mackinac island carriage tours tours reviews

Mackinac Island Carriage Tours

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Mackinac Island Carriage Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Mackinac Island Carriage Tours

Review Highlights

“ The tour took you from the visitor center to the Grand Hotel, then up into the state forest, and finally back down next to Fort Mackinac . ” in 8 reviews

“ Our second part was with Jeff and the "Waffles" and he was so informative and had some great off the cuff jokes and folklore!! ” in 7 reviews

“ Eventually this two-horse drawn carriage reaches the Carriage Museum where everyone gets out. ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

7278 Main St

Mackinac Island, MI 49757

You Might Also Consider

Get There Transportation

We're more than just a transportation service, we're your ride to adventure! Serving northern Michigan, including Cheboygan, Pellston, Mackinaw City, and Indian River. #NorthernMichigan #Rideshare #AdventureAwaits… read more

in Town Car Service

Ask the Community

Ask a question

Yelp users haven’t asked any questions yet about Mackinac Island Carriage Tours .

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

105 reviews

You do a terrible job at taking care of your horses. They are overworked, exhausted and have sores were their harnesses are. You should be ashamed of yourselves. You need to do better!

Hadn't been to the island in 20+ years and we had never done the carriage tour. Best decision. It was a great tour. One hour and 45 minute tour. Our guide was very knowledgeable and made the tour fun. It was great to get away from the crowd and enjoy the park.

What, you're even questioning getting a ride on the local bus service? The Mackinac Island carriage tours are practically impossible to miss. Step off the boat and see a carriage or a team of lovely Belgians and Clydesdales (well, just the two)? Follow the stream of traffic to the big forest-green pergola of sorts tucked on the main street where tourists eagerly dole out cards and cash for a chance to ride on a narrated tour around the island. Really, there's no better way to go short of pedal power, and it's particularly enchanting near dusk or on a quiet, drizzly day when the clop of hooves and swish of equine tails lulls away all the cares of city life. Or you get a mirthful jester of a driver like we did, a Mackinac native proud to admit she was one of a graduating class of five. She dwells there year-round, sometimes daydreaming of the excitement of living in the big city (apparently "big" means Grayling or Gaylord). Nonetheless, half the experience of trotting your way through the 'town' and up into the State Park area derives from the drivers and their delightful anecdotes. Don't get me wrong, the spectacular views of Arch Rock and the picturesque charms around Fort Mackinac deserve all those postcard selfies we snap. But wouldn't you love to hear about the graduating class of 2011 or 2012 where two of the four people were twins, and thus prom was a headache? Or how about the siblings who graduated together as the top and bottom of the class? Well, there were only two at the local high school. It's intriguing to hear about the winter experience while luxuriating in the covered carriage or basking in the pine forest. You get your money's worth out of the tour, to be sure. Average cost is about $20 per person, kids cheaper, and you'll have about an hour and some of narrated tours clopping around the paved part of the island, deep into the park, and back down towards the hotel. It's an iconic experience for anyone and naturally, I recommend doing it. Understandably the tours are popular. You absolutely want to get in line as early as you can. PRO TIP: If you're staying on the island, see if your lodgings can arrange a tour time for you in the morning for whatever your preferred hour is. BUDGET TIP: See if you can score discount tickets online and/or coupons from local lodgings and websites. I've occasionally seen package deals including a trip on the ferry.

Great way to see the island without biking yourself. Our tour guides were very informative and seemed to enjoy what they were doing. Tour takes just under 2 hours. You get to go through the state park and see parts many tourists don't see due to them never leaving the downtown area. My only complaint is you are crammed 4 wide into the carriage the first part of the tour. We were squished, and none of us in our row were larger than average. Have to cozy up to a random stranger next to you. The second part offers much more comfortable spacing.

We took the tour because we wanted to see the most places of interest. The first part of the tour was really great. They took us by the different places of interest finally coming to Surrey Hill where the 2nd half of the tour took you through the state park. That's where the tour fell short. We spent an hour to see the Arch rock and get to Fort Mackinaw which was an extra 12.00 per person to tour. I would not recommend this to anyone unless you want to spend an hour looking at trees.

