Mackinaw City Hotels - Mackinaw Frequently Asked Questions (2024)

Table of Contents
What family owns Mackinaw City? Who is the owner of Mackinac Island? Why is Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island spelled differently? Which is better to stay at St. Ignace or Mackinaw City? Is it better to stay in Mackinaw City or Mackinac Island? Is it better to go to Mackinac Island from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace? How long is the ferry ride from Mackinac Island to Mackinaw City? Is Mackinaw City worth visiting? How long is the bridge from Mackinaw City to St. Ignace? What is the best month to visit Mackinac Island? How much does it cost to take the ferry from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island? How many hours do you need on Mackinac Island? How often does the ferry run from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island? What is the best time of year to go to Mackinac Island? How long is the carriage ride on Mackinac Island? Can you walk to everything on Mackinac Island? What days is Mackinac Island busy? How walkable is Mackinac Island? How long does it take to walk around Mackinac Island? What time of year does Mackinac Island close? What happens if you miss the last boat off Mackinac Island? How many days should you stay on Mackinac Island? Do you have to cross the Mackinac Bridge to get to Mackinac Island? How far a walk is it from ferry to Grand Hotel Mackinac Island? How strict is the Grand Hotel dress code? What famous movie was filmed on Mackinac Island? Is Mackinaw City worth it? How many people actually live on Mackinac Island? How do residents on Mackinac Island get groceries? Is it expensive to live in Mackinac Island? Does anyone live on Mackinac Island in the winter? How many days should you stay on Mackinac Island? What are the busiest days at Mackinac Island? How many hours do you need on Mackinac Island? How much does a carriage ride cost on Mackinac Island? How long does the carriage ride take on Mackinac Island? Where do workers on Mackinac Island live? Are there private homes on Mackinac Island? What celebrity lives on Mackinac Island? What is the warmest month in Mackinac Island? Are dogs allowed on Mackinac Island? Does Mackinac Island get snow? How hot does it get on Mackinac Island in the summer? What is the best way to get around on Mackinac Island? What makes Mackinac Island so special? How many hours does it take to cross the Mackinac Bridge? Can dogs walk across the Mackinac Bridge on Labor Day? How much does it cost to go across the Mackinac Bridge? How many miles is it to ride around Mackinac Island? How do elderly people get around Mackinac Island? Why are there so many Jamaican workers on Mackinac Island? How do locals get around on Mackinac Island? What does the Lieghio family own? FAQs

What family owns Mackinaw City?

No family owns Mackinaw City. The Hoffman family recently purchased the majority share of Shepler’s Ferry. Most of the hotels are locally owned.

Who is the owner of Mackinac Island?

While all of Mackinac Island, the landform, is located within the corporate limits of the City of Mackinac Island, today 82 percent of the island's landmass is owned by the State of Michigan and managed by the Mackinac Island State Park Commission (MISPC)

Why is Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island spelled differently?

The founders of Mackinaw City opted for the phonetic "aw" spelling, probably as a way to distinguish their town from Mackinac Island for confused postal carriers. Today Mackinaw City retains the "aw" spelling while the bridge, straits and island steadfastly cling to the "ac" spelling.

Which is better to stay at St. Ignace or Mackinaw City?

St. Ignace has much less to offer. Mackinaw City is a beautiful well laid out historical village with lighted sidewalks and walkable downtown district with shops, attractions, restaurants, and entertainment. St. Ignace consists of a long run-down street. Mackinaw City generally gets three times as many visitors as St. Ignace each year.

Is it better to stay in Mackinaw City or Mackinac Island?

Many people choose to stay in Mackinaw City vs. on Mackinac Island. It's a lot less expensive and regardless of where you stay, you still need to take the ferry over to Mackinac Island. Mackinaw City has more modern, less expensive rooms and more extensive night life.

Is it better to go to Mackinac Island from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace?

Ferries to the island are conveniently located downtown with close proximity to shops, restaurants and hotels in Mackinaw City. The most convenient, affordable, and, in our humble opinion, overall best way to travel to Mackinac Island is through Mackinaw City. Also, you will avoid the expense and sometimes hours long traffic jams from crossing the Mackinac Bridge.

How long is the ferry ride from Mackinac Island to Mackinaw City?

