Time Travel: Summer in Mackinac Island

This post kicks off our new series, Latitudes by Lisa, written by Lisa Noble—full-time mom, full-time guidance counselor, lifelong traveler, and an invaluable part of the JMart Travels team.

Tucked quietly between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, Mackinac Island is the great summer escape. Frozen in time, you’ll find horse-drawn carriages and endless amounts of fudge from local shops like JoAnn’s and Murdick’s. There are no cars or overtones of commercialization. The island is classic Americana.

Getting to Mackinac Island is an adventure in itself. Mackinaw City and St. Ignace offer transportation, by way of ferry. After researching and talking to locals, we settled on Shepler’s Ferry. For the best views of the Mackinac Bridge and the rippling waves of Lake Huron, be sure to find a seat atop the ferry. It’s windy but worth it. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the streets bustling with the sounds of horse hooves and bicycle bells.

Once you’ve checked into your room, make your way to Ryba’s bike rental. The island has an 8.2 mile loop and is a must-do for your first trip. Pro tip: When you take off on your bike, go left around the island. This route proved to have more even terrain with less traffic. Make a pit-stop at the Cannonball Oasis, better known as the halfway point on your trek around the island. You can fuel up and snap some group photos on the shoreline. Horsedrawn carriage tours also allow you to explore the island’s hidden details and charm, like The Ice House. Tucked quietly in the backyard of the Island House Hotel, the restaurant provides outdoor, umbrella table dining and yard games for all ages and inside the Chuckwagon is a rhythmic, three person crew whipping up breakfast and lunch faster than you can request a menu.

The majority of the island remains state park land with miles of forested trails and scenic views on the inner loop. Some must-see sights include: Fort Mackinac, an 18th century military outpost, Arch Rock, one of the island’s most iconic landmarks and the Grand Hotel with its 600+ foot long front porch. Local artisan stores line the streets, for a unique boutique shopping experience. At Mackinac Island local pottery, we picked up a Christmas ornament to commemorate our visit. Reminiscent of my first part-time job at Hallmark, Poppins just may be my new favorite paper goods shop. Decorated with one of a kind greeting cards and other personalized lifestyle items, they specialize in the best kind of communication: Snail Mail.

When you visit, remember to dress in layers. The lake breeze can shift temperatures quickly and pack your walking shoes. If you want to beat the crowds, consider a visit in late spring or early fall. Whether you stay at one of the luxury resorts like the Grand Hotel or a smaller space like the Windermere, there’s a hotel that’s just right for you. We traveled to Mackinac Island in late June and stayed at the Lakeview Hotel. Located across from the harbor and nearby bike shop, it was affordable, casual and convenient and yes, Mackinac Island is teenager approved! We will be back soon.

After just a few days on Mackinac, I was reminded why travel is worth the planning—it creates the kind of memories that stay with you forever. At JMart Travels, we’d love to help you plan your own Mackinac Island escape, complete with all the little details that make it unforgettable. So run, bike or carriage ride your way over to JMart travels, where we can help you curate the perfect trip to this magical piece of the Mitten State. Call 812-351-0513 or email info@jmarttravels.com and when you arrive on the island. Be prepared to watch time stand still.