Ultimate Guide to Things to Do on Mackinac Island

Discover Mackinac Island’s Top Attractions from The Inn at Stonecliffe

Located on the serene, secluded north end of Mackinac Island, The Inn at Stonecliffe offers an exclusive gateway to the most enchanting things to do on Mackinac Island. From romantic horse-drawn carriage rides to scenic bike trails, fudge tasting, and historic landmarks, this curated guide will help you experience the best Mackinac Island has to offer in 2025.

Getting to Mackinac Island: Your Arrival Guide

How to Get to Mackinac Island

• Fly into Pellston (PLN), Chippewa (CIU), or Traverse City (TVC)

• Transfer via Fresh Air Aviation (St. Ignace) or Shepler’s Ferry (from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace)

• Enjoy a scenic ferry ride across the Straits of Mackinac (16–18 minutes)

Stonecliffe Carriage Service

• Upon arrival, The Inn at Stonecliffe’s private horse-drawn carriage greets guests downtown

• Departs hourly from the ferry dock

• Takes you directly to the estate's entrance on the island’s north end

Explore the Outdoors: Best Outdoor Activities on Mackinac Island

Top Outdoor Experiences

1. Biking Around Mackinac Island

   • 8.2-mile M-185 loop around the island (car-free, scenic)

   • On-site bike rentals at The Inn at Stonecliffe (no need to go downtown)

2. Hiking Trails

   • Arch Rock Trail

   • Sugar Loaf and Point Lookout

   • Tranquil wooded paths accessible from the estate

3. Kayaking and Water Sports

   • Kayak rentals near downtown or guided eco-tours

   • Paddle along Lake Huron shoreline for lighthouse views

4. Horseback Riding

   • Guided trail rides through Mackinac Island State Park

   • Available from stables downtown

5. Sunset Viewing

   • Watch the sun set over the Mackinac Bridge from Straits Lawn

   • Evenings at the Sunset Pavilion patio

Best Spots for Nature Lovers

• The Grotto at Stonecliffe: wooded event venue perfect for photos

• Fort Holmes Overlook: highest point on the island

• Lake Huron Shoreline: ideal for morning walks

Signature Island Experiences Near The Inn at Stonecliffe

Carriage Tours

• Step back in time with a horse-drawn carriage tour

• Choose between public narrated tours or private charters

• Stonecliffe carriage transfer doubles as a scenic welcome ride

Mackinac Island Fudge Tasting

• Try legendary fudge flavors downtown

• Many shops offer free samples

• Custom fudge takeaway boxes available through The Inn for groups and weddings

Lilac Festival (June 6–15, 2025)

• Parades, garden tours, and lilac-inspired cuisine

• Convenient access via Stonecliffe’s carriage drop-off and bike rentals

Picnic on the Lawn

• Order a curated picnic basket through the concierge

• Enjoy lawn games, firepits, or hammocks on the Straits Lawn

• Ideal for couples, families, or small group gatherings

Historical & Cultural Attractions on Mackinac Island

Fort Mackinac

• 18th-century military outpost

• Costumed interpreters, cannon demonstrations, and sweeping views

• Just 1.7 miles from Stonecliffe via carriage or bike

Historic Downtown Mackinac

• Browse the quaint shops, art galleries, and cafes

• Enjoy Victorian architecture and a slower pace

Mackinac Island Butterfly House

• One of the oldest in the U.S.

• Tropical garden habitat with thousands of butterflies

Mackinac Art Museum

• Showcasing local artists and island-inspired pieces

• Free with a Fort Mackinac admission pass

Relaxation & Wellness at The Inn at Stonecliffe

On-Site Wellness Amenities

• 24/7 wellness center with gym and sauna

• Adult-only and family pools

• Weekly fitness classes: Yoga, Pilates, and more

Serene Moments

• Hammocks tucked into wooded pathways

• Fireside seating near the lawn

• Quiet retreat atmosphere — far from downtown bustle

Group Wellness Experiences

• Book group yoga classes on the lawn

• Arrange for wellness-focused corporate retreats

Family-Friendly Things to Do on Mackinac Island

Kid-Focused Activities at Stonecliffe

• Crafts Corner: weekly arts & crafts

• Pizza-making demos with the chef

• Bee-keeping classes: educational and hands-on

Island-wide Activities for Children

• Butterfly House visit

• Mini golf downtown

• Horseback riding for kids

• Lawn games and s’mores kits at The Inn

Culinary Experiences and Private Dining

On-Site Dining Options

• The Straits Dining Room: upscale breakfasts and dinners

• The Pub at Stonecliffe: casual small bites and cocktails

• Backyard Pavilion BBQ: lawn dining and group experiences

Signature Culinary Offerings

• Wine & Fudge Tastings

• Cocktail Making Classes

• Custom-curated group dinners

Event & Group Dining

• Plated banquets and passed hors d’oeuvres

• Pizza parties and s’mores kits

• Private tastings for weddings, reunions, or retreats

Unique Experiences at The Inn at Stonecliffe

Make It Memorable

• Group Painting Classes: perfect team-building with a keepsake

• Live Music Events: jazz trio or full band available

• Sip-n-Sail Cruises: partner sailboats offering sunset or cocktail cruises

Add-On Enhancements

• Custom gift bags and fudge boxes

• Carriage tours from your doorstep

• Late-night pool party rentals

Plan Your Visit Around These Seasonal Highlights

Season	Top Activities	Signature Events	Travel Tips
Spring	Bike trails, wildflowers, historic tours	Lilac Festival (June)	Book early for festival weekends
Summer	Pool days, lawn games, boating	Summer Concert Series	Midweek stays = best value
Fall	Foliage views, cozy picnics, wine tastings	Parties with a Purpose (Sept–Oct)	Best time for serenity and romance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best way to get to The Inn at Stonecliffe?

Take Shepler’s Ferry to Mackinac Island, then enjoy a private horse-drawn carriage ride directly to the Inn, departing downtown hourly.

What are the top things to do on Mackinac Island near The Inn at Stonecliffe?

Biking, lawn games, historical tours, fudge tasting, kayaking, and curated experiences like pizza-making and painting classes.

Can you rent bikes on property?

Yes, The Inn offers on-site bike rentals, so there’s no need to go downtown.

Is The Inn family-friendly?

Absolutely. From crafts and kid-friendly demos to lawn games and family pool access, The Inn offers curated fun for all ages.

What is included in the wellness amenities?

Guests enjoy access to a 24/7 gym, sauna, two pools (family and adults-only), and weekly group classes.

Book Your Retreat: A Landmark Reimagined

Whether you're planning a family vacation, romantic escape, or group retreat, The Inn at Stonecliffe is your portal to the most enriching, elegant, and unforgettable things to do on Mackinac Island in 2025. Book early to enjoy Mackinac Island’s most private resort experience — a stay with a purpose.

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