See all photos from J M. for Mackinac Island Carriage Tours

When getting off ferry and get to the road. (You will see lots of carriages) turn right. Go straight to the end of the souvenir shops and there are private carriages below the fort. TAKE THESE PRIVATE CARRIAGES! The island was beautiful but most of this carriage tour is waiting on the side of the roadway. Not really sure if we were ahead of scheduled time to be at a specific spot or what. Then we arrived at a station to be unloaded, sent to another line (ice cream, fudge, and other stores to pass through) to take another carriage (three horse team) through the park. The first short stop, and I mean REALLY short stop, was at the arch. I think it was 5 minutes, no kidding. I had a boot on my foot so I walked to the arch, made a picture, and walked back to carriage. Next stop was the fort (add $13 ticket price for viewing). We go about a block and carriage stops again. Driver says you can walk to town in 3-5 minutes from this point or go back to mid-station and catch another carriage back to town. Second option would take an additional 30 minutes of mostly standing in line or sitting in a carriage waiting for? Was definitely not worth the price.

The beautiful arch overlooking Lake Heron.

Despite the sign at the top of the road that says carriages are not allowed, AND, despite my son's bike being parked in the designated parking space along the Lake View Hotel, one of the MI Carriages ran over my son's bike, bending the wheels and frame. When I talked with MI Carriages, the manager was condescending, rude and in disbelief that this had anything to do with their carriages. Nevermind that we witnessed another of their carriages doing the exact same thing to another bike the next day! We have been told by our bike shop that the bike is beyond repair and is not safe to use and have to buy a new bike with no restitution or care from MI Carriages. I wouldn't spend a cent with them and hope no one else does, too. They need to learn a little something about customer service. Thanks for ruining our vacation.

We always like to take the time to use the services of the locals for a carriage ride and this trip was just as good. Our driver picked us up at park in front of Fort and it was a large carriage. I asked if we could pick up any other people and no trouble was the answer. We came around a corner and picked up 2 persons and asked with they wanted a ride. We told them just pay the tip and we covered the carriage costs. We enjoyed the trip around the Island and saw things you do not see on main street. We will continue to use these as long as we go back again and again. You will hear some of the same things but always get more info about the Island and visitors too.

I called the taxi service at 9:30 pm for a ride from The Grand Hotel. I was told it would be a 45-minute wait. Ooh. That's pretty lengthy for an island that's only 8.5 miles. But, I guess when you're the only taxi in town, you can make your own rules. I waited 45 minutes and saw many empty taxis pass. I called back after an hour wait and was told it would be 10 more minutes. When I called back again, I was told, "I sent him 20 minutes ago, and it takes 20 minutes so he should be there." So ... was it 10 or 20? I was also told to look for a blue and yellow taxi, #7. Alas! A blue and yellow carriage arrived, an hour and 20 minutes after my initial call! Hurray! Sadly, this driver informed us that although he was indeed #7, he wasn't taking anyone. When I called the dispatch AGAIN, she informed me that the red and yellow taxi that was pulling up was mine, didn't I see it? Was I waiting in the right spot? Yes. I was. I literally heard her send him to us at the last minute. No apology. No admission that she had messed up again. She just acted like this completely new carriage was the one we should have been on, and it was our fault (right after she tells said carriage to stop for us). The driver was friendly, quick and caring (as he took on more passengers on the way who had also been screwed by the dispatch -- this time a family with young children stranded at the dock). But the dispatch was an absolute disaster -- inaccurate ETAs, full of excuses and fibs (to put it generously) and poor attitude. Next time, I'll walk, even if I'm in heels (as I was tonight). It's not worth the time, frustration and feeling like I'm being ripped off. Must be awesome having a monopoly!

Jake was awesome! Funny, intelligent and shared some great historical and personal stuff! Recommended Horns pub, went there for dinner and their he was! Thanks Jake!

14 other reviews that are not currently recommended

Collections Including Mackinac Island Carriage Tours

Mackinac Island Recommendations

By Aiden S.

Future Trip - Mackinac Island, MI

By Elyse A.

