We gave our Outoria Team one job:
Find the best and most popular Hotels in Mackinac Island
Here you go, now you should be all set for your next trip to Mackinac Island.
When it comes to Mackinac Island hotels, you’ll find a delightful array of options that cater to every taste and preference. Whether you’re in search of a luxurious waterfront resort with breathtaking views of the Straits of Mackinac, a cozy bed and breakfast exuding Victorian-era elegance, or a quaint inn tucked away in the island’s interior, Mackinac Island has over 1,600 unique accommodations to suit all your desires.
Mackinac Island is known for its fudge, ferries, Horse-Drawn Carriages, the movie ‘Somewhere in Time,’ and the Grand Hotel. With its stunning natural beauty, long and rich history, and timeless charm, this island offers an unforgettable vacation experience.
Dive into our list of the best Mackinac Island hotels for your next Michigan island getaway.
The Top 10 Mackinac Island Hotels in 2025
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1
Best Midwest Luxury Resort: Grand Hotel - Mackinac Island, Michigan -
2
Best Showcase of Local Art : Murray Hotel -
3
Best Panoramic Views : Harbour View Inn -
4
Best Romantic Getaway: Pine Cottage Bed and Breakfast -
5
Most Family-Friendly : Mission Point Resort -
6
Best Waterfront Access : Hotel Iroquois -
7
Best for Bicycle Renting : Bicycle Street Inn -
8
Best Island Nightlife : Chippewa Hotel Waterfront -
9
Best Boutique Hotel: The Mackinac House -
10
The Oldest Operating Hotel : Lake View Hotel
All the Mackinac Island Hotels We've visited:
Where to buy Grand Hotel – Mackinac Island, Michigan:
Grand Hotel Mackinac Island, Michigan
What’s Special About This Resort
The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is a fabulous summer destination with its 19th-century timeless atmosphere. The Grand Hotel was built in 1887 on a bluff overlooking the Straits of Mackinac, where wealthy railroad execs and their families would visit. The Grand Hotel was and still is considered America’s Summer Place with its steadfast devotion to tradition. It is one of the last remaining vestiges of a time when ladies and gentlemen showed respect for those around them by dressing for dinner.
The Grand Hotel offers many all-inclusive packages depending on the time of year. The Grand Best Rate with American Plan includes your Grand Hotel accommodations and breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. The Grand Best Rate with the Modified American Plan provides greater family flexibility and includes your Grand Hotel accommodations and breakfast and dinner daily. The Grand Luncheon Experience can be added for an extra fee.
Things we like:
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Guests can eat and drink at 13 restaurants and bars within the Grand Hotel -
Guests can choose between the Straits of Mackinac, Lake Huron, or golf course views
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No tipping Inside the Grand Hotel
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The staff truly goes above and beyond to accommodate guests
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There are no cars are allowed on the island; instead, you can walk, bike, or ride in a horse-drawn carriage
Things we don't like:
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Some of the suites and the cottage are not available to reserve online -
Only 4 of the restaurants are included in the all-inclusive package
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Staying at this resort is expensive, with many of the services being offered at extra costs
Where to buy Grand Hotel – Mackinac Island, Michigan:
Grand Hotel Mackinac Island, Michigan
What’s Special About This Hotel
The historic family-owned Murray Hotel has offered families a friendly place to stay on Mackinac Island since the late 1800s. Conveniently located on Main Street and right across from the Mackinac Ferry, you are right in the heart of all the activities on the island.
Murray Hotel’s deep-rooted connection to Mackinac’s vibrant arts and cultural scene is evident with hosting live performances and exhibits in the basement art gallery.
Plus, this is the place for the best fudge on the island. Murray Hotel’s fudge has some crazy flavors you will love. The Murray Hotel offers more than just accommodation; it provides a fun experience that fuses art, local culture, and great cuisine, making it a truly unique destination on Mackinac Island.
