Air travel, train travel, car travel? How about time travel? Travel to a place that time forgot by visiting the enchanting Mackinac Island in Michigan. In a little over six hours, you can be a world away on this tiny island traversable only on foot, bike, carriage, or horseback.
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What to Do on Mackinac Island with Kids:
- Our favorite things to do on the island include biking the eight mile circumference bordered by the "Caribbean Blue" Lake Huron. There is a wide, flat path along the shoreline, with a few natural and historic stops along the way. All-in it can take between one to two hours.
- In the main town, watch a fudge-making demonstration, sample a few flavors and/or shops, and bring some home as a perfect souvenir.
- Find your way onto a horse-drawn carriage ride, whether it be an island tour, or just a quick "taxi" to get the full Mackinac experience.
- Visit The Grand Hotel. The Grand Hotel is the most iconic site on Mackinac Island. Sitting in rocking chairs on the world's largest porch, enjoying a drink and admiring the view, is an island must. Admission to visit the grounds is $12 for adults and $6 for kids ages 6-12. It is for the entire day so you can leave and come back, but be aware there is a strict dress code after 6:30pm.
- Walk the downtown end to end, ideally at dusk, when the day trippers have returned to the mainland and the many cottages, turned B&Bs, begin to illuminate.
Those are just a few options. With over 70 miles of hiking trails, Fort Mackinac and numerous museum to explore, dozens of amazing restaurants, putt-putt, and even a haunted house, you'll easily be able to curate the perfect vacation for your family. However, the best thing to do on Mackinac Island is relax. With plenty of green space, gorgeous views, crisp fresh air, and little to no light or sound pollution, its a great place to be still and let the clip-clop of passing horses lull you.
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Getting There:
After the 6+ hour drive to Mackinaw City, be prepared to park your car and board a ferry that can get you to the island in sixteen minutes.
Fun Fact: Though Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island are two different places and are spelled slightly differently, they are both pronounced with the "aw" sound at the end. Pronounce it incorrectly, and you'll be dubbed a "Fudgie."
Note, before boarding, you will check your luggage for the quick ride, and retrieve it when you disembark. Depending on where you are staying, you can then pass your luggage on to a porter who will be sure to get it to your destination.
Pro-tip #1: Once you pass your luggage onto a porter, you can take this time to explore the downtown area, before reuniting with your luggage at your hotel later on.
Pro-tip #2: Carry cash of small denominations as there are many tipping opportunities throughout the luggage handling process.
If you are arriving during the day, the crowds at the dock can be a little overwhelming. Rest assured, the town does clear out quite a bit as the day trippers depart later in the afternoon/evening.
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Where to Stay:
Nestled away from the bustling downtown of Mackinac Island, The Inn at Stonecliffe offers a secluded and serene retreat for travelers seeking both luxury and tranquility. Fresh off a comprehensive renovation, this historic resort now boasts spacious rooms and modern amenities, while preserving its classic charm.
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Location
One of the most appealing aspects of The Inn at Stonecliffe is its peaceful location. Situated two miles away from the downtown area, guests can enjoy the sounds of nature and the gentle breeze off Lake Huron. Even the interior aesthetic is that of incorporating the outdoors. This idyllic setting ensures a restful and rejuvenating stay, perfect for unwinding and disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Amenities
- Adding to the charm and convenience, The Inn at Stonecliffe offers complimentary carriage rides to and from the dock to the resort.
- Unlike most other accommodations on Mackinac Island, The Inn at Stonecliffe features not just one, but two heated pools. There's a family-friendly pool where kids can splash around and have fun. We loved the sunbeds and kid-sized picnic tables at the family pool. There is also an adults-only pool for those seeking a more tranquil swimming experience.
- For those who want to explore the island on two wheels, the resort offers bike rentals, making it easy to tour Mackinac Island's scenic trails and historic sites at your own pace.
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Atmosphere
- At The Inn at Stonecliffe, comfort is key. The resort embraces a casual dress code, so there's no need to pack your suit and tie. This laid-back atmosphere allows guests to truly relax and feel at home, whether you're enjoying a meal at one of the resort's restaurants or lounging by the pool.
- Families will find The Inn at Stonecliffe particularly welcoming. With plenty of space and huge lawns for kids to run around on, there's no shortage of activities to keep the little ones entertained. The resort hosts nightly s'mores sessions, offering a fun and tasty way to end the day. Pick up your complimentary kits at the property's General Store. Additional entertainment options include live music, dive-in movies, lawn games, and more, ensuring there's always something to do.
- In the summer, guests have the perfect vantage point for watching weekly, Saturday night firework displays across the straits in Mackinaw City, adding a touch of magic to their stay.
Purpose
Beyond its luxurious amenities and picturesque setting, The Inn at Stonecliffe stands out as a "Humanitarian Hotel." The property is owned by the Pulte Family Charitable Foundation. 100% of the net profits are used to support charitable initiatives around the globe. Guests can feel good knowing that their stay contributes to meaningful causes, enhancing the overall experience with a sense of purpose and goodwill.
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The Inn at Stonecliffe on Mackinac Island offers a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and charm. From its serene location and modern amenities to its family-friendly atmosphere and humanitarian efforts, every aspect of the resort is designed to provide an exceptional and memorable stay. Whether you're looking for a romantic escape or a family-friendly adventure, The Inn at Stonecliffe promises a remarkable experience.
ProTip #3 - Watch the movie Somewhere in Time before you visit. Filmed almost entirely on Mackinac Island, if nothing else the kids will have fun spotting specific locations.
