Mackinaw City, Michigan

Mackinaw City at a Glance

Mackinaw City makes the perfect family vacation destination! It’s located on the shores of the Straits of Mackinac, where the Great Lakes Huron and Michigan meet. Mackinaw City is rich in history and has four state parks that preserve it’s heritage. The natural beauty of Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island is sure to keep you coming back. Downtown has unique shops and restaurants. Catch a ferry to Mackinac Island for the day and then return to Mackinaw City and discover parks, beaches, shopping, restaurants, golf, concerts, and nightly laser light shows!

A Rich History and Heritage

Mackinaw City boasts a rich historical heritage dating back to the early 17th century. It served as a crucial hub for fur trading and played a pivotal role during the American Revolutionary War. Today, visitors can explore this heritage through Fort Michilimackinac
a reconstructed 18th-century fort where costumed interpreters bring history to life with demonstrations and guided tours. Perched on the Straits of Mackinac, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is an iconic lighthouse offers breathtaking views and insights into Michigan’s maritime history.

Natural Beauty Everywhere You Look

Surrounded by the pristine waters of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, Mackinaw City is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Key natural attractions include Mackinac Island, a car-free oasis known for its Victorian architecture, scenic trails, and the famous Grand Hotel. For those seeking adventure, Wilderness State Park offers miles of hiking trails, secluded beaches, and opportunities for camping and wildlife viewing.

Modern Attractions and Activities

Beyond its historical and natural charm, Mackinaw City offers a range of modern attractions and activities to delight visitors of all ages. Mackinaw Crossings is a vibrant shopping and entertainment complex features boutique shops, restaurants serving local delicacies, and nightly laser light shows during the summer months.

From fishing and kayaking on the Straits of Mackinac to snowmobiling and ice fishing in winter, Mackinaw City offers year-round outdoor adventures.

Places to Stay in Mackinaw City

Whether you prefer waterfront views, cozy charm, family-friendly amenities, historic ambiance, or a rustic retreat, Mackinaw City provides a range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s preferences. Here are a few of our favorites…

Best Western Plus Dockside Waterfront Inn
505 S Huron Ave, Mackinaw City, MI
Lakefront rooms with private balconies. Close to Mackinaw Crossings, featuring free nightly laser show, concerts, live theater. Adjacent to Mackinac Island Ferry Docks & Restaurants. Unlimited access to new waterpark across street.

Court Plaza Inn & Suites of Mackinaw
202 East Central Avenue, Mackinaw City, MI
Located in the shopping district, among famed fudge shops and local dining, this hotel is located in the heart of downtown Mackinaw City and offers free hot breakfast and free WiFi. Each room includes a 27-inch cable TV with premium channels and a coffee machine.

Hamilton Inn Select Beachfront
701 South Huron Avenue P.O. Box 831, Mackinaw City, MI
One of Mackinaw’s newest lakefront hotel directly next to the Ferry. Private sandy beach access. Close to free concerts and free laser show. Unlimited access to indoor waterpark across street.

Cabins of Mackinaw & Lodge
721 South Huron Avenue, Mackinaw City, MI
Private cabins directly across from the Mackinac Island ferry dock. Close to shops and restaurants, Pirates Adventure Indoor Waterpark. Oversized heated indoor pool, whirlpool and sauna. Unlimited Passes to 1400 feet of private sandy beach on Lake Huron.

Clarion Hotel Beachfront
905 S. Huron, Mackinaw City, MI
Private sandy beach! Adjacent to Mackinac Island Ferry Docks. Near shops and restaurants. Lakefront rooms with private balconies. Indoor heated pool & whirlpool. Excellent view of Mackinac Island and Mackinac Bridge!

Ramada by Wyndham Mackinaw City Waterfront
723 South Huron I-75, Mackinaw City, MI
This Mackinaw City hotel features Lake Huron views, a private beach and free passes to Emerald Cove Indoor Water Park, located a half mile from the hotel.

American Boutique Inn – Lakeview
517 North Huron Avenue, Mackinaw City, MI
Located steps away from the waterfront, this Mackinaw City bed and breakfast features beach access directly across the street. Select rooms offer lake and garden views. The heated outdoor pool is surrounded by a flower garden with seating areas.

