Madison & JacobMadison & Jacob
Things To DoThings To Do
Bike around the island!Bike around the island!
Taking a bike around the island is such a fun way to explore - the vibe: wheels, wind, water views, zero cars. You can rent a cruiser (or even a tandem) and pedal the 8.2-mile loop on M‑185, which runs around the shoreline. It’s mostly flat, offers lake views, forested stretches, and plenty of photo stops - perfect for a relaxed autumn afternoon adventure. Bike rental picks: Ryba’s Bike Rentals – 7463 Main St, Mackinac Island. rybabikes.com Mackinac Wheels – 6929 Main St, Mackinac Island. mackinacbikes.com Pro tip: Choose a spot that gives you helmets & water bottles included, pick your pace, stop when you want - maybe for fudge, maybe for a lakeside bench - and just soak in the ride.
Pink PonyPink Pony
Rum runner? Say less! Pre-dating the release of the national treasure that is Chappell Roan's hit single, "Pink Pony Club" - this fine establishment will get your party started (or keep it going).
The Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House & Insect WorldThe Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House & Insect World
Stepping inside feels like entering a fairy world - wings of every color float past, and chances are one might land on your shoulder. When we visited during our trip out to Mackinac to scout it as our wedding site, a yellow butterfly landed on Madison and stayed with him the entire time. Only later that night did it click: if our family associates anything with his Nana - whom he had been missing that day, wishing she could be part of this - it’s butterflies. Yellow butterflies in particular. That quiet moment felt like her saying she’s here, and she’s thrilled for what comes next. A stop we recommend not just for its beauty, but for its wonder.
Kilwins Ice Cream - Chocolate - FudgeKilwins Ice Cream - Chocolate - Fudge
"Jake from Kilwins!" - one of Jake's first forays into the working world was flipping fudge and scooping ice cream at this beloved regional chain's Frankfort location... but thankfully you can get a sample right here on Mackinac on Main Street. Be sure and try a scoop of their chocolate peanut butter or their sea salt caramel, two of our favorites.
Somewhere In Time GazeboSomewhere In Time Gazebo
We're film buffs... so no trip to Mackinac would be complete without a viewing of the romantic classic, "Somewhere In Time," starring a quite dashing Christopher Reeve and the always mesmerizing Jane Seymour (Madison was *raised* on Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman - for better or for worse). The film was shot almost entirely on island and the gazebo (a pivotal setting!) draws tourists to its steps every year. Check it out and make your own Hollywood moment!
Fort MackinacFort Mackinac
With one of the absolute best views on the Island, Fort Mackinac is an amazing stop for history buffs and more casual explorers. The history of Mackinac Island is as strange and eclectic as one might imagine and this is a great location to learn more. If you have the time, be sure and stop by their Tea Room for a quick bite with a view!
The Grand HotelThe Grand Hotel
You can’t visit Mackinac without stopping by The Grand Hotel - it’s basically the island’s crown jewel. Even if you’re not staying there, grab a day pass, wander the gardens, and make your way to the world’s longest front porch - 660 feet of white-railed perfection lined with rocking chairs (one of our favorite things!) overlooking the Straits. Order a drink, sink into a chair, and just be for a while. Between the view, the breeze, and the quiet hum of history, it’s pure magic - the kind of place you end up staying longer than you meant to.
