Things To Do
Arch Rock
One of Mackinac's great geologic formations. Arch Rock is a great site from below or above! Take a bike ride to view from the top or walk or bike along the shore to see from below. The water off Arch Rock is also exceptional for swimming.
Benjamin of Mackinac Island
The Benjamin Family store. Stop in for your souvenir needs!
Benjamin Blacksmith Shop
The Blacksmith shop operated by Emily's great and great-great grandfathers used to stand in the corner of their backyard on Benjamin Hill. The contents of the shop were moved to the reconstructed building in 1970 and it is now run by Mackinac State Historic Parks. On most days, you will find a blacksmith demonstrating and explaining traditional blacksmithing techniques like forming hot iron into fireplace tools, hinges and household items.
Fort Holmes
A great destination for a bike ride or hike! Fort Holmes is the highest point on the island. Biking: Take your bikes up the Grand Hill, behind the Fort, and up past the cemeteries for the easiest ride up, then sail on down British Landing Road to finish your ride by the water. Walking: In the northeast corner of Marquette Park (by the playground), there is a set of stairs that will take you up to the East Bluff. We recommend taking a left into the woods at the top of these stairs to check out Anne's Tablet, an incredible view of town and the bridge, and the Somewhere in Time Gazebo before continuing past the Scout Barracks, up Rifle Range to another set of stairs. The views are worth it, and the stargazing is also incredible.
Great Turtle Kayak Tours
A beautiful way to see the Island - by water!
Lucky Bean Coffee House
Best coffee on the Island, hands down!
Pink Pony
The back patio is a treat, as is their signature Rum Runner!
Porch Sitting
The best Mackinac tradition is porch-sitting. Come hang out at our family home!
Ryba's Fudge Shop - Cornerstore
The Peanut Butter Mackinac Island Fudge Ice Cream Flavor is unlike any other!
Swimming
The water in the straights of Mackinac is clear, crisp, and refreshing. All of the island's beaches are rocky so we recommend that you bring water shoes if you want to swim. Our favorite brands are Keene, Teva, and Chaco. There are some marked locations where you shouldn't swim, but you are usually free to swim anywhere that is accessible along the shore. Emily's favorite spots are in front of the Benjamin Houses (made even more fun when the ferry wake comes), off the rock shelf by Arch Rock, and just around the bend on the north side of British Landing.
The Secret Garden
Ok, so its not exactly a secret, but this garden at the base of the Grand Hotel is spectacular. We recommend entering by the school so you get the full effect.
Wawashkamo Golf Club
For the golfers among us, take a turn around Mackinac's historic Wawashkamo Golf Course! Aidan and Emily do not partake in golf often, but when they do, they go to Wawa!
West Bluff Road
A great walk destination, and impeccable view, especially at sunset! Emily's grandfather, Bob used to deliver mail to the Victorian houses on the West Bluff!
Woods Restaurant
A good restaurant, sure, but what we love this place for is it's bowling alley! Hop on your bikes to come spend some time at the historic lane (you reset the pins yourself) and get a drink at the bar while you're at it!