16-26 minutes. Direct departures are typically every 16 minutes from both Mackinaw City. Mackinaw City has more ferry departures than St. Ignace and sometimes include tours under the Mackinac Bridge. Also, by traveling from Mackinaw City, you will avoid the Bridge fare and also the hours long traffic jams on the Mackinac Bridge.

Is Mackinaw City worth visiting?

Known for its iconic views of Mackinac Bridge and its gorgeous stretch of sandy shoreline, Mackinaw City is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

How long is the bridge from Mackinaw City to St. Ignace?

Linking Michigan's two peninsulas, this mighty bridge has a total length of five miles.

What is the best month to visit Mackinac Island?

Overall, visiting Mackinac Island in September or October is ideal for those looking to avoid peak-season crowds. The weather is still pleasant, and there are plenty of activities to do without fighting the crowds. Plus, plenty of accommodations are available at discounted rates during this time of year. Mackinaw City has more rooms, and they are less expensive than Mackinac Island.

How much does it cost to take the ferry from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island?

Passenger-only ferry tickets typically range from $20 to $33 per person. TIP: Both ferry companies offer discounts for children, seniors, and military personnel as do some hotels in Mackinaw City. The cheapest Mackinac Island Ferry tickets are available at www.mackinaw-city.com.

How many hours do you need on Mackinac Island?

If you want to see it all: You will need a full day to explore the perimeter and downtown area. If you want to bike the interior of the island, go kayaking, visit the museums, fort and anything else, you will need three days.

How often does the ferry run from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island?

Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry offers a variety of day and overnight parking options in Mackinaw City, with boats leaving every 15 minutes or so in season. The ride to Mackinac Island takes about 16-26 minutes depending on the ferry line you choose.

What is the best time of year to go to Mackinac Island?

If you like avoiding crowds, visit in April and May or September and October. If you want the best summer weather, August is a great time to visit.

How long is the carriage ride on Mackinac Island?

A horse-drawn public carriage tour is one of the most popular ways to take in the gorgeous scenery of Mackinac Island. In less than two hours, you can get the lay of the land from downtown up into Mackinac Island State Park and back – all while making friends with some of the island's iconic horses.

Can you walk to everything on Mackinac Island?

Hike up to Fort Holmes, the highest point on the Island, walk through the hustle and bustle of downtown or seek out a solitary place to soak in the natural beauty. Each and every extraordinary attraction on Mackinac Island is within walking distance.

What days is Mackinac Island busy?

Mackinac Island is a popular summer destination, with peak season usually lasting from late May to early October.

How walkable is Mackinac Island?

Because it measures less than four square miles, Mackinac Island is very walkable. You can even walk all the way around Mackinac Island and Mackinaw City in just a couple hours if you want. Many Mackinac Island attractions are close to town and can be reached on foot from most places to stay.

How long does it take to walk around Mackinac Island?

If you decide to make your way around the coast of Mackinac Island, walking will take approximately 2.5-4 hours without stopping. You can also bring your own bicycle or rent one from one of the many bicycle shops located on Mackinac Island.

What time of year does Mackinac Island close?

The tourist season on Mackinac Island may come to a close at the end of October when the regular schedule of ferry service from St. Ignace and Mackinaw City ends. But the island never closes. Not only do about 500 people live here year-round, but Mackinac Island also remains open to visitors through the winter.

What happens if you miss the last boat off Mackinac Island?

Because if you miss that boat, then you'll be spending an unplanned night on Mackinac Island! Once that last boat leaves, there's no looking back. The ferries won't return until early the next morning. The time the last ferry leaves the dock on Mackinac Island varies over the course of the season.

How many days should you stay on Mackinac Island?

For a relaxed visit that gives you time to really get to know Mackinac Island, you may want to consider spending an entire weekend, or even an entire week.

Do you have to cross the Mackinac Bridge to get to Mackinac Island?

No. The Mackinac Bridge starts in Mackinaw City then ends in St. Ignace. The only way to get to the Island is by ferry boat or take a 5-minute flight from the St. Ignace.

How far a walk is it from ferry to Grand Hotel Mackinac Island?

Grand Hotel is a 15 to 20 minute walk from the boat docks. For your convenience, Grand Hotel operates horse-drawn carriages between the docks and the hotel. As with all taxi services on Mackinac Island, there is an $8.00 per person fee and seats are on a first-come, first-served basis.

