The crown jewel of the Great Lakes State is the ever-popular Mackinac Island. People travel from all over the world to experience this old-fashioned vacation spot. There are eight miles of breathtaking freshwater coastline, and the entire island is car-free. While this is an incredibly popular summer destination, the fun begins when tourists vacate the island and leave the locals to play in the snow. Let’s check out a few things to do on Mackinac Island in the wintertime.

Mackinac Island, Michigan is located in Lake Huron between the Upper and Lower Peninsula.
Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau / Facebook
There are 500 year-round residents that live on the island permanently, which is much less than the 5,000 daily visitors that arrive in the summer during peak season.
When you’re visiting Mackinac Island in the summer, there are so many tourists it can be overwhelming.
Winter Mackinac Island Michigan
Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau / Facebook
That’s why, if you’re up for the challenge, we recommend visiting this unbelievably unique island in the dead of winter. You will most likely only run into locals and get to experience what the island is truly like without all the hustle and bustle.
You will need to plan ahead for how to get to the island during the winter months.
Mackinac Island
You can use the ferry until the ice forms on Lake Huron, which is weather-dependent. Once the ice solidifies, the other option is to fly into the small airport on the island by booking a charter flight.

There are no public restrooms available on the island during the winter season, but you can use the bathroom at the ferry dock if the ferries are running. Visitors are encouraged to stay the night and use the hotel restrooms or patronize a restaurant and use its restroom.
While you’re walking around Mackinac, you’ll begin to notice the peace and quiet of the area. No cars are allowed on the island, creating a serene escape.
Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau / Facebook

Related Stories

The Brand New Restaurant In Michigan That Locals Can't Get Enough Of

The Brand New Restaurant In Michigan That Locals Can't Get Enough Of

 This Is The Most Michigan Sound You'll Ever Hear, And We Can't Stop Listening To It

This Is The Most Michigan Sound You'll Ever Hear, And We Can't Stop Listening To It

 This Enchanting Garden Restaurant In Michigan Will Transport You To Another World

This Enchanting Garden Restaurant In Michigan Will Transport You To Another World
Many attractions on Mackinac Island are only open during peak season, such as The Grand Hotel and Fort Mackinac.
Mackinac Island
But Mackinac Island State Park is open year-round, and you’ll nearly have the entire park to yourself. In the winter months, you can hike or cross-country ski, for example. Bring your own gear and explore the forest — it's magical.
Located in the heart of downtown Mackinac you’ll find Pontiac Lodge, which is a boutique hotel and one of the few places you can spend the night in the winter.
Frederick Keeney / Google Reviews
The rooms are nautical-themed, and some even have jacuzzi tubs for you to warm up in after a chilly day of winter hiking.
One of the best places to eat is Kingston Kitchen at the Village Inn, which serves traditional American fare with a Jamaican twist.
Y Martinez / Google Reviews
The delicious planked whitefish served here is caught right at the Straits of Mackinac.
Greg Webb / Google Reviews
You can’t get much fresher than that! There are plenty of tasty dishes to try, and there's something for everyone.
If you’re ready for an incredible adventure that very few Michiganders have checked off their bucket list, grab your snowshoes and take the ferry to Mackinac Island this winter.
Layne Kennedy / Corbis Documentary Collection via Getty Images

Enjoy winter on Mackinac Island in this video from Make Today Count:

For more travel information for visiting Mackinac Island in the off-season, check out the Mackinac Island website. You can also follow the Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry Facebook page for updates on when the ferry is running.

Have you ever visited this gorgeous island before? Let us know your experience! You can also check out the seven coziest towns in Michigan to snuggle up in this season.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Mackinac Island In The Winter

Chris Muras | January 15, 2024

What are some things to do on Mackinac Island in the winter?
Mackinac Island is a hot summer attraction, but the beauty and charm don't end when the summer tourists leave. It takes on a whole new level of wonder when it is covered in snow. Here are a few some things to do on Mackinac Island in the winter:

  • Twilight Turtle Trek: This event in January, February, and March on Mackinac Island is an enchanting way to explore the island. Start at Greany Grove and snowshoe or ski along the 2-mile trail that is lit with old-fashioned lanterns. You can also warm up around a bonfire while sipping hot cocoa. Mackinac Island is a delightful place to explore on snowshoes already, but this event adds an extra dose of charm.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with fudge: With around 13 fudge shops on the island, you'll have plenty of opportunities to indulge in this iconic treat on Mackinac Island. Keep in mind that the fudge shops on the island are closed during the winter but you can order a piece online if the craving strikes.
  • Hike to Arch Rock: Many visitors to Mackinac Island marvel at the iconic Mackinac Bridge, but another bridge is a must-see natural wonder - Arch Rock. Nearly 15 stories above Lake Huron sits this impressive rock bridge. To get to it you need to hike up 207 stairs, but the view when you get to the top is stunning as you look out at Lake Huron and the ice sheets that crash and build up against the shoreline.

Another fun thing to do in the winter (and the summer too) is to go on a Mackinac Island scavenger hunt. It is a fun and informative way to get to know the city while trying to top the international leaderboard if you are competitive. Or, simply enjoy the sights and sounds of Mackinac Island at your own pace.

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA