Monday, March 24, 2025
Mackinac Island, a renowned destination located in the Straits of Mackinac, has once again been named the No. 1 Summer Travel Destination by USA Today for 2024. The island, situated on the Lake Huron side of the iconic Mackinac Bridge, is set to welcome over a million visitors this summer. Every year, approximately 1.2 million tourists flock to the island, even though its full-time population remains around 600 people.
Seasonal Transition to Summer
As winter begins to recede, Mackinac Island, which has remained quiet during the colder months, is gearing up to open its attractions. Over the winter, most of the island’s famed tourist spots, including the prestigious Grand Hotel, shut down. Even the famous horses that provide carriage rides are taken off the island and relocated to the mainland for winter. This period of dormancy comes to an end as the summer season approaches, offering a glimpse into how much the island relies on seasonal tourism to thrive.
Opening of Mackinac Island Attractions for 2025
The island’s typical tourist season stretches from May through October, with various businesses starting to open in late April. Although some attractions are open year-round, many places on the island—including several fudge shops, arcades, salons, and spas—open their doors around April 25 for the start of the 2025 season. The Grand Hotel, which is a major attraction on the island, will have its soft opening on April 25, with full operations beginning on May 2. This year marks the 139th season for the Grand Hotel, and it will debut new restorations to its parlor, main dining room, and gatehouse.
Where to Stay and What to Do on Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island does not have any chain hotels, giving it a unique, local charm. With over 1,600 rooms available across various island hotels, resorts, and bed and breakfasts, visitors can expect a range of accommodation options. While several lodging facilities open in late April, most businesses do not fully open until May.
The island offers an array of activities for visitors, from shopping at its famous fudge shops to exploring historical architecture and biking and hiking trails. One of the island’s main draws is its historical significance as a former center of the world’s fur trade. Mackinac Island Fudge, made fresh daily in large quantities, remains a major attraction, with seven shops producing about 10,000 pounds of fudge every day during the summer season.
Mackinac Island’s Annual Events
A popular event on the island is the Lilac Festival, held annually in June, drawing visitors from all over. The island’s unique transportation system, where cars are banned, adds to its charm. Visitors get around by walking, renting bikes, or taking carriage rides, and there are also horseback riding adventures available. More than 500 draft horses are used for these activities throughout the season. These horses travel to their winter homes near Pickford, Michigan, for the offseason, before returning in late March for the start of the summer season.
Ferry Transportation to Mackinac Island
Since there are no cars allowed on the island, ferries are the primary mode of transportation. The Shepler’s Ferry and Arnold Transit Co. are the main ferry service providers, with departures from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace. Tickets for these ferries are available at various price points, but visitors can expect a convenient and scenic ride as they make their way to one of Michigan’s most iconic vacation spots.
Impact on the Travel Industry
The popularity of Mackinac Island is set to have a significant impact on the tourism industry, especially in the Midwest. With the island’s consistent recognition as a premier travel destination, it continues to draw international attention, encouraging tourism throughout the Great Lakes region. The opening of seasonal businesses, the expansion of the Grand Hotel, and the increase in tourism-driven experiences will contribute to job creation and a boost to the local economy. This growth will encourage further investment in tourism infrastructure and attract new visitors to the area.
Moreover, as more travelers seek unique and historically significant destinations, Mackinac Island stands as an example of how a region can balance heritage tourism with modern travel needs. Its growing popularity, alongside other regional attractions, will make the island an even more important part of Michigan’s tourism economy.
Mackinac Island continues to be a top choice for visitors seeking natural beauty, historical charm, and seasonal events. The island’s transformation from winter dormancy to a vibrant summer destination is a testament to its enduring appeal. As the tourism industry continues to grow, destinations like Mackinac Island offer insight into how travel hotspots evolve to meet the demands of modern travelers while preserving their unique cultural and historical identity.
