MACKINAC ISLAND, MI – November 11, 2024 – As the winter season approaches, Mackinac Island invites visitors to come discover a different side of the National Historic Landmark and cherished vacation destination. While the island is open year-round, the slower-paced winter season offers a quiet escape for those looking for unique activities all whilst being surrounded by the peaceful ambiance of a winter wonderland.
“Mackinac Island is something to behold in every season, but winter on the island is truly special,” says Tim Hygh, Executive Director of Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau. “Winter offers an entirely different experience complete with serene beauty, specially curated holiday events, and opportunities to explore the island’s natural wonders. If you’re looking for a quiet respite, Mackinac Island is the spot to visit.”
Voted the No. 1 Best Summer and No. 2 Best Fall travel destinations by USA Today 10Best readers, Mackinac Island transforms into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil retreat once the hustle of the summer season ends. Mackinac Island State Park’s trails are open year-round, making them ideal for fat tire biking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, bird-watching, and hiking – plus, visitors are welcome to bring their own bikes, skis, and other equipment to the island. Mackinac Wheels is open for bicycle rentals and for those looking to explore the island with a guide, Chad’s Wonderful Walking Tours are available by appointment and Mackinac Jane’s Walking Tours is a downloadable, self-guided tour that can be used anytime.
While the majority of island businesses do close between November and April, select lodging, dining, and shopping options are open to guests throughout the year including Above Mackinac Condos, Pontiac Lodge, and Village Inn Suites, as well as dining spots like Doud’s Market & Deli, Kingston Kitchen, and Mustang Lounge. For shopping, Island Hardware and a select few seasonal favorites are open by appointment and at various times throughout the winter season. Many Mackinac Island stores have an island shopping option to get your Mackinac Island themed gifts for the holidays so be sure to check business websites for the latest deals and discounts.
Winter on Mackinac Island also offers festive celebrations, with events that invite locals and visitors alike to share in the joy of the season. Highlights include:
- December 6: Christmas Tree Lighting
- December 6-8: Christmas Bazaar Weekend
- December 31: New Year’s Eve Great Turtle Drop
- January 11, February 1, March 1: Twilight Turtle Treks
If you’re planning a future visit or in the market for a thoughtful gift, a number of island businesses will be offering seasonal rates and packages as well as holiday discounts and promotions in the weeks ahead.
- Lodging:
- Bicycle Street Inn is offering rates starting at $129 and its sister properties within the Waterfront Collection have rates starting at $159 for weekday stays.
- Grand Hotel guests can save up to 50% off select dates in 2025 with the “Grand Gift to You” Holiday Sale starting November 20, 2024.
- Harbour View Inn will offer a special Cyber Monday Sale! Visit their website and sign up for emails for more information.
- Hotel Iroquois will open all getaway rates for the 2025 season on Cyber Monday (December 2), and discounts will range from 15%-40% off room rates.
- Island House Hotel and Pine Cottage are offering a special offer from December 2 through December 20 where they will add $20 to every $100 e-card purchase. This also applies to all 906 Rewards properties including Mary’s Bistro Draught House, Island House Bike Rentals or Ryba’s Fudge Shops.
- Inn at Stonecliffe is having a cyber sale where any gift card purchase of $250 or more will get an additional $50 added. The sale is from November 18 through December 2.
- Lake View Hotel is discounting two nights or more on select dates during the 2025 season at 20% off.
- Mission Point Resort has deals coming up for Cyber Monday and Black Friday, including 25% off room rates booked between April 26 to May 31, 2025 and September 1 to October 23, 2025. To redeem your discount, use the code BLACK between now and November 29, and the code CYBER on December 2
- Dining
- 906 Rewards Club members will have the chance to add $20 to every $100 e-card purchase between December 2-20. E-cards can be redeemed at your favorite Mackinac Island dining spots including 1852 Grill Room, Ice House BBQ, Mary’s Bistro, Pancake House, and Seabiscuit Cafe.
- Shopping
- Arnold Freight is offering 25% off all merchandise until December 3.
- Mackinac Memories has Mackinac-inspired gifts including art, books, and more by local artisans and authors. Use the code 2024MACKINAC to buy one gift, get one 50% off.
- Mackinac Outfitter is featuring a 20% off discount site-wide between November 24-27 using the code OUT20.
- Original Murdick’s Fudge is offering free shipping on orders of $45 or more that are placed between November 28 and December 7 using the promo code MACKINAC.
- Ryba’s Fudge Shops’ select treats are available for pre-order online with free shipping on orders over $75. Whether you’re treating yourself or surprising loved ones, Ryba’s handcrafted fudge, crunchy caramel corn, buttery brittle, milk chocolatey toffee, and savory taffy are the perfect Michigan-made gifts.
- Activities
- CAP Excursions Bike Tour will have a Black friday sale of 15% off June 2025 bike tours using the code BLACK FRIDAY 2024. Only redeemable for tours.
- Grand Hotel Golf will be offering 40% off on the 2025 stocking stuffer shop between November 29 and December 3.
Visitors planning to travel to Mackinac Island in the coming months should check the winter season webpage and ferry schedules for information on business hours and ferry availability. Ferry services continue through the winter with Shepler’s Ferry providing transportation through November and Arnold Transit Company providing transportation December – April. As schedules can vary due to ice and weather, visitors are encouraged to check for updates often on the official websites before making travel arrangements.
For more information on winter travel to Mackinac Island, including ferry schedules, business hours, winter events, and accommodation options, please visit https://www.mackinacisland.org/mackinac-island-winter-season/
