When to Visit Mackinaw City, Michigan
The best Mackinaw City weather happens in summer. Michigan is far enough north that you won't experience miserably high temperatures or unbearable humidity. If you want to visit the beach, summer is the most hospitable time, but it's also the most crowded. Shoulder seasons fall and spring are pretty, too, though the weather is too cold for swimming on most days. If sightseeing in a jacket with a bit of wind doesn't bother you, then the shoulder season is the better time to save money.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Mackinaw City, MI:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs displaying average nightly cost patterns by star rating class in Mackinaw City, MI. Analyze these illustrations to calculate the most cost effective time to book in Mackinaw City for upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotel Options in Mackinaw City, Michigan
Though Mackinaw City is a beach town, luxury here is a little different than your typical resort experience. Expect comfort and relaxation, plus a little pampering, without dealing with huge crowds, resort fees, and lots of up-charging for things you need (like Wi-Fi).
The Hamilton Inn Select is a three-star beach hotel with a quaint interior vibe. Arched windows, high ceilings, and traditional furniture give this property a classic feel. To up your luxury, get a beachside room with a balcony and a jetted tub, so you can enjoy the gorgeous water views and relax in a private spa experience. The indoor pool has lounge chairs and towels available for guest comfort. Free Wi-Fi, free breakfast, and free parking add convenience, while the fitness facility and restaurant are extras you won't want to miss.
The Clarion Hotel Beachfront is a comfortable property with a lot of good amenities. Though the carpets are a little dated, the hotel is still quite comfortable, and the beach views are stunning. Concierge services, a picnic area, and a garden help set this hotel apart from nearby options. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are convenient amenities that make your stay more comfortable.
With high arched windows and a vaulted ceiling, the indoor pool area is very pleasant, especially in the daytime. Tables and chairs are arrayed around the pool if you don't want to swim but need to watch your kids. In one corner is a lovely spa tub, perfect for relaxation. The arcade has classic games, including Ms. Pac-Man.
Affordable Options in Mackinaw City, Michigan
3 Star Average Prices: $164.93
Because Mackinaw City is a bit of a resort town, affordable prices are relative, and may not seem as budget-friendly as hotels in other parts of the country. When you want low rates, rest assured these are the properties where you should begin your search.
Waterfront Inn - Mackinaw City is near the beach and offers guests fabulous views of the water. At this conveniently located hotel property, you'll find a picnic area with barbecue grills, an indoor pool, and a spa tub. The 24-hour front desk has a staff happy to help you book tours and tickets. Free breakfast and free Wi-Fi are also available.
Bell's Melody Motel is a budget property with basic amenities, like free Wi-Fi and free breakfast. This property has only 17 rooms, so the front desk is only open during daytime hours. However, you'll find an indoor and an outdoor pool with a spa tub. The game room is perfect for families who need a little distraction after a long day.
The Sunrise Beach Motel is near the beach and great sightseeing opportunities and offers room rates that fit into many travel budgets. A picnic area and outdoor seasonal pool are available at this smoke-free property. An indoor pool is available, too, in case it's too cold to swim outside. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are other fantastic amenities here. This property offers in-room accessibility.
2 Star Average Prices: $96.72
Best Mackinaw City, Michigan Hotel Discounts
Discover extra discounts for your Mackinaw City stay and save a little for dining and sightseeing experiences. Americas Best Value Inn at 112 Old US Hwy 31 in Mackinaw City offers a 10 percent military, government, senior, and AAA discount. At Days Inn & Suites Bridgeview Lodge, located at 206 N Nicolet St in Mackinaw City, AAA members save 10 percent, and the senior, government, and military discount is 5 percent.
Americas Best Value Inn helps you keep to your travel schedule with express check-in and check-out. The 24-hour front desk, coffee in the common areas, and laundry facilities are especially convenient for people who stay for more than a night or two. This smoke-free property offers free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free parking. An indoor pool offers you some recreation and relaxation. You can use a nearby fitness facility at a discounted rate.
Days Inn & Suites Bridgeview Lodge has rooms with free Wi-Fi and cable TV. Accessible bathrooms and in-room accessibility are available to accommodate guests. The indoor pool and spa tub are wonderful relaxation areas. Each morning, enjoy free breakfast at this smoke-free property. This two-floor hotel has an elevator and 59 rooms.
