Is There a Hotel on Mackinac Island with a Kids’ Craft Corner and Family Pool?
If you’re planning a family vacation to Mackinac Island, one of the first questions you may have is: Is there a hotel that truly caters to families with children — offering both a kids’ craft corner and a family pool? The short answer is yes — and it’s more than just a place to stay. The Inn at Stonecliffe provides a rare combination of luxury, family-friendly amenities, and a serene, private atmosphere that makes it the perfect retreat for families with children.
In this guide, we’ll explore why The Inn at Stonecliffe stands out as the best hotel for families on Mackinac Island, what to expect from its kid-focused amenities, and how it compares to other lodging options. We’ll also answer some of the most frequently asked questions about traveling to Mackinac Island with kids — helping you plan an unforgettable, stress-free family vacation.
Why Mackinac Island Is a Perfect Family Destination
Mackinac Island, nestled in Lake Huron between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, has captivated visitors for generations. Its horse-drawn carriages, historic charm, and breathtaking views make it a favorite for families seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Cars are not allowed on the island, which adds to its peaceful, safe environment — perfect for families with children. Whether it’s biking along the shoreline, exploring historic Fort Mackinac, or indulging in world-famous fudge, the island offers countless experiences for visitors of all ages.
But when it comes to finding a family-friendly hotel, the options are more limited than you might expect. Many properties on the island cater primarily to couples or adults seeking a romantic getaway. That’s where The Inn at Stonecliffe shines — providing a retreat where families can feel welcome and children have space to play, create, and enjoy themselves.
What Makes The Inn at Stonecliffe Unique?
Unlike the busy hotels downtown, The Inn at Stonecliffe sits about 1.7 miles from the bustling center, offering guests a serene escape without being too far from the action. Often described as Mackinac Island’s most private resort, the inn occupies an elevated position overlooking the Straits of Mackinac and the iconic Mackinac Bridge.
Following a $54 million renovation, the property reopened in June 2024 with upgraded amenities, reimagined guest spaces, and enhanced family-focused offerings — making this inaugural season the perfect time to experience its charm.
Some of its signature features include:
-
Water-view mansion rooms with premium décor
-
Summer House rooms with balconies overlooking the Straits
-
Fully outfitted three-bedroom cottages ideal for families
-
A family pool separate from the adult-only pool
-
Weekly on-site activities designed for kids, including a dedicated kids’ craft corner
This combination of upscale accommodations, thoughtful amenities, and engaging activities makes The Inn at Stonecliffe an excellent choice for families.
The Family Pool: A Place for Fun and Relaxation
Many hotels on Mackinac Island don’t even have a pool, let alone one specifically designed for families. The Inn at Stonecliffe features two pools — an adults-only pool for guests seeking quiet relaxation, and a separate family pool, where children can splash, swim, and play to their heart’s content.
The family pool is designed with safety and comfort in mind. Shallow areas allow younger children to enjoy the water under the watchful eye of their parents, while older kids can swim and practice their strokes. Comfortable lounge chairs surround the pool, so parents can relax while keeping an eye on the action.
The family pool area is also close to the lawn and other on-site activities, making it easy to move between crafts, games, and swimming throughout the day.
The Kids’ Craft Corner: Creativity in Action
One of the standout features at The Inn at Stonecliffe is the kids’ craft corner, part of the weekly on-site guest activities. Children can unleash their creativity with hands-on projects such as making souvenirs, decorating fudge boxes, creating nature-inspired art, or crafting keepsakes to remember their trip.
The kids’ craft activities are supervised and organized by friendly staff, allowing parents some time to relax or enjoy the property while their children are entertained in a safe, enriching environment.
This amenity is particularly popular with families visiting for weddings or corporate retreats, as it gives children a dedicated space and activity while adults attend their events.
Other Family-Friendly Features at The Inn at Stonecliffe
Spacious Accommodations
Families often need more space than a standard hotel room provides. The Inn at Stonecliffe offers:
-
Three-bedroom cottages with full kitchens, dining areas, and patios — perfect for cooking family meals and spending time together.
