What’s New for Travelers Visiting Mackinac Island this 2024 Season

MACKINAC ISLAND, MI – March 21, 2024 – Mackinac Island, renowned for its timeless charm and picturesque landscapes, is gearing up for the 2024 season, including the highly anticipated grand openings of the Milliken Nature Art Center, the newly imagined Inn at Stonecliffe, the 100th Bayview Mackinac Race, and all there is to explore in between. Voted the No. 1 Best Summer Travel Destination by USA TODAY 10Best readers, this National Historic Landmark has beckoned visitors to its shores for centuries.

“We look forward to welcoming guests back to the island each new season and our community takes great pride in providing each visitor with an unforgettable experience,” said Tim Hygh, Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau Executive Director. “Mackinac Island holds a special place in the hearts of many and we’re excited to showcase all the hard work and enhancements that have been put into the island over the last couple of months. It’s sure to be another incredible season!”

Surrounded by the mighty waters of Lake Huron and as one of the only car-free destinations in the world, Mackinac Island has become a haven for those looking for a slower-paced, cool-temperature getaway. The island has an activity sure to delight every type of traveler whether that’s experiencing the island’s rich history, taking in views of the Victorian architecture, riding a horse-drawn carriage down streets that have been car-free for more than 125 years, or exploring the natural wonders of the island. And no visit is complete without tasting some trademark Mackinac Island Fudge!

The Mackinac Island community has been hard at work this winter planning for a lineup of quintessential Mackinac Island festivities for guests to partake in from May to October. Celebrated annual events include the Lilac Festival paying homage to the iconic island flower, Fudge Festival celebrating the cherished sweet treat, and this year marks the 100th Bayview Mackinac Race, the world’s longest continually run long-distance freshwater yacht race.

The island’s charming resorts, hotels, bed and breakfasts, and other properties have been diligently enhancing amenities, refurbishing spaces, and getting ready to welcome guests this spring. Updates to properties, attractions and experiences this year include:

• Carousel Arcade will open its doors on Market Street this season. As you step inside this lively hangout, you will be greeted by the aroma of freshly popped popcorn and the delightful sound of soda fizzing as you settle in for a fun gaming experience.
• Carriage House at Hotel Iroquois is introducing daily brunch featuring a delightful blend of lunch entrees and breakfast favorites like bananas foster french toast and crab cake benedict.
• Chippewa Hotel will feature a hot tub upgrade, new carpeting in rooms, new walk-in showers, and six fully remodeled rooms for guests this season. Other rooms and suites throughout the hotel are getting new design elements, as well.
• Doud’s Market is celebrating 140 years and has made seasonal updates such as replacing the floor, adding new counters and fresh paint.
• Downtown Harbor Penthouse is unveiling exciting updates, including a newly remodeled kitchen and a new wet bar added in the Primary Suite, complete with amenities such as coffee, a mini-fridge, wine glasses, and more.
• Grand Hotel, after an extensive two year restoration project, is opening with all new windows, siding, awnings and wood. Other exciting projects this year include the refreshed design of the Cupola Bar, the redesign of the Stewart Woodfill Suite, updates to the Woodlands Activity center and a number of exciting offerings on dining options.
• Harbour View has been purchased by Jon and Lauren Cotton, a Grosse Pointe couple who look forward to taking the reins of the iconic Mackinac Island hotel this season.
• Hotel Iroquois is opening afternoon tea so guests can enjoy freshly prepared pastries and savory bites served in the circle porch on weekends in May, September, and October.
• The Inn at Stonecliffe is reopening following a $30 million property-wide transformation. Set to welcome guests this summer, The Inn promises a rejuvenated experience that blends historic elegance with modern comfort.
• Lake View Hotel is welcoming guests back to a fully renovated hotel inclusive of updated guest rooms and bathrooms, new public spaces in the lobby and updated conveniences.
• Lilac Tree Suites will offer guests new property enhancements including bathroom updates, new carpet and paint, and an HVAC system for AC in hallways. One room will even have a new theme honoring the lilacs of Mackinac Island.
• Little Luxuries is making updates for the 2024 season such as adding new paint and displays.
• Mackinac Arts Council continues to provide art, entertainment, and education sessions for residents, visitors, and all of Mackinac Island. Highlighted events include Music in the Park, art classes, musical performances and more.
• Mackinac Jane’s Audio Tours is a new offering this year allowing guests to experience Mackinac Island like never before with self-guided walking and biking tours.
• Mackinac’s Little Gallery, recently acquired by Mission Point and supported by the Mackinac Arts Council, is fostering the arts and continuing a platform for Michigan talents to shine.
• Milliken Nature Center, named after past Michigan Governor William Milliken, is set to open at Arch Rock this spring and will offer visitors a nature center, improved restroom facilities, an area for guests to relax, and more.
• Mission Point Resort, celebrating 10 years of Ware family ownership, will unveil upgrades to the Cypress Room event space, seasonal flavors with its Farm to Ferry® culinary program, the opening of Chairished Moments boutique (formerly The Boutique and Garden Gate), and The McCartney Years Live will be making its debut at Mission Point Theatre.
• Ninety Seven Films, a wedding videography team, are ready to capture the moments and memories of any big day on Mackinac Island.
• The Pink Pony will introduce a few new menu items this year while keeping guest favorites.
• Pontiac Lodge has undergone significant renovations, replacing carpeting with all-new floors and continuing bathroom renovations, ensuring a refreshed and inviting atmosphere for guests.
• Ryba’s Fudge will be debuting the documentary, Mackinac Island Fudge, A Ryba Family Tradition this season. It will be available on YouTube and in all of the guestrooms at Island House Hotel.
• Village Inn Suites now feature all-new floors and updated bathrooms, enhancing the comfort and convenience of guests during their stay on the island.
• Watercolor Cafe is excited to introduce Boba Tea to the menu this season. Also new is Open Studio, an opportunity to explore your creativity during drop-in artistic sessions from 3-5 pm.
• Winchester’s Whiskey and Bourbon Room, is the perfect place for visitors stepping right off the ferry. Winchester’s will feature exciting new menu items including Texas BBQ style entrees, an extensive brunch menu, and warm doughnuts!

Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry and Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry will both resume full service to and from the island on April 21, 2024. Be sure to plan ahead and check websites for daily schedules, rates, ride types, and deals.

For more information and to stay up-to-date on season updates, packages, general happenings, and more visit: www.mackinacisland.org