How strict is the Grand Hotel dress code?

Since Grand Hotel is a resort, we want you to feel at ease and dress comfortably. During the day, casual resort clothing is appropriate. Prior to 6:30 PM, please no midriff-baring tops, sweatpants, or cut-off shorts for ladies. For gentlemen, no sleeveless shirts, sweatpants, or cut-off shorts.

What famous movie was filmed on Mackinac Island?

“Somewhere in Time”. Filmed at Grand Hotel and on Mackinac Island in 1979, and released in 1980, Somewhere in Time stars Jane Seymour, Christopher Reeve, and Christopher Plummer.

Is Mackinaw City worth it?

Gateway to the Upper Peninsula, it is one of the top-of-the-list places to see in Michigan. Experience Colonial Michilimackinac , the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse and Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park. Also serves three passenger boat lines to Mackinac Island.

How many people actually live on Mackinac Island?

Approximately 500-600 people reside on Mackinac Island on a year-round basis.

How do residents on Mackinac Island get groceries?

There are lots of great Mackinac Island shops and Mackinac Island restaurants open during tourist season. Of course, dining out every night might break the family budget, so Morse tends to buy food on Mackinac Island at Doud's Market, which is America's oldest grocery store, or use food delivery services.

Is it expensive to live in Mackinac Island?

The total cost of housing, food, childcare, transportation, health care, taxes, and other necessities for a single adult in Mackinac Island is $34,098 a year — greater than the annual cost of living for Michigan of $32,897 yet less than the national figure of $38,433.

Does anyone live on Mackinac Island in the winter?

Around 500-600 people live year-round on Mackinac Island. Most of the Islanders live in the center of the Island in a community called Harrisonville. The section below is dedicated to the services that make it possible to live on Mackinac Island year-round.

How many days should you stay on Mackinac Island?

For a relaxed visit that gives you time to really get to know Mackinac Island, you may want to consider spending an entire weekend, or even an entire week.

What are the busiest days at Mackinac Island?

Memorial Day is the beginning of peak tourism season on Mackinac Island. From the end of May through the beginning of September, there's a buzz and excitement as visitors from around the world flock to enjoy the distinctive traits of Mackinac Island.

How many hours do you need on Mackinac Island?

If you want to see it all: You will need a full day to explore the perimeter and downtown area. If you want to bike the interior of the island, go kayaking, visit the museums, fort and anything else, you will need three days.

How much does a carriage ride cost on Mackinac Island?

Carriage Tour only: Adults & Senior Guests $36.00 and Child (5-12 YRS) $15.00. No charge for children aged 4 years and under if held on a lap. Traveling Michigan Events, Inspiration and FUN!

How long does the carriage ride take on Mackinac Island?

A horse-drawn public carriage tour is one of the most popular ways to take in the gorgeous scenery of Mackinac Island. In less than two hours, you can get the lay of the land from downtown up into Mackinac Island State Park and back – all while making friends with some of the island's iconic horses.

Where do workers on Mackinac Island live?

Many employers offer shared dorm-style housing right on Mackinac Island for a relatively inexpensive price, while others are willing to pay for ferry passes if you live on the mainland. Be sure to ask what your prospective employer is able to provide.

Are there private homes on Mackinac Island?

82% of the Island is State Land and 18% Privately Owned.

What celebrity lives on Mackinac Island?

Do any celebrities live on Mackinac Island? Yes, celebrities have houses on Mackinac Island. A few are actor Vince Vaughn, Director Ron Howard, and Michigan's own Bob Seger.

What is the warmest month in Mackinac Island?

The hottest month of the year at Mackinac Island Airport is July, with an average high of 75°F and low of 58°F. The cold season lasts for 3.4 months, from December 2 to March 15, with an average daily high temperature below 35°F.

Are dogs allowed on Mackinac Island?

Leashed pets are welcome to explore most of Mackinac Island with you! Keep your eyes peeled for dog-friendly stickers in the windows of many shops and restaurants. And, if you don't see a sticker, please ask if your dog is allowed before entering.

Does Mackinac Island get snow?

