Mackinac Island, MI

Michigan’s Jewel

Sitting at the northern tip of Michigan is a whole different world, Mackinac Island. Horses and bikes are the ONLY mode of transportation, fudge is made in abundance and the architecture is absolutely stunning.

Mackinac Island is one of the most beautiful and quaint islands we have ever visited. If you want to relax on your vacation, this episode will make you want to book your trip today!

- No motorized vehicles are allowed on Michigan’s Mackinac Island

- There are more than 500 horses on Mackinac Island

- The Island has only 600 year-round residents.

At 660 feet, Grand Hotel’s Front Porch is the world’s largest, and is visible as you approach the Island from Lake Huron

It takes 500,000 gallons of water to fill Grand Hotel’s swimming pool, which was named for actress

Five U.S. Presidents have visited Grand Hotel: Presidents Clinton, Bush, Ford, Kennedy and Truman.

Grand Hotel’s kitchen staff of more than 100 people prepares and serves as many as 4,000 meals per day

More than 50,000 Grand Pecan Balls, the Hotel’s most popular dessert, are consumed each season

No two rooms are decorated the same in the entire hotel making every visit brand new!

Goin’ On A Budget

Trying to stay on a budget can be hard if you are wanting to have the same experiences that we had.  There were some budget-buster for sure! Here are a few suggestions to help save some money but still experience what the island has to offer!

Once you step foot on the island you become a “Fudgie”, a nickname given to the tourist of Mackinac Island.  So embrace that! Go from fudge store to fudge store and sample the fudge.  That way you can decide which one is the best before you spend a dime!

Taking the carriage ride may not be in your budget (try to plan ahead enough to include it), but you can rent bikes to ride all over the island.  There are many rental companies so check their websites for coupons and specials to find the best price!

Personally, I would suggest one night’s stay at the Grand Hotel and then switch to another if your budget does not allow for a full vacation there.  It is like no other hotel we have ever stayed in and so worth the extra money to experience the fairy tale surroundings that are there.  Then head to one of the many B&B’s or smaller hotels on the island that will give a more affordable stay.