Mackinac Island, Michigan has always been one of those dreamy destinations that I’ve had on my bucket list—and let me tell you, it was everything I imagined and more! Stepping onto the island feels like stepping back in time. With no cars allowed, the clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages, colorful shops, and lakefront views make it an experience like no other.

We had just 48 hours on the island, and it was the perfect amount of time to soak in the charm. Here’s how we spent our stay (and why you should plan a trip, too!).

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Getting There

We boarded the Shepler’s Ferry from Mackinaw City and enjoyed the short scenic ride across Lake Huron. Pro tip: sit up top for incredible views of the Mackinac Bridge and that first glimpse of the island—it’s magical.

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Where We Stayed

Our home for two nights was the Harbor View Inn, a beautiful historic inn located just a short stroll from the main strip. It was cozy, welcoming, and came with free breakfast each morning (a huge perk when traveling as a family!).

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Day 1 – Settling In & Sweet Treats

After checking into our hotel, we grabbed a casual dinner at Island Slice Pizzeria—perfect for a quick bite after traveling. Of course, no trip to Mackinac is complete without fudge, so we made our way to Ryba’s Fudge Shop for dessert, along with some ice cream.

We spent the rest of the evening strolling along the main street, wandering in and out of the quaint shops, and taking in the island’s charm before calling it a night.

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Day 2 – Biking, Exploring & So Much Food

Day two was our big adventure day, and it’s what made us fall in love with Mackinac.

• Breakfast: We fueled up with the complimentary breakfast at Harbor View Inn.
• Biking the Island: Renting bikes is an absolute must! The 8-mile trail around the island is breathtaking, with lake views, limestone bluffs, and picture-perfect stops along the way. Along the route, we stopped to climb the 207 stairs up to Arch Rock, one of the island’s most famous natural landmarks. The views were absolutely worth the climb!
• Lunch: We stopped at Verde’s Smash Burger Cantina for a casual and delicious lunch.
• Afternoon Fun: We played putt-putt at Mission Point Resort, then later in the afternoon we stopped at the Grand Hotel for ice cream—a must-do experience on the island!
• Dinner: We ended the day with a relaxed dinner at Ice House BBQ, tucked away from the main hustle and bustle.

By bedtime, we were happily exhausted—the best kind of tired after a full day of exploring..

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Day 3 – Farewell to the Island

On our last morning, we enjoyed one more free breakfast at the inn, packed up, and caught the ferry back to Mackinaw City to continue our road trip toward Detroit.

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Final Thoughts

Mackinac Island truly lived up to the hype—it was peaceful, charming, and felt like a step into another world. From biking the island to indulging in fudge (and yes, more ice cream than we probably needed), every moment was memorable.

If you’re looking for a destination that’s unique, family-friendly, and filled with old-fashioned charm, Mackinac Island is a must-visit.

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Tips for Visiting Mackinac Island

Best Time to Visit: Summer is the most popular (and busiest) time, with warm weather and plenty of activities. Fall brings beautiful colors and fewer crowds.

Getting Around: Cars aren’t allowed, so be ready to walk, rent bikes, or take a horse-drawn carriage. Comfortable shoes are a must.

What to Pack: Layers (the weather can change quickly), sunscreen, a light jacket, and a small backpack for snacks and water if you’re biking the island.

Don’t Miss the Fudge: Mackinac is famous for it—make sure to sample from a couple of different shops and bring some home!

Capture the Views: Whether it’s the sunrise over the lake, the historic cottages, or the stunning bluffs, the island is full of photo-worthy spots.

Plan for Downtime: It’s tempting to do it all, but part of Mackinac’s magic is slowing down and simply enjoying the atmosphere.