Mackinac Island Vacation – Part One
This week we were lucky to go on a fun vacation to beautiful Mackinac Island in Michigan. After flying to Detroit, we drove to Mackinaw City to catch the ferry to Mackinac Island.
The water in this area is incredibly clear and blue. We admired the water and walked around a bit while we waited for our ferry.
This gorgeous lighthouse could be seen when we got close to the island. You’ll see another view of it from the island later in this post.
I’m not one of those people who plan and research before a vacation; I like to show up and be surprised at what I see. I knew I would like Mackinac when I saw these views of the coastline from the ferry. The building with the red roof is where we stayed.
Look at the houses! I couldn’t wait to walk around to admire them.
We were about the last people off of the ferry because I simply couldn’t stop looking around at the boats and houses.
Mr. SP’s dad, sister and brother-in-law joined us for the trip. His sister-in-law and nephew also came along but hadn’t arrived when this picture was taken.
I will admit that once I got off the ferry and into the town I was afraid that the tourists would drive me nuts. There were people everywhere!
We walked to our hotel, Mission Point Resort, which was away from the hustle and bustle of downtown and my nerves quieted down a bit. You would think that we would have spent hours in these comfortable chairs in front of our hotel but we ended up being too busy for much downtime.
After checking in, we walked downtown and then to the Grand Hotel. Mackinac does not allow cars; transportation is only by walking, biking, or by horse. There were bikes and horses everywhere.
After walking through downtown, we caught a glimpse of a ferry coming in with the Mackinac Bridge in the background. So pretty!
Even though I didn’t know much about Mackinac Island before arriving, I had heard of the Grand Hotel and wanted to visit.
I loved the topiary horse and carriage on the grounds.
The flowers on Mackinac were stunning with beautiful color combinations and lush growth.
We were able to go into one public area of The Grand Hotel but not into the main part. For a $10 admission, you can go in if you aren’t staying there but we bypassed that option. From the hotel you can see Lake Huron, the grounds, and the pool.
This shot of the same lighthouse that we saw on the ferry was taken on the hill above The Grand Hotel.
Can you see the same lighthouse behind me?
Day One on Mackinac was a success! We were tired from traveling and from walking but ready to explore the island the next day. Be sure to come back tomorrow for Part Two of our trip.
We drove five hours from Mackinac to Detroit and are flying home today. Both of us had a wonderful time but are ready to see our dog, Sherman, who we both have really missed. Based on the pictures the kennel owner has sent us, Sherman has had a good time without us, but I’m sure he’ll be happy to see his mom and dad.
I saw you on the Haven link site and just had to reach out. I just went through a site re-design and referenced your site all the time. I love the design. The content is great as well. And I did love Part 1 of the vacation. But love love love your site. My re-design doesn’t look anything like yours…ended up much different than I even expected. But thanks for being an inspiration. Look forward to potentially meeting you at Haven.
Thanks so much for reaching out. I am so flattered that you referenced my site when designing yours. I am so excited about Haven and look forward to getting to know you there.
What a beautiful place! It looks like something in the north. I want to visit now sometime.
OMG! No kidding! That’s where we’re planning to go in August when I go visit my sister in Manistee, MI. It’ll be a one day visit though. She’s always told me about Mackinac Island and I’m finally going to be able to see it Lord willing. I was born in MI and my siblings, children and I belong to the tribe, Little River Band of Ottawa Indians from Manistee. You may have seen their billboards all over that area for their casino. I can’t wait and looking at your pictures makes me more excited! Great pics by the way, looks like you had a very relaxing time.
Oh my goodness! I saw signs for the casino. If I’d known you wee a member of the tribe, I would have paid more attention. We had a wonderful time and I know that you will, too.
Oh, Bev, I had no idea that you were from Michigan. If I’d known, I would have paid more attention to town names as we traveled. I know that you will enjoy Mackinac when you go in August.
Lucky girl!! I LOVE Mackinac Island!! Isn’t it gorgeous? Did you make it to Ft. Mackinac?
It is indeed gorgeous. We walked past the fort several times but didn’t have time to tour it.
Oh you have gone to one of the places that is on my “bucket list”…I have always wanted to stay at the Grand Hotel….what a gorgeous place!!
We wanted to stay at Grand Hotel but the less expensive rooms were booked by the time we made reservations. Next time we will plan ahead as a $650 room simply wasn’t in our budget!
It’s beautiful there. Love the pictures.
We enjoyed it so much!
I hope you are enjoying the beauties of my homeland. Thank you for the beautiful pictures! And shared memories!
Rebekah
I hope we can get together one day and talk about Michigan. My mom is going in September and would appreciate any tips you could give on great places to visit.
Looks like such a fun trip! Is that the hotel where that movie A Moment in Times takes place?!
It is, Courtney. I need to see the movie now that I’ve visited Mackinac.
What a BEAUTIFUL place to visit! I love the no cars rule also. So quant. And the buildings are enough to leave me distracted all day… i especially loved the big old church in one of your pictures. Very cool.
What a beautiful place!! I’ll have to put this on my travel bucket list. It looks amazing! We love to travel, but never have made it up that way. The water looks so clear!
Thank you for this Paula! My husband and his family have very fond memories of going there in the ’70’s! This really helps me picture it better. And speaking of pictures, you and Mr. SP are a gorgeous couple!
I have never been there but certainly would love to go. Such beautiful photography, Paula, and you look gorgeous and happy as always.
Thanks, Mary Beth! You are so sweet! Mackinac truly was a beautiful place.