Things we like:
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They make their fudge on-site
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They hand out free fudge samples
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There are fresh donuts each morning in the lobby free to guests
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An elevator is available for all floors
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Close to all the action on Main Street
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Luggage storage if you arrive early
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Balconies off of rooms
Things we don't like:
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Very small rooms
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Spa view rooms have umbrella tables and chairs outside the windows
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The luggage room is not always secure
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The hotel is not pet-friendly
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No bike storage
What’s Special About This Hotel
Originally built in 1820 as Chateau LaFramboise, it was the home to Madame Magdelaine La Framboise, one of the most successful fur traders. The summer cottage was transformed into this Mackinac Island hotel, the Harbour View Inn, in 1995. Its breathtaking vantage point sets the Harbour View Inn apart from other hotels on the island.
The recently restored Victorian buildings offer an elegant retreat on Mackinac Island with gorgeous landscaped grounds, perched on a bluff offering panoramic views of the Great Lakes.
Harbour View Inn’s customer service is beyond compare with its personalized concierge services, helping guests plan activities throughout the island and making reservations, ensuring that your stay is tailored to you.
The Harbour View Inn is special in its unmatched views, historical charm, personalized service, and dedication to preserving natural beauty. Choosing this inn for your stay on Mackinac Island promises a one-of-a-kind vacation experience.
Things we like:
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Located less than a half mile from town, it is quiet at night
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You can rent bikes from the hotel cheaper than on Main Street
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The porters who deliver your bags from the ferry are excellent
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Being able to store luggage at the front desk on checkout day was helpful
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Complimentary breakfast is delicious
Things we don't like:
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Not all rooms have air conditioning
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It does not have a pool or fitness center
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Room service is not available
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The hotel is not pet-friendly
What’s Special About This Hotel
Pine Cottage Bed & Breakfast is a charming Mackinac Island hotel—a great escape from the hustle and bustle. Nostalgia and relaxation are the words to describe this bed and breakfast that is a short stroll from the busy Main Street. The welcoming front porch draws you into a place where you can comfortably lay your head at night and be well-rested for your Mackinac adventure the next morning.
Since opening in 1870, Pine Cottage has seen some famous guests stay overnight, including Ty Cobb and Ernest Hemingway. With country-comfort, friendly hosts, being tucked away from Main Street, and a hearty and delicious breakfast, it is no wonder that Pine Cottage Bed and Breakfast is the choice for an intimate island experience.
Things we like:
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They have luggage service to/from the ferry
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The staff is kind and helpful
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The little extras, such as flavored ice water on the porch and a charging station in the living room
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The location is on a quiet street away from the Main Street crowds
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Wrap around porch
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Afternoon tea with baked goodies
Things we don't like:
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Rooms are small
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Some rooms have shared bathrooms
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No elevators; all the rooms require stairs for access
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No bicycle storage indoors
What’s Special About This Hotel
One of the most remarkable aspects of this Mackinac Island hotel is its expansive and picturesque grounds. Spread across 18 acres of lush gardens, Mission Point Resort provides a serene and secluded escape on the island.
Lake Huron borders the resort on one side and Lake Shore Road on the other, giving you access to not one but two stunning waterfronts. This unique location lets guests enjoy beautiful sunrise and sunset views from the property.
What truly makes Mission Point Resort special is its commitment to providing a comprehensive island experience with a wide range of activities and amenities, from an 18-hole putting course, three restaurants, two coffee shops, and bike rentals to the Lakeside Spa and Salon.
It is perfect for guests looking to explore the island’s natural beauty and historic attractions. The resort also boasts a pristine pool area and an old-fashioned movie theater, offering unparalleled entertainment options on the island.
