While we were up in Northern Michigan over Labor Day weekend, we decided to hop on a ferry and traveled back in time on Mackinac Island. It is located in Lake Huron between Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas.The island was home to an Odawa settlement before European colonization began in the 17th century and in the late 19th century, it became a popular tourist attraction and summer colony. The entire island is listed as a National Historic Landmark and known for its numerous cultural events, its Victorian architecture (including the Grand Hotel), the ban of any type of motor vehicles (there are carriages and bikes!) as well as nature hikes and interested rock formations (Arch Rock, Sugar Loaf Rock and many more).
My first impression upon stepping off the ferry was, "Is this Disneyland?" The main part of town looks a bit like Main Street full of people, carriages and tons of fudge/candy shops! We wandered around there not for long before renting bikes and ventured off on our adventure. We stopped by St. Anne's Church, climbed up to Arch Rock and rode our bikes deep into the island to Sugar Loaf Rock. We had a late lunch at an Jamaican restaurant and the food was incredible! I had the battered fish with a curry slaw and fries and Mark had the jerk chicken which I can't stop stealing bites from!
Last but not least, we ended the day at the Grand Hotel. What a whimsical little place! A lot of its decor and quirkiness definitely reminded me of Wes Anderson. We walked on the largest porch (660 ft) in the world, explored the garden and had a drink up in the Cupola Bar which had the most beautiful view of the island and the Mackinac Bridge!
We almost didn't go to the island due to the fact that it was Labor Day but honestly it wasn't too crowded outside the main area. It was such a fun and strange place and I am so glad I got to experience it (and brought lots of yummy fudge home)!
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