A rainy day on Mackinac Island is the perfect invitation to slow down and experience a different side of America’s Summer Place. Spend the day discovering the island’s rich history through art and engaging presentations, embrace cherished Grand Hotel traditions, and enjoy hands-on experiences that make even a rainy afternoon one to remember.
Morning
Start your morning with a leisurely breakfast in Grand Hotel’s Main Dining Room before exploring the creative side of the island. Browse the thoughtfully curated collections inside the Manoogian Art Gallery at Grand Hotel, where each piece reflects the beauty and history of Mackinac Island. Continue your morning with the Floral Design Experience at Grand Hotel, where you’ll learn from our resident floral designer while creating your own fresh floral arrangement to take home.
Afternoon
As the rain falls outside, settle in for some of Grand Hotel’s most memorable indoor experiences. Discover the fascinating stories that have shaped the island during a Lecture with Resident Historian Bob Tagatz, where Grand Hotel’s history comes to life through engaging presentations. Afterwards, continue one of Grand Hotel’s most cherished traditions with Afternoon Tea at Grand Hotel, complete with fine teas, sweet treats, and stunning views of the Straits of Mackinac.
Take time to relax with a rejuvenating treatment at Astor’s or enjoy creative time at Woodlands Activity Center, painting a keepsake during Horseshoe Painting or designing a personalized flowerpot during Floral Pot Painting Classes.
Evening
As evening arrives, gather for experiences that celebrate Grand Hotel’s culinary traditions and timeless elegance. Discover the art of crafting balanced cocktails during the Botanical Cocktail Class, where you’ll learn how herbs, florals, citrus, and botanicals come together to create beautiful seasonal drinks. Go behind the scenes during the Grand Kitchen Tour & Wine Experience, featuring an exclusive look inside Grand Hotel’s renowned kitchen with Executive Chef Jason Siles, paired with a curated wine tasting or experience the Old Fashioned Cocktail Class, in Baroque where you’ll explore the history of this iconic cocktail while crafting three unique variations in Grand Hotel’s elegant Dorothy Draper-designed bar. When you’re ready for dinner, make your way to Gate House where you can dine indoors by the fireplace and enjoy American dinner favorites, including shareable appetizers, signature soups, fresh salads, burgers, handhelds, signature dinner entrées, craft cocktails, and seasonal beers. End your evening by experiencing Demitasse in the Parlor followed by Dancing with the Grand Hotel Orchestra in the Terrace Room.
