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Explore the many attractions the island has to offer.

Explore the many attractions the island has to offer. The Pontiac Lodge provides concierge services as well as guest support. We are here to help you have a great time while on Mackinac Island.


Enjoy winter on Mackinac Island at the Pontiac Lodge.

See Mackinac Island as never before – snow covered and tranquil. Explore our many groomed cross country ski trails scattered throughout the island. At the end of the day relax in your Jacuzzi tub and then go out and enjoy a great meal at the Mustang Lounge.


Arch Rock

One of the most photographed spots on Mackinac Island, Arch Rock, a geological formation of a natural limestone arch, is a truly breathtaking and wonderous attraction. This amazing site to see was formed during the nipissing post-glacial period, a period of high Lake Huron levels following the end of the Wisconsin glaciation. To this day Arch Rock stands on the Lake Huron shoreline 146 ft (45m) above the water. This type of formation is quite rare in the North American Great Lakes region. The Native Americans saw Arch Rock as a place of numinous power and told many stories and legends about it. Its presence was a major element in the decision to create Mackinac National Park in 1875 and its successor, Mackinac Island State Park in 1895.” Arch Rock Road” is a dedicated road that follows a relatively straight route from Fort Mackinac to Arch Rock on the eastern shore of the island.


Biking & Hiking

Mackinac Island is eighty percent State Park land, with 70 miles of roads and trails within the park for biking and hiking. Bike rentals are available on the Island, or you can bring your own bike. Bike or hike to the park’s many geological and historical treasures, or bike the scenic shoreline around the island’s 8.3 mile perimeter on M-185, the nation’s only state highway without motor vehicle traffic.


Carriage Rentals & Tours

Since motor vehicles are not permitted to intrude on the natural beauty of Mackinac Island, there is no better way to visit this historic isle and see the legendary points of interest than by carriage. Carriage tours are available either by group tours, private tours, or drive yourself carriages.

Mackinac Island Carriage Tours offers both group and private tours.

Gough Taxi and Livery offers private tours as well as drive yourself carriages.

Arrowhead Carriages offers private tours.


Butterfly Houses

Mackinac’s Original Butterfly House is a must see family experience. This live butterfly exhibit is the first of its kind in Michigan and the third largest in the United States! Also, featuring 1800 square feet of gorgeous tropical gardens filled with hundreds of live butterflies from four continents. In the education room you can learn how the rising butterfly industry has transformed the lives of farmers in the rainforests of the world. Take as long as you like basking in the beautiful and serene atomosphere where photography is encouraged but please don’t touch the these mystical yet delicate creatures.


Shopping & Fudge

No one can resist spending time on Main Street and Market Street, visiting the numerous specialty stores looking for that special remembrance of Mackinac Island. Watch the fudge being made through the storefront windows and taste the many varieties of fudge made fresh each day.


Fort Mackinac

Built by the British in 1780 to protect the Great Lakes Fur Trade, Fort Mackinac served as a sentinel in the Straits of Mackinac for 115 years. Today the original restored fort is a National Historic Landmark as well as an extremely popular tourist destination. The fort is situated on 150 foot bluffs above the Straits of Mackinac and is one of the few surviving Revolutionary War forts in the U.S. and one of the most complete forts in the country. In 2005 , Fort Mackinac celebrated 225 years standing guard over Mackinac Island and is home to the second largest cannon regularly demonstrated on the Great Lakes; a 1841 model six-pounder! There are tours given daily during the season where you will see costumed interpreters portraying the life in 1880’s, as well as rifle firings, Court Martial re-enactments, soldiers carrying the original 45-70 Springfield model 1873 used in the 1880’s, and even dances with live music!


Golfing

There are two golf courses on Mackinac Island. The Grand Hotel’s challenging 18-hole course, and the historic Wawashkamo Golf Club. The Grand Hotel’s Jewel, which is set in the intereior of Mackinac Island, features beautiful lush landscaping. The Grand nine was built in 1901 and redesigned in 1987 and the Woods nine added in 1994 was designed by prominent golf course architiect Jerry Matthews. Wawashkamo is located on a battlefield from the War of 1812. This course which is rich in history was designed by a scottish golf pro; Alex Smith in 1898 and is one of the few remaining links in America. Wawashkamo, named by the Island’s Chippewa Indians, means “Walk a crooked trail”.


Horseback Riding

A favorite past time from over a century ago, horse back riding is still a main attraction on the Island. Mackinac Island is the one place where horses always have the right of way! Over 600 horses call the Island their home. Take a guided tour on horseback, or for the more experienced rider, enjoy the off-the-beaten-path trails. Horseback riding rentals are available by the hour for guided or un-guided tours.

Jack’s Livery Stable

Cindy’s Riding Stable


Island Paradise

Surrounded by the sparkling blue waters of Lake Huron between Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas, Mackinac Island offers an unforgettable natural and historical vacation experience. From a romantic weekend getaway, to fun filled days with the family, Mackinac Island has something for everyone.


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