Best Value Options in Mackinaw City, Michigan
Finding a great value in Mackinaw City means a combination of low room rates with great amenities. You're trying to find that perfect balance between a comfortable room, a hotel near cool attractions, and a room rate you can live with.
Try the Thunderbird Inn, rated as one of the top economy hotels in Mackinaw City and also noted for its great customer service. Though the facility could use with a bit of an update, that doesn't keep it from being comfortable. Each of the 48 guest rooms has a pillowtop bed, free Wi-Fi, and a refrigerator. The picnic area is perfect to enjoy when the weather is nice. Otherwise, sit in the lobby and sip some free coffee or enjoy the indoor pool. You can get a free ferry terminal shuttle from this hotel. Breakfast is complimentary.
For families looking for value, check out the Crown Choice Inn & Suites Lakeview and Waterpark. This 2.5-star resort hotel has an exciting water park area featuring slides and other fun water activities. The water park is indoors, so you don't have to watch the weather to plan your visit. Though the water park has a surcharge, the property also has an outdoor pool and a sauna for free. Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, game room, and fitness facilities add value to your rate.
The Ramada Mackinaw City Waterfront gives you great beach views and easy beach access. The indoor pool features lounge chairs and a spa tub. Mornings are easy with free Wi-Fi and free breakfast. Read a complimentary paper in the lobby before heading to the private beach area. The multilingual staff operates a 24-hour front desk. A business center and an elevator are other conveniences at this hotel.
Pet-Friendly Mackinaw City, Michigan Hotels
Mackinaw City's Bridge View Motel and Condos is located at 1143 South Huron US 23 and has a pet policy that charges $30 per pet, per night. The Quality Inn & Suites Beachfront charges $25 per pet per night, and the Knights Inn Mackinaw City has an affordable pet fee of just $10 per stay.
The Bridge View Model and Condos is a smoke-free property with both an indoor and an outdoor pool. A spa tub is also available. You can take advantage of the free casino shuttle and the free ferry terminal shuttle if you need to get around Mackinaw City. Free breakfast and free Wi-Fi are other great amenities this spot offers.
The Quality Inn & Suites Beachfront, at 917 S Huron Ave in Mackinaw City, is a 2.5-star property featuring a long list of amenities. The indoor pool has beach lounge chairs, beach towels, a sauna, and a spa tub. Grab complimentary coffee or tea from the lobby, then head to the picnic area to enjoy the weather. You get free access to the nearby gym, free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free parking. Keep in mind, the front desk keeps limited hours. At this property, you can also book a room with an accessible bathroom, in-room accessibility, and a roll-in shower.
The Knights Inn Mackinaw City is a budget property with basic amenities. Free Wi-Fi, parking, and breakfast are available. You can park a bus, RV, or truck in the parking lot. The property features 32 guest rooms and one meeting room. The front desk will help you with tour and ticket booking. If you need either a crib or a rollaway bed, either is $10 per stay.
This lakeside town is the quintessential historic vacation spot. Though it can get crowded, you won't have to deal with the intense tourism seen on the Atlantic coast. Book your vacation to Mackinaw City, Michigan, today.
FAQs about hotels in Mackinaw City
How much does a cheap hotel in Mackinaw City cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Mackinaw City can be as cheap as $96.72 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Mackinaw City cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Mackinaw City has been $164.93 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
What did travelers think of the city of Mackinaw City?
Below are reviews of the city of Mackinaw City, MI from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Good experience in the city of Mackinaw"
Score
5.0 / 5
Good experience in the city of Mackinaw. Lots of shops and good restaurants. Easy access to most everything.
Michael P., from 09-Oct-2026
"Lots to do"
Score
4.0 / 5
Kevin T., from 02-Oct-2026
"City very clean"
Score
5.0 / 5
Carl Y., from 26-Sep-2026
"City is wonderful"
Score
5.0 / 5
City is wonderful as too the Island. We all had a great time.
Ruth L., from 15-Sep-2026
"Mackinaw City "
Score
5.0 / 5
Mackinaw City Is a Fantastic City we come up here every summer every one is Great & everything is clean.
Marsha F., from 14-Sep-2026
"More shops than you can count"
Score
4.0 / 5
More shops than you can count. Good food. Nightly entertainment.
