The Mackinac Island center is around the area of Mackinac Island State Park and the area of Mackinac Island Airport.
Mackinac Island is a year-round paradise for visitors, as the area enjoys four distinct seasons. Summers tend to be mild and sunny, with high temperatures in the mid-70s. Winters can be frigid, with lows in the teens and highs in the mid-20s. Spring brings a welcome thaw, along with highs in the upper 40s to low 60s, while high temperatures usually top out in the mid-50s during the fall. Since autumn is the rainiest season in this region, be sure to pack a rain jacket and waterproof shoes for a fall visit.
If you're planning your visit around the best hotel prices in Mackinac Island, note that summer tends to be the priciest time to vacation here, while winter tends to be the least expensive time to reserve a room. However, searching for discounts and booking in advance is a smart way to find great deals, even during the summer.
Whether you're an AARP member or a government employee, you can save on your Mackinac Island hotel. AAA members can save at the Super 8 Bridgeview of Mackinaw City and at the Holiday Inn Express Mackinaw City. AARP members and seniors can get discounts at the Quality Inn Saint Ignace and at the Days Inn & Suites - Mackinaw City - Bridgeview Lodge. Members of the military and government employees can get low rates at the Baymont Inn & Suites St. Ignace Lakefront and at the Super 8 St. Ignace.
Looking for the best value on Mackinac Island? Take a closer look at the island's best mid-range options.
For great value in a gorgeous setting, try the Inn on Mackinac. This small Mackinac Island hotel has only 44 guest rooms, but they're all equipped with basics such as coffee makers and flat-screen TVs. Use the inn's free Wi-Fi to plan excursions during your stay or simply kick back and relax by the outdoor pool. In the morning, start your day with the hotel's complimentary breakfast.
Stay at the Breakers Resort Lakeside in nearby St. Ignace, and get ready for stunning views and comfortable rooms. This 100-room resort hotel is perched on Lake Huron and offers in-room amenities such as coffee makers, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi. Upgrade to a lake view room with a balcony or head outdoors to enjoy the hotel's picnic area, beach, and playground. Wake up to a complimentary breakfast buffet with eggs, waffles, cereal, fruit, and coffee before enjoying your day in the Mackinac Island area.
At the Harbour View Inn, you can stay on beautiful Mackinac Island while enjoying great value from the large rooms and ample amenities. This 19th-century building has plenty of charm, thanks to its centuries of history and Victorian architecture. Wake up to complimentary coffee service or enjoy the hotel's free continental breakfast before heading out to explore the island. Thanks to the inn's location on the southeastern side of Mackinac Island, it's convenient to the island's best attractions and the ferry pier.
From outdoor adventures to historic sites and sweet shops, Mackinac Island has it all. Start your tour of this beautiful spot with a visit to Mackinac Island State Park, which covers about 80 percent of the island. Here, you'll find everything from limestone bluffs and lush forests to sparkling water and nature trails. Take your pick from easy or challenging trails, which you can tackle by foot, on a bike, or by horseback. Some trails accommodate carriages, allowing you to experience this stunning park in a state of total relaxation.
Once a military outpost, Fort Mackinac remains an important historic site and offers great views of the island and the surrounding lake. The fort includes 14 buildings, all of which are available for public tours and offer intriguing exhibitions. For an unforgettable experience, reserve your spot to fire the fort's cannon.
To see some of the island's most gorgeous winged creatures, make your way to The Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House and Insect World, where you can wander through the greenhouse and admire a range of butterfly species. At the nearby Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory, you can spot up to 300 species of these creatures at every stage of their life cycle.
Art and history lovers won't want to miss The Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum, which features artwork and artifacts dating back to the 17th century. Peruse historic maps, beaded Native American objects, photographs of Mackinac Island, and contemporary art at this museum.
Mackinac Island is known for its sweet treats, and Murdick's Fudge is the most popular place to sample your favorite flavors. Try everything from double chocolate and turtle to butter pecan and maple walnut. Murdick's also offers seasonal flavors such as holiday cranberry and pumpkin spice, so you'll always find something delicious to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Whether you're considering a winter visit or a summer getaway, don't wait to start planning your trip to Mackinac Island.
Below are the GSA reimbursement limits for hotel spending in Mackinac Island, MI excluding taxes per night. See gsa.gov for more details.
Applies to Mackinac
| Season Begin | Season End | Lodging Rate | Meals & Incidentals |
|---|---|---|---|
| October 1, 2025 | June 30, 2026 | $120.00 | $86.00 |
| July 1, 2026 | August 31, 2026 | $195.00 | $86.00 |
| September 1, 2026 | September 30, 2026 | $120.00 | $86.00 |
Below are reviews of the city of Mackinac Island, MI from an actual visitor's perspective.
I liked the intimacy of the island away from the regular scheduling of life. Enjoyed the shopping, small businesses, walking or biking around the island. Appreciated the sense of pride of everyone contributing to the beauty & maintenance.
The lake, the shops and restaurants, the beautiful gardens!
We come to the island at least once a year. Great place for a getaway!
The walks around the island seeing beauty everywhere. The flowers were spectacular and the views phenomenal!
Love all the beautiful flowers!
The history of the island and the knowledge the carriage drivers have of the island was perfect!
Star Line Ferry is directly across the street. Smokey Joes Restaurant, Horns, Pizzeria next door, Douds grocery on the corner, fudge shops and Pink Pony located, hotel restaurant excellent Mexican food. Excellent location.
Star Line Ferry is directly across the street. Smokey Joes Restaurant, Horns, Pizzeria next door, Douds grocery on the corner, fudge shops and Pink Pony located, hotel restaurant has excellent Mexican food. Excellent location.
Everyone is always smiling. And...in spite of the fact that there are horses everywhere, the streets are kept very clean and washed all the time. I also love it that people can shop and leave groceries, etc. in their bicycle baskets and no on ever bothers the items. I have four teenage grandsons and feel they are safe when riding around the island on their own.
The biking trip around the island ..super.. & Jeff Young's lilac walking tour and his wife's class ( I am Master Gardener & I got 3 hours volunteer time!!!) Relaxing environment.. friendly folks...views of harbor!!Food pricey but knew that before we came..The Luncheon at the Grand Hotel was a must since we were celebrating our 49th Anniversary on your island..Wonderful time.
Great get away!!