Mackinac Island travel guide view of The Inn at Stonecliffe, Lake Huron, Upper Peninsula Michigan, romantic fall hotel getaway with scenic bridge view

Mackinac Island & Michigan’s Upper Peninsula: Your Complete 2026 Travel Guide

What Makes Mackinac Island So Unique?

Mackinac Island isn’t just a beautiful place to visit — it’s a complete escape from the modern world. What sets it apart:

  • No cars allowed — travel by bicycle, foot, or horse-drawn carriage

  • Victorian architecture and preserved 19th-century homes

  • Lake Huron views and blufftop scenery

  • Historic landmarks, gardens, and natural wonders

  • Peaceful ambiance with a slower pace of life

Where Is Mackinac Island Located?

  • Situated in Lake Huron, between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas

  • Accessible by ferry from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace

  • The island is part of Mackinac County, within the Upper Peninsula

How to Get to Mackinac Island from the Michigan Mainland

Step-by-Step Travel Guide

  1. Drive to the Ferry Port

    • From Detroit: ~4.5 hours to Mackinaw City

    • From Chicago: ~6.5 hours to St. Ignace

  2. Choose Your Ferry Provider

    • Shepler’s Ferry (Mackinaw City or St. Ignace)

    • Star Line Ferry (same locations)

    • Ferries operate seasonally, typically from April to October

  3. Leave Your Car

    • Park at the ferry terminal (overnight parking available)

  4. Board the Ferry to Mackinac Island

    • 15–20 minute scenic ride

    • Arrive at Mackinac Island ferry dock near downtown

  5. Reach The Inn at Stonecliffe

    • Private horse-drawn taxi or bicycle rental

    • Quiet location atop the West Bluff, away from downtown crowds

Best Time to Visit Mackinac Island & the Upper Peninsula

Season Benefits Ideal For
Late Spring (May–June) Lilac blooms, cooler temps, fewer tourists Photographers, couples, early summer trips
Summer (July–August) Warm weather, long days, events Families, honeymooners, first-time visitors
Early Fall (Sept–Oct) Fall colors, crisp air, peaceful vibe Romantic getaways, foliage trips

Winter travel is not possible for The Inn at Stonecliffe. Plan your stay between May and October for the best experience.

Where to Stay: The Inn at Stonecliffe vs Downtown Hotels

Comparison Table

Feature The Inn at Stonecliffe Downtown Mackinac Hotels
Location West Bluff Near ferry docks
Atmosphere Quiet, peaceful, secluded Busier, more commercial
Views Lake Huron & Mackinac Bridge Mostly street or harbor
Architecture Historic stone estate Victorian storefronts
Ideal For Honeymooners, babymooners, relaxation Families, nightlife, fast access
Dining On-site restaurant, gardens Variety of downtown restaurants
Transportation Private taxi or bike ride Walkable to most attractions

Top 10 Things to Do on Mackinac Island (and Near Stonecliffe)