Daniel H., from 20-Aug-2026
"Lots of shopping"
Score
4.0 / 5
Raymond S., from 14-Aug-2026
"Nice town with good restaurants"
Score
5.0 / 5
Victor A., from 07-Aug-2026
"Very walkable"
Score
5.0 / 5
Barbara J., from 05-Aug-2026
"The city was pretty"
Score
4.0 / 5
Mary T., from 26-Jul-2026
"I love Mackinaw City"
Score
4.0 / 5
I love Mackinaw City! Small and with no many people. My perfect type of place
Alicia W., from 25-Jul-2026
"Hotel was convenient to all the shops"
Score
4.0 / 5
Hotel was convenient to all the shops. Visiting the shops was fun and the kids enjoyed the playground.
Laurie K., from 25-Jul-2026
"We love the history"
Score
5.0 / 5
We love the history. The Fort is a must-see.
Shelly C., from 21-Jul-2026
"Water restaurant stores bridge"
Score
4.0 / 5
Susan Z., from 18-Jul-2026
"Great FRIENDLY PEOPLE "
Score
4.0 / 5
Great FRIENDLY PEOPLE IN THEIR COMMUNITY!IT WAS AWESOME ...!!
Margaret H., from 12-Jul-2026
"Cozy lot's of natural beauty"
Score
5.0 / 5
Cozy lot's of natural beauty.people having fun!
Mark M., from 05-Jul-2026
"Great atmosphere"
Score
5.0 / 5
Cynthia S., from 02-Jul-2026
"Great atmosphere"
Score
5.0 / 5
Great atmosphere love the shops.
Cynthia S., from 02-Jul-2026
"The fireworks"
Score
4.0 / 5
Laura M., from 28-Jun-2026
"Access to shuttle to the island"
Score
5.0 / 5
Dan K., from 25-Jun-2026
"All is in walking distance"
Score
5.0 / 5
Joyce F., from 23-Jun-2026
"Great place"
Score
4.0 / 5
Great place, good ferry to Mackinac island.
Rick H., from 19-Jun-2026
"Great place for a little getaway"
Score
4.0 / 5
Larry E., from 17-Jun-2026
"View"
Score
4.0 / 5
View
Tammy B., from 17-Jun-2026
"Ease of ferry access"
Score
5.0 / 5
Ease of ferry access.
Main businesses on one road. Nice parks & open areas. The bridge access was easy.
Veronica G., from 12-Jun-2026
"The ambiance"
Score
5.0 / 5
The Ambiance. Quaint shops Aubrey's by the Bridge.
Bill J., from 02-Jun-2026
"Bridge was awesome"
Score
4.0 / 5
Bridge was awesome, Tahquamenon falls were beautiful
Andrew S., from 24-May-2026
"Very nice here"
Score
5.0 / 5
It very beautiful alot sites seeing an people very nice here
Betty H., from 02-May-2026
"Dinner at the Chippewa room"
Score
4.0 / 5
Dinner at the Chippewa room was excellent for our anniversary dinner. Food delicious. Atmosphere inviting. Great waitress!
Jim Y., from 26-Apr-2026
"Many shops and good restaurants!"
Score
5.0 / 5
We have walked the bridge almost 50 times and the city itself has always been a go-to. Many, many shops to go through and good restaurants!
Nelson B., from 08-Mar-2026
"Mackinac crossings"
Score
5.0 / 5
Susan K., from 09-Dec-2025
"Very Friendly"
Score
5.0 / 5
Quaint town. Good things to see and very friendly people.
Linda S., from 20-Oct-2025
"Mackinaw City is a great place to visit!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Mackinaw City is a great place to visit with lots to do and lots to see.
Jacqueline B., from 20-Oct-2025
"Just a nice area all around"
Score
4.0 / 5
Amy W., from 14-Oct-2025
"Beautiful Water View"
Score
5.0 / 5
The view of the water!
Timothy A., from 12-Oct-2025
"We enjoyed the shopping and the casino"
Score
4.0 / 5
Richard K., from 02-Oct-2025
"Good location"
Score
4.0 / 5
Everything was quick to get to
Shepard ferry quick and convenient shuttle
Maurina G., from 02-Oct-2025
"Love Coming Here!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Everything we love coming to Mackinaw City and the island.
Neal D., from 21-Sep-2025
"Beautiful!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Beautiful as always
Allison A., from 18-Sep-2025
"Clean"
Score
4.0 / 5
Clean
William G., from 18-Sep-2025
"Beautiful Place!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Have visited often. The shopping and how beautiful it is.