Mackinac Island

By Katie U.

People Also Viewed

Haunts of Mackinac

Ugly Anne Boat Tours

Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry

Arrowhead Carriages

Mackinaw Parasailing & Jet Boat Adventures

Mackinaw Shuttle

Grand Hotel Stables

Mystery Spot

Best of Mackinac Island

Things to do in Mackinac Island

People found Mackinac Island Carriage Tours by searching for…

Horse Carriage Tours Mackinac Island

Best Horse Tour in Mackinac Island

Horse Carriage Ride in Mackinac Island

Things To See in Mackinac Island

Browse Nearby

Things to Do

Other Transportation Nearby

Find more Transportation near Mackinac Island Carriage Tours

Related Cost Guides

Town Car Service

Mackinac Island Carriage Tours

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

MACKINAC ISLAND CARRIAGE TOURS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Mackinac Island Carriage Tours

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

MACKINAC ISLAND CARRIAGE TOURS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Home / Do / Carriage Tours

Carriage Tours

The official tour of Mackinac State Park, offering narrated tours through downtown to Surrey Hills, Arch Rock, and Fort Mackinac. Carriage tours depart regularly from the office across from the Mackinac Island Ferry Dock 1.

• Phone: 906-847-3307
• Website: https://www.mict.com/carriage-tours/
• 7278 Main Street, Mackinac Island, MI 49757

VIEW MORE ACTIVITY OPTIONS

Explore by Boat

Explore by Foot

For a Rainy Day

All Things Horses

Fudge Making

All Things Bikes

Spa & Massage

Walking Tours

Explore by Air

About our island.

The jewel of the Great Lakes. Enjoy beautiful vistas, shopping, and carriage rides during the day, and watch the city transform at night with its happening music and bar scene. Mackinac Island has something for everyone.

Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau 7274 Main Street Mackinac Island, MI 49757 (906) 847-3783 www.mackinacisland.org

Member Resources Job Portal

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER

Sign up for our eNewsletter that details seasonal specials and all the latest updates from your favorite Island.

• Address * ZIP / Postal Code

FOR MORE INFO

Call (906) 847-3783, connect with us.

• Privacy Policy

Mackinac Island Carriage Tours

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Mackinac Island Carriage Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

PRIVATE TOURS

Discover mackinac island your way. you choose the path..

Enjoy a private tour aboard one of our livery carriages. Your knowledgeable driver can customize the tour just for you, and take you to areas undiscovered on our public tour. The livery carriages will seat up to 8 persons and are rented by the hour with a one hour minimum.

Private livery carriages may be reserved for longer than one hour, in half hour increments, pro-rated at the hourly rate.

Rates (per hour)

• 1 - 4 People $210/hour ($315/1.5 hours)
• 5 People $262.50/hour ($393.75/1.5 hours)
• 6 People $315/hour ($472.50/1.5 hours)
• 7 People $367.50/hour ($551.25 /1.5 hours)
• 8 People $420/hour ($630/1.5 hours)

Reservations

Private Livery reservations are taken on the same day only. Please call our Carriage Tours Ticket Office at (906) 847-3325 between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM daily and ask for the Private Livery department in order to make a reservation.

For special events requiring private carriages for groups, please call our business office at (906) 847-3307 to make advance reservations.

*A one hour minimum rental is required.

Reservations: (906) 847-3325

• Phone: (906) 847-3307 (business office)
• TAXI Office: (906) 847-3323
• Fax: (906) 847-6482
• Email: [email protected]
• Private Tours
• Taxi Service
• Accessibility
• Privacy Policy
• User Agreement

• 8 Stops Off the Beaten Path on Mackinac Island

By Delaney Krause

Just 8.2 miles in diameter, Mackinac Island offers visitors a step back in time with its Victorian charm and preserved natural beauty. Most Michiganders are familiar with the Island’s unique no cars allowed policy, its breathtaking trails, and the famous front porch at The Grand Hotel, but this hardly scratches the surface of its rich history and extensive catalog of activities.

