A visit to Mackinac Island

Shepler’s Ferry brought us to Mackinac Island this morning. Located just east of Mackinaw City in Lake Huron, the island is famous for its Victorian charm, scenic shoreline, and historic landmarks. Since cars are not allowed, transportation is mainly by horse-drawn buggies and wagons. No wonder the entire island carried the unmistakable aroma of horse manure! Fortunately, one of the best ways to explore the island is by bicycle, so after disembarking, we rented a pair.

A scenic road follows the shoreline all the way around the island, and we completed the entire 8-mile loop in less than two hours, including stops at Arch Rock and several other scenic viewpoints. With only about 18 feet of elevation difference, it was an easy and very enjoyable ride. We were glad we chose to see the island this way.

By noon, we had worked up an appetite and treated ourselves to a light lunch at Mary’s Bistro Draught House. An elderly couple at the next table had sailed their yacht from Port Huron, about an hour and a half from Detroit. They highly recommended visiting the Grand Hotel’s cupola, perched at the very top of the building, with its unique décor and spectacular views over the Straits of Mackinac. We took their advice, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our visit. The hotel itself, with its beautifully manicured gardens and famous front porch, was equally impressive.

Afterward, we climbed aboard a horse-drawn buggy for the ride back to the village center. It was another memorable experience and a fitting way to enjoy the island’s slower pace.

Our original plan also included visiting historic Fort Mackinac, built by the British in 1780, along with the blacksmith shop and the art museum. Unfortunately, time slipped away, and we had to leave those out.

We made it back to the dock just in time to catch the four o’clock ferry back to Mackinaw City.

The weather forecast had called for a 55 percent chance of rain, but somehow we stayed dry all day. We wrapped up another wonderful day with a tasty dinner at Audie’s Family Restaurant.Read more