In addition to cooler temperatures from Halloween through Easter, Mackinac Island also gets a lot of snow. While it is possible for a few flakes to fall in October or May, almost all of the 94 inches of average annual snowfall comes from November through April

How hot does it get on Mackinac Island in the summer?

Mackinac Island's average high/low temperature in June – 70/51. Mackinac Island's average high/low temperature in July – 76/57. Mackinac Island's average high/low temperature in August – 74/57.

What is the best way to get around on Mackinac Island?

Rent a bike-renting a bike is a great way to see the entire island and get some exercise as well! It's our favorite mode of Mackinac Island Transportation! So much quicker to navigate the island than walking as it allows you to explore the hidden areas of the island at your own pace.

What makes Mackinac Island so special?

No cars. Just world-famous Mackinac Island Fudge, historic Fort Mackinac , unique shopping, and diverse dining. Unforgettable sunsets, awe-inspiring sunrises and over 70 miles of hiking and biking trails befit it's ranking as the #1 Island in the Continental U.S. as named by Travel & Leisure Magazine.

How many hours does it take to cross the Mackinac Bridge?

How Long Does It Take to Drive Across the Mackinac Bridge? The speed limit crossing the bridge is a steady 45 miles per hour. It typically takes drivers 5 to 7 minutes to cross the bridge at this speed. However, those who have gephyrophobia (fear of bridges) may struggle to cross it.

Can dogs walk across the Mackinac Bridge on Labor Day?

Ignace and Mackinaw City. Baby strollers and wheelchairs are allowed on the bridge during the walk. Prohibited items include signs, banners, umbrellas, bicycles, roller skates, skateboards, wagons and similar types of devices. With the sole exception of working service dogs, no animals are allowed.

How much does it cost to go across the Mackinac Bridge?

The fare to cross the bridge is $2.00 per axle or $4.00 for a car. The Mackinac Bridge currently accepts the following payment types at our toll booths: cash, credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. If you are a frequent crosser or would like the convenience of a prepaid account, check out the MacPass.

How many miles is it to ride around Mackinac Island?

Biking the 8.2-mile shoreline loop around the island is, of course, the classic must-do biking experience on Mackinac Island.

How do elderly people get around Mackinac Island?

And whenever you get tired, just call Mackinac Island Taxi at 906-847-3323 for a horse-drawn carriage ride to your next destination. Wheelchairs also are available for rent from many Mackinac Island bike vendors. Additional Information: See Mackinac Island attractions you can reach on foot.

Why are there so many Jamaican workers on Mackinac Island?

Businesses on Mackinac Island have relied heavily on guest workers from Jamaica for years, and Michigan's worker shortage has made their presence essential to business operations. Demand for foreign workers has been rising amid the labor shortage, particularly in Michigan's agriculture and tourism industries.

How do locals get around on Mackinac Island?

On the island, motorized forms of transportation are not allowed, so popular methods of travel are either via walking, bicycling or horse and carriage. Rental facilities are available on the island so you can rent bicycles or even horses.

What does the Lieghio family own?

The Lieghio family owns more than 28 hotels in Mackinaw City. They were the pioneers of the lodging industry in Mackinaw City, building Mackinaw’s first modern motel in 1955.

Mackinaw City Hotels - Mackinaw Frequently Asked Questions (2024)

FAQs

Is it better to stay on Mackinac Island or in Mackinaw City? ›

Many people choose to stay in Mackinaw City vs. on Mackinac Island. It's a lot less expensive and regardless of where you stay, you still need to take the ferry over to Mackinac Island. Mackinaw City has more modern, less expensive rooms and more extensive night life.

How strict is the Grand Hotel dress code? ›

Dress Guide

Since Grand Hotel is a resort, we want you to feel at ease and dress comfortably. During the day, casual resort clothing is appropriate. Prior to 6:30 PM, please no midriff-baring tops, sweatpants, or cut-off shorts for ladies. For gentlemen, no sleeveless shirts, sweatpants, or cut-off shorts.

Who owns most hotels in Mackinaw City? ›

The Lieghio family owns more than 20 hotels in the city. In a letter to one of the owners Tuesday, the Michigan Attorney General's Office announced it is investigating three of those hotels, The Beach House Hotel, Crown Choice Inn & Suites and Hamilton Inn Select Beachfront.