Things we like:
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Cheaper bike rentals than on Main Street
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Very friendly staff
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Straits Lodge is dog-friendly, but there is a pet-free
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Observation tower with a museum featuring exhibits on the island’s history
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Antique movie theater
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Shuttle runs from the resort to downtown every hour
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The lobby remodel was beautifully done
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A dedicated horse and buggy that leaves every half hour to downtown
Things we don't like:
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The rooms in the Straits Lodge are a little run down and small
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It is a bit of a hike from the ferry
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Bike rentals at the hotel sell out early
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The decor is a little outdated
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Rooms can be small
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Not enough plugs in the rooms
Where to Book Hotel Iroquois:
The Hotel Iroquois
What’s Special About This Hotel
The historic Hotel Iroquois, built in 1900, has an old-world charm: when you arrive, you almost expect ladies with parasols on gentlemen’s arms to step out from the porch and start strolling down Main Street.
Only two families have run the Hotel Iroquois since it became a hotel. The Hotel Iroquois pays homage to the island’s history with its beautifully restored Victorian-style accommodations. You’ll find that it elegantly marries the past with modern comfort, creating a truly unforgettable ambiance.
What makes the Hotel Iroquois truly special is its unparalleled waterfront location. Situated right on the shores of the Straits of Mackinac, it offers unobstructed, breathtaking views of the Mackinac Bridge and the shimmering waters. This exceptional vantage point makes your stay a front-row seat to some of the island’s most iconic sights.
Things we like:
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The hotel is right by the ferry docks but slightly removed from Main Street
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Hotel Iroquois is right on the water with incredible views from the balcony
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The dock was a terrific place to hang out in the evenings
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Meals at the Carriage House are excellent
Things we don't like:
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There are no elevators
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There is no bike rental at the hotel
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Garden-view rooms lack air conditioning
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Rates are more expensive than other properties on the island
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Mixed reviews regarding front desk service
Where to Book Hotel Iroquois:
The Hotel Iroquois
What’s Special About This Hotel
Bicycle Street Inn is the newest hotel on Mackinac Island, being built in 2013 right on Main Street. Their guest rooms and suites are wonderful for families and couples, with the Waterfront Collection adding luxury to your stay. The Bicycle Street Inn’s location is unbeatable. Situated in the heart of downtown Mackinac Island, it provides easy access to its vibrant culture, shops, and dining options.
What sets the Bicycle Street Inn apart is its dedication to embracing the island’s car-free culture. As the only hotel with an adjoining bicycle rental shop, it encourages guests to explore the island at their own pace on two wheels. It is a distinctive way to immerse oneself in the island’s natural beauty and unique atmosphere.
Things we like:
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Bags from the ferry are delivered to your room quickly
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They leave chocolates for you at night
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One of the newest hotels on the island
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The Waterfront Collection is great for couples and romantic getaways
Things we don't like:
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The room views aren’t exactly the best; the courtyard view looks out toward the back of a building
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Mezzanine rooms do not have windows looking outside
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There can be a lot of street noise; the hotel is right in the center of the action, but it calms after 11 p.m.
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No bottled water in the room
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The fitness center is not very big
What’s Special About This Hotel
One of the most remarkable features of this Mackinac Island Hotel is its breathtaking location. Chippewa Hotel Waterfront is on the waterfront and provides unparalleled views of the Straits of Mackinac and the iconic Mackinac Bridge.
This allows you to wake up to the tranquil sound of waves lapping against the shore and enjoy stunning sunrises and sunsets from your room or the hotel’s expansive veranda. The scenic beauty of the surroundings is a defining characteristic of this establishment.
The Chippewa’s accommodations blend modern comfort with a nod to the island’s historical Victorian charm, creating an inviting and cozy atmosphere that’s hard to match elsewhere.
Built-in 1902, the lobby welcomes guests to a unique journey through time with its vintage furniture and classic ambiance. From the past to the modern present, with its waterfront patio and 25-person jacuzzi hot tub to the Pink Pony bar, the Chippewa Hotel Waterfront offers an experience that is truly distinct from other hotels on the island.
