A Classic Summer Getaway on Northern Michigan’s Mackinac Island
EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW
When you dream of a destination for a perfect summer vacation, it’s hard to imagine any place lovelier than Mackinac Island, located in Northern Michigan. With sparkling blue water framed by rocky shoreline, trees lining the far horizon, and streets made for walking, biking, and horse-drawn carriages, a vacation here feels like taking a step back in time.
Located on Lake Huron—one of the largest lakes in the world—and accessible only by ferry, private boat, or chartered plane, Mackinac (MACK-in-awe) is a quiet, three-season, family-friendly resort island steeped in history, with much to see and do.
There are no cars, hotel chains, or department stores here, but you will find traditional lake homes, upscale resorts and inns, cozy cafes and shops, historic landmarks, and over 1,500 acres of gorgeous greenspace. In fact, the Mackinac Island State Park makes up 80% of the island, which means undeveloped land, hiking trails, bike paths, and more are abundant and easily accessible.
The downtown area is vibrant and welcoming, with a Main Street lined with quaint storefronts, wide sidewalks, lush trees, and overflowing flowerpots bursting with color. The only traffic is from the horse-drawn carriages you’ll find throughout the island, as well as guests on foot or bike. Pop into boutiques selling unique gifts and fashion, rent a bike for the day, or sample the many varieties of locally made fudge. The clopping of the horse hooves and the nostalgic smell of fudge will make the whole experience feel like a vacation hug.
The island’s weather ranges from mild in the spring, to temperate in the summer, to cool and chilly in the fall—making June through September the peak time to visit.
Whichever season you choose, our Manifest team will work with you to craft your arrival on the island. Whether you prefer to arrive via private air charter directly on Mackinac Island or fly commercially to either Pellston or Traverse City Airport, we will help coordinate flights and ground transportation to ensure your Northern Michigan summer vacation is seamless.
For this Manifest trip, you’ll have deluxe accommodations at Mackinac Island’s best-known property—the iconic Grand Hotel, an architecturally stunning resort known for its massive front porch, impeccable service, and family-friendly amenities. Established in 1887 and recently refurbished, this National Historic Landmark has all the modern conveniences you need while embracing the old-world charm and hospitality of a bygone era.
As a guest, you’ll have access to all of the resort’s amenities and attractions, including the famed Grand Hotel gardens, clay-based tennis and pickleball courts, and an onsite shop and day spa. Enjoy traditional Afternoon Tea in the Parlor before dressing up for dinner in the glamorous Main Dining Room, dance to the music of the Grand Hotel Orchestra, or just relax in a rocking chair on the front porch, enjoying views of the Straits of Mackinac.
Kids of all ages will enjoy bocce ball and croquet on the expansive front lawn or a game of chess (with a giant chess board) on the east end of the porch. There are also coin-operated games at T. Richards on the lobby level for indoor fun.
Stop for ice cream and hand-dipped chocolate cones at Sadie’s Ice Cream Parlor, located outside the hotel’s east entrance. Grab breakfast or lunch to go from Grand Coffee and Provisions before heading out for a waterside picnic or bike ride. Or reserve a cabana next to the resort’s stunning 220-foot long Esther Williams Pool and enjoy an afternoon in the sun. The pool offers a family-friendly area with a zero-depth beach entry, a water slide, and a large heated whirlpool, as well as a private adults-only area with an infinity edge and magnificent views.
In the evening, adult guests can meet for pre-dinner cocktails at the Geranium Bar next to the Main Dining Room, take in the views from the casual Cupola Bar at the top of the Grand Hotel, or sip wine, cognac, and scotch in the cozy Audubon Wine Bar before turning in for the night.
Your vacation will feel even more special because we’ve arranged three incredible activities for you to enjoy during your stay. First, you’ll be treated to a private guided bike tour of the island where you will ride to the island's biggest historic and natural attractions like Arch Rock, Lovers Leap, and Fort Mackinac.
Next, you’ll take a relaxing private horse-drawn carriage ride through Main Street and its charming neighborhoods as the hustle and bustle of the day unfolds around you. Finally, you’ll change your vantage point as you sail around the island on a private boat, admiring the beautiful island from the water.
Each Manifest experience is a fantastic (and quintessential) way to explore the beautiful sights and historic landmarks on Mackinac and create classic summer holiday memories you’ll never forget.
highlights
- 4 days / 3 nights on Mackinac Island, Michigan
- Deluxe accommodations at the Grand Hotel
- Private boat ride around Mackinac Island
- Private guided bike tour of the island
- Private horse and carriage ride
Trip details
Trip Type: Small Group
Comfort: Luxury
Travel Styles: Leisure, Family, Romance
Starts: Mackinac Island, United States
Finishes: Mackinac Island, United States
Duration: 4 days
ITINERARY
1Arrive on Mackinac Island
- Check in to your deluxe accommodations at The Grand Hotel
- Spend a relaxing afternoon by the resort’s Esther Williams swimming pool
- Enjoy evening cocktails on the hotel's expansive porch
2Explore the Island by Private Bike Tour and Horse-Drawn Carriage
- Enjoy a private guided bike tour of the island where you will ride to the island's biggest historic and natural attractions like Arch Rock, Lovers Leap, and Fort Mackinac
- Take a relaxing private horse-drawn carriage ride through Main Street and its charming neighborhoods as the hustle and bustle of the day unfolds around you
Suggested Itinerary Enhancements:
- Picnic on the rocky shore of the lake
- Walk the gardens at the Butterfly House Museum
- Sample Mackinac’s famous fudge at any of the chocolate shops on the island
- Stroll through historic downtown to enjoy shopping, dining, and more
3Sail Mackinac Island on a Private Boat
- Explore the island from the water onboard a private sailboat
Suggested Itinerary Enhancements:
- Tee off at The Jewel golf course, Wawashkamo Golf Club, or Greens of Mackinac at Mission Point
- Hike or bike the trails at Mackinac Island State Park
- Visit the Grand Hotel Stables and antique carriage museum
- Make a reservation for traditional Afternoon Tea in the Grand Hotel’s parlor
- Tour the historic Michigan Governor’s Summer Residence
4Depart for Home
- Check out of your deluxe accommodations
- Start planning your next Manifest getaway
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Deluxe accommodations at the Grand Hotel
- A private boat ride around Mackinac Island
- A private guided bike tour of the island
- A private horse and carriage ride
ACCOMMODATIONS
PAYMENT TERMS
- 20% due upon booking
- 80% due 60 days from trip start date
- 100% due if booked inside 60 days from trip start date
CANCELLATION TERMS
- 36 or more days from trip start date - 100% refundable
- 0-35 days from trip start date - 100% non-refundable and no Manifest travel credits given
Partner Details
Manifest Signature
In Business Since 2019
Manifest Signature - A unique collection of hotel properties combined with activities that offer an immersive experience tailored to your travel goals.
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