Horse-drawn carriage arriving at The Inn at Stonecliffe Mackinac Island, Chicago to Mackinac Island travel guide via Pellston airport, ferry, and carriage

How to Get to The Inn at Stonecliffe from Chicago (via Pellston Flight Path)

For many travelers, Mackinac Island is a dream destination — a car-free oasis of historic charm, stunning views of Lake Huron, and timeless hospitality. Nestled on the quieter west bluff of the island, The Inn at Stonecliffe offers guests a private, elegant escape with unmatched views and proximity to nature.

If you’re starting your journey in Chicago, one of the most convenient and efficient ways to reach The Inn at Stonecliffe is by flying to Pellston Regional Airport (PLN) and continuing on to Mackinac Island. This comprehensive guide explains step-by-step how to get from Chicago to The Inn at Stonecliffe, including flights, ground transfers, ferries, and final arrival — making your travel seamless and stress-free.

Why Choose the Pellston Flight Path?

Flying from Chicago to Pellston (rather than driving all the way or flying to another city) offers several advantages:

Fastest overall travel time, especially compared to driving
More convenient and less tiring
Reliable connections between O’Hare (ORD) or Midway (MDW) and Pellston (PLN)
Pellston is the closest airport to the Mackinac Island ferry docks
Smooth transfers to the ferry and ultimately The Inn at Stonecliffe

Whether you’re visiting Mackinac Island for a romantic weekend, a family getaway, or a wedding at The Inn at Stonecliffe, this route is designed for ease and comfort.

Step-by-Step Directions from Chicago to The Inn at Stonecliffe

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the trip, with insights and tips at each stage.

Step 1: Fly from Chicago to Pellston Regional Airport (PLN)

What Airport Should You Depart From in Chicago?

You can fly to Pellston from either:

O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
Chicago Midway Airport (MDW)

Both offer seasonal and year-round flights operated by regional carriers, usually with one quick stop or direct service, depending on the time of year.

Flight Duration

Typically:

Direct flights: ~1 hour 30 minutes
Flights with a layover: ~2–3 hours

It’s wise to book your ticket well in advance during summer and fall peak travel seasons, as flights to Pellston can fill up quickly.

Airline Tips

Most flights are operated by Delta Air Lines or affiliated regional carriers. Be sure to check baggage allowances and consider a flexible fare in case of weather-related delays, which are not uncommon in northern Michigan.

Step 2: Transfer from Pellston Airport to Ferry Dock

Once you land at Pellston Regional Airport, you’ll need to reach one of the ferry docks that transport passengers to Mackinac Island. The two primary docks are located in St. Ignace, approximately 20 minutes away from Pellston.

Transportation Options from Pellston to St. Ignace Ferry Docks:

Airport Shuttle Service:
Mackinaw Shuttle and other local operators offer advance-booked, shared or private shuttle service directly from the airport to the ferry dock.
Taxi Service:
Taxis are available at the airport, but reservations are recommended.
Car Rental:
Available from major agencies at Pellston. Note that cars are left at the mainland since vehicles are not permitted on Mackinac Island.

Estimated Travel Time & Cost

Shuttle: ~20–25 minutes, ~$35–50 per person (one-way)
Taxi: ~20–25 minutes, ~$75–90 one-way
Car rental: Depends on agency and duration

Pro Tip: Book your shuttle or taxi before your flight to ensure availability, especially during summer.

Step 3: Ferry from St. Ignace to Mackinac Island

Choosing a Ferry Line

Two main ferry companies service Mackinac Island:

Shepler’s Ferry
Star Line (Mackinac Island Ferry Company)

Both operate high-speed ferries from St. Ignace to Mackinac Island, offering frequent departures during the day.

Ferry Duration & Cost

Trip duration: ~16–20 minutes
Tickets: ~$35–40 round-trip for adults

Both ferry lines offer secure luggage handling and covered seating. You’ll be asked to tag your bags so that they’re delivered directly to your hotel on the island — including The Inn at Stonecliffe — so you can walk onto the ferry unencumbered.

