MACKINAC ISLAND, MI – March 19, 2025 – Mackinac Island, a beloved Midwest treasure, is getting ready to usher in the 2025 season, welcoming visitors back to experience its historic allure, stunning landscapes, and timeliness charm. This season promises dreamy new experiences, unforgettable events, and fresh opportunities to explore the island’s breathtaking natural beauty and nostalgic culture. Voted a top travel destination by Travel + Leisure and USA TODAY 10Best readers, Mackinac Island continues to captivate travelers year after year.
“Whether you’re visiting the island for the first time or it’s a treasured tradition, we are thrilled to welcome visitors for the 2025 season,” said Tim Hygh, Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau Executive Director. “Ferries will be running as usual and our island community is ready to help create lasting memories for all who step foot off the docks. It’s shaping up to be an amazing season, and we can’t wait to share it with everyone!”
Nestled in the sparkling waters of the Great Lakes, Mackinac Island is a car-free destination that offers a peaceful, cool-temperature escape for visitors. The island has something for all—whether exploring its rich history, riding in a horse-drawn carriage, or discovering its natural wonders. And no visit is complete without indulging in a slice of world-famous Mackinac Island fudge!
The Mackinac Island community has been busy preparing a full lineup of classic island festivities for visitors to enjoy this season. Annual highlights include the Lilac Festival, a tribute to the island’s iconic blooms, and the newly imagined Fall Fudge Festival, a celebration of its famous sweet treat now in October. This year also marks the 150th anniversary of the creation of Mackinac National Park and Mackinac State Historic Parks has special events and activities planned throughout the season to celebrate.
Mackinac Island’s renowned lodging properties, restaurants, and shops are ready to showcase upgraded amenities and refreshing spaces this season, including:
- Benjamin’s of Mackinac Islandis celebrating its 75th anniversary! Stop in to shop handmade gifts and local photography of the Island.
- Chippewa Hotelwill be unveiling three completely remodeled rooms, new showers, fresh paint, and the dining room at the Pink Pony has replaced booths with larger tables.
- Doud’s Marketrecently had the floors replaced and is developing a website where customers can directly order groceries.
- Grand Hotelhas implemented renovations and restorations across its property in preparation for the 2025 season, as well as the grand opening of the Mackinac Market and the addition of the Dorothy Drape Home shop. More details can be found in this press release.
- Great Turtle Kayak Toursis branching out with new guided hiking tours for 2025! Explore hidden trails and stunning vistas with expert guides. Choose from curated hikes or design your own. New for kayak tours this year is the British Landing outpost with stand-up paddleboard tours.
- Great Turtle Toyswill be hosting Speed Puzzle Competitions, Beary Cozy Nights where kids leave stuffed animals at the store overnight and find what mischief they’ve gotten into the next morning, and has added the Dope Slimes Sundae Station where you can design your own slime.
- Harbour View Innwill unveil its renovated lobby, dining room, and parlor. Looking ahead to 2026, additional renovations will extend to the guestrooms.
- The Inn at Stonecliffehas welcomed some changes for 2025 including a kitchen expansion, Chef Marion who is eager to bring fresh flavors and inspired dishes to guests as well as Jenna Phillips as the new director of sales and marketing who brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the team, and the brand new “Stonecliffe Moment”–a unique experience scheduled each day including events from charity dinners to historic property tours.
- Inside Out Toursoffer one-hour children’s treasure hunt tours where explorers go off-path to find hidden treasure while learning about the Island.
- The Island Bookstoreis celebrating its 50th anniversary!
- Island House Hotelhas implemented updates across its property. A portion of bathrooms received a makeover over the winter, three family suites have been rededicated to honor the heroes who saved Island House from imminent destruction, and the Rena and Victor Callewaert memorial garden will receive a plaque and refreshed foliage.
- Island House Bike Rentalwill now offer baskets, helmets, and locks, as well as a detailed trail map with popular stops, trails by difficulty, and water refill stations with all rentals.
- 1852 Grill Roomis introducing new gourmet delights including espresso drinks, affogatos, and the s’mores for two featuring Ryba’s Fudge.
- Lilac Tree Suiteswill offer guests new showers and a few newly remodeled suites.
- Little Luxurieshas put a fresh coat of paint on all the shelving and trim in the store and will be launching a collection of new products designed by a popular Michigan artist; announcement coming soon! Additionally, Little Luxuries will be launching a new fragrance in May that will be available in a Michigan-made candle and diffuser.
- Lucky Bean Coffeehouseis hosting Coffee Cupping Sessions in 2025 comprised of three classes per month at Community Hall perfect for coffee enthusiasts looking for a unique tasting experience.
- Mackinac State Historic Parkhas special events and happenings throughout 2025 in celebration of the 150th anniversary. Special screenings of the anniversary documentary, limited edition logo and merchandise, and new art exhibits are just some of the things to check out!
- The McCartney Yearsconcert experience returns in 2025 at Mission Point Resort.
- Mission Point Resort’sChianti restaurant and The Lilac Lounge have undergone a refresh to their decor and are introducing a brand new aperitivo menu, handcrafted cocktails, and live piano music. Cherished Moments Gift Shop has expanded, Lily’s Lemonade Stand is debuting new frozen flavors, and Boxwood Café is adding an ice cream shop. Additionally, the resort is offering new themed dinners, sushi nights, mixology classes, and curated events this season. For more details about what’s new for 2025, see their press release.
- Pancake Househas welcomed a new chef, Amy Hurt, formerly of Seabiscuit Café and Mary’s Bistro, and has partnered with a family based in the Upper Peninsula to serve the freshest, purest Maple Syrup – also available for purchase.
- Patrick Doud’s Irish Pubhas added new items to the menu and will offer breakfast Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.
- Pine Cottage Bed & Breakfasthave renovated bathrooms to be more accessible.
- Ryba’s Fudgereceived a renovation inside and out!
- Seabiscuit Caféhas added some creative cocktails and the menu has been reimagined bringing back some old favorites.
- Sip n’ Sail Cruisesis excited to offer the brand new afternoon history cruise! Excursions are scheduled based on interest and this is a great fit for groups that are looking to see the island from the water while learning about the history of the area.
New Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau Member Information:
- Baxter’s, Mackinac Island’s modern art gallery, curates unique, handcrafted souvenirs and gifts.
- Mackinac Island Cookie Co. specializes in cookies the size of your head, espresso and coffee creations, and nautical-inspired gifts and apparel.
- Mackinac Island Mobility & Bicycle Rentals has a fleet of mobility scooters, wheelchairs, and bicycles available to rent.
- Mackinac Straits Realty is proud to announce its dedicated real estate services will be available on Mackinac Island in 2025! With deep familial roots and extensive experience in the region, the team offers unparalleled expertise to both buyers and sellers seeking exceptional properties in this unique locale.
- Mustang Rentals is unveiling their two “like new” 3-bedroom, 2 bathroom condos located downtown. Available year-round for extended stays.
- Remember Mackinac offers custom engraving and souvenirs specially made on Mackinac Island.
- Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry and Arnold Transit Company will both resume spring season service to and from the island on April 25, 2025 with 10% more departures and increased late evening departures. Be sure to plan ahead and check websites for daily schedules, rates, ride types, and deals.
For those looking to catch a flight from Chicago, United Airlines via SkyWest Airlines will offer nonstop service from Chicago O’Hare International Airport to Pellston Regional Airport starting May 8 and Chippewa County International Airport starting May 15.
For more information and to stay up-to-date on season updates, packages, general happenings, and more visit: www.mackinacisland.org.