Things we like:
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The staff are always welcoming and friendly; plus, they remember special occasions of returning guests
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The views of the harbor and lake are spectacular
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Rooms are soundproofed
Things we don't like:
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The bar is open late and has loud music
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They have accessible rooms, but the patio is not accessible
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Ferry dock porter service is not included in the room rate
Where to Book The Mackinac House:
The Mackinac House
What’s Special About This Hotel
One of the Mackinac House’s defining features is its boutique-style accommodation. The 19 spacious rooms are thoughtfully designed with a perfect blend of modern comfort and historic character. Each room tells a story, reflecting the island’s rich heritage and providing guests with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This Mackinac Island hotel is a place where you can experience the island’s history while enjoying the comforts of today.
Mackinac House is close enough to the Mackinac Island State Park, Historic Fort Mackinac, the Mackinac Island Marina, and Main Street that you won’t miss any island adventure. The hotel’s proximity to the bustling Main Street, with its quaint shops and restaurants, allows guests to easily immerse themselves in the island’s unique culture and charm. Additionally, it’s just a short stroll from the ferry docks, making it a convenient choice for those arriving on the island.
Things we like:
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Only one block from the ferry dock and Main Street
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They have quick luggage service to and from the ferry
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The staff is very friendly and goes out of their way to assist
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There are bottles of water and La Croix in the room mini-fridge
Things we don't like:
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The room walls are thin; you can hear noises, although there is a strict “quiet time” from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.
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There is no bike rental at the hotel
Where to Book The Mackinac House:
The Mackinac House
What’s Special About This Hotel
This 1858 Victorian hotel is the oldest continuously operated hotel on Mackinac Island, with a convenient location directly on Main Street next to the ferry dock. Lake View gives guests the perfect balance of convenience and affordability in spacious rooms with modern comfort. This Mackinac Island hotel’s historic charm is seen throughout; you can still spot original fixtures and details that have been carefully maintained. It’s like stepping into a living museum.
Staying in the Lake View Hotel, you can watch and listen to the horses go by on the front porch, swim in the heated indoor pool, and unwind in style. After a long day of exploration or a cozy escape during the island’s tranquil winter months, you’ll find the perfect island retreat at the Lake View Hotel.
Things we like:
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There is a hotel porter to take luggage from the ferry to your room
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It's a convenient location at the end of Main Street
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Nice perk offering a black towel for makeup removal
Things we don't like:
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They don’t serve coffee after 9 p.m.
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Only partial views of the lake from the third-floor common balcony
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There are no fridges or microwaves in the rooms
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The air conditioner is loud
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Small rooms need to be updated and are scheduled for major renovations this winter
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No pets allowed in the hotel
Related Reviews
A Brief History of Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island sits in Lake Huron, near the Straits of Mackinac, a 50-mile passage connecting Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. You can reach Mackinac Island by ferry or plane. The two ferry routes leave Mackinac City in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula and St. Ignace in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Many people have called Mackinac Island home over the last 400 years. It was originally called Michilimackinac, meaning “Great Turtle,” by the Anishnaabek tribes, who were the first people to visit and inhabit the island for the fishing, trapping, and burying of their dead.
During the American Revolution, Fort Mackinac was built by the British to protect their trading post along the waterway. Then, when tourism started to pick up, the railroad tycoons built the Grand Hotel and launched Mackinac Island as the premier Michigan summer getaway.
Today, less than 200 people live on the island year-round, where they see, on average, a million visitors a year.
Feel Like Getting Out of Your Mackinac Island Hotel
Mackinac Island Hotels offer a lot for you on-site, but a trip to Mackinac Island wouldn’t be complete without exploring the island.
Mackinac Island’s most iconic feature is the absence of motorized vehicles. The island enforces a ban on cars, creating a peaceful atmosphere where horses, bicycles, and foot traffic are the primary modes of transportation. This unique characteristic allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and fully immerse yourself in a tranquil and unhurried environment.
The island has over 70 miles of hiking and biking trails, with the island (M-185) loop being 8.3 miles around the island’s perimeter. It takes about an hour to bicycle the loop. But take your time to appreciate the breathtaking views around Mackinac Island truly.
