Mackinac (pronounced mak-in-aw) Island is located at the eastern end of the Straits of Mackinac, where the waters of Lake Huron and Lake Michigan meet. It is one hour’s drive south of Sault Ste. Marie. Pedestrian ferries leave for the island hourly from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace. Motorized vehicles have been prohibited here since 1898, maintaining Mackinac’s historic past. So slip back through time to the 19th century, when Mackinac Island was a popular tourist attraction and summer colony for the wealthy. Much of the island has undergone extensive restoration, designating it a National Historic Landmark that continues to attract tourists today.
What To Do
Take a historic carriage tour, or bike around the island’s 13-km perimeter. Dip your toes into the cool, clear waters at one of the beaches along the way and grab a shake and a corn dog at the Cannonball concession for a picnic lunch. Hike past perfectly-preserved Victorian homes to Arch Rock. Shop the boutiques on Main Street and sample dozens of flavours of the island’s famous, freshly-made fudge. Hit the links at the oldest continuously played golf course in Michigan. Share a cocktail at the Cupola Bar in the historic Grand Hotel (but be prepared to pay an extra $10. U.S. premium for the privilege). Visit Mission Point Resort’s Observation Tower to check out a panoramic view of the island, then follow with a delicious dinner at Chianti’s and a movie at their turn-of-the-century theatre.
Where To Stay
There are literally hundreds of historic inns, B&Bs and high-end resorts to choose from that cater to every budget. However, not all can offer a beautiful setting for your wedding along with plenty of comfortable accommodation for your guests. Mission Point Resort is the perfect place for newlyweds. A grand lobby, cozy rooms with a view of the sunrise, four restaurants to satisfy every appetite, a glorious gazebo, expansive grounds and lakefront trails, all provide numerous options for your own celebration. Experienced staff will help with the details to create an especially memorable event that will go down in history.
For more information, visit mackinac.com.
Originally published in Today’s Bride magazine, Spring/Summer 2016.
