The Island has many wonders. Here are some of our favorites.
Continental Breakfast
Our Continental Breakfast is served each day from 7:30 am until 10:00 am but we can serve earlier if you have an early morning meeting or want to catch the first ferry. We serve; coffee, tea, juice, a selection of two freshly baked goods that may contain muffins, breakfast breads, cinnamon rolls, scones or coffee cakes. We also offer Greek yogurt parfaits made to order, cereals and homemade granola and fresh Michigan summer fruits. Each day we also serve a hot item such as a frittata, strata or waffles. There is always a housemade bread to pop in the toaster. If you have special dietary concerns, please let us know in advance! Whether you need gluten free, dairy free, high protein, high fat, low fat, vegetarian and vegan or something we haven’t done before, taking care of you is our business!
We brew our first pot of coffee early at 6:30 so if you wish to rise and catch the beautiful morning air and the sunrise, coffee will be ready for you. Breakfast is arrayed in the dining room. You are welcome to take a tray and enjoy breakfast in the parlor, in your room or on our porch.
Dining Options
Mackinac Island has a wide variety of options. From Doud's Grocery store which has everything for a picnic and a good selection of wines and beers, to Mighty Mac Hamburgers, outdoor dining at Bistro on the Greens, or the Grand Hotel Dining Room where a dress code is required for dinner, you can find something for everyone.
For your convenience, there is a large refrigerator and freezer at the end of the porch where our guests can hold their beverages or snacks. A Microwave is also available for that afternoon popcorn attack! Some like to take a picnic down to the shoreline for a memorable time while beach combing. It is popular to shop for island treats and enjoy them at the end of the day while lounging on the porch. We recommend reviving yourself with fudge after a day long adventure through the interior of the Island. We do not offer cooking facilities.
Night Life
The fun doesn't end when the sun sets on the Island. There are many events and festivals throughout the year and live entertainment can be found all over the Island. Step inside one of the hotel lounges to enjoy: Big Band at the Grand, Folk and Acoustic at Mission Point, Jazz at The Iroquois, or Classical Piano at The Island House.
At the center of Mackinac downtown nightlife, Island pubs offer opportunities to drink the night away with bands ranging from folk to blues, classic rock to college rock. You can dance to live music at Horn’s Gaslight Bar or the Pink Pony, or head to The Mustang on Astor Street to “Hang at the Stang” with the locals.
Looking for something more low-key? Sit on the beach or take an evening bike ride to hear a symphony of freighters chugging by, accompanied by waves, foghorns, seagulls, and the ever-present clip clop of the taxis.
Shopping
Mackinac Island is a fun place to shop. Check out the many t-shirt shops for a souvenir you can wear or buy a more permanent remembrance in one of the Island's art galleries. Caddywampus has a great variety of toys and novelty gifts and Island Books has a small but well curated selection. Nephew's and Nadia's offer eclectic fashion and the Balsam Shop and Scrimshanders have exquisite jewelry. Little Luxeries of Mackinac Island is like walking into an Etsy paradise with a great selection of gifts made in Michigan. No trip to Mackinac Island would be complete without indulging in it's most famous offering- FUDGE!
Bicycles
There are no personal automobiles allowed on Mackinac Island except for emergency vehicles. The most common form of transportation is the bicycle. The ferry services charge a fee for bringing your own bicycle to the Island. If you bring your own bike we highly recommend you bring a lock too. They can sometimes travel without you! Small Point offers 7 speed, bicycles to rent at a daily rate.
The Island has an 8.2 mile circumference. A ride around the island will take between 1.5 - 2.5 hours depending on your speed and whether you stop halfway around at The Cannonball to enjoy their famous fried pickles. Located at British Landing, across from the restaurant, the state park also provides bathrooms. Be sure to stop and read the fascinating history of the native culture. Mackinac has over 60 miles of paved roads for biking. The interior of the Island is somewhat hilly, but the lake-shore road is fairly flat and very easy to ride. There are also multiple dirt trails for off road biking. Many of these trails will surprise you with incredible displays of rare wild flowers and rock outcroppings that reveal a birds eye view of the Straights of Mackinac. On Mackinac Island, nothing moves fast, so slow down and enjoy the ride.
Small Point Bike Rentals Rates:
Bike Rental: $50 for 24 hours
Helmet Rent: Complimentary based on availability
*Please be advised, if you bring your own bicycle you should also bring a lock. Small Point is not responsible for lost or stolen bicycles.
Walking & Hiking
We recommend comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket. Summer evenings in Northern Michigan can be cool with the breeze off of Lake Huron. There are miles of walking trails to traverse and rare wild flowers to photograph. The bluffs of Mackinac Island are lined with Victorian cottages perfectly preserved over the years by the private family owners. The view from the bluffs is spectacular. A sunset walk on the west buff is a must for your agenda. There is a boardwalk on the west end of town where you can stroll to see the lights of the mighty Mackinac Straights Bridge. Maybe treat yourself to a box of fudge after a good workout ;)
Golf
There are two golf courses on Mackinac Island. The Jewel, an 18-hole golf course adjacent to the Grand Hotel, is one of the premier golf courses in Michigan. The back nine is located near Stone Cliff in the interior of the Island. The front nine is located next to the Grand Hotel with beautiful vistas from each tee box.
Wawashkimo Golf Links is located in the center of the Island and is one of the oldest original links in America. Voted as one of the "Top Ten 9 Hole Links in the World" by Golfers Champion Magazine, Wawashkimo is a true Scottish links. Bring your clubs...and some extra golf balls. It is a very challenging course!
Horse & Taxis
The Carriage Tours are one of the best ways to explore Mackinac Island. The tour begins in the center of town and takes you throughout the Island. You will see Arch Rock, the Grand Hotel, Sugar Loaf, Fort Mackinac and many other sites.
There are also several stables on Mackinac Island that offer self-driven carriages for hire. If you like to ride horseback, we recommend the riding stables that accompany a tour of riders through the interior of the Island. Private horses are not permitted on Mackinac Island unless you are a resident. Downtown in front of Marquette Park, you can hire an Arrowhead carriage for a private tour through most areas of the Island.
Medical Attention & Needs
Mackinac Island has a state-of-the-art medical clinic located on Market Street. A doctor is always at hand on the Island as is emergency transportation. If you have a medical concern while traveling, rest assured, the medical center will work with you so you can enjoy your stay on the Island.
Mackinac Island Medical Center
113 Market Street
Mackinac Island, MI 49757
(906) 847-3962