Michael G., from 18-Sep-2025
"Excellent Area!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Many hotels and shops and restaurants close together plus bridge to UP right there and two ferries available to get to M. Island.
William O., from 15-Sep-2025
"Mackinaw"
Score
5.0 / 5
Mackinaw has been a destination vacation for our family for the past 50 years.
James W., from 14-Sep-2025
"we ate at the White Buffalo restaurant and the food was excellent."
Score
4.0 / 5
Dave B., from 12-Sep-2025
"Very quaint"
Score
4.0 / 5
Very quaint. Loved the small town atmosphere. Liked walking thru the town and the parks along the lake
Edwin C., from 11-Sep-2025
"Nice town, enjoyed a day trip to the Island."
Score
5.0 / 5
Barbara V., from 10-Sep-2025
"I really enjoy the area and things to do"
Score
4.0 / 5
Matt H., from 09-Sep-2025
"Perfect area for walking."
Score
5.0 / 5
We are walkers and this area is perfect for that.
Patricia M., from 09-Sep-2025
"Plenty of shopping!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Mackinaw City is a typical tourist town. Offers plenty of stores to shop at. The Island is worth going to as well.
Brian V., from 08-Sep-2025
"Tractor Crossing"
Score
4.0 / 5
We came for the tractor crossing. It was wonderful.
William B., from 08-Sep-2025
"Nice restaurants and shops!"
Score
4.0 / 5
All the restaurants and shops were nice. Bought a lot of goodies!!
Darlene W., from 08-Sep-2025
"All the gift shops,and restaurants."
Score
5.0 / 5
Timothy S., from 03-Sep-2025
"We loved all of the fun shops"
Score
5.0 / 5
We loved all of the fun shops. Getting around town and parking was very easy. Streets and city were clean. Views of the Lake were awsome.
Karen R., from 01-Sep-2025
"Nonstop activity for vacation."
Score
5.0 / 5
Diane B., from 24-Aug-2025
"Convenient "
Score
4.0 / 5
Convenient to the ferry .
Jenie S., from 23-Aug-2025
"Different Shops"
Score
4.0 / 5
Shirley A., from 22-Aug-2025
"Variety of things to do"
Score
4.0 / 5
Charmaine L., from 21-Aug-2025
"The city and the island is very nice"
Score
5.0 / 5
Blake S., from 18-Aug-2025
"Great place to visit!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Love Mackinaw City! We have been there multiple times. Great place to visit!
Byron S., from 18-Aug-2025
"Great Location"
Score
4.0 / 5
MACKINAW CITY IS AN AWESOME PLACE TO VISIT.
Frederick S., from 12-Aug-2025
"Wonderful!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Audie's bar and grill was within easy walking distance as was the park across the street and a gift shop or two. Downtown Mackinaw city was an easy, quick drive with a few restaurants, ice cream and fudge shops and many different touristy gift shops. The shuttle was easy and often to ferry over to the island.
Susan B., from 28-Jul-2025
"Light Houses"
Score
4.0 / 5
Ronald R., from 27-Jul-2025
"Nice View"
Score
4.0 / 5
The view
Ronald R., from 21-Jul-2025
"Lots to do, shops to visit and a trip to the island is a must!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Lots of things to do, shops to visit and a quick trip to the island or over the bridge is a must!
Randy S., from 14-Jul-2025
"Nice City to Vacation"
Score
5.0 / 5
Nice city. Everything is easily accessible by vehicle.
Philip H., from 12-Jul-2025
"Great Location!"
Score
5.0 / 5
We loved Mackinaw Island! The best! I suggest staying on the island!
Heather W., from 06-Jul-2025
"Love this location "
Score
5.0 / 5
Many options for shopping, dining and of course the view and the beach!
Joan S., from 27-Jun-2025
"Amazing City "
Score
5.0 / 5
Mackinaw city was amazing
Edith B., from 26-Jun-2025
"Great Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
I like going up there. We do every year.
Camra M., from 25-Jun-2025
"Great city for tourists!"
Score
5.0 / 5
The city is very accommodating to tourists. It's walkable, great shopping and restaurants.
Anthony F., from 24-Jun-2025
"Pizza, Pizza "
Score
5.0 / 5
We loved “Nonna's” pizzeria!