Some of the sights not to miss are Arch Rock, the interactive signs along Mackinac Island’s Native American Cultural History Trail, British Landing landmark, the Devil’s Kitchen cave, Pontiac Trail, a hidden trail that runs along Mackinac Island’s West Bluff providing you stunning views of the Mighty Mackinac bridge, the world’s 5th largest suspension bridge.
Other places to see on Mackinac Island are Cindy’s Riding Stable if you like horseback riding, Great Turtle Kayak Tours to see the island from the water, the Original Butterfly House, Mackinac Island State Park, and Fort Mackinac. If you have more time, taking the ferry to the mainland will give you even more fun experiences in Michigan.
Mackinac City
A 30-minute ferry ride will put you in Mackinac City on the shores of the mainland, where you can have some amazing Michigan adventures. Some historical must-see activities include exploring the history and reenactments at Colonial Michilimackinac, visiting Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, and touring the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum.
Family fun can be had at Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park, where you can zip line above the trees. Or try your hand at parasailing on Lake Huron.
Another unique destination would be to visit Headlands International Dark Sky Park. If you want to see the night sky in all its glory without light pollution, this is the place to be in Michigan.
St. Ignace
Riding the ferry to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula will put you up close and personal with animals. Don’t worry, it’s all fun!
Your family can feed deer at the Deer Ranch before heading on U.S. 2 to the Garlyn Zoo Wildlife Park. The Garlyn Zoo Wildlife Park is over 30 acres. It has numerous local Michigan and exotic animals where you have opportunities to feed them. Also by the zoo is the Top of the Lake Snowmobile Museum.
Besides the animals, there are other fun adventure stops along U.S. 2 and in St. Ignace. Make sure to stop at the Cut River Bridge State Roadside Park. If you have time, take the stairs to get a better view of the bridge and put your feet in the Lake Michigan water. Also on U.S. 2 is the Mystery Spot. You can walk through crazy-tilted rooms and other weird phenomena, play miniature golf, or try the zip-line.
For those wanting to experience Native American Culture, there is the Totem Village, Indian Village, and Museum of Ojibwa Culture. Plus, don’t forget to see the Wawatam Lighthouse.
Tahquamenon Falls
Further north is the Tahquamenon Falls, two waterfalls in the Tahquamenon Falls State Park: the Upper and Lower Tahquamenon Falls. With a 200-foot-wide and over 50-foot drop, Upper Tahuamenon Falls is one of the largest waterfalls beside Niagara Falls, that is east of the Mississippi River.
You can get up close to this powerful waterfall with an observation deck. The Lower Tahquamenon Falls is 3 miles east and has a nice wooded boardwalk to walk alongside the falls and a newly built passenger bridge to get to the island for more waterfalls and nature views.
Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum
Check out how dangerous it was for maritime transport on Lake Superior at the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum. Learn about the ill-fated Edmund Fitzgerald and many more shipwrecks in the Great Lakes. Plus, you can check out the oldest operating lighthouse on Lake Superior, Whitefish Point Light Tower.
Sault Ste. Marie
Ride through the Soo Locks, one of the busiest locks along the St. Mary’s River. This unique experience in Sault Ste. Marie, during the summer, will give you a memorable adventure. The trip through the locks and cruising along the US and Canadian coastlines takes approximately two hours.
Frequently asked questions
There really isn’t a bad time to visit. However, the weather is nicest during the summer when it is the warmest. June is the best month to visit Mackinac Island, with its cool mornings and warm afternoons, although it is also the busiest. September is a close second with the stunning fall color displays in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Yes. Once the ferry crowds leave for the day, all you are left with is the quiet and relaxed island atmosphere, making it feel like you have the island to yourself.
The ideal stay would be 2 to 3 days on Mackinac Island. If you were coming over on the ferry for one day, you could see a good portion of the major sights, but you would miss out on the epic sunsets and even more beautiful sunrises on the island. If you stayed two or three days, you could spend leisurely exploring on a bike or hiking to get to know the island.
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