Mackinaw City is an island located off Lake Michigan and Lake Huron in Michigan. The historic island is home to several colonial sites and landmarks, giving visitors a chance to experience what life was like for the soldiers that served during the Civil War. Many of the sites have been reconstructed to provide visitors with an interactive experience and re-enactment of the events that took place in this historic area. Visitors can explore the State Park, take guided tours of famous landmarks, and purchase souvenirs and keepsakes from the major attractions. Here are some interesting things to do in Mackinaw City, Michigan:
Visit Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse
Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is open seven days per week and guided walking tours of the tower are available on the hour or half hour, depending on the season. The lighthouse was built in 1892 and visitors can climb to the top of the tower to enjoy panoramic views of the sandy beaches, the Straits of Mackinac and the Mackinac Bridge. The Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse
is located on 101 West Strait Street in Mackinaw City, Michigan Call (231) 436-4100 for more information.
Take a Tour of Fort Mackinac
Learn about a soldier’s life during the early colonial period by taking a tour of Fort Mackinac. The fort was built 150 feet above the Straits of Mackinac to serve as a military compound and viewing area by American soldiers. Much of the fort has been rebuilt so that visitors can experience the bugle music, cannon blasts and rapid firing of the guns firsthand. Visitors can take a guided tour of the grounds to learn about the history of the military base. Fort Mackinac is located on 7127 Huron Road .
Shop at Sutler’s Store
Sutler’s Store is a reconstructed general store located in the old soldier’s barracks at Fort Mackinac. You can shop for military-themed keepsakes, Victorian artifacts, collectibles and other items at this store located on the first floor inside Fort Mackinac. The store is open seven days per week, and hours vary by season. Sutler’s Store is located inside Fort Mackinac at7124 Huron Road.
Explore Mackinac Island State Park
Mackinac Island State Park features 1,800 acres of historical sites and geological features, and is also home to the Summer Governor Residence. Popular sites to explore here include Sugar Loaf on the eastern shoreline of the island, Arch Rock, Devil’s Kitchen on the west side, and the Post Cemetery on Garrison Road. You can also see where the War of 1812 was fought by walking through Landing Road in the center of the island.
Visit the Historical Mill Discovery Park
Kids of all ages can spend the day at Historical Mill Discovery Park, an outdoor park that features miles of nature trails, reconstructed historical buildings and lush forests. The park is also home to the Dr. David A. Armour Visitor’s Center that houses hundreds of nature-themed collectibles and keepsakes, history books and artifacts. Call the Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park Dr. David A. Armour Visitor’s Center at
(231) 436-4100 for more information.
