Free Things on Mackinac Island: How to See More, Spend Less
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I have a few favorite spots in Michigan I've visited regularly since I was a little girl - Pure Michigan is such a gem, and once you've visited, you can't help but want to return like now. But just when I thought my Michigan places-to-visit bucket list was full, in popped Mackinac Island. It's like stepping into a postcard - a delicate, gorgeous island where no cars are allowed, meaning visitors must get around by bike, foot, or horse-drawn carriage. The food is delish, the island life is vibrant, and travelers love the novelty of something completely different.
Before we get into all the free things to do, let me hit you with a thesaurus of words to help stage the setting even more: History. Natural beauty. Ferry boat. Lake Michigan. Lake Huron. Blue skies. Lilacs. Horse-drawn carriages. Bicycles everywhere. Are you getting the vision?
If you're prepping your own Island trip on a budget, I've compiled this free things to do on Mackinac Island list just for you. Get ready to bookmark!
P.S. One of my secret favorite free things to do on the Island is sample the free fudge (but don't ask me to give you a favorite shop because they're all AMAZING!).
Here are 10 Free Things to Do on Mackinac Island:
1. Explore Mackinac Island State Park
Fun fact: Mackinac Island State Park covers 80% of the acreage on the Island. You might hear the phrase "natural wonder" tossed around here, but truly it is. The Park is packed with scenic trails, breathtaking views, and no admission fee (the best news!). We love trekking up to the historic Fort Holmes - aka the highest point on the island - and meeting their visiting raptor expert from the Mackinac Straights Raptor Watch. You'll also spot the final resting grounds of American and British soldiers in the Fort Mackinac Post Cemetery.
2. Snap photos of the Mackinac Bridge and Straits of Mackinac
Pics or it didn't happen, right? You've got to get that perfect Instagram-worthy pic during your trip, and there are so many spots for great photos on the Island. Head to British Landing or Sunset Rock for great views of the Mackinac Bridge (“The Mighty Mac” to locals) and the surrounding Straits of Mackinac. The area is a perfect place to relax, take a short walk, and capture stunning photos.
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3. Discover historic fort sites and landmarks
Speaking of the historic British Landing, Mackinac is alive with so many historical spots to explore. The largest is Historic Fort Mackinac (which does charge an entrance fee), but you can wander around the outside of its grounds and still have a great time! View Marquette Park, visit other free historic sites like Market Street, Fur Trade houses, and again back to the British Landing area - it was a critically important spot during the War of 1812.
4. Visit natural wonders like Arch Rock and rock formations
Fine, there's that phrase again: Natural wonders. But one visit and you'll know exactly why. The iconic and IG-worthy Arch Rock is a stunning natural limestone formation that towers 146 feet above Lake Huron. You can hike or bike to it easily from Main Street. Other notable natural wonders include Sunset Rock, Eagle Point Cave, and the many rock formations tucked into the island’s dense forest trails.
5. Window shop (and sample fudge!) on Main Street
I've told you this is one of my fave things to do! Take a stroll down Main Street, the island's hub, lined with fudge shops, ice cream parlors, and unique stores (helloooo Poppins and Little Luxuries!).
But the best part: Many fudge shops offer free samples, making it a great way to taste test through the downtown area. While you're there, be sure to check out Doud’s Market - the oldest family-operated grocery store in America.
YES MACKINAC ISLAND IS AMAZING, BUT HAVE YOU VISITED NASHVILLE?
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6. Enjoy free live music and special events
During peak season, the island hosts lots of special events, festivals, and live music throughout the island, especially near Mission Point Resort, Marquette Park, and the ferry dock. Many performances are open-air and free to attend - peek the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau website for a fill list, and plan to bring a blanket or lawn chair.
7. Say hello to the butterflies (from the outside!)
While the Original Butterfly House and Insect World have an admission fee, the garden area outside is beautifully maintained and worth a visit, too. Bonus: this is the third oldest live butterfly exhibit in the U.S.
8. Watch the ferry boats come and go
If you’re not ready to head back home yet (or have a kid who loves all things that go), stick around the ferry dock for a great spot to watch the constant parade of people arriving via a ferry ride. Mackinac Island recently began welcoming cruise ships to port as well, so if you're lucky you might spot a massive Viking ship or two.
9. Stargaze under the night sky
Stay with me here: Thanks to the island’s minimal light pollution, the night sky above Mackinac Island is a literal stargazer’s dream. The open lawn at Mission Point Resort offers a great spot to lay back and gaze at constellations and meteors. And yes, the Northern Lights often make an appearance in this part of the globe.
10. Take in the historic charm - with a little Hollywood flair
Even if you're not staying at the legendary Grand Hotel, you can still admire its sweeping porch, beautiful gardens, and historic charm from the outside. Fans of the movie Somewhere in Time, starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour, will recognize the hotel and its surrounding grounds as filming locations.
(Also is now a good time to push for Lucy Score's novel Forever Never - set on the Island - to also get greenlit for the big screen?)
