Crisp Air, Colorful Leaves, and Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides. Experience the Magic of Autumn at Grand Hotel. Book Your Fall Getaway Today!

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  • Aerial view of Grand Hotel and Downtown Mackinac

Mackinac Island Activities

Where Whatever You Do Is Up to You

If you’re looking for things to do on Mackinac Island, here is a list of some of our favorite local activities and attractions. For more information on the “Best Island in the Continental U.S.”, be sure to visit the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau website.

Arch Rock

The most famous of the rock formations on the island, this arch towers above the water and is more than 50 feet wide.

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Benjamin Blacksmith Shop

With a history dating back to the 1880s, this blacksmith shop offers demonstrations in traditional blacksmithing techniques.

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Crack in the Island

You can find geological formations all over the Island, including this aptly named one — perfect for taking some fun photos.

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Fort Holmes

Originally a British outpost during the War of 1812, it was renamed Fort Holmes after an American Major who attempted to retake the fort in 1814.

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Fort Mackinac

One of the Island’s most popular attractions, Fort Mackinac is home to 14 original buildings, daily reenactments, interactive displays, and more.

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Original Butterfly House & Insect World

The third oldest live butterfly exhibit in the US, this world-renowned facility has tropical gardens filled with hundreds of live butterflies from four continents.

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Somewhere in Time Gazebo

Formerly located on the grounds of Grand Hotel, the famous gazebo from the movie Somewhere in Time can now be found behind Fort Mackinac.

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Downtown Mackinac Island

With its many unique shops, great dining, and vibrant waterfront, downtown Mackinac attracts locals and visitors alike (as well as bicycles and horses).

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Fudge Making

Sample your way through the world-famous Mackinac Island Fudge, and watch the process of making 10,000 pounds of fudge every day.

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Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum

Showcasing fine and decorative arts through the centuries, this three-level museum features interactive displays, exhibitions, and more.

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Kayak Tours

Explore the Straits and see Mackinac Island from a different perspective aboard your choice of single kayak, tandem kayak, or stand-up paddleboard.

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Sip N Sail Cruises

Sail the shoreline of Mackinac Island aboard the Isle Royale Queen III, an 81′ vessel with multiple viewing areas, full-service bar, and live entertainment.

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Carriage Tours

Experience Mackinac’s history and charm on a carriage tour that takes you from downtown to Surrey Hills, Arch Rock, Fort Mackinac and Grand Hotel.

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Cindy’s Riding Stables

For guided and unguided trail riding, Cindy’s Riding Stable is the place to take the reins and tour Mackinac Island via horseback.

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Reserve Today

You’re Invited to Close the Grand!

Something different, something time-honored: You’re invited to join in the unique experience as we close Grand Hotel’s doors for the winter months.

This package includes a casual dinner buffet on Sunday evening October 26th and a continental breakfast Monday morning October 27th. Enjoy an informal atmosphere with no dress code (jeans are acceptable) Sunday – Monday as we clean out our pantries and wine cellar.

A truly unique Grand experience!