Rustic brick towers impale the sky.
Countless ferries sail along the harbor and out to sea. The stench of horse manure fills the nostrils of every street corner. It's summertime on Mackinac Island, and there is so much to do.
1. Indulge In History At Fort Mackinac.
The sight of this historical fort cannot be missed. For $13, the museum offers everyone a series of reenactments that are fun to watch, including canons and firearms. Fort Mackinac is jam-packed with history, not to mention a tremendous view of the island.
2. Venture Through The Grand Hotel.
$10 allows you to walk through one of Mackinac's most world-renowned hotels. Visitors are able to step through the lobby as well as the restaurants that resign there. In addition, you will be allowed access to the front porch and the beautiful gardens that lie just below it. It's a hike to get to, but it is worth a look.
3. Walk Through The Stuart House City Museum.
For a small donation, you can walk through a historical household that was once the center of fur trading in the Great Lakes region. The bedrooms display how the house would have looked like back in the 19th century. Filled with dioramas and artifacts that display the evolution of Mackinac Island, the museum is quite an interesting experience.
4. Take A Tour Of The Island Via A Horse-Drawn Carriage.
The clip-clop sound of horses trotting down the street is quite familiar on Mackinac Island. In just under two hours, a carriage tour allows you to take a journey across the island where you may not normally see. The trip offers quite a unique experience as you stop by the Butterfly House, Arch Rock, and the Grand Hotel.
5. Rent Your Own Horse.
If you're an expert rider and prefer something other than a bike, there's an option for you. There is a service that allows you to rent your own horse to ride around the island. The horses cost $45 an hour, and it is recommended for experienced riders.
6. Bike Down M-185.
Fun fact: M-185 is the only road in America where motor vehicles are not allowed. The road measures 8.2 miles around the island, and many people rent bikes for an hourly rate to complete the track. Can't ride a two-wheeler? No problem. There are tricycles are also available for rent. As a matter of fact, M-185 contains a variety of geographical attractions, including Arch Rock, Devil's Kitchen, and a breathtaking view of Lake Huron.
7. Climb The Steps To Arch Rock.
Prepare to hike up 207 steps to see one of Mackinac's greatest geographical creations. To be honest, it's nothing like the pictures.
8. Take A Look At Devil's Kitchen.
Another display of nature's creations can be found down M-185. It's a wonder why the rocky structure is called Devil's Kitchen.
9. Walk Along British Landing.
British Landing is a rocky type of beach that includes a canon that aims for the sea. This stretch of land is a perfect rest stop for those that bike around the island. There is a small shop nearby, and it connects to a road that ventures through the middle of the island.
10. Stop And Smell The Lilacs.
One of the most notable attributes about Mackinac Island is the abundance of lilacs. The floral aroma fills the streets, almost masking the stench of horse manure. Be sure to visit late spring or early summer. Those months are when lilacs bloom the best.
11. Look Beyond The Sea.
While the waves are crashing along the shores of the island. Don't forget to look along the horizon line between the sea and the sky. There, you might find a lighthouse, or even the Mackinac Bridge. It's a sight no one seems to forget. It's a calming activity that's just what you need on vacation.
12. Watch Out For Road Apples.
If it's wet in the middle of the street and it's not raining outside, you better find a way around it. Obviously, horses tend to leave their presents in the middle of the streets. Just keep aware of it, and no one will have to go home with soiled shoes.
13. Become A Nature Documentarian.
Photographers have a lot of fun capturing the life on the island. There are lots of opportunities to take pictures of the city life as well as the horticulture that resigns there. From historical architecture to the coastal shores, you can't go wrong taking a picture on a trip such as this.
14. Treat Yourself To Some Fudge.
What's a trip to Mackinac Island without indulging in some of their famous fudge? They're a delicious treat that everyone can enjoy. On the island, there are quite a few options. Murdick's, Joann's, Ryba's, and Sander's all offer a variety of flavors. So, come on in and take advantage of one of Mackinac's sweetest delicacies.
15. Read The Local Newspaper.
If you stop by the local market, why not pick up an unusual but interesting souvenir? You can find some insight regarding a typical life on Mackinac Island by purchasing a newspaper. Town Crier only cost $1 and can be found in many locations.
16. Visit Scenes From The Film "Somewhere In Time."
When you visit Mackinac Island, you'll most likely hear about the film that was shot there in the late 1970's. Starring Christopher Reeve and Jame Seymour, a playwright falls in love with a beautiful actress from the previous century. Soon, the playwright sacrifices his life in the present to find love in the past, on Mackinac Island, no doubt. Scenes and artifacts can be found at the Grand Hotel as well as along M-185.
17. Look At Beautiful Historical Mansions.
Around the island, you can't help but stop and look at the expensive homes that date back to the late 19th century. There are beautiful houses that cannot be ignored. Most are private property, but some can be rented as vacation houses.
18. Have A Beer At The Pink Pony.
Imagine a restaurant that's been raided by flamingo-colored stallions. You've found yourself at the Pink Pony, and it's the most intriguing bar you've ever stepped into. What better time to have a drink?
19. Stock Up On Shiny Pennies.
Tourists will recognize these machines quite easily. It's fun to come home with a wide selection of squished pennies that display where you've been for such a cheap price. Before you know it, your penny passport will be loaded with memories.
20. Shop 'Til You Drop.
After completing everything off this list, it's time to hit the shops. Find yourself a creative t-shirt or hoodie to take with you. Afterwards, you can head home to share your stories with your friends about the island where horses trot, bicycles race, and canons fire.
