10 Things to do on Mackinac Island with kids
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Summer is the perfect time for exploring, and don’t know about you but I’m always up for a road trip. There are many spots to see in the Midwest, but you’ll be challenged for any as unique as Mackinac Island.
What is Mackinac Island?
Mackinac Island is a charming and picturesque island located in Lake Huron, Michigan, between the Upper and Lower Peninsulas. Known for its natural beauty, historic landmarks, and family-friendly activities, Mackinac Island truly offers something for the entire family. One of the most unique things about the island is… there are no motorized vehicles allowed! Visitors are ferried in by boat from nearby Mackinac City, and should be prepared to walk, take a bike ride, or grab one of the horse-drawn carriages to get around.
The island is also home to a variety of local small inns, boutiques, restaurants, and candy shops and was recently voted a #1 favorite Summer destination by USA Today’s 10Best Reader’s Choice Awards.
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What are ways to enjoy Mackinac Island with kids?
1. Explore the natural beauty
Hike more than 70 miles of trails
Take a ride around the perimeter of the island - bike rentals are available, including bike trailers for little kids!
Enjoy the views from Arch Rock, a limestone landmark with beautiful views of Lake Huron
Go horseback riding and tour the island on a self or guided tour
2. Try the fudge
One of the best things about Mackinac Island is that it's the Fudge Capital of the World and home to 13 fudge shops. Many showoff their fudge-making skills from the store’s front window, making this an easy activity for kids! We loved Ryba’s Fudge Shops.
3. Visit historic sites
Fort Mackinac is an excellent place to explore with the whole family: Built in 1780, it served as a British outpost during the Revolutionary War. (We loved the cannon firing demonstration.)
Mackinac Island is also home to the stunning Grand Hotel (IYKYK) which dates back to 1887 - presidents Theodore Roosevelt and Franklin D Roosevelt and stars like Marilyn Monroe have stayed, and two Hollywood movies were filmed here. Take a self-guided tour, stop in the Awards room dedicated to the owner’s dogs, or enjoy time on the porch facing Mackinac Bridge. Bonus: The in-house ice cream shop is one of our favorite things!
4. Shop around town
Mackinac Island is known for its shopping, and there are plenty of different places to find unique items from souvenirs to toys and jewelry. We loved:
5. Attend Island events
Lilac Festival
Fourth of July fireworks
Mackinac Island Music Festival
Mackinac Island Community Band Concerts
6. Visit the Wings of Mackinac butterfly conservatory
One of our favorite stops! Open May-October, Wings of Mackinac visitors and kids see up to 300 species each season. Learn about their life cycle, care, and watch as they float above.
7. Enjoy the modes of transportation
Because Mackinac is a car-free Island, there are many other ways to explore with kids:
Have fun with the mandatory ferry ride in: Departures to the Island are from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace. Bonus: Shepler’s Ferry offers complimentary rides under the Mackinac Bridge - worth the extra 10 minutes!
Ride the island on horse and buggy: It’s a great way to see everything, especially for kids who can enjoy scenery from an open-air carriage, and take part in guided tours.
Rent bikes: Where you don’t see horses on the streets, you’ll see bikes and rentals are everywhere.
Walk! Mackinac Island is a great place to get steps in, on your own or on a walking tour. Pro tip: Bring strollers or wagons for littles.
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8. Visit Mackinac Island State Park
Mackinac Island State Park is one of the most popular destinations on Mackinac Island. It offers several different activities:
Hiking trails through wooded areas and along Lake Huron's shoreline
Guided tours of historic buildings like Fort Mackinac and the Mission Church
Views of Lake Huron from one of the many overlooks
Primes spots to enjoy a picnic lunch
9. Discover the Secret Garden of the Grand Hotel
The Grand Hotel’s Secret Garden includes a side dedicated to perennials, and a side planted with seasonal bulbs. Bonus: A mini golf course is also nearby.
10. Take your time
One of the most magical parts of Mackinac Island with kids is… its timeless feel. Stroll the streets, people-watch, see the boats come in to the marina. Whatever you choose to do with your kids on Mackinac Island, it will be an unique experience for them, and I know they’ll have a great time!
