Where is Mackinac Island, Mackinac Island, Michigan?

Written by | Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 12:28 PM ET

Mackinac Island is located in Michigan, USA. It lies between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas in Lake Huron. It is famous for its historic sites, beautiful scenery, and no cars—people travel by horse, bike, or on foot.

Mackinac Island Location Map, Mackinac Island, Michigan

Top Attractions Inside Mackinac Island

  • Fort Mackinac – Historic military fort with museum exhibits, reenactments, and scenic views.
  • Main Street – Charming street lined with shops, restaurants, and historic architecture.
  • Arch Rock – Natural limestone arch offering panoramic views and photo opportunities.
  • Grand Hotel – Elegant historic hotel with expansive porch and beautiful gardens.
  • Hiking & Biking Trails – Extensive trails through forests, shoreline, and scenic overlooks.
  • Carriage Tours – Horse-drawn carriage rides showcasing the island’s history and landmarks.
  • Mackinac Island State Park – Protected park covering most of the island with nature trails, historic sites, and shoreline views.

Mackinac Island Facts

Official NameMackinac Island
LocationMackinac Island, Mackinac County, Michigan, USA
Latitude & Longitude45.8493° N, 84.6310° W (approx.)
Total Area~3.8 sq mi (9.8 km²)
EstablishedHistorical settlement: 1780s; Mackinac Island State Park established in 1895
FounderNative American Ojibwe & European settlers
Managed ByMackinac Island State Park Commission / Local Municipality
RegionStraits of Mackinac / Northern Michigan
AddressMackinac Island, MI 49757, USA
Zip Code49757
Area Code231
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Time ZoneEastern Time (ET) – UTC−5 Standard / UTC−4 Daylight Saving
Theme / ConceptHistoric Island, Car-Free Environment, Victorian Architecture, Tourism, Outdoor Recreation
Sections (Areas)Downtown Mackinac - Fort Mackinac - Mackinac Island State Park - Arch Rock - Shoreline Trails
Famous AttractionsFort Mackinac - Arch Rock - Grand Hotel - Mackinac Island State Park - Historic Downtown & Shops - Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours
Annual VisitorsApprox. 1 million
Entry Fee TypeFerry / Boat Access (required to reach island)
Ticket Price RangeFerry: ~$20–$30 per adult round-trip; Fort Mackinac entry: ~$12–$15; Carriage / Bike Rentals: ~$20–$40
Ticket OptionsFerry Tickets - Fort Mackinac Admission - Carriage / Bike Rentals - Guided Tours - Historical Programs
Best Time to VisitMay–October (mild weather, tourist season, ferry services operational)
Nearby AirportCherry Capital Airport (TVC, Traverse City, MI) – ~100 miles (161 km); Pellston Regional Airport (PLN) – ~55 miles (89 km)
TransportationFerry / Boat Access - Horse-Drawn Carriages - Bicycles - Walking Trails - Limited Golf Carts for residents & service
Official Websitehttps://www.mackinacisland.org / https://www.mackinacparks.com

Distances from Mackinac Island to Nearby Landmarks

  • Fort Mackinac – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Grand Hotel – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Arch Rock – 3 km (1.9 mi)
  • Mackinac Island Ferry – 0.5 km (0.3 mi)
  • British Landing – 4 km (2.5 mi)
  • Mackinac Island State Park Visitor Center – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Round Island Lighthouse – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Marquette Park – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Cedar Point – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Mackinac Island Airport – 7 km (4.3 mi)
  • Mission Point Resort – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Grand Hotel Gardens – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Stonecliffe Mansion – 3 km (1.9 mi)
  • Anne’s Tablet – 3.5 km (2.2 mi)
  • Mackinac Island Carriage Museum – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Mackinac Island Golf Course – 4 km (2.5 mi)
  • British Fort Trail – 4.5 km (2.8 mi)
  • Horseshoe Bay – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Mission Point Beach – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Governor’s Summer Residence – 2.5 km (1.6 mi)