The typical Mackinac Island tourist may find themselves taking the official carriage tour, shopping in the adorable boutiques on Main St, eating at the Pink Pony, or buying a year’s supply of fudge; but Mackinac Island offers countless activities that are lesser known, and that cover a broad age range as well as range of interests.

Mackinac Island Butterfly Houses

The Original Butterfly House & Insect World. Photo by Delaney Krause.

There are two butterfly conservatories on Mackinac Island: The Original Butterfly House & Insect World, located closer to Main St, and Wings of Mackinac, located at Surrey Hill (up past the Grand Hotel). Each offers an incredible up close and personal experience with these ethereal creatures. Upon purchasing a ticket, patrons are escorted behind curtains into an explosion of vibrant colors and fleeting butterflies. Be warned, the butterflies are not afraid to take a rest on visitors’ shoulders, or noses! Guests are allowed to spend as much time as they’d like in the conservatory, and there’s plenty more than butterflies to explore.

The Original Butterfly House & Insect World is $8 for children, and $13 for adults, and Wings of Mackinac is $9 for children, and $14 for adults. Additionally, there is a combination ticket option for the official carriage tour that grants admittance to Wings of Mackinac. Visit the carriage tour website for more information on these packages.

https://www.mict.com/carriage-tours/

Surrey Hill Carriage Museum

The Surrey Hill Carriage Museum is a remarkable time capsule of Mackinac Island’s unique history of transportation. It is another stop on the official carriage tour, and it does not receive enough praise. The museum garners a collection of carriages and sleighs that have been donated by (mostly) local families throughout the years. Each carriage boasts its own informational plaque detailing its lineage, usage, and unique characteristics.

Admission to the museum is free, and it is located in very close proximity to Wings of Mackinac as well as a working blacksmith shop. To get to the museum, it is about a mile walk from Main St (with a slight incline); if the walk does not sound appealing, the official carriage tour’s first stop is Surrey Hill, or visitors can call a horse drawn taxi.

The Grand Hotel’s “Secret Garden”

In recent years, the Grand Hotel’s “Secret Garden” has been increasingly popularized by social media. Although its secretive qualities have dwindled, it remains a pillar of the Island’s beauty and fantastical ambience. It is tucked inconspicuously in front of the Grand Hotel between tennis courts and what appears to be a heavily wooded area. Behind a line of pine trees lies a narrow path that ushers visitors into a breathtaking display of botany. It is the perfect photo-op, and a fun adventure. The only cost of the Secret Garden is finding it– good luck!

Hint #1 for Secret Garden (the tennis courts are just left of the path). Photo by Delaney Krause.

Hint #2 for Secret Garden (look right). Photo by Delaney Krause.

The Secret Garden! Photo by Delaney Krause.

Watercolor Cafe Art Classes

Watercolor Cafe is a unique and versatile business. It is situated right on the water, garnering serene views of the Straits of Mackinac and the Mackinac Island State Harbor. During the day, the cafe offers a walk-up, short-order experience serving breakfast, lunch, homemade baked goods, and delicious coffee. Tables are on a first come basis, but the cafe offers both outdoor and indoor seating as well as a dog friendly patio. Whilst sipping your coffee and enjoying a break from the hustle and bustle of Main St., the cafe also offers coloring sheets and supplies– the perfect brain break for kids and adults!

After the cafe closes its doors for food service at 3:00pm, it becomes its very own art studio. In the late afternoon/evening, the cafe offers novice art classes for both children and adults. Each class is designed around a specific medium and concept, and in the end, guests walk away with a lovely homemade memento from the Island. Some of the classes being offered are watercolor painting and creating polymer jewelry.

Patrons are allowed to bring their own food and drinks to the cafe, and alcoholic beverages are permitted as long as the guest is of age. Tickets for classes can be purchased online– prices vary based on which class is selected; for children, the starting price is $15, and for adults, it is $48. (https://www.watercolormackinac.com/art-classes)

The Watercolor Cafe. Photo by Delaney Krause.

