What's the big deal with Mackinac Island, MI?

Question

Is it that great?...I hear they do not allow cars on the island....any comments from people who have been?

Answer 1

I just got back from the island 4 days ago. It was my first time going.

- It is very expensive. You can only get there by ferry which cost over $80 for a family of 5.
- There are no cars on the island. Most of the hotels will arrange to transport your luggage via horse and carriage. People get around by walking, riding bikes, or taking horses.
- Try to bring your own bike. It costs around $7 extra to go across the ferry, but if you rent one on the island, it is around $5-7/hour. Just make sure to bring a bike lock and write your name on the bike somewhere. I heard from a few workers that bikes get "borrowed" and lost very easily.
- Most of the shops sell tacky t-shirts, sweatshirts, and junk trinkets. There wasn't really anything worth buying.
- The food is okay, but there aren't too many options.
- Another bad thing is the streets smell like horse poop since they have so many horses on the island. There are workers who clean it up continuously, but it still smells.
- The views are gorgeous. There are two cute little lighthouses that you can see from shore. The houses are so pretty.
- Go up to Fort Mackinac. It is very interesting and all of the workers are dressed up in uniform and costume. I had a lot of fun up there.
- Take a carriage tour if you can. They are very expensive though. We spent around $100 for an hour tour. However, we got to learn a lot about the history of the island and what it's like today. It was fascinating to hear about all the rich and famous people who have visited or lived there.
- Go for a bike ride around the island and through the quieter areas. The views are amazing.
- Drive over the Mackinac bridge and visit Mackinaw City. There is better shopping over there.

Overall, I enjoyed my 2 days on the island. It was long enough to do pretty much everything. I say the trip is worth doing at least once, although I personally don't think I will be going back again. Just remember that they only have a late spring to fall season. The island is basically closed to tourists during the late fall through winter months.

Answer 2

The island is perfectly lovely and peaceful. Rent the old movie "Somewhere in Time" with Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeves. It was filmed on Mackinac Island at the Grand Hotel. The old hotel has changed very little since the 1800's but has been kept in excellent conditon or restored when needed. It is very romantic and inspirational.

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Answer 3

Yes. It is that great. There are many reason of logistical means for the dis-allowance of motorized vehicles, but I'll not bore you with them. The short answer is that the island is like taking you back in time & there are many sights to see that you can easily visit while walking, bicycle riding, or even horseback riding.

Go and check itself out & see for youself. It's a wonderful place to spend an unforgettable time.

Answer 4

Yes, it is nice. And, it is much better without cars on the island. You can easily bike around the island, as its perimeter is only eight miles.

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Answer 5

correct no cars, it a nice place to go beautiful hotel there, nice golf course, great fudge.