There are very few places in America quite like Mackinac Island.
No cars.
No traffic lights.
No stop signs.
Instead, visitors travel by bicycle, horse-drawn carriage, or simply on foot.
For years we’d heard people rave about Mackinac Island, so while traveling through northern Michigan in our RV, we decided it was finally time to see what all the excitement was about.
It didn’t disappoint.
Crossing the Mighty Mack
Before you even reach the island, the journey is part of the adventure.
Traveling north from Michigan’s Lower Peninsula means crossing the Mackinac Bridge, affectionately known as the Mighty Mack.
Stretching five miles across the Straits of Mackinac, it’s one of the longest suspension bridges in the world and connects Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas.
As impressive as the statistics are, nothing quite prepares you for driving across it in person.
The views in every direction are spectacular.
Taking the Ferry to Mackinac Island
Once we arrived in St. Ignace, it was time to board the ferry.
This was General’s very first boat ride.
Like most first-time passengers, he wasn’t entirely sure what to think at first, but he settled in nicely after a few minutes.
Approaching Mackinac Island by water gives you beautiful views of:
- The Grand Hotel
- Round Island Lighthouse
- Historic waterfront buildings
- Sailboats in the harbor
It’s a wonderful introduction to one of Michigan’s most beloved destinations.
Can You Take a Dog to Mackinac Island?
The short answer is yes.
Dogs are welcome on the ferry and throughout much of Mackinac Island.
However, our experience taught us something we hadn’t anticipated.
Because there are no cars on the island, many visitors rent bicycles.
We had planned to rent bikes and tow General in a pet trailer.
Unfortunately, every trailer we found was designed for smaller dogs—generally under about 50 pounds.
At roughly 80 pounds, General was simply too large.
We ended up cutting our first visit much shorter than planned.
If you’re traveling with a larger dog, it’s worth researching bicycle trailer options before your trip or planning to explore primarily on foot.
A Second Chance
Thankfully, we weren’t ready to give up.
The following day we arranged for a pet sitter to visit General back at the RV, giving us enough time to properly explore the island.
Sometimes a little flexibility is all it takes to save a vacation.
Exploring Mackinac Island by Bicycle
With transportation finally figured out, we rented bicycles and set off to explore.
One of the things we loved most was how peaceful everything felt.
Instead of traffic noise, you hear:
- Horse hooves
- Bicycle bells
- Carriage wheels
- Lake waves
- Birds singing
It’s surprisingly relaxing.
Everywhere you look there are beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and crystal-clear water.
Hiking Beyond Downtown
Most visitors spend their time along the waterfront, but Mackinac Island has an extensive network of hiking trails that lead into the island’s interior.
We stopped at Sugar Loaf, one of the island’s most famous limestone formations.
The trails also lead toward Fort Holmes, the island’s highest point.
Although we decided to skip the long staircase leading to the fort, we still enjoyed beautiful views from lower overlooks.
Sometimes knowing your limits means enjoying the journey a little more.
Victorian Homes That Look Like Storybooks
One of our favorite surprises was discovering the island’s magnificent Victorian homes.
Many of these beautifully preserved summer cottages feature:
- Wraparound porches
- Decorative trim
- Turrets
- Immaculate gardens
- Horse barns and carriage houses
Because the island relies on horses instead of automobiles, seeing work crews delivering supplies by horse-drawn wagon feels completely normal.
It’s like stepping back into another century.
The Grand Hotel
No visit to Mackinac Island would be complete without seeing the famous Grand Hotel.
Perched high above the waterfront, it’s one of the island’s most recognizable landmarks.
Even if you don’t stay there, simply seeing its enormous front porch and beautiful grounds is worth the trip.
It’s easy to understand why it has become such an icon of Michigan travel.
Touring Historic Fort Mackinac
History lovers should definitely set aside time to visit Fort Mackinac.
Originally established during the American Revolution, the fort later played an important role during the War of 1812.
Today it’s a fascinating living history museum featuring:
- Soldiers’ barracks
- Officers’ quarters
- Hospital
- Quartermaster buildings
- Historic weapons
- Period furnishings
- Demonstrations and exhibits
The views overlooking the harbor are just as impressive as the history itself.
Small-Town Friendliness
One of our favorite memories wasn’t actually a tourist attraction.
After wandering downtown, we stopped for a drink and struck up a conversation with another couple.
Within minutes we were swapping travel stories as though we’d known each other for years.
They were completing America’s Great Loop by boat while we were traveling by RV.
Those unexpected conversations often become some of the most memorable moments of traveling.
You Have to Try a Michigan Pasty
Before leaving northern Michigan, we kept seeing signs advertising something called pasties.
Curiosity finally got the better of us.
A pasty (pronounced PASS-tee) is essentially a hearty meat pie folded into a handheld pastry.
We tried both the beef and chicken versions topped with gravy.
They were absolutely delicious.
If you’re visiting Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, trying a pasty should be high on your list.
Fireworks Over the Harbor
Our stay ended with a beautiful fireworks display over the waterfront.
While I stayed back with General—who isn’t particularly fond of fireworks—Ed headed downtown with his camera to capture the evening.
It was a wonderful way to wrap up our visit.
Why Mackinac Island Belongs on Your Bucket List
Mackinac Island offers something that’s becoming increasingly rare.
It slows you down.
Without cars, traffic, or modern distractions, it’s easier to appreciate the architecture, the scenery, the history, and the people around you.
Whether you’re interested in history, photography, biking, architecture, hiking, or simply enjoying a slower pace of life, Mackinac Island delivers an experience unlike anywhere else we’ve traveled.
It’s easy to understand why so many visitors return year after year.
Continue the Journey
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