic and peaceful Island called Mackinac. This Upper Michigan retreat, rich in history and beauty, has been a favored spot of escape for years.

Location, Location, Location:

To find this intriguing island, drive straight through the middle of Michigan - always heading north. When you see the longest suspension bridge in the Western Hemisphere (the Mackinac Bridge that connects the Lower Peninsula to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan), you are almost there. Since the island is reachable only by boat (or small plane if you are so equipped), you now have a choice - stop at the nearest town (Mackinaw City) before crossing the toll bridge or cross the Mighty Mac (as the bridge is affectionately called) and pull in to St. Ignace. Either provides a multitude of hotels, restaurants, gift shops, and history.

From each town, you have a few choices of ferries on which to make the 1-hour trip to Mackinac Island. If you choose to stay at one of the beautiful hotels on the island, check with them for the ferry service that will place you closest to your accommodations. Regardless of your city of ferry departure, you must, during your visit, spend time with and on the Mighty Mac.

A Brief History:

As history reports, Mackinac (pronounced Mackinaw) Island was first discovered by Canadian explorers in the early 1600s and quickly became a center for fur trading. The island traded hands several times during the early wars of the 1800s, finally belonging to America in a treaty with the British in 1815. Fort Mackinac is still intact and is a main attraction on the island.

Mackinac Island was once a national park and now contains one of Michigan's beautiful state parks. Actually over 80% of the island is state park.

There was once a private college on the island, Mackinac College. Graduating only one class, locals say that there was not enough 'night life' on the island to attract and retain young minds. Funds quickly evaporated and the college closed in 1970. The buildings and grounds are now the island's beautiful Inn At Stonecliffe.

There is more, much more, history held by beautiful Mackinac Island. To see more, please visit: http://www.mackinacisland.com.

Things to See and Things to Do:

The first sense felt when leaving the ferry is that you have stepped back in time. The first sound you will hear is the clip-clop of horse hooves. There is no motorized public transportation on the island. There are no cars (other than police and fire emergency vehicles), only horse-drawn buggies, many bicycles, and quaintness.

Upon leaving the ferry docks, you will find yourself in the 'city' of Mackinac Island. Enjoy the many shops, terrific restaurants, and pubs. Remember that this is the home of world famous Mackinac Island Fudge. You will find several fudge shops where you can watch the rich treat being made by those who have done so for many, many years. Buy some, then sit along the water and enjoy this wonderful and famously fattening fudge.

Once you have seen the sights of the town, rent a bicycle and start the journey around this magical place. The town and ferry docks are on the leeward side of the island, so you won't be troubled by the wind and possible chill (this is Northern Michigan). Once you bike to the windward side of the island, you may need a windbreaker or sweatshirt for a short while.

Take a horse-drawn carriage tour and see Mackinac's wonder and beauty from the interior of the island. If you are up to it, rent your own horse and buggy and go where you want! Why not take it to the Grand Hotel? Built by the Vanderbilt's, this hotel boasts the longest porch in the world. It truly is magnificent and has been the location of several movies.

Little Known Places to Go:

If you need a break from the action, a little known refuge is the back porch of the library. There you will find rocking chairs and calm while you watch water and boats.

Visit the Welcome Center just west of the marina for brochures and information. Ask them about the sailboat ride. It departs from the hotel right next door. While you wait for your boat ride, enjoy a meal on the hotel porch over-hanging the water.

Personally, the best time on Mackinac Island is dusk. Walk along Main Street heading west. Sunset behind the Mighty Mac is breath taking. Bring your camera and tripod. Beautiful memories await. Also notice the many bats at this time of the evening. There are reports of over 30,000 of these winged creatures on the island, brought to control the mosquito population. There are no biting mosquitoes. There are many fat bats.

Places to Stay:

Where you stay depends on your funds. Budget conscious travelers will find reasonable accommodations at either Mackinac City or St. Ignace. For those choosing to stay on the island, there are many choices large and small. From the incredible Grand Hotel to quaint B&Bs, from staying 'downtown' to hanging off of the cliffs in a condo, or rent a beautifully restored turn-of-the-century home - the choice is yours.

Conclusion:

Each visit to Mackinac Island will provide new and unique memories. Each trip is special. Each trip is magical. This truly is a wonderful spot to enjoy, and then visit again and again. If you decide to stay of the island, listen for the clip-clop of horse hooves in the morning. What a wonderful start to a new day!