Picturesque landscapes and no cars – Mackinac Island lures tourists

Mackinac Island is located in the Great Lakes Region, at the confluence of Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. It covers less than 10 km², yet it attracts over a million tourists annually. It is one of Michigan’s top attractions. What sets it apart from other destinations? A complete ban on cars and motorcycles. Is that a problem for visitors? Not really.

Mackinac Island – a small piece of land where two great lakes meet

The island was first inhabited by the Anishinaabe people, who called it Michilimackinac (Great Turtle). For centuries, it served as their sacred burial site and a place for ritual tribal gatherings. This tradition came to an end with colonization.

Mackinac Island first came under French control, then British, and only in the 19th century did it become a full-fledged part of the United States. Today, it is one of Michigan’s most popular tourist spots, and most of its area is now covered by a state park.

The island’s picturesque location in the Straits of Mackinac, which connect Lakes Michigan and Huron, is a major asset. Another nearby attraction is Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes. This is an ideal setting for sailors and hikers. The entire region is famous for its vast forests, endless waters, and scattered small and large islands.

Mackinac Island – a land without cars

The car ban on Mackinac Island has been in effect since 1898 and applies to all motor vehicles. According to local legend, it was introduced after the first automobile brought to the island frightened the horses with its noise. For over 120 years now, the only allowed means of transportation have been bicycles and horse-drawn carriages.

The island’s buildings have preserved a unique late 18th- and early 19th-century atmosphere, strongly influenced by European styles. The local infrastructure consists mainly of historic townhouses and charming hotels. Altogether, it creates a truly exceptional holiday vibe: natural landscapes, architectural landmarks, and no cars.

Natural attractions of Mackinac Island

What is worth seeing on this small island? Even though its area is just under 10 km², there are plenty of places worth visiting. Let’s start with natural attractions.

Mackinac Island State Park is a place where you can admire beautiful, dense forests and a wide variety of birds, including hawks, warblers, and finches. The island features over 110 km of hiking trails, the most scenic of which run along the picturesque coastline, dotted with cliffs and rock formations.

One of the island’s most impressive natural sights is Arch Rock – a towering rock arch overlooking Lake Huron. Another must-see is Sunset Rock, a popular spot for admiring sunsets. From there, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Mackinac Bridge, which connects Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas.

What else is worth seeing on the island?

History lovers will be pleased to know that this tiny island is home to not one, but two forts. The first – Fort Mackinac – was built by the British during the American Revolutionary War and now serves as the headquarters of the national park. The second, Fort Holmes, is located on the island’s highest hill. After a comprehensive restoration in 2015, it became a popular lookout point with panoramic views of the Mackinac Strait.

Mackinac Island is also the name of the only town on the island, with a population of just under 600 residents. The town’s historic center features some fine examples of 19th-century American architecture.

Fudge – the local delicacy

If you’re visiting Mackinac Island, you absolutely must try the local sweet specialty. Fudge is a smooth and soft confection made from butter, sugar, and milk, with various flavorings. There are five candy shops on the island that have been producing this treat for over a century. It somewhat resembles Polish “krówki.” The most popular type is brown fudge, but the white version is also worth a taste.

Finally, a surprising fact. Mackinac is famous for one more thing – lilacs. In June, you’ll find them everywhere. These plants were brought to the island by European settlers who believed lilacs brought good luck. Every year, the Lilac Festival takes place on Mackinac Island. The event features concerts, historical reenactments, tastings of lilac-flavored drinks, and of course… fudge!

main photo credit: Jasperdo/Flickr