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11 Available Tour Excursions in Mackinaw City
Explore the charm of Mackinac Island on a guided bike tour that showcases its stunning landscapes and rich history. Cycle along car-free roads and beautiful trails, feeling the breeze as you take in spectacular views of Lake Huron. Your knowledgeable guide will share stories about the island's past. Visit iconic sites like Arch Rock and Fort Mackinac while enjoying the vibrant Victorian architecture and lush floral surroundings. This tour is suitable for all skill levels, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone. - Guided tour around the perimeter of Mackinac Island - View historical sites including Arch Rock and Fort Mackina - Suitable for all cycling skill levels with well-maintained bikes - Expert guides provide fascinating historical insights throughout the ride
Price: $110.00
Duration: 2 hours
Parasailing is a water sport in which a person is towed behind a boat while attached to a parachute-like canopy. The parasail is suspended from a harness that is attached to the boat, and as the boat moves, the parasailer is lifted into the air and glides through the sky. Parasailing in the Straits Area, you can see views of the famous Mackinac Bridge, see Mackinac Island from a distance and a birds eye