how many days would be enough on the island?
we are a family of 4 - 2 adults 2 teens.

we enjoy history, horses, swimming, eating,
walking

melissa

I think a couple of days would be pleanty. It is a very nice place, but it is small. People spending longer on the Island spend much of their time relaxing - which doesn't sound like what you tend to do.

What part of the summer will you be there.

Keith

we are looking in august.

where would be a good place for us to stay?

thanks

melissa

What's your budget?

The first 3 weeks of August are very busy, if you are going in the first 2/3 of the month, you will want to book your hotel early.

That part of the summer is busy enough, that there are fewer special events hosted on the island. But don't let the crowds worry you. Other than doing a carriage tour, the majority of them stay within 4-5 blocks of the ferry docks, plus maybe a bike ride around the perimeter.

I recommend visiting Fort Mackinac in the morning, before the heavy crowds of day trippers get there. Then spend the middle of the day doing things like horse back ridding and hiking away from town. Save the shopping and downtown for the early evening when the crowds thin out again.

That is the warmest part of the year, but be sure to still pack light jackets and some long sleeves. Cold weather can surprise you in that area at any season.

Keith

I like walking around the entire island -- about 8 miles if I remember correctly -- great views -- bring water and maybe energy bars -- I don't remember any snack shops out and about the island.

i would say that for a room we would spend $200 or so a night.
is that doable?
where do you suggest we stay?
thanks
melissa

screenwriter2006, there is a snack bar at British Landing, more ot less at the half way point going around the Island.

Keith

I would recommend going to Arch Rock. it is a pretty spot. That is where my husband proposed to me. It is a very quaint and nice island. Have a great time!

Melissa,

What kind of places do you like to stay in? There are some beautiful B&Bs there, very nice hotels, and some condos/apartments with full kitchens. Tell me what you prefer and I'll give you some recommendations for places to stay. Also, some places are on the water, some across the street and some far away from the downtown area.

As for the number of days - it depends whether you're going on the weekend or during the week. As Keith mentioned, it's pretty busy in August. Mid-week is less busy than the weekends though. If you're going mid-week, I would say 2-3 days is enough time to see everything. If you're going over a weekend, I'd add an extra day or so. I've stayed there for a week before and loved it - but I relaxed a lot on the porch where we stayed and biked & walked around a lot too.

Heidi

if we want to swim , what are our choices?
thanks

Check out Mission Point. I believe the Island House has a pool too.

Lilac Tree has a nice pool.

We will be staying at the Lakeview next weekend, which I understand has an indoor pool. A lot of the area around the island is rocky, but I do see a few spots while biking around that people are swimming at, however, I wouldn't suggest swimming out too far as there are definately no lifeguards around!

thanks

Melissa, we went there last sept. for our 25th anniversary and loved it! If you can take the time to do the horse and buggy tour and eat @ the Grand hotel lunch buffet. I am not sure of the prices, because we had a package. Have fun!! Rent a bike too, make sure and bring good walking shoes. HAVE FUN.. I know we did, we stayed @ the Isalnd House hotel. even if you do not stay there, they have a wonderful restaraunt.

thanks for all of the good information

The buffet at the Grand is about $50 including tax & service charges.

Keith

Melissa, sorry aobut that I had no idea the lunch buffet was that much @ the Grand Hotel, my husband and I had package. maybe you all could find one too. Also, fogot to tell you @ the other end of the Island ( from the Grand hotel)is a huge hotel. I guess it where they actually did film that movie with Christopher Reeves, I think it ifs called the "Mission point Resort". The view is amazing, and they will just let you walk around the lodge, wherever you wantto.. there was great museum there too that is open to the public, was just a few dollars.. well worth it! Can yu tell we just loved it there?!!!!!

I didn't mean the Lilac Tree when I said it had a pool, I meant the Lake View.