Things to Do on Mackinac Island: Your 2026 Guide to Unforgettable Experiences from The Inn at Stonecliffe
Discover the Best Car-Free Vacation in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
Mackinac Island is one of America’s most unique and beloved travel destinations. Nestled in the sparkling waters of Lake Huron between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, this car-free island escape offers a blend of natural beauty, Victorian charm, and timeless adventure. From historic sites and scenic bike rides to horse-drawn carriage tours and world-famous fudge, the list of things to do on Mackinac Island is as rich as its storybook setting.
And at the heart of it all lies The Inn at Stonecliffe — a historic hilltop retreat offering tranquil views, lush gardens, and unmatched serenity on the island’s peaceful West Bluff.
Note: The Inn at Stonecliffe is open seasonally from May through late October and is closed during the winter months. Plan your visit during warm-weather months to fully enjoy this curated list of activities.
Table of Contents
Top 15 Things to Do on Mackinac Island in 2026
From scenic trails to sweet treats, these are the can’t-miss activities for every visitor:
-
Bike the 8.2-Mile Perimeter Loop
-
Visit Arch Rock – the island’s most iconic natural landmark
-
Tour Fort Mackinac – Revolutionary War history with stunning views
-
Stroll the Grounds at The Inn at Stonecliffe
-
Enjoy a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
-
Taste Fudge from Historic Shops
-
Watch the Sunset from Sunset Rock
-
Explore Mackinac Island State Park
-
Dine Alfresco with a Lake Huron View
-
Take a Guided Kayak or Paddleboard Tour
-
Picnic on the Lawn at The Inn at Stonecliffe
-
Visit the Butterfly House & Insect World
-
Shop for Handcrafted Souvenirs Downtown
-
Snap Photos of Victorian Cottages and Gardens
-
Unplug, Unwind, and Breathe the Fresh Lake Air
Outdoor Adventures & Scenic Spots
Bike the Mackinac Island Loop
-
Distance: 8.2 miles
-
Level: Easy – flat terrain, paved route
-
Views: Lake Huron cliffs, wildflowers, shoreline vistas
-
Tip: Start early to beat crowds. Pack water and sunscreen.
Hike or Ride to Arch Rock
-
Limestone arch rising 146 feet above the shoreline
-
Accessible by stairs or carriage road
-
One of the most photographed spots on the island
Explore Mackinac Island State Park
-
Over 70 miles of trails
-
Ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking
-
Don’t miss: Skull Cave, Fort Holmes, and Friendship’s Altar
Sunset Rock at The Inn at Stonecliffe
-
A short walk from the Inn’s grounds
-
Panoramic views of Lake Huron and the Mackinac Bridge
-
Best at dusk – bring a blanket and enjoy the quiet
Historical Attractions & Cultural Landmarks
Fort Mackinac
-
Built in 1780 by the British
-
Reenactments, cannon firings, and museum exhibits
-
Amazing views of downtown and the harbor below
The Grand Hotel (Outside Viewing or Tour)
-
Historic luxury resort with the longest front porch in the world
-
Formal afternoon tea available with a pass
-
Dress code applies after 6 PM
Historic Downtown Mackinac
-
Cobblestone streets, old-time storefronts
-
Visit the Biddle House, McGulpin House, and American Fur Company Store
Romantic & Relaxing Activities for Couples
| Activity | Description | Why It’s Romantic |
|---|---|---|
| Carriage Ride at Sunset | Private horse-drawn ride along forest trails | Timeless and scenic |
| Stonecliffe Lawn Picnic | Gourmet basket with local cheeses and wine | Secluded and peaceful |
| Couple’s Photos at Arch Rock | Natural backdrop with stunning light | Iconic keepsake moment |
| Spa Treatments at Nearby Resorts | Book a massage after a long day biking | Total relaxation |
| Evening Drinks at The Inn’s Terrace | Sip cocktails with views of the Bridge | Intimate and quiet |
The Inn at Stonecliffe offers one of the most romantic settings on the island — perfect for honeymoons, babymoons, and anniversary escapes.