Sip n’ Sail Cruises

For an evening activity, and an opportunity to appreciate the Mighty Mac during golden hour, try one of Mackinac’s Sip n’ Sail Cruises. The cruise comprises an hour and a half journey through the Straits of Mackinac with live music and drinks for purchase– personal food and beverages are prohibited. Setting sail at 8:00pm (earlier on Sundays) from the Coal Dock, the Sip n’ Sail cruise is perfect for date night, girls’ night, or just to enjoy time with loved ones. There is no age restriction, and the cost is $55 for both children and adults. https://www.sipnsailcruises.com/

Haunts of Mackinac– The Downtown Haunted History Tour

Mackinac’s rich and extensive history is unsurprisingly accompanied by its fair share of ghost lore. The Haunted History Tour is a unique way to immerse oneself with the Island’s lesser known and spookier sides of history. In the tour, a personal guide takes patrons on a 90-minute journey through historic downtown Mackinac highlighting homes and areas that boast supernatural characteristics and stories. This is another family-friendly nighttime activity that paints visitors a unique picture of Mackinac’s comprehensive past. Tickets can be reserved online ( http://hauntsofmackinac.com/ )– an adult ticket costs $25, and a youth ticket (age range 8-12) costs $15; children under 7 get in free, and guests under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

Go dancing at The Grand Hotel and visit the Cupola Bar

The Terrace Room. Photo by Delaney Krause.

Non-guests of the Grand Hotel must pay admittance between 9:00am and 6:00pm: $10 for adults and $5 for children. If the admittance fee is a deterrent, visiting the Grand in the evening may be more appealing. Each night from 9:30-11:00pm, The Grand Hotel’s Terrace Room comes to life with live music and ballroom dancing. The Grand Hotel likes to keep it classy, and enforces a formal dress code after 6:00pm– no crop tops, sweatpants, or cut-off shorts. So, put on a fancy dress or a nice jacket and tie, and enter through the main hotel door; the Terrace Room should be just up ahead welcoming a night of drinks, dancing, and cultural nostalgia.

For an extra bit of adventure, take the elevator to the fourth floor and follow the stairs up to the Cupola Bar. There are two levels of seating, and the top garners wall-to-wall windows (pictured below) and an amazing view of the Mackinac Bridge. The Cupola Bar also provides live music, a comprehensive cocktail menu, and some light food options—the perfect pre- or post-dancing destination.  

The Cupola Bar. Photo by Delaney Krause.

Music in the Park at Marquette Park

Marquette Park lies just at the foot of Fort Mackinac and overlooks the Straits. It is an expansive park that offers an ideal spot for picnicking, relaxing between activities, and during mid-June when they are at their peak, taking in the sweet scent of lilacs. Thanks to the Mackinac Arts Council, Marquette Park is also the perfect spot to enjoy free live music every Thursday evening starting at 6:30 pm. The park is situated just past the Island’s only grocery store, Doud’s Market, so stop in, grab some drinks and snacks, and enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by history and good vibes. Don’t forget to pack a blanket or some lawn chairs!

Marquette Park (left) pictured from Fort Mackinac. Photo by Delaney Krause.

Whether you are a nature lover, foodie, history buff, adventurist, scholar, art lover or just looking for a fun family weekend, Mackinac Island will tick off every box. Its diverse activities and unique charm are memorable and enjoyable for all ages. Upon visiting, consider this list of less traditional activities, but do not dismiss the more well-known ones: the official carriage tour, watching fudge being made (and of course tasting it), visiting the Fort, and renting bikes to name a few. Finally, don’t forget comfortable walking shoes!

• Harvest Chocolate May 22, 2024
• Freedom Winery Opens at Alber Orchard May 23, 2024
• Tecumseh Tavern May 16, 2024
• Hopscotch Kids May 16, 2024
• British Tea Garden Café May 20, 2024
• At 200, Tecumseh is Looking Better Than Ever May 23, 2024

Stay on top of local news by subscribing to our daily newsletter

Opa! It’s Ann Arbor’s Ya’ssoo Greek Festival time–June 7, 8, 9!

Weekly road work schedule, may 27 – june 2.

• Author Profile
• Posts by the Author

CDL Celebrates at Annual Music in the Air event

Chelsea senior center’s intergenerational enrichment programs.