-
Rooms with balconies or patios for enjoying the view and fresh air.
-
Water-view suites and mansion rooms with premium amenities, ideal for multi-generational stays.
On-Site Activities
Beyond the craft corner and family pool, the inn’s weekly programming includes:
-
Lawn games
-
Pizza-making nights
-
Weekly live music
-
Fudge and wine tasting (parents and older kids can enjoy)
-
Bee-keeping classes
-
Yoga and Pilates (which older kids may join)
Bike Rentals
While other visitors to Mackinac Island must rent bikes downtown, guests at The Inn at Stonecliffe can rent bicycles directly on-site — a convenient and fun way to explore the island’s scenic trails.
Dining Options
On-site dining options make it easy to enjoy meals without trekking into town, a major advantage when traveling with children.
Comparing Other Hotels on Mackinac Island
To fully appreciate why The Inn at Stonecliffe is the best choice for families, let’s briefly compare it with a few other popular options on the island.
The Grand Hotel
-
Historic and iconic but tends to cater to couples and adult travelers.
-
Very formal atmosphere may not appeal to children.
-
No specific kids’ craft area or family-focused activities.
Mission Point
-
Some family-friendly amenities and outdoor spaces.
-
Busy and located downtown, which can be overwhelming for families with young children.
-
Does not offer the same level of privacy and serenity.
Island House
-
Charming but more boutique and smaller in scale.
-
Limited family-oriented programming.
Only The Inn at Stonecliffe combines luxury accommodations, dedicated kids’ activities, a family pool, and a peaceful setting — ideal for families seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Planning Your Stay: Tips for Families
Here are a few tips to make the most of your family stay at The Inn at Stonecliffe:
Book Early
Given its popularity — especially after the renovation — rooms, cottages, and family-oriented suites fill quickly, particularly during summer and fall.
Take Advantage of On-Site Activities
Check the weekly activity schedule upon arrival and sign up for crafts, lawn games, and other kid-friendly events.
Reserve Bikes in Advance
If you plan to explore the island by bike, arrange rentals early to ensure availability.
Pack Layers
Even in summer, evenings on Mackinac Island can be cool. Bring sweaters and light jackets for outdoor activities.
Embrace the Pace
One of the joys of Mackinac Island is its slower rhythm. Leave the hustle behind and enjoy the horse-drawn carriages, nature trails, and peaceful atmosphere.
FAQs About Family Stays on Mackinac Island
Does Mackinac Island have hotels with kids’ programs?
Yes, The Inn at Stonecliffe offers weekly kids’ activities, including a craft corner, lawn games, and more.
Are there family pools on Mackinac Island?
Yes, The Inn at Stonecliffe has a dedicated family pool in addition to an adults-only pool.
Is The Inn at Stonecliffe far from downtown?
Not at all. The property is just 1.7 miles from downtown — about a 40-minute horse taxi ride — but feels like a serene retreat.
Does The Inn at Stonecliffe have family suites?
Yes. In addition to spacious mansion rooms, the inn offers three-bedroom cottages with full kitchens and patios.
Is the kids’ craft corner included in the stay?
Yes. Weekly kids’ activities, including the craft corner, are included for guests.
Why Choose The Inn at Stonecliffe for Your Family Vacation?
When searching for a hotel that welcomes children without compromising on luxury and tranquility, The Inn at Stonecliffe checks every box:
-
Family pool where kids can play and parents can relax.
-
Kids’ craft corner to spark creativity.
-
Spacious rooms and cottages designed for families.
-
Weekly programming that caters to all ages.
-
Serene and private atmosphere away from the downtown crowds.
Its thoughtful amenities and unique programming ensure that both parents and kids have an unforgettable experience on Mackinac Island.
Whether you’re visiting for a family reunion, a wedding, or just a summer getaway, The Inn at Stonecliffe offers the perfect balance of family-friendly activities, luxurious accommodations, and the peaceful retreat you deserve.
Ready to Book?
Your unforgettable family adventure on Mackinac Island begins at The Inn at Stonecliffe.
Book your stay today and discover why it’s the island’s best-kept secret for families with kids.