With pristine waters, historical structures and unmatched natural beauty, it’s easy to see why Mackinac Island is a popular destination having more than 1 million visitors a year.
But it’s not just a place to visit. Mackinac Island is a working, functional town with 500 year-round residents, a thriving community and home of the vibrant Mackinac Island Public School.
So, when you make it to Mackinac Island and step off the ferry, here are a few things to remember to experience Mackinac Island to the fullest:
1. Get started with good Mackinac Island information
Begin your trip with a stop at the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau booth located on Main Street for a free map. Our information specialists are available to answer questions and provide up to date details on events and activities happening on Mackinac Island. You also can find answers to lots of questions on the official Mackinac Island blog.
2. Stay aware and stay safe on Mackinac Island streets
Safety is our #1 priority so remember, streets are for horses and bikes and sidewalks are for people. When you are crossing the street or riding your bike, horses have the right of way. Downtown Mackinac Island is busy during peak summer days so please be patient when walking on the sidewalks and slow down on the streets if you are on a bicycle.
3. How to use Mackinac Island’s horse-drawn taxis
Mackinac Island taxis can be scheduled by calling 906-847-3323. Tell them where you are and where you’d like to go for drop-off. When your taxi is available a horse and carriage will pull up and shout out the destination. Taxis are available 24 hours during the May-October season and range from $6.00-$8.50 per person for a fare.
4. Bringing a bike to Mackinac Island? Keep these e-bike restrictions in mind
Riding a bike is a great way to experience Mackinac Island. There are several Mackinac Island vendors to rent bikes from once you arrive at the ferry docks, or you can bring your own bike on the Mackinac Island ferry for a small fee. Just keep in mind that e-bikes are prohibited on Mackinac Island, unless you have a documented mobility disability.
5. Mackinac Island’s public restrooms
Downtown public restrooms are located behind the Tourism Bureau booth and next to the State Park Visitor Center across from Marquette Park near the marina. Public restrooms are not available in the winter on Mackinac Island.
6. Hills and steps are the only things you should climb on Mackinac Island
Many of Mackinac Island’s natural formations and historical structures are delicate and dangerous to climb. The natural formations are also a sacred place for the Indigenous Peoples in Northern Michigan. Please follow all signs and safety barriers and refrain from climbing on our natural and built structures.
7. Pick up trash on Mackinac Island, not flowers
Help keep Mackinac Island and our Great Lakes clean by throwing away trash and recycling in the respective bins located throughout Mackinac Island. In addition to picking up trash, please do not pick or clip the wildflowers or lilacs on Mackinac Island. Read this blog post for more Mackinac Island State Park etiquette tips. We encourage leave no trace guidelines including refraining from stacking rocks or building cairns.
8. Drones are not allowed on Mackinac Island
Drones are not allowed on Mackinac Island. Drones can disturb the horses and affect the safety of our visitors and guests.
9. Mackinac Island Ferry Schedules
Don’t miss your boat! Mackinac Island ferry schedules can be found at their respective docks, online or at the Tourism Bureau booth.
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