Mackinac Island: A Unique Day Trip
Mackinac Island is like stepping into a time capsule—a charming, car-free retreat with only XXX residents. The island is renowned for its beautiful Victorian architecture, fudge shops, and horse-drawn carriages, making it a perfect destination for a unique and memorable day trip. Here’s a peek into our adventure:
Getting There
We arrived at the ferry port about 30 minutes early and found ourselves around 40th or 50th in line. As the ferry filled up, we nervously watched the attendant lower the rope just before our turn, announcing the boat was full. Unfortunately, we had to wait for the next one. Tip #1: Arrive even earlier than you think you need to! Thankfully, the wait wasn’t too long, and it turned out to be worth it.
Our ferry took a scenic detour under the Mackinac Bridge, offering a breathtaking view of this engineering marvel. It was a fun and inspiring moment that added something extra to the ride. After the detour, we enjoyed a short XXX-minute ferry ride to the island, where we were greeted by rows of charming bike shops ready to outfit visitors for exploring.
Fudge First!
Before renting bikes, we couldn’t resist visiting one of the island’s famous fudge shops. Known as the "fudge capital of the world," Mackinac Island did not disappoint. We picked up several flavors, including classic chocolate, chocolate vanilla, and a dairy-free chocolate option for me. They were absolutely delicious! We devoured most of it immediately but managed to save a little for later.
Exploring by Bike
With our sweet cravings satisfied, we rented two bikes equipped with child seats and helmets for the kids. The island is incredibly bike-friendly, and we were able to cycle the entire perimeter in less than four hours. Along the way, we took our time, stopping to explore a nature center and a playground.
Cycling on the island felt magical—passing horse-drawn carriages and beautifully maintained cottages with magazine-worthy gardens transported us to a different era. This peaceful ride, surrounded by the island’s natural beauty, was the highlight of our visit. The kids loved it, and so did we.
Dining on the Island
By the end of our ride, we were pretty hungry. We stopped at one of the many restaurants for a quick snack before catching the ferry back. It’s worth noting that dining on the island can be expensive due to its secluded nature. Tip #2: Pack snacks or a sack lunch to save money, and plan to grab a full meal back on the mainland.
Final Thoughts
Mackinac Island is a quirky, one-of-a-kind destination that feels like a step back in time. From the scenic ferry ride to cycling alongside horse-drawn carriages and indulging in delicious fudge, it’s a day we’ll always remember. If you’re looking for a unique getaway filled with charm and nostalgia, Mackinac Island is a must-visit.
Have you been to Mackinac Island? What was your favorite part? Let us know in the comments below!