• Chelsea Soccer Club Wins the Cherry Capital Cup
• Scio Twp: PC Public Hearing for Conditional Use Permit for 648 S Wagner 6-10-24

The Sun Times News connects you to the heart of Chelsea, Dexter, Saline, and Milan with in-depth local news. From community events and sports highlights to vital civic updates and local business stories, we are your trusted guide, enriching your daily life with news that truly resonates with your local experience.

Related Posts

Chelsea names new b2b trailhead in honor of fallen hero, dexter high school: introducing woodshop and construction to a new generation, freedom winery opens at alber orchard, brian marl kicks off reelection campaign for saline mayor, at 200, tecumseh is looking better than ever, illuminate dance and arts center, a new place to park at webster township hall, chelsea’s south meadows elementary school has a new principal.

Useful Links

• Support Local News
• Advertise With Us
• Privacy Policy

Cookie Disclaimer: “We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalized ads or content, and analyze our traffic. By using this website, you consent to our use of cookies.” Accept

Keep me signed in until I sign out

Forgot your password?

Do not have an account ? Register here

A new password will be emailed to you.

Have received a new password? Login here

Have an account? Login here

Adblock Detected

Mackinac Island in Michigan named No. 1 ‘Best Summer Travel Destination' by USA Today

It's the second year in a row the "car-free" island has won the award, by francie swidler • published may 23, 2024 • updated on may 23, 2024 at 1:37 pm.

The No. 1 best summer travel destination is in the Midwest, according to a new list.

Mackinac Island , in Lake Huron, between Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsula has been voted the "No. 1 Best Summer Travel Destination" in USA Today's "10Best" Readers' Choice awards for 2024.

Watch NBC Chicago local news and weather for free whenever and wherever

According to editors, the list was curated by an "expert panel" that selected their "must-see places for a summer vacation."

After that, readers voted on their favorites to determine the top 10 winners.

"Between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, you’ll find Mackinac Island, where you’ll ride on horse-drawn carriages along car-free roads, observe fudge being made (and then sample it), and tour the historic Fort Mackinac," the Island's No. 1 entry reads. "This Lake Huron-based continental island is also home to Mackinac Island State Park, where you can hike, bike, kayak, and take photos of the local natural beauty, including the stunning limestone Arch Rock."

According to a spokesperson, it's the second year in a row the destination has earned the top spot.

“Earning this top honor for the second year in a row demonstrates just how special of a place Mackinac Island is to many people,” Mackinac Island Mayor Margaret Doud said in a statement. “I want to thank our island community for their unwavering commitment in creating unforgettable experiences for our guests and extend my gratitude to the all the individuals near and far who voted for Mackinac Island.”  

NASCAR Street Race Experience opens Friday at Chicago History Museum

The Food Guy: Spilt Milk Pastry

The Island has also won previous USA TODAY 10Best awards, including landing the No. 3 spot on the list's Best Fall Travel Destinations for 2023.

One other midwestern destination also made the summer list for 2024: Door County, in Wisconsin , came in at No. 7.

Feeling out of the loop? We'll catch you up on the Chicago news you need to know. Sign up for the weekly Chicago Catch-Up newsletter here.

"It's hard to beat Wisconsin’s Door County, home to 300 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan and every water sport you can imagine," the entry for Door County reads. "Paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, water skiing, and even scuba diving around shipwrecks are all among the aquatic activities available throughout this Midwestern destination."

The full list of 10 locations can be found here .

This article tagged under:

• Grand Rapids/Muskegon
• Saginaw/Bay City
• All Michigan

Mackinac Island voted Best Summer Travel Destination in US second year in a row

• Published: May. 22, 2024, 12:18 p.m.

A view of Mackinac Island from the water. Photo provided by the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau. Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau

• Tanda Gmiter | [email protected]

MACKINAC ISLAND, MI - Michigan’s famous vacation spot is putting its crown back on, having scooped up accolades as the No. 1 Best Summer Travel Destination for the second year in a row.

The back-to-back honors come courtesy of voters in the 2024 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice travel awards contest.

