We're thinking of going to Mackinac Island (the actual island, not the city) for a long weekend. Is there an "off season" when there aren't a lot of tourists and things aren't as pricey - or is it pretty much if the island is accessable - it's in season? Any suggestions for places to stay on the island? Is it better to stay in the city and go to the island?

The tourist season on the island basically runs from April to October. Most businesses, restaurants and hotels are closed during the winter. A couple of hotels are open during the holidays but I don't recall which ones, and a few restaurants do stay open year around. During the winter, other than the locals, the only people you'll see are snowmobilers who cross the ice to enjoy the riding the trails. Check with the island's Chamber of Commerce to see what is open during the winter.

Mackinaw is a 3/4 season resort more or less. The ferries run mostly during these times. However, the Mission Point Resort is open year round. I do not know where you are coming from, but I do not suggest the winter as the snow can become quite trecherous.

The off season, which I like to do versus the summer (and have done it) would be late fall and early spring. Personally, I like to stay on the Island. There are several places, but I like the Grand Hotel the best. There is nothing like it. I can make seveal recommendations regarding the Grand too!!

that is correct, the season does pretty much run from April to October. I have been there in May (early) and Late October. I have been to the Mystery Weekend at the Grand, and the theme was the Roaring 20's. It was a blast!!

The peak season on the island is roughly the 15th of July until the 20th of August. Also the weekends at the 4th of July and Labor Day.

I wouldn't recommend going to the Island before mid May. Most businesses haven't opened yet. Some will not open until Memorial Day weekend. If you are going in fringe, the fall is usually better than spring

But you can find some good bargains in early June. Even during the Lilac Festival the Island is much less busy in June. If you are from a warmer climate, you will be surprised to find the lilacs, trilium and lady's slippers in bloom in mid June.

If you decide on spring or late fall, I recommend staying in Mackinaw City and day tripping. On a cold day in northern Michigan, the Island feels very cold and walking or riding an open carriage everywhere you go loses some of its attraction.

You should take warm clothes, whenever you go.

Keith

We were there in early October one year and it was great. We got a $300 per night room at the Iroquois Hotel for $75 per night and had the island practically to ourselves. Plus, the tree colors were gorgeous. That being said, it was cold (I had to buy a winter coat in the city) and some of the restaurants and shops were closed and swimming was out of the question. But we rented bikes and hiked and had a great time.

Keith is right about taking warm clothing. We were there last year during Memorial Day....and the ferry ride was COLD...the carriage ride was COLD...and our soup was COLD. The island was beautiful. I would love to go in warmer weather as I think it would be more enjoyable.

We did have a nice WARM pasty when we got back to Mackinaw City.

Are you going to make it up there again this year, iceeu2?

Keith