I think most people dream of heading to a tropical island when they’re looking to slow life down. When the stress of work, family, friends and life in general gets overwhelming, island life is less hurried and includes fewer distractions of modern technology. What makes this island getaway so unusual, is that it’s not tropical and it’s found in Michigan! That’s right. Michigan.
Mackinac (pronounced MACK-in-awe) Island is located in Lake Huron and can only be reached by plane or boat. The quick trip from the mainland transports visitors to a bygone era – as no cars are allowed bicycles and horse-drawn carriages are the primary modes of transportation through the Victorian era downtown, to the island’s scenic coastline and the in the wooded state park which covers more than 80% of the small island.
The ferry is the best way to get to Mackinac Island for its pretty lake views a glimpse of the Mackinac Bridge and the Round Island Lighthouse. From here, we unloaded into the “bustle” of downtown Mackinac. The town is compact but packed with plenty of unique shops and restaurants housed in charming and pristinely restored Victorian buildings. There are also a ton of places to rent bicycles and circumventing the island is one of the most popular activities. The 8.2 mile loop hugs the shoreline, offering stunning views of the crystal-clear water on one side and lush, forested landscapes on the other. With no cars to contend with, the ride is peaceful and safe.
One of the most iconic landmarks along the ride is Arch Rock, a natural limestone formation rising 146 feet above the shore. It’s a great place to hop off the bike and hike the stairs for a breathtaking view of Lake Huron from above. Further along we found quiet beaches where we sat with waves lapping the shore. The island’s natural beauty shines here and its easy to get lost in the rhythm of the waves and the beauty of the rocky beaches or surrounding cliffs.
Despite the crowds, because everyone is biking there’s a child-like joy in getting around and pedal-power results in the island’s slower pace and serenity.
Mail, garbage, restaurant deliveries, taxis and lawn services are all horse drawn. We did hear that there are emergency vehicles on the island but didn’t see any.
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Having circled the island, we found a small café with a view of the water for lunch. As we walked off our gourmet sandwiches we took in ornate architecture. One thing the island is known for is fudge and we couldn’t walk more than a few steps without seeing another shop temping use with sweet treats. The candy-striped workers behind the counter offered samples of chocolate, peanut butter and vanilla fudge, each rich and creamy. The shops themselves are a bit of a spectacle with workers pouring molten fudge onto huge dining room sized marble slabs, a sight as mouthwatering as the smells. Be warned – it’s nearly impossible to leave without picking up a box or three of your favorite flavors. We picked up a caramel nut, rocky road, and orange fudge that were to die for from Joann’s Fudge Shop.
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Mackinac Island also has a rich history and no visit would be complete without a stop at Fort Mackinac. Perched high on the bluffs overlooking the downtown, this well-preserved 18th-centry military outpost offers sweeping views of the island and lake that were worth the price of admission. We made the short walk up to the fort just in time for the live canon blast. The exhibits inside barracks, a hospital, and office quarters provide a sense for what life was like for the soldiers stationed here during the War of 1812 and beyond.
Our day on Mackinac Island was filled with simple pleasures – a scenic bike ride, some time on the beach, lunch overlooking the water, delicious fudge, a little history, and the feeling of having stepped back to a quieter and gentler time. As we boarded the ferry to return the island with its pretty pastel homes faded into the horizon, but the memories of its beauty and tranquility have remained. If you’re looking for a place where history meets nature, where time seems to slow down, and where life seems simple and you can feel like a kid again, Mackinac Island, despite not being tropical, is the perfect getaway.