“We are so incredibly proud Mackinac Island has earned the title of the No. 1 best summer travel destination for the second year in a row,” said Tim Hygh, executive director of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau. “We are immensely grateful for our island community for casting their votes and to the travel experts and readers at USA Today 10Best for recognizing the island once again. We look forward to welcoming guests to come experience all the charm the island has to offer this summer.”

There are 13 fudge shops on Mackinac Island, so a sweet treat is never far away. Photo provided by the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau.

The island is known as much for its busy downtown filled with shops, fudge stops and restaurants as it is the beautiful bike and hiking trails that crisscross the forested interior. During the summer, more than 500 horses are pulling cargo and people on this island that bans most motor vehicles. Fudge is its signature candy, with more than a dozen shops dotting Main Street.

This year, there are lots of new things to see and do on the island. You can see the rundown of all of them here.

Other winners in this year’s 10Best Summer Travel Destination category include Ocean City, New Jersey; Catalina Island in California; Door County, Wisconsin and Florida’s Space Coast.

“Earning this top honor for the second year in a row demonstrates just how special of a place Mackinac Island is to many people,” said Mackinac Island Mayor Margaret Doud. “I want to thank our island community for their unwavering commitment in creating unforgettable experiences for our guests and extend my gratitude to the all the individuals near and far who voted for Mackinac Island.”

More than 250 varieties of lilacs bloom on Mackinac Island. Photo courtesy of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau.

What the USA Today 10Best editors said about Mackinac Island’s repeat win: “Between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, you’ll find Mackinac Island, where you’ll ride on horse-drawn carriages along car-free roads, observe fudge being made (and then sample it), and tour the historic Fort Mackinac. This Lake Huron-based continental island is also home to Mackinac Island State Park, where you can hike, bike, kayak, and take photos of the local natural beauty, including the stunning limestone Arch Rock.”

Todd Callewaert, president of Island House Hotel and Mackinac Island Convention & Visitors Bureau, said the latest win is a testament to the island’s timeless charm. Visitors come for the breathtaking scenery and remember Mackinac’s special brand of hospitality.

“This recognition celebrates the hard work of our community, the warm spirit of our hospitality, and the memorable experiences we provide to guests from near and far. We look forward to continuing to enchant and delight travelers for generations to come.”

USA Today has numerous 10Best lists, which are first nominated by a panel of experts made up of editors from both USA Today and 10Best.com . The Top 10 is then determined by a public vote. Here is everything in Michigan ranked in USA Today’s 10Best for 2024 so far:

• Campus Martius Park in Detroit - No. 1 Public Square in the U.S.
• Detroit Institute of Arts - No. 1 Art Museum in the U.S.
• Grand Rapids - No. 1 Best Beer City in the U.S.
• Frederik Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids - No. 1 Sculpture Park in the U.S.
• Ludington, Michigan - No. 1 Historic Small Town in the U.S.
• Howell - No. 1 Main Street in the U.S.
• Hop Lot Brewing Co. in Suttons Bay - No. 2 Beer Garden in the U.S.
• Saugatuck - No. 2 Coastal Small Town in the U.S.
• Mackinac’s Lilac Festival, Holland’s Tulip Time - No. 2 & No. 3 Flower Festival in the U.S.
• Michigan Science Center in Detroit - No. 3 Science Center in the U.S.
• Petoskey and Traverse City - No. 4 & No. 8 Small Towns in the U.S.
• Detroit’s Street Art - No. 5 Street Art Scene in the U.S.
• Electric Forest - No. 6 Music Festival in the U.S.
• Bell’s Brewery in Comstock - No. 6 Best Brewery Tour in the U.S.
• Traverse City - No. 8 Best Small Town Food Scene

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Mackinac Island Carriage Tours

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Mackinac Island Carriage Tours - All You MUST Know Before You Go (2024)

Examine families when deciding how to grow Michigan's population

When the number of jobs grows, the population grows.

This article originally appeared in the Detroit News May 14, 2024. 

My family moved to Michigan almost 12 years ago.

