Yes, you can bring your dog to Mackinac Island! Just two things to remember:
- Keep your dogs on a leash
- Pick up after your dog
Beyond that, have fun exploring one of our national treasurers with your dog by your side. You won’t be the only one visiting Mackinac Island with a pet. So don’t be the only one out of the loop when it comes to Mackinac Island’s pet-friendly rules.
Here are answers to more questions about traveling with dogs on Mackinac Island
Dogs are welcome free of charge on Arnold Transit Company and Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry, the ferry boats that service Mackinac Island. They can either sit in your lap or travel in a crate. Dogs also can travel for free on charter flights to Mackinac Island Airport.
READ MORE: Tips for flying to Mackinac Island
Dogs must be on a leash while on Mackinac Island. They are welcome in many stores in town. Just ask if it’s okay. Many Mackinac Island restaurants have pet seating areas or will let you bring your dog right to the table on their outdoor verandas or patios. Of course, service dogs are permitted inside any restaurant or store on the island.
READ MORE: Outdoor dining on Mackinac Island
The road that circles the outer edge of Mackinac Island, M-185, is the only state highway in the country that prohibits cars. It’s 8.2 miles all the way around Mackinac Island.
READ MORE: Bringing your own bike vs. renting a bike on Mackinac Island
Because there are no cars, bicycling is a popular way of getting around on Mackinac Island. Many bike shops on the island rent pet trailers, too, so your dog can go along for the ride.
READ MORE: Why there are so many bicycles on Mackinac Island
Cuteness alert! Smaller dogs can fit in the bike basket up front and feel the Great Lakes breeze in their face.
READ MORE: 20 incredible summer views from Mackinac Island
Horse-drawn carriage tours of Mackinac Island also are pet-friendly. Small dogs can ride along for free, while larger dogs that need their own seat can get on board for the child’s rate.
READ MORE: Take the reins with a drive-it-yourself carriage tour
More than 80% of Mackinac Island is state park land that’s available for you and your pup to explore. In fact, the island has more than 70 miles of trails that pass by "supernatural" rock formations like the iconic Arch Rock or towering Sugar Loaf.
READ MORE: The legend of Mackinac Island's Sugar Loaf
Pets can visit many of the attractions in the Mackinac State Historic Parks including historic Fort Mackinac. Pets on leashes are welcome at all of the historic sites in the state park except The Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum.
READ MORE: Things to do at Mackinac Island's historic Fort Mackinac
Since Mackinac is an island, there’s water to play in, too!
READ MORE: Check out the beaches of Mackinac Island
And so many things to sniff! (Just don’t let your pet get into the world-famous Mackinac Island fudge.)
READ MORE: Experience the sweet scent of Mackinac Island lilacs
A few places to stay on Mackinac Island are pet-friendly. When booking a place to stay, call the island’s tourism bureau at 906-847-3783 to make sure your pet is welcome.
READ MORE: Choosing where to stay on Mackinac Island: Resorts, hotels, B&Bs, cottages, condos and homes
Come enjoy the splendor of Mackinac Island with your pet. Just please remember to keep dogs on a leash and pick up after them. If you have any other questions about where you can go and what you can do on Mackinac Island with your pets, call the tourism bureau at 906-847-3783.
READ MORE: More Things to Know Before Bringing Your Dog to Mackinac Island