Voted the No. 1 Best Summer Travel Destination by USA TODAY 10Best readers, Mackinac Island has beckoned visitors to its shores for centuries. The 2024 season includes several highly anticipated grand openings and renovations, including the Milliken Nature Art Center, the newly imagined Inn at Stonecliffe and more.
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Surrounded by the mighty waters of Lake Huron and as one of the only car-free destinations in the world, Mackinac Island has become a haven for travelers looking for a slower-paced, cool-temperature getaway filled with rich history, Victorian architecture, horse-drawn carriages and natural wonders. And no visit is complete without tasting some trademark Mackinac Island Fudge!
“We look forward to welcoming guests back to the island each new season, and our community takes great pride in providing every visitor with an unforgettable experience,” said Tim Hygh, executive director of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau. “Mackinac Island holds a special place in the hearts of many and we’re excited to showcase all the hard work and enhancements that have been put into the island over the last couple of months.”
The Mackinac Island community has been hard at work this winter planning for a lineup of quintessential Mackinac Island festivities for guests to partake in from May to October. (Ever wondered what Mackinac Island is like in winter? Take a look.) Celebrated annual events include the Lilac Festival paying homage to the iconic island flower, Fudge Festival celebrating the cherished sweet treat, and this year marks the 100th Bayview Mackinac Race, the world’s longest continually run long-distance freshwater yacht race.
The island’s charming resorts, hotels, bed and breakfasts, and other properties have been diligently enhancing amenities, refurbishing spaces, and getting ready to welcome guests this spring. Updates to properties, attractions and experiences this year include:
Photo by Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau
1. Carousel Arcade will open its doors on Market Street. As you step inside this lively hangout, you’ll be greeted by freshly popped popcorn and the delightful sound of soda fizzing as you settle in for a fun gaming experience.
2. Carriage House at Hotel Iroquois is introducing daily brunch featuring a blend of lunch entrees and breakfast favorites like bananas foster French toast and crab cake Benedict.
3. Chippewa Hotel will feature a hot tub upgrade, new carpeting in rooms, new walk-in showers, and six fully remodeled rooms for guests this season. Other rooms and suites throughout the hotel are getting new design elements as well.
4. Doud’s Market is celebrating 140 years and has made seasonal updates such as replacing the floor, adding new counters and fresh paint. (Take a look inside the world of Doud’s Market on Mackinac Island.)
5. Downtown Harbor Penthouse is unveiling exciting updates, including a remodeled kitchen and a new wet bar added in the primary suite, complete with amenities such as coffee, a mini-fridge, wine glasses, and more.
Photo by Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau
6. Grand Hotel, after an extensive two year restoration project, is opening with all new windows, siding, awnings, and wood. Other projects this year include the refreshed design of the Cupola Bar, the redesign of the Stewart Woodfill Suite, updates to the Woodlands Activity center, and a number of exciting dining offerings.
7. Harbour View has been purchased by Jon and Lauren Cotton, a Grosse Pointe couple who look forward to taking the reins of the iconic Mackinac Island hotel this season.
8. Hotel Iroquois is opening afternoon tea so guests can enjoy freshly prepared pastries and savory bites served in the circle porch on weekends in May, September, and October.
9. The Inn at Stonecliffe is reopening following a $30 million property-wide transformation. Set to welcome guests this summer, The Inn promises a rejuvenated experience that blends historic elegance with modern comfort.
10. Lake View Hotel is welcoming guests back to a fully renovated hotel with updated guest rooms and bathrooms, new public spaces in the lobby and updated conveniences.
Photo by Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau
11. Lilac Tree Suites will offer guests new property enhancements including bathroom updates, new carpet and paint, and an HVAC system for AC in hallways. One room will even have a theme honoring the lilacs of Mackinac Island.
12. Little Luxuries is making updates for the 2024 season such as adding new paint and displays.
13. Mackinac Arts Council continues to provide art, entertainment, and education sessions for residents, visitors, and all of Mackinac Island. Highlighted events include Music in the Park, art classes, musical performances and more.
14. Mackinac Jane’s Audio Tours is a new offering this year allowing guests to experience Mackinac Island like never before with self-guided walking and biking tours.
15. Mackinac’s Little Gallery, recently acquired by Mission Point and supported by the Mackinac Arts Council, is fostering the arts and continuing a platform for Michigan
talents to shine.
Photo by Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau
16. Milliken Nature Center, named after past Michigan Governor William Milliken, is set to open at Arch Rock this spring and will offer visitors a nature center, improved restroom facilities, an area for guests to relax, and more.
17. Mission Point Resort, celebrating 10 years of Ware family ownership, will unveil upgrades to the Cypress Room event space, seasonal flavors with its Farm to Ferry® culinary program, the opening of Chairished Moments boutique (formerly The Boutique and Garden Gate), and The McCartney Years Live will be making its debut at Mission Point Theatre.
18. Ninety Seven Films, a wedding videography team, are ready to capture the moments and memories of any big day on Mackinac Island.
19. The Pink Pony will introduce a few new menu items this year while keeping guest favorites.
20. Pontiac Lodge has undergone significant renovations, replacing carpeting with all-new floors and continuing bathroom renovations, ensuring a refreshed and inviting atmosphere for guests.
Photo by Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau
21. Ryba’s Fudge will be debuting the documentary, “Mackinac Island Fudge, A Ryba Family Tradition” this season. It will be available on YouTube and in all of the guest rooms at Island House Hotel.
22. Village Inn Suites now feature all-new floors and updated bathrooms, enhancing the comfort and convenience of guests during their stay on the island.
23. Watercolor Cafe is excited to introduce Boba Tea to the menu this season. Also new is Open Studio, an opportunity to explore your creativity during drop-in artistic
sessions from 3–5 p.m.
24. Winchester’s Whiskey and Bourbon Room, is the perfect place for visitors stepping right off the ferry. Winchester’s will feature exciting new menu items including Texas BBQ style entrees, an extensive brunch menu, and warm doughnuts.
25. Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry and Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry will both resume full service to and from the island on April 21, 2024. Be sure to plan ahead and check websites for daily schedules, rates, ride types, and deals.