Step 4: Arrival at Mackinac Island & Transfer to The Inn at Stonecliffe

Once you arrive on Mackinac Island, the final leg of your journey begins.

Transportation on Mackinac Island

Since cars are not permitted, you have three main options:

Horse-drawn Carriage Taxi: The most charming and popular way. Book at the taxi stand when you arrive, and a driver will take you and your luggage to The Inn at Stonecliffe.
Bicycle Rental: Available at the ferry dock, though not recommended with heavy luggage.
Walking: The Inn is about 2 miles from the downtown ferry dock — a beautiful but uphill walk.

Carriage rides typically take about 20–30 minutes and cost around $7–10 per person plus luggage fees.

Sample Travel Itinerary: Chicago to The Inn at Stonecliffe

Time	Activity
7:00 AM	Depart from Chicago O’Hare
9:30 AM	Arrive at Pellston Airport
10:00 AM	Shuttle/taxi to St. Ignace ferry dock
11:00 AM	Board ferry to Mackinac Island
11:30 AM	Arrive on Mackinac Island
12:00 PM	Carriage ride to The Inn at Stonecliffe
12:30 PM	Check-in and relax

This sample assumes good connections and minimal delays. Always allow buffer time in case of weather or ferry schedule changes.

Common Questions About Traveling This Route

How do I book my luggage transfer to The Inn at Stonecliffe?

When you board the ferry, porters will tag and load your luggage for delivery directly to the hotel. Confirm with your ferry line that they deliver to The Inn at Stonecliffe (both major companies do).

Can I drive all the way from Chicago?

Yes, but it takes ~6–7 hours driving time to St. Ignace, plus the ferry. Many travelers prefer flying to Pellston to save time and avoid the long drive.

Are there any direct flights to Mackinac Island?

No. Mackinac Island has a small airport but no commercial service from Chicago. Pellston is the closest airport with regular commercial flights.

What if my flight is delayed?

If you miss the last ferry (typically around 7 PM in summer), you may need to overnight in St. Ignace and catch the first ferry the next morning. Always check the latest ferry schedules when booking flights.

Is the Pellston airport big?

It’s a small, regional airport with a single terminal, quick baggage claim, and easy ground transportation access.

Pro Tips for Seamless Travel

Book all tickets (flight, shuttle, ferry) in advance.
Travel with a small carry-on if possible to avoid baggage delays.
Wear comfortable shoes — the final leg involves cobblestone streets or carriage rides.
Arrive early at each transfer point, especially in peak season.
Check the weather forecast and pack layers; Mackinac Island weather can be cooler than Chicago.

Why Stay at The Inn at Stonecliffe?

Beyond the journey, The Inn at Stonecliffe rewards travelers with a peaceful, luxurious experience unmatched on Mackinac Island:

Secluded west bluff location with panoramic Lake Huron views
Historic charm with modern amenities
Elegant rooms & suites perfect for romantic getaways or family vacations
Access to biking and hiking trails right outside the door
Exceptional dining and event spaces

Alternative Routes from Chicago

If Pellston isn’t an option, you can also consider:

Driving or taking Amtrak to St. Ignace (~7–8 hours)
Flying to Traverse City (TVC), then driving ~2 hours to St. Ignace
Chartering a private plane to Mackinac Island airport (if budget allows)

However, the Pellston flight path remains the most efficient and scenic route for most travelers.

Conclusion

Traveling from Chicago to The Inn at Stonecliffe via Pellston Airport is a convenient and memorable journey. By following this guide, you’ll arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy the timeless beauty of Mackinac Island and the unmatched hospitality of The Inn at Stonecliffe.

Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape, a romantic getaway, or attending a special event, taking this well-trodden path ensures a smooth experience from start to finish.

Suggested Resources:

For reservations or more travel guidance, contact The Inn at Stonecliffe directly or visit our website to start planning your Mackinac Island escape today.

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