I love photography, and am hoping to take a long weekend trip to Mackinac Island solo to look around and shoot photos. If I go the first week or so in October, what should I expect in the way of fall color and weather? Also, will all the shops still be open and tourists still be around? I've seen conflicting reports on all of this, and hope someone can set it all straight for me. Any other feedback on Mackinac Island most appreciated.

we were there in October 11, 2001 -- The colors were great but it was COLD-i had to buy a winter coat. Some of the shops and restaurants were closed-it was their final open week but the hotel rates were great-we got a $250 per night room at the Iroquois for $75. I'd recommend going then if you aren't too concerned about shopping or too picky about what you eat.

Hmmmm....maybe I should try the late September/first of October so I have more shops and restaurants from which to choose. Am I safe to assume that this timeframe is not too early for beautiful fall color?

Also meant to ask...what is there to do at night?

My experience was much the same as swalter's. We had few choices of restaurants, etc and nothing much besides the ubiquitous fudge shops was open. That said we had a marvelous visit. We rode our bikes, did some picnicking and had a very lovely time. The Iriquois is very cool.

Late Sept. may be a better option for shops being open and the colors should be just starting depending on how dry the summer has been. My favorite memory of that trip was riding a tandem bike with my husband and being passed on the bike path by two Hasidic (sp?) Jews complete with hats, black garb and ear locks! What a sight I never expected to see!

If you go at the end of September, you'll find just about everything still open and the fall colors should be nice.

My daughter is manager of three shops on the Island and they close down mid-October. My two grandsons also work on the Island during the summer, but their jobs end after Labor Day when the visitor count goes down and school starts.

Late September/early October are my favorite times to be there, and fleece/light jackets are normal for the time of year. Have a great time!

We are going fishing on the Manistee River the middle of October....do I need to take my winter duds with me?

I am just gonna forget Mackinac Island as I know that will be frigid....