What is the best month to visit Mackinac Island? ›

Spring is called pre-season, summer is peak season, and fall can be described as the perfect season on Mackinac Island. In September, Mackinac Island transforms into a tranquil paradise, where the fading warmth of summer meets the crisp anticipation of autumn.

What is the number 1 tourist attraction in Michigan Mackinac Island? ›

Mackinac Island State Park

The park surprises visitors with its faraway-woods feel, despite being a few hundred yards from downtown. More than 80 percent of Mackinac Island is within the state park. Hike, bike or ride a horse through forests, past geological formations and along limestone bluffs.

What is the busiest day on Mackinac Island? ›

July and August tend to be the busiest times of the year on Mackinac Island. As you might expect, dates during these months often sell out the fastest – especially around the Fourth of July, during the yacht races that take place in July and during the annual Mackinac Island Fudge Festival in August.

How long is the walk from the ferry to the Grand hotel Mackinac Island? ›

Grand Hotel is a 15- to 20-minute walk from the boat docks. For your convenience, Grand Hotel operates horse-drawn carriages between the docks and Grand Hotel. As with all taxi services on Mackinac Island, there is an $8.50 per person fee (cash only) and seats are on a first-come, first-served basis.

How much does it cost to walk on the Grand hotel Mackinac Island? ›

Non-guests of Grand Hotel will be charged an admission fee of $10 per adult and $5 for children.

Do you tip at Grand Hotel Mackinac Island? ›

NO TIPPING: Tipping to any employee anywhere within Grand Hotel is not required, expected or permitted. There is tipping at the following offsite restaurant locations: The Jockey Club at the Grand Stand, Woods, The Gate House, the Pool Grill, Sushi Grand, and Fort Mackinac Tea Room.

What celebrities have homes on Mackinac Island? ›

In his piece, author and syndicated radio host Michael Patrick Shiels lists a number of celebrities who have found anonymity - or at least a break from paparazzi - on the tourist island in the Straits of Mackinac. They include actor Vince Vaughn, actor and director Ron Howard, and Michigan's own Bob Seger.

How do people on Mackinac Island get groceries? ›

Being on Mackinac Island, where no motorized vehicles are allowed other than public safety vehicles, delivery logistics are literally horse-driven. Goods arrive from Wisconsin-based Great Lakes Foods, as well as from dozens of other vendors. The goods are loaded onto horse-drawn carriages and delivered to the store.

How many days should you stay on Mackinac Island? ›

For a relaxed visit that gives you time to really get to know Mackinac Island, you may want to consider spending an entire weekend, or even an entire week.

What food is Mackinac Island known for? ›

When you're on Mackinac Island, of course you'll want to taste Mackinac Island Fudge ice cream, too. It's almost as delicious as Mackinac Island fudge itself! You can find Mackinac Island Fudge and two dozen other flavors of Michigan-made Guernsey Ice Cream at Sadie's Ice Cream Parlor on the grounds of Grand Hotel.

Do you tip carriage drivers on Mackinac Island? ›

Whether you're taking a horse-drawn carriage tour of Mackinac Island or just catching a horse-drawn taxi for a ride down the street, tipping a few bucks per person is a fine way to express thanks for high-quality transportation service.

What is the difference between Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island? ›

Over time, Michilimackinac got shortened to Mackinac. The island since has been known as Mackinac Island and the fort as Fort Mackinac. However, when present-day Mackinaw City was founded in the 1850s, the British changed the spelling of the city to reflect the way the name is pronounced, with a “w” sound at the end.

Is it better to go to Mackinac Island from St. Ignace or Mackinaw City? ›

Ferries to the island are conveniently located downtown with close proximity to shops, restaurants and hotels. The most convenient, affordable, and, in our humble opinion, overall best way to travel to Mackinac Island is through St. Ignace.

How much time do you need on Mackinac Island? ›

How long to spend on Mackinac Island? You can spend as much time as you'd like on the island before heading home. If you only want to shop for some souvenirs and grab some fudge, you'll only need about 3-5 hours.

How long is the ride from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island? ›

Two ferry companies service Mackinac Island with rides that take 16 to 18 minutes and bring you right into the heart of town. Day-trippers can park their car for free in designated ferry lots in Mackinaw City or St. Ignace. For overnight guests, Mackinac Island ferry companies offer a range of parking options.

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