Family-Friendly Experiences & Kid Favorites
-
Butterfly House – Hundreds of butterflies in a tropical garden
-
Mini-Golf & Arcade – Great for young travelers
-
Horse Barn Visit – Pet friendly ponies and working horses
-
Fudge Tasting – Let the kids pick their favorite flavor
-
Storybook Trail – Interactive hiking route with kid-friendly signs
-
Lawn Games at Stonecliffe – Bocce, croquet, and frisbee available
Where to Eat, Shop, and Savor Mackinac
Must-Try Foods
-
Fudge – from Murdick’s, Ryba’s, or JoAnn’s
-
Whitefish Dip – Local Lake Huron favorite
-
Pecan Balls – Classic Grand Hotel dessert
-
Pasties – U.P. meat pies available at many cafes
Where to Eat
| Restaurant | Style | Location |
| Chianti at Mission Point | Upscale Italian | East Bluff |
| Yankee Rebel Tavern | Casual American | Downtown |
| Chuckwagon | Burgers & Breakfast | Downtown |
| The Lawn at Stonecliffe | Seasonal Outdoor Dining | On-property |
Shopping
-
Handmade soaps, lavender, and nautical gifts
-
Mackinac Island logo apparel and souvenirs
-
Art galleries, pottery, and Michigan-made treats
How to Get Around the Island Without a Car
Mackinac Island is entirely car-free, adding to its charm and quietness.
| Mode of Travel | Notes |
| Bicycle | Rent downtown or bring your own via ferry |
| Walking | All major attractions are walkable from downtown |
| Horse-Drawn Carriage | Tours or private transport (especially useful for trips to Stonecliffe) |
| Taxi (Horse-drawn) | Schedule through Mackinac Island Carriage Tours |
Suggested Itineraries
One-Day Itinerary (Day Trip)
-
Morning: Ferry arrival + bike rental
-
Midday: Ride loop trail, Arch Rock, lunch downtown
-
Afternoon: Fort Mackinac + fudge stop
-
Evening: Ferry back to mainland
Two-Day Itinerary (Romantic or Family Trip)
Day 1:
-
Check in at The Inn at Stonecliffe
-
Explore Sunset Rock + lawn picnic
-
Carriage ride and dinner on the terrace
Day 2:
-
Butterfly House + State Park trail walk
-
Downtown shopping + fudge tasting
-
Sunset views before departure
Three-Day Itinerary (Extended Stay)
-
Mix all of the above plus kayaking, spa time, and deep cultural exploration of the island
When to Visit Mackinac Island
| Season | What to Expect | Best For |
| Late Spring (May–June) | Lilacs bloom, cool mornings | Romantic stays, nature |
| Summer (July–August) | Warm temps, long days | Families, outdoor activities |
| Fall (Sept–Oct) | Fall colors, quiet ambiance | Photography, couples |
The Inn at Stonecliffe is open from late May through October. Winter visits are not possible due to island and property closures.
FAQs About Things to Do on Mackinac Island
What is the best thing to do on Mackinac Island?
Bike the 8.2-mile loop, visit Arch Rock, and explore Fort Mackinac. These are iconic and accessible activities for all ages.
Can I bring a car to Mackinac Island?
No – the island is entirely car-free. Transportation is by bicycle, walking, or horse-drawn carriage.
How long should I stay on Mackinac Island?
2–3 nights allows you to enjoy the full island experience without feeling rushed. A one-day trip is possible but can feel short.
Is Mackinac Island good for kids?
Yes – with fudge shops, carriage rides, butterfly gardens, and mini-golf, it’s a fantastic destination for family travel.
When is The Inn at Stonecliffe open?
The Inn is open seasonally from late May through October. It is closed during winter.
Stay at The Inn at Stonecliffe – Mackinac Island’s Quietest, Most Scenic Retreat
Far removed from downtown crowds, The Inn at Stonecliffe offers an elevated experience with unmatched views, tranquil lawns, historic charm, and exclusive access to Sunset Rock, one of the most romantic overlooks on the island.
-
Historic mansion and Summer House suites
-
Gourmet seasonal dining
-
Garden paths, lawn games, and private relaxation
-
Ideal for honeymoons, babymoons, and fall foliage trips
Plan Your Mackinac Island Trip Today
Book your 2026 stay at The Inn at Stonecliffe and experience the very best of Mackinac Island — from scenic bike rides and historic landmarks to sunsets over Lake Huron.
Availability is limited during peak season. Reserve early to secure your ideal travel dates.
Explore Rates & Availability →
Read other posts