Places to Eat in Mackinaw City

Mackinaw City has something for everyone when it comes to dining options, from fast food to elegant. No visit to Mackinaw City is complete without savoring its culinary offerings. Here are our Top 10 choices…

Scalawags Whitefish & Chips
226 E Central Ave, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
Famous for its fresh Great Lakes whitefish, this casual eatery offers a variety of seafood dishes in a laid-back atmosphere.

Darrow’s Family Restaurant
301 Louvingney St, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
A local favorite, Darrow’s serves up hearty American comfort food, including homemade pies and classic diner fare.

The Pancake Chef
327 E Central Ave, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
This breakfast hotspot is known for its fluffy pancakes and extensive breakfast menu, making it a perfect spot to start your day.

Keyhole Bar & Grill
323 E Central Ave, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
A popular hangout with a quirky, key-themed decor, offering a range of pub-style dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and seafood.

Mama Mia’s Pizza
231 E Central Ave, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
A family-friendly pizzeria offering delicious pizzas, pasta, and Italian dishes, along with a mini-museum dedicated to the Mackinac Bridge.

Audie’s Restaurant
314 N Nicolet St, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
Offering a diverse menu from steaks and seafood to salads and sandwiches, Audie’s provides a comfortable dining experience with a cozy ambiance.

Hunt’s Mackinaw Pastie & Cookie Co.
117 W Jamet, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
Known for their traditional Cornish pasties, this bakery also offers a selection of fresh-baked cookies and other treats.

Historic Depot Restaurant
248 S Huron Ave, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
Located in a charming, historic train depot, this restaurant serves up classic American dishes with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.

Bridgeview Diner
110 W Central Ave, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
A retro-style diner offering an array of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, all while providing a nostalgic dining experience.

Dixie Saloon
401 E Central Ave, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
A Mackinaw City Tradition since 1890. Famous Dixie BBQ Ribs and steaks. Located across from Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry, at the corner of Huron and Central.

These establishments offer a mix of local flavors and diverse cuisines, ensuring that every visitor can find something to enjoy in Mackinaw City.

Places to Go in Mackinaw City

Mackinaw City is rich in history, natural beauty, and unique attractions. Here is our list of the top ten must-visit places in Mackinaw City, Michigan:

Mackinac Bridge
An engineering marvel, this iconic suspension bridge connects Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas. You can visit the Bridge View Park for stunning views and informative exhibits.

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse
This historic lighthouse offers guided tours and a chance to learn about the history of the Great Lakes shipping industry. The views from the tower are spectacular.

Colonial Michilimackinac
A reconstructed 18th-century fort and trading post, offering interactive exhibits, costumed interpreters, and demonstrations of colonial life.

Mackinaw Crossings
A shopping and entertainment complex featuring boutique shops, restaurants, and a theater. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy some local culture.

Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park
This outdoor adventure park combines history and nature with zip lines, a climbing wall, and trails. The sawmill demonstrations are a highlight.

Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum
Step aboard the retired Coast Guard Icebreaker Mackinaw WAGB-83 for a guided tour and learn about its role in Great Lakes maritime history.

Thunder Falls Family Water Park
A fun destination for families, this water park features a variety of slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool.

McGulpin Point Lighthouse & Historic Site
Another beautifully restored lighthouse offering tours and access to the scenic shoreline.

Jack Pine Lumberjack Shows
Experience the excitement of competitive lumberjack sports, including log rolling, axe throwing, and chainsaw carving.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park
Located just outside Mackinaw City, this park offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in the Midwest. It’s a perfect spot for night-time astronomy.

These attractions provide a mix of historical, cultural, and natural experiences, ensuring a memorable visit to Mackinaw City.

Getting Around Mackinaw City

Interstate 75 runs north-south and is the main access to Mackinaw City. Huron Avenue is the areas main thoroughfare and runs roughly along the shoreline. Three ferry companies operate out of Mackinaw City, connecting tourists and commuters to Mackinac Island. Several rail lines provided passenger traffic to the area on trains such as the Northern Arrow to Mackinaw City. The nearest airports with scheduled passenger service are in Pellston Regional Airport, Traverse City Cherry Capital Airport and Alpena County Regional Airport in the Lower peninsula and Chippewa County International Airport in Sault Ste. Marie.

Whether you’re drawn to its historical landmarks, natural beauty, outdoor adventures, or culinary delights, Mackinaw City promises a memorable experience for every traveler. Plan your visit today and discover why this charming northern Michigan town captivates the hearts of all who venture here.

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