Magical Mackinac Island Girls Trip Itinerary: Historic Charm & Lakeside Fun

Day 1: Arrival and Downtown

Mackinac Island, Michigan on September 15, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Village Cafe

Start your trip with a hearty breakfast at this cozy spot offering classic American breakfast options right near the ferry dock.
USD18, 1h

9:30AM

Ferry Ride to Mackinac Island

Catch a ferry from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace to Mackinac Island, enjoying the scenic ride across Lake Huron.
USD20, 20m

10:00AM

Check in and Explore Downtown Mackinac Island

Walk the charming streets lined with shops, fudge stores, and historic architecture – perfect for a relaxing first afternoon.
Free, 2h

12:30PM

Lunch at The Pink Pony

Enjoy waterfront dining with fresh seafood and a festive atmosphere right on the harbor.
USD30, 1.5h

2:00PM

Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour

Take the iconic carriage tour around the island to learn about its rich history and see beautiful landmarks. Tours run generally 9AM-5PM.
USD35, 1h

3:30PM

Visit Fort Mackinac

Explore this historic military outpost with stunning views; museum and fort grounds open until 6PM in September.
USD12, 1.5h

6:00PM

Dinner at The Gates Hotel Restaurant

Unwind with elegant dining featuring locally sourced dishes in a beautiful historic hotel setting.
USD50, 2h

Day 2: Outdoor Adventure

Mackinac Island, Michigan on September 16, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at JoAnn’s Fudge

Grab a quick breakfast and sample some famous Mackinac fudge to fuel up for the day.
USD15, 45m

9:00AM

Bike Rental and Exploration

Rent bikes to circle the island, an easy 8-mile scenic loop that passes historic sites and stunning shoreline views.
USD25, 3h

12:30PM

Lunch at The Yankee Rebel Tavern

A casual spot with pub fare and hearty sandwiches, perfect for refueling after biking.
USD25, 1h

2:00PM

Explore Arch Rock

Walk or bike to the iconic limestone formation, one of the island’s most scenic natural landmarks.
Free, 1h

3:30PM

Visit Mackinac Island Butterfly House

Experience an indoor tropical garden filled with hundreds of native butterflies; open daily 10AM-5PM.
USD10, 1h

5:00PM

Relax at British Landing Beach

Unwind by the water with beautiful views and an evening beach stroll before dinner.
Free, 1h

7:00PM

Dinner at the Pink Pony

Return for a lively dinner spot featuring cocktails and fresh seafood with island views.
USD50, 2h

Day 3: Relax & Shop

Mackinac Island, Michigan on September 17, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Good Day Cafe

Enjoy fresh farm-to-table breakfast favorites in a cozy neighborhood cafe setting.
USD20, 1h

9:30AM

Shopping in Downtown Mackinac Island

Browse unique boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops for jewelry, crafts, and souvenirs.
Free to browse, 2h

11:30AM

Afternoon Tea at The Grand Hotel

Experience the iconic Grand Hotel tradition of afternoon tea, offering an elegant selection of teas and sweets. Service starts at 11:30AM.
USD50, 2h

2:00PM

Visit the Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum

Explore Mackinac Island’s vibrant art scene with rotating exhibitions and local artwork. Museum open 10AM-5PM.
USD10, 1h

3:30PM

Final stroll along Main Street and waterfront

Enjoy the charming atmosphere one last time before heading back with scenic views of the island’s waterfront.
Free, 1h

5:00PM

Ferry Ride back to Mainland

Catch an evening ferry back to Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, concluding the trip.
USD20, 20m