by Linda Laughter, guest blogger 

Most Michiganders are familiar with our own special island, but evidently visitors have found our secret. Trip Advisor voted Mackinac Island the number one vacation destination in the USA.

Located in Lake Huron, we are fortunate to have this treasure where you can step back to an earlier time and place. Only accessible by a 20-minute ferry ride, no automobiles have replaced the horse and carriages. Corporate lodgings do not exist, just family owned, one of a kind, award winning properties. Chocolate fudge entices you to shelve the diet plan. Art galleries, specialty shops, unique restaurants line the narrow streets of historical buildings.

We visited on a fairly busy weekend and yet did not feel overcome by all the visitors. We chose to take the horse and carriage tour around the island that included a knowledgeable, funny guide/carriage driver. We learned the history of the Island, spotlighting Fort Mackinac built in 1780 and Arch Rock, a remarkable limestone structure.

Our more able family members opted for taking their bicycles (you can bring your own on the ferry) and circled the island many times. Just be sure to have fenders as the horses sometimes leave a trail! There are over 70 miles of natural and paved trails to explore some going through one of the oldest parks, Mackinaw Island State Park.

Personally, I liked sitting on the front porch of the B and B and watching the boats, blue water, people, horses and carriages and bicycles.  For a treat you can always go to the top of the magnificent Grand Hotel for a drink to see the sunset and a panoramic view of the island including the magnificent Mackinac Bridge. 

Trip Advisor says Mackinaw Island as “a throwback to old-timey seaside leisure with the candy-colored facades of downtown shops”. I totally agree. People smile, slow down and enjoy the ride by bike or horse. It is a great family place with something for everyone. For me it was the porch, wicker chair and a good book! Enjoy creating your own time and place at Mackinaw Island.

Linda lives in Ada, Michigan with her husband Don and dachshund, Jack. She loves interior design, art, travel and her family. She tries to combine as many of these things as she can in her adventures.