Grand Hotel is closed after a wonderful 138th season. We look forward to welcoming guests for our 139th season on April 25, 2025. Reserve your stay now for 2025!

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  • porch at grand hotel building

Porchside Stories

Where Grand Hotel Heritage Comes to Life

Grand People

A Global Community on Mackinac Island

At Grand Hotel, our commitment to providing a world-class experience extends beyond exceptional service—it’s about fostering a global community right here on Mackinac Island. Each year, our diverse team of international workers, representing 32 countries, brings a rich tapestry of cultures to our doorstep.

Navigating the H-2B visa process to bring international workers to Grand Hotel seasonally has been challenging, with only a portion of the 165,000 petitions approved last year. Yet, through dedication and perseverance, we continue to welcome talented individuals who enrich our team and your stay with us. Many of our staff members return year after year, forming lifelong friendships and deepening their connection to Grand Hotel and our community.

Beyond their roles, our team members share their rich traditions and cultural cuisine at special events throughout the year like celebrating each country’s Independence Day. These cultural exchanges not only enhance our workplace and facilitate a warm and inclusive environment, they nurture an appreciation of the different cultures represented at Grand Hotel. We also invest in our team’s growth with leadership training programs, ensuring that every member, whether local or international, has the opportunity to develop professionally and personally.

Join us in celebrating our global family and the bonds that span continents. From engaging in kickball games to savoring traditional meals, every interaction is an opportunity to learn and grow together.

Thank you for being a part of our community, where every visit to Grand Hotel is more than a stay—it’s a cultural journey.

Grand Rituals

Discover Grand Hotel’s Iconic Rituals

Participate in the timeless charm and tradition that define our cherished rituals. From exquisite afternoon teas and lively evening entertainment to our reverent flag ceremonies and unique daily events, each moment at our historic hotel is crafted to celebrate the essence of tradition and unforgettable experiences. Read on to learn more about them!

Mom and daughter enjoying afternoon tea in the parlor at Grand Hotel

Afternoon Tea - A celebration of Victorian Traditions

Experience the timeless Grand tradition of Afternoon Tea with assorted teas and beverages, petite finger sandwiches, and an array of pastries, all accompanied by a live music recital.

Esther Williams Swimming Pool 7

Daily Duck Race

Participate in a daily rubber duck race at Esther Williams Swimming Pool, with prizes for the top duck.

A couple drinking champagne

Evening Dress Code

Every evening at Grand Hotel is a special occasion, we require all guests to join us in a formal dress code each evening. Gentleman in dress pants, suit coat, and tie, ladies in their finest dresses, slacks, or jackets.

Romance on Mackinac Packages

First Dance

Experience a formal opening of the Terrace Room doors and dance to the music from the Grand Hotel Orchestra.

A bellman carrying American flags

Respectful Retreat

Witness the dignified folding and removal of American Flags along the Front Porch in accordance with the U.S. Flag Code, honoring the flag as a symbol of freedom.

Seersucker Sundays Mackinac Island

Seersucker Sundays

Wear seersucker to honor the late Mr. R.D. Musser, and enjoy a 15% discount on Haspel Seersucker items at Grand Men’s and a special drink in Audubon Bar.

Fort Views of water

Siren Salute

Join in a toast or participate in a poolside gem hunt when the Siren sounds at 12 pm daily, with activities at The Jockey Club, Fort Mackinac Tea Room, and Esther Williams Swimming Pool.

Parlor Level

Summer Place Social Hour

Enjoy pre-dinner cocktails and socializing to live music nightly in the Parlor or on the Front Porch, celebrating the hotel’s musical heritage.

Explore a Timeline of Grand Hotel’s Rich History

Grand History

Since its opening in 1887, Grand Hotel has epitomized elegance and drawn visitors from around the globe. With a rich history on Mackinac Island, we have created a timeline that showcases significant milestones, from architectural wonders to unforgettable events that have shaped our legacy in hospitality.

Each moment reflects our commitment to excellence and the diverse team that enriches the Grand Hotel experience. Discover how we’ve evolved while remaining a cherished destination for generations. Join us in celebrating our past and looking forward to a future filled with new memories and experiences at Grand Hotel.

    Grand hotel Historic image
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The Grand hotel seen from the side

Reserve Your Stay Now for 2025

Planning a trip to Grand Hotel in 2025? Take advantage of our exclusive offers now to save on your upcoming trip!