The Secret Garden

The Secret Garden on Mackinac Island is a hidden gem on the grounds of the Grand Hotel, known for its artistic, flowing "river" of flowers, particularly vibrant spring bulbs like grape hyacinths and tulips, which are replaced by colorful annuals in summer. Despite being centrally located, it's designed to be discovered, with paths leading through it and staff available to help find it, making it a popular spot for photos and proposals.

It actually is a bit hidden...we missed it on our first try! We happened to be there in the morning and had the garden mostly to ourselves. It is right at that point where the spring blooms have spent themselves and the gardeners will soon be swapping out the flowers here as they are everywhere on the property. It is just lovely! There is even a carving of the hotel on a tree stump that is a bit hidden.

I have especially enjoyed the lilacs which are in full bloom everywhere. The beautiful scent brings me back to the lilacs growing in our back yard in NY when I was a child.Read more