20 Epic Things To Do In Mackinaw City Michigan

Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry is one of two ferry companies serving Michigan’s Mackinac Island. Its motto is unique and understandable-provide excellent service, use modern equipment, and employ well-trained personnel.

From the beginning of the ferry service (74 years ago) to the present day, Shepler's method of transportation to Mackinac Island is high quality and affordable. The boat ride offers panoramic views of the Mackinac Strait, including the iconic Mackinac Bridge and the surrounding Great Lakes. So, this is one of the best things to do in Mackinaw City MI.

The Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum Inc. is a fascinating museum located in Mackinaw City, Michigan. It is dedicated to preserving and showing the history of the icebreaker ship MACKINAW and the maritime heritage of the Great Lakes.

Interestingly, the centerpiece of the museum is the historic U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw, an iconic icebreaker that served on the Great Lakes from 1944 to 2006. Moreover, visitors to the museum can tour the ship, explore its different compartments, and learn about the ship's important role in breaking ice to keep shipping lanes open during winter.

The museum also features a maritime history exhibit, including artifacts, photographs and information about the Great Lakes shipping industry. Therefore, it is one of the perfect Mackinaw City activities to include in the list.

The Mackinac Bridge is one of the world’s most beautiful bridges and the beautiful things to see in Mackinaw City. This suspension bridge connects the US. state of Michigan in the Upper and Lower Peninsulas together.

The bridge was designed by the great engineer David B. Steinman and opened on November 1, 1957. The structure took 48 months to complete with over 3, 500 workers. Also known as the “Big Mac” or the “Mighty Mac”, the bridge stretches 8,614 feet that makes it the fourth longest suspension bridge in the world. Thus, the bridge has since become an iconic landmark of the state of Michigan.

Colonial Michilimackinac is located within the boundaries of Michilimackinac State Park on the shore of Lake Michigan. This historic site provides a glimpse into life during the 18th century.

Moreover, people can explore recreated buildings, including military barracks, a church, and trade houses. The site features costumed interpreters who demonstrate historical crafts, trades, and daily activities. The fort's strategic location historically made it a key trading post and military outpost.

The historical reenactments, interactive exhibits, and guided tours at Colonial Michilimackinac provide valuable insights into the lives of the settlers, soldiers, and Native American tribes that interacted in this crucial area of the Great Lakes region. With its combination of educational programming and hands-on experiences, Colonial Michilimackinac is an amazing things to do in Mackinaw City.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, situated near Mackinaw City, Michigan, is a renowned destination for stargazers due to its minimal light pollution and commitment to preserving dark skies.

As one of the few parks to earn the International Dark Sky Park designation from the International Dark-Sky Association, it offers breathtaking views of the night sky, including the Milky Way and various celestial events. The park features several miles of scenic trails that wind through diverse landscapes such as forests and wetlands.

The tour provides information about the park, its upcoming features, and events, including nightly stargazing and astronomical programs. Conveniently located on the northwest tip of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, it is easily accessible from Mackinaw and supports tourism to nearby destinations such as Mackinac Island.

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is located at the northern tip of the Lower Peninsula in the U.S. state of Michigan. Do you know that it is a part of Fort Michilimackinac State Park in the village of Mackinaw City just east of the Mackinac Bridge?

Constructed in 1892, the iconic lighthouse was an important help to navigation between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. The lighthouse is a unique 65-foot-tall red brick tower, decorated with white lights and a black roof so it is not only a functional historical landmark but also a popular tourist attraction.

Are you wondering about what to do in Mackinaw City? Then, you can enjoy the views at Mackinaw City Marina which is located in Mackinaw City, Michigan, at the northern tip of Michigan's Lower Peninsula.

This marina serves as a gateway to the Great Lakes and is a popular destination for boaters, tourists, and fishing lovers. It consists of a range of modern amenities, including showers and restrooms, laundry facilities, fuel, and pump-out services. Despite this, visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as historic forts, museums, and local shops. Hence, this is an amazing place to spend some quality time and create a wonderful memory for a lifetime.

One of the popular and historic ways to explore the beauty and history of Mackinac Island, Michigan is through Mackinac Island Carriage Tours. This can be a great experience for all of you in this modern era where carriages are rarely used.

The tours cover key attractions such as the Grand Hotel, Fort Mackinac, and the beautiful downtown area. At the same time, friendly and knowledgeable guides share amazing stories and historical facts about the places which provide a unique and outstanding experience for you all. Therefore, this sightseeing allows travelers to step back in time and appreciate the beauty and well-preserved architecture of the island.

Located in Michigan, Mackinac Island State Park is a historic and beautiful place that bends the natural beauty and a rich heritage. It was established in 1895 and consists of over 80% of Mackinac Island.

The park features lush forests, limestone lovers, and crystal-clear waters of Lake Huron which makes it the best place for outdoor lovers. In addition, people can explore miles of trails on foot and bike, ride horses, and visit historic sites like Fort Mackinac. For all these reasons, this park is the best in Mackinaw City MI things to do.

Straits State Harbor is a beautiful marina located in Mackinaw City, Michigan, near the northern tip of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. It provides an amazing view of the Straits of Mackinac, including the iconic Mackinac Bridge.

In addition, the marina has more than 130 boat slips for boaters, modern toilet and shower facilities, fuel docks, and pump-out service. Hence, it is a great place for boating enthusiasts to dock when exploring local attractions such as Mackinac Island, scenic parks, and historic castles.

Conkling Heritage Park is a delightful park located in Mackinaw City, Michigan. It is popular with locals and tourists because of its historical importance and scenic views of Lake Huron.

Known for its well-maintained walking paths, the park is perfect for strolls, fishing, and picnicking. It features an outdoor amphitheater that hosts concerts and community events. However, the historical significance of the park is emphasized through signage and information about local heritage. The park is therefore a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical considerations.

Alexander Henry Park in Mackinaw City, Michigan, offers visitors beautiful views of the Mackinac Bridge, the Straits of Mackinac, and Mackinac Island. Named after the notable fur trader and author Alexander Henry the Elder, the park is home to the restored Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse.

Here, people can enjoy strolls along walking paths, relax at picnic areas, and gain educational insights from the park. With its accessible facilities, this park is a perfect things to do in Mackinaw City Michigan.

Have you been to any haunted houses? The Mackinaw City Haunted House is a popular attraction located in Mackinaw City, Michigan. It’s known for its spine-chilling experiences and is a favorite among thrill-seekers and ghost lovers.

The haunted house features a series of rooms and corridors designed to evoke fear with eerie decorations, special effects, and actors in scary costumes. It often includes themes related to local legends and ghost stories. During the Halloween season, the haunted house is open for extended hours and offers special events or themed nights. 

Conkling Heritage Park in Mackinaw City, Michigan, is a picturesque destination that blends historical intrigue with natural beauty. Nestled along the Lake Huron waterfront, the park offers stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge and the serene lake.

Further, people can explore historical exhibits and markers that provide insights into the region’s past, including the early settlers and local development. The park features scenic walking trails, both paved and unpaved, ideal for a stroll or an active walk. Picnic areas are also available for those who wish to enjoy a meal outdoors while soaking in the beautiful surroundings. Additionally, the park may host various seasonal events and activities.

If you're visiting Mackinaw City, it's a great spot to add a bit of fun and excitement to your trip. Mystery Town, USA, in Mackinaw City, Michigan, is the best attraction designed to entertain visitors with its unique blend of puzzles, optical illusions, and interactive exhibits. It’s a place where the laws of physics seem to be bent and where curiosity is rewarded.

In Mystery Town, you’ll find rooms and exhibits that challenge your perceptions and invite you to explore with a sense of wonder. It’s a fun and family-friendly destination where you can experience things like a gravity-defying tilted room, illusion-based games, and other mind-bending setups.

Garlyn Zoo Wildlife Park in Mackinaw City, Michigan, is a relatively small, family-friendly zoo that focuses on providing a close-up view of a variety of animals. The park features a mix of exotic and native wildlife, including lions, tigers, bears, and other animals.

In addition, it is designed to offer educational experiences about wildlife conservation and the natural behaviors of animals. Besides this, visitors can enjoy guided tours, animal feedings, and educational talks.

The Mackinaw Bridge Museum in Mackinaw City, Michigan, provides an engaging exploration of the history and engineering behind the iconic Mackinac Bridge. Situated in the historic Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, the museum shows detailed exhibits on the bridge's construction, including historical photographs, and artifacts.

Similarly, interactive displays offer a hands-on experience of the bridge's engineering, while the museum also delves into the broader historical context of the region and the bridge's role in connecting Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas. Hence, the museum not only educates visitors but also presents a perfect setting to appreciate its glory.

Are you a shopping person or who wants to roam a variety of shops? Then, Mackinaw Crossings in Mackinaw City, Michigan, is a shopping and entertainment complex with a charming, small-town feel. It’s located near the northern tip of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, close to the iconic Mackinac Bridge. 

The complex features a mix of specialty shops, boutiques, and restaurants.  There are also attractions like mini-golf and a family-friendly atmosphere, which makes it a popular spot for people who are exploring the area. Overall, the architecture and ambiance of Mackinaw Crossings reflect the area's historical and rustic charm.

If you visit Mackinaw, Michigan, and wonder where seafood should be, this restaurant is for you. Scalawags Whitefish & Chips is a popular restaurant known for its casual and welcoming atmosphere. It's renowned for serving delicious whitefish, a local specialty.

The restaurant typically offers a range of classic fish and chips options, with the whitefish being a standout due to its fresh, flaky texture. In addition to fish and chips, you might find other seafood dishes on the menu, as well as side and some regional favorites. Hence, the ambiance is often described as cozy and family-friendly.

Wawatam Park is a scenic park located in Mackinaw City, Michigan. It's situated along the shores of Lake Huron and offers a variety of recreational activities and beautiful views.

The park features walking paths, picnic areas, and a playground which makes it a great spot for families and visitors to relax and enjoy the outdoors. One of its highlights is the opportunity to view the Mackinac Bridge, which provides a stunning backdrop for photos and sightseeing. Plus, the park also often hosts local events and festivals to make it more appealing.