Three months in, my wife and I were driving together. “This feels like … home,” she said.

We moved here with no previous connection to Michigan. In 12 years, we’ve discovered so much to love.

Even with our pre-baked football allegiances, we learned to root for the Lions. I was at Ford Field when Calvin Johnson broke Jerry Rice’s single-season receiving yards record. We are now maniacal hockey fans, cheering on the Saginaw Spirit.

We can recommend restaurants across the state: Legs Inn in Cross Village, Raven Café in Port Huron, Mudgie’s Deli in Detroit, Littlebird in Grand Rapids and Pasong’s Café in Saginaw.

We explored the aged grandeur of Belle Isle. The Detroit Institute of Art moved us. My kids joined a children’s business fair at the Detroit Historical Museum. We rode a Model T at Greenfield Village.

People complain about Michigan roads. We’ve gotten our use out of them. Two of my children drove the Tunnel of Trees while accumulating hours for their driving permits. We traversed the major bridges of Michigan: Ambassador, Blue Water, Mackinac.

We encounter Mackinac Island with childlike delight every visit. We bike the perimeter counterclockwise and stop at the Cannonball Oasis for ice cream. We have a favorite table at the Pink Pony, out on the waterfront deck.

In our family you don’t pass by a used bookstore. Finding John K. King Books in Detroit was a reverential experience. We’ve browsed there and at Falling Rock Bookstore in Munising and many bookstores in between.

Even the people buried in Michigan offer stories. The Russell Kirk Center in Mecosta honors the renowned author. When our children studied abolition, we found Sojourner Truth’s grave in Battle Creek. Son House was an early blues performer, and he rests in Mt. Hazel, just off 7 Mile.

Standing against the wind at Sleeping Bear Dunes. Taking photos of the lighthouses on Lake Michigan. Posing in airplanes at the Air Zoo in Portage. Kayaking around Turnip Rock. Riding the glass-bottom boat tour at Pictured Rocks. Skiing at Caberfae. Hunting for the petroglyphs in the Thumb. Skipping rocks at Copper Harbor. Learning to pronounce “Tahquamenon.”

My three children were not born here. But they all say they’re from Michigan.

We love Michigan.

And yet, that’s not why we moved here. We moved here because of a job offer. All the rest — the people and places we love — were benefits, not drivers, of our decision.

There’s a lot of talk in Lansing about population growth. The latest government commission offers a grab bag of ideas to coax people here. The commission calls for taxpayer-funded child and elder care, free college, down payment incentives, business subsidies, a 13th year of schooling, more mass transit, more neighborhood sidewalks and more parks. Few of these ideas have anything to do with population growth, and policies based on them have failed to drive growth in Michigan or other states.

Hannah Kling, an economist and Mackinac Center scholar, wrote a comprehensive review of the economic research about state population growth. She asked, “Why do some states grow faster than others?” Kling analyzed about 100 peer-reviewed studies and articles to find the answer. The takeaway is simple: States that experience job growth will see population growth as well.

Perhaps policymakers are overthinking the problem.

Instead, they should examine how families actually make decisions about where to live and work.

Permission to reprint this blog post in whole or in part is hereby granted, provided that the author (or authors) and the Mackinac Center for Public Policy are properly cited.

Stay Engaged

Get insightful commentary and the most reliable research on Michigan issues sent straight to your inbox.

Related Articles

If you seek a pleasant peninsula, U-Haul will take you to Florida

Michael D. LaFaive | February 26, 2024

Whatever became of Michigan’s population council?

Michael Van Beek | March 28, 2024

The Mackinac Center for Public Policy is a nonprofit research and educational institute that advances the principles of free markets and limited government. Through our research and education programs, we challenge government overreach and advocate for a free-market approach to public policy that frees people to realize their potential and dreams.

Please consider contributing to our work to advance a freer and more prosperous state.

Donate | About | Blog | Pressroom | Publications | Careers | Site Map | Email Signup | Contact

(989) 631-0900 | 140 W. Main Street Midland, MI 48640 P.O. Box 568 | [email protected] | © 2024 Mackinac Center for Public Policy