Fudge, Horses and Biking
Mackinac Island is a truly enchanting destination, attracting visitors from around the globe who come to experience its unique charm and timeless beauty. This magical island offers a glimpse into a bygone era, with its historic architecture, horse-drawn carriages, and stunning natural landscapes. Conveniently, it is only a short drive and ferry ride from Reed’s on the River cabins.
If you’re planning a day trip to Mackinac Island, make sure to explore these must-do activities to make the most of your visit.

INFORMATION
Plan out your day
Mackinac Island offers a wealth of activities and sights that cater to various interests, making it an ideal destination for a comprehensive day trip.
Here are some highly recommended activities and attractions to ensure you experience the island to its fullest:
Tour Fort Mackinac: Immerse yourself in history with a visit to Fort Mackinac, a well-preserved 18th-century fort. The interactive exhibits and live reenactments provide an insightful glimpse into the island’s military past.
Explore Mackinac Island State Park: Covering over 80% of the island, this state park offers stunning landscapes, including Arch Rock, a natural limestone arch with breathtaking views. Hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails are abundant, allowing you to experience the park’s natural beauty.

Biking Around the Island: Rent a bike and take the 8.2-mile loop around the island’s perimeter. This leisurely ride offers picturesque views of the shoreline, with opportunities to stop at various points of interest along the way.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour: Since cars are prohibited on the island, a horse-drawn carriage tour is a quintessential way to explore. These guided tours provide rich narratives about the island’s history, landmarks, and unique way of life.
Visit the Grand Hotel: No trip to Mackinac Island is complete without a visit to the iconic Grand Hotel. Known for its expansive porch and historic charm, the hotel offers afternoon tea, fine dining, and spectacular views of the Straits of Mackinac.
Sample Fudge: Mackinac Island is famous for its fudge. Visit one of the many fudge shops to see how this sweet treat is made and indulge in a variety of flavors. It’s a delicious way to experience a local tradition.
Butterfly Conservatories: The island hosts two enchanting butterfly houses, Wings of Mackinac and The Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House & Insect World. These conservatories offer a tranquil setting to observe a diverse array of butterflies and other insects up close.
Shopping and Dining in Downtown Mackinac Island: The downtown area is filled with quaint shops and restaurants. From unique souvenirs to gourmet meals, you’ll find a variety of options to enjoy local culture and cuisine.
Kayaking and Water Activities: For those inclined towards water sports, kayaking around the island offers a unique perspective of its rugged coastline. Rentals and guided tours are available for varying skill levels.
Historic Sites and Museums: In addition to Fort Mackinac, explore other historical sites such as the Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum and the Biddle House, both offering rich insights into the island’s heritage.
Info & Links
TRANSPORTATION
1. SHEPLER’S MACKINAC ISLAND FERRY
556 E Central Ave
Mackinaw City, MI 49701
(231) 436-5023
Buy your tickets and parking online and save!
2. STAR LINE FERRY
801 S Huron Ave
Mackinaw City, MI 49701
(800) 638-9892
The classic ferry takes a long time. We recommend if riding Star Line to take the hydro-jet ferry boats. If you have children, you can actual take a pirate ship to the island and back!
3. MACKINAC ISLAND CARRIAGE TOURS
7396 Market St
Mackinac Island, MI 49757
(906) 847-3307
Horse carriage tours around Mackinac Island, along with transportation if needed.
ATTRACTIONS
1. MACKINAC CYCLE
7271 Main St
Mackinac Island, MI 49757
(906) 847-0047
High Quality bikes, fantastic service.
No deposit is required to rent our bikes.
At Mackinac Cycle:
- You pay when you return
- All rates are pro-rated after the first hour
- Half and full day rates are discounted
2. THE ORIGINAL MACKINAC ISLAND BUTTERFLY HOUSE
6750 McGulpin St
Mackinac Island, MI 49757
(906) 847-3972
The Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House is the 1st of its kind in Michigan, and the 3rd oldest LIVE butterfly exhibit in the United States. The world-renowned facility has 1800 sq ft of tropical garden filled with hundreds of live butterflies from four continents.
3. ORPHEUM THEATRE
7396 Main St
Mackinac Island, MI 49757
(906) 847-4093
Haunted theatre. Great for older kids,
teens and adults! Not great for young children.
4. CINDY’S RIDING STABLE
7447 Market Street
Mackinac Island, MI 49775
(906) 847-3572
Ride your own horse on the island!
4. JACK’S LIVERY STABLE
7754 Mahoney Ave
Mackinac Island, MI 49757
(906) 847-3391
Drive your own horse carriage!
DINING
1. PINK PONY
7221 Main St
Mackinac Island, MI 49757
(906) 847-3341
Excellent food, really good drinks, live entertainment and outdoor seating.
We highly recommend the outdoor seating if you can get it. Named one of the top 10 outdoor dining restaurants in the USA!
If you are of legal age, be sure to try the world famous Pink Pony Rum Runner!
2. SEABISCUIT CAFE
7337 Main St
Mackinac Island, MI 49757
(906) 847-3611
Very good food, great service and a the atmosphere is designed around the iconic race horse, seabiscuit.
3. MARY’S BISTRO DRAUGHT HOUSE
7463 Main St
Mackinac Island, MI 49757
(906) 847-9911
50 beers on tap. Indoor and Outdoor dining.
4. HORNS GASLIGHT BAR AND RESTAURANT
7300 Main St
Mackinac Island, MI 49757
(906) 847-6154
Good food and great entertainment! An island classic for decades and decades.
5. THE GATE HOUSE
1547 Grand Ave
Mackinac Island, MI 49757
(906) 847-3772
Indoor and outdoor dining. Great food and daily entertainment.