We are three senior couples traveling in Michigan in mid-September this year and want to spend a day on Mackinac. We will spend one night either on or off the island (nearby if off). Any recommendations for hotels? We won't be staying at the Grand Hotel, but are open to any others. We understand they could be in the $500 +/1 range.

I realize that this reply is way past your travel dates. But in today's environment I thought you might have postponed the trip; so here you are: We (family) spent five days in Mackinaw last summer and stayed at the American Boutique Inn Lakeview in Mackinaw City. It's walking distance to downtown and to Shepler's Ferry dock. It's also across the street from a large park on the straits, near the bridge, and has a swimming pool. I believe it's family owned and operated. We were very pleased with the hotel. It was comfortable, well located, and an extremely good value. Hope this helps someone.