It’s official: Mackinac Island is now opening! Well, technically, the island never closes and almost 500 people live here year-round. But the unofficial start of tourist season is Friday, April 26.
Lingering ice and snow pushed back the beginning of ferry season, but both companies that service Mackinac now are running regular schedules from the mainland to the island and back.
What you’ll find on Mackinac in 2018 is the much the same as what has been here for generations. Part of the appeal, of course, is that our historic island doesn’t change much over time. Visitors come to this national landmark to experience the simple pleasures of a bygone era in a place void of cars where horse is king.
Still, there are always a few new things to make your visit even better than the last time. Here is what’s new on Mackinac this year:
- It’s easier than ever to get here – Mackinac Island Ferry Company is adding another boat to their Mackinaw City rotation. The additional ferry will support 15-minute service during peak season and give boats more time between trips for loading and unloading. Shepler’s Ferry is making changes that give visitors a better parking experience and also launching a Scan & Go, a new ticketing system that lets customers who buy discounted tickets online board the boat with a confirmation bar code instead of a printed ticket.
- More photo ops – The beauty of Mackinac Island affords a limitless number of extraordinary selfie spots. Now there are even more photo ops on the island with the addition of two Mackinac Island Old Time Photography Owned by the same people who have The Island Bookstore, the portrait studios will feature authentic costumes and backdrops including a pirate set, Victorian set, saloon and green screens so you can picture yourself anywhere. Also, the new MackinacSome photo booth can set up shop at weddings and other events to give guests a great visual memento.
- New restaurants – Nothing says summer like a good, old-fashioned barbecue. And there’s more BBQ for you on Mackinac this year. The outdoor deck of Mary’s Bistro Draught House is being re-themed as the Bayside BBQ & Bar with a new barbecue menu. Harbour View Inn is converting a temporary tent into the new Harbour Q barbecue venue that will open daily for lunch around Memorial Day. The former Riley’s on theMackinac Island Ferry Company No. 1 Dock is now Smokey Jose’s, which features the tag line “Where Barbecue & Bourbon Meet Tacos & Tequila.”
- More to do – The new Fort 2 Fort 5k run starts 9 a.m. Saturday, May 12, with a rifle blast, literally. The new race begins at historic Fort Mackinac and winds uphill to Fort Holmes, which is the highest point on the island. Runners then will head back downhill to the finish line at Fort Mackinac. Throughout the season Great Turtle Toys will put on daily kite shows and stunt training at Windermere Point. And the new Chasin’ Tail charter service offers one more option to experience the fun of Great Lakes fishing.