1. Bike the Mackinac Island Loop

  • 8.2-mile scenic ride around the island

  • Rent tandem bikes or cruisers near the ferry dock

  • No hills — beginner friendly

2. Visit Arch Rock

  • Natural limestone arch

  • 146 feet above Lake Huron

  • Best viewed in early morning light

3. Tour Fort Mackinac

  • Revolutionary War-era military outpost

  • Historic reenactments and museum exhibits

  • Overlooks downtown and the harbor

4. Stroll the Butterfly House

  • One of the oldest live butterfly exhibits in the country

  • Great for couples and kids alike

5. Explore The Inn at Stonecliffe Grounds

  • Garden paths, private lawns, and porch swings

  • Ideal for reading, relaxing, or photography

  • Views of the Mackinac Bridge at sunset

6. Enjoy a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

  • Narrated tours available

  • Private rides for romantic occasions

  • Available at the Carriage Tours office downtown

7. Visit the Mackinac Island Botanical Trail

  • Easy nature hike

  • Markers describe native plants and flowers

  • Ideal for spring and early summer

8. Indulge in Mackinac Island Fudge

  • Sample flavors at Murdick’s or JoAnn’s

  • Great souvenir or sweet tooth fix

9. Kayak on Lake Huron

  • Rent from Great Turtle Kayak Tours

  • Paddle around Arch Rock or sunrise/sunset routes

10. Attend the Lilac Festival or Fudge Festival

  • Lilac Festival: Early June

  • Fudge Festival: Late August

  • Live music, food, and floral celebrations

Best Romantic Things to Do on Mackinac Island for Couples

  • Sunset picnics on the Stonecliffe lawn

  • Couples’ photos in lilac gardens

  • Stargazing from the blufftop

  • Wine and charcuterie baskets

  • Tandem bike rentals at sunrise

  • Private carriage rides through West Bluff

The Upper Peninsula: Add-On Destinations from Mackinac Island

If you're combining a stay at Stonecliffe with a wider Upper Peninsula road trip, consider these:

Destination Distance Highlights
Tahquamenon Falls ~1.5 hours from St. Ignace Massive waterfalls, hiking, fall colors
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore ~2.5 hours Sandstone cliffs, kayaking, hiking
Whitefish Point & Shipwreck Museum ~2 hours Great Lakes maritime history
Munising Gateway to Pictured Rocks Waterfalls, lake views
Sault Ste. Marie ~1.5 hours Soo Locks, boat tours, Canadian border

Sample 3-Day Mackinac Island Itinerary from The Inn at Stonecliffe

Day 1

  • Arrive via ferry

  • Check-in at Stonecliffe

  • Stroll the gardens and toast your arrival

  • Dinner on property or picnic on the lawn

Day 2

  • Sunrise bike ride

  • Visit Fort Mackinac and Arch Rock

  • Lunch downtown with fudge tasting

  • Relaxing late afternoon in hammock or porch

  • Private carriage ride at sunset

Day 3

  • Breakfast on the terrace

  • Butterfly House visit

  • Late checkout and ferry departure

Packing Tips for Your Mackinac Island Trip

Essentials

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Layers for day-to-night temperature swings

  • Camera or phone for scenic shots

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Lightweight backpack

  • Casual and dressy outfits

  • Swimwear (for Inn pool or kayaking)

Optional Items

  • Binoculars for birdwatching

  • Picnic blanket

  • Book or journal for reflection

  • Windbreaker for ferry ride

FAQs About Visiting Mackinac Island & the U.P.

Is Mackinac Island car-free?

Yes — no motor vehicles are allowed. Transportation is by bike, foot, or horse-drawn carriage.

When is the best time to visit The Inn at Stonecliffe?

Late spring through early fall. The Inn is open May–October. Early June (Lilac season) and September (fall colors) are especially scenic.

How long should I stay on Mackinac Island?

2–3 nights is ideal for most visitors. Longer stays are popular with couples and families.

Is the Upper Peninsula safe for road trips?

Yes — very safe and scenic. Just plan ahead for rural routes and gas stops.

Are there romantic hotels on Mackinac Island?

Yes — The Inn at Stonecliffe is one of the most peaceful, romantic hotels on the island, ideal for honeymoons, babymoons, and couples.

Why The Inn at Stonecliffe Is the Best Hotel for Exploring Mackinac Island

  • Secluded setting away from downtown noise

  • Breathtaking views of Lake Huron and Mackinac Bridge

  • Restored historic estate with elevated charm

  • Elegant rooms and suites with modern comforts

  • On-site dining, lawn games, and garden paths

  • Perfect for couples, weddings, and milestone getaways

Plan Your 2026 Mackinac Island Vacation Today

Escape the ordinary and discover timeless charm at The Inn at Stonecliffe — Mackinac Island’s most serene and romantic retreat. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, babymoon, anniversary, or summer escape, now is the time to book.

✅ Reserve your room today
✅ Book early for Lilac Festival and fall color season
✅ Plan an unforgettable experience in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

Check Availability Now

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