Connie P., from 08-Jun-2025
"The shuttle is wonderful "
Score
4.0 / 5
The shuttle to and from the ferry was wonderful.
Barbara K., from 08-Jun-2025
"Cute, Quaint and Kept "
Score
5.0 / 5
Mackinaw City is a very quaint, northern town. You can tell the residents love their community. There were lots of shops and good restaurants. We enjoyed our stay.
Kevin P., from 03-Jun-2025
"Small town feel "
Score
4.0 / 5
The small town feel.
Jessica L., from 30-May-2025
"Great place to visit!"
Score
5.0 / 5
This is always a great place to visit. The scenery and shopping area is great. Scalawags is a must to eat at if you like fish!
Tabitha H., from 28-Apr-2025
"Wonderful place to visit."
Score
5.0 / 5
We were traveling through in the off season. Still had options for dining, and loved seeing the bridge and Lake Michigan.
Cynthia P., from 27-Apr-2025
"Great scenery, shopping, food!"
Score
5.0 / 5
This is always a great place to visit. The scenery and shopping area is great. Scalawags is a must to eat at if you like fish!
Tabitha H., from 26-Apr-2025
"Friendly Place!"
Score
5.0 / 5
I've been coming here for years and the folks here, especially the locals, treat you like family.
Robert S., from 29-Mar-2025
"Great location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Night bridge view, friendly people
Allen M., from 24-Feb-2025
"Short drive to the bridge and great food."
Score
4.0 / 5
Close commute, great food around town, short drive to the bridge.
Robert S., from 19-Oct-2024
"Mackinaw City is Beautiful in The Fall!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Mackinaw City in the Fall is amazing. The people here are always welcoming. And prices are not gouged!!! Which is huge!
Krystal S., from 19-Oct-2024
"Great location near Mackinac Island ferry."
Score
5.0 / 5
Everything was easy to find and walking distance from our hotel, road our bikes to the ferry to Mackinac Island! I'd recommend bringing your own bikes!
Steven D., from 15-Oct-2024
"Great location near Mackinac Island ferry!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Everything was easy to find and walking distance from our hotel. We road our bikes to the ferry to Mackinac Island! I'd recommend bringing your own bikes!
Steven D., from 15-Oct-2024
"Color Tour"
Score
5.0 / 5
We came for color tour didn't spend time in the city.
Melissa A., from 13-Oct-2024
"Color Tour"
Score
4.0 / 5
We came for Color Tour!
Melissa A., from 12-Oct-2024
"Good Local Restaurants"
Score
4.0 / 5
The local restaurants like Darrows and Audie's.
William S., from 12-Oct-2024
"Fine!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Fine!
James B., from 26-Sep-2024
"Very Enjoyable Small City!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Mackinaw City is excellent! A very enjoyable small city!
Dwight L., from 24-Sep-2024
"Restaurants!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Restaurants!
Dan K., from 08-Sep-2024
"Restaurants!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Restaurants!
Dan K., from 08-Sep-2024
"Walkable Town"
Score
4.0 / 5
Could walk the entire town, didn't use the car once!
Nancy D., from 02-Sep-2024
"Very Walkable Town"
Score
5.0 / 5
Could walk the entire town, didn't use the car once.
Nancy D., from 30-Aug-2024
"By the water, eateries and fun little shops."
Score
4.0 / 5
Love being by the water; places to eat are close to the hotel and fun little shops as well.
Deborah M., from 29-Aug-2024
"Courtyard with music, shopping bars, wineries, brewery!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Love the courtyard area where there's music playing, shopping and little bars and wineries and a brewery!
Neva B., from 20-Aug-2024
"Great Location!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Greta location!
Randolph Z., from 19-Aug-2024
"Fudge Shops!"
Score
5.0 / 5
I always like the fudge shops!
Roger S., from 17-Aug-2024
"Nice Town"
Score
5.0 / 5
Nice town
David L., from 14-Aug-2024
"Nice Town"
Score
5.0 / 5
Nice town!
David L., from 13-Aug-2024
"So much to do in Mackinaw City"
Score
4.0 / 5
There is lots to do in the Mackinaw City area. We will be back!
George R., from 12-Aug-2024
"Friendly Place"
Score
4.0 / 5
Help was kind and friendly in stores.
Arlene P., from 11-Aug-2024
The average traveler rating of the city of Mackinaw City, MI shown above is
4.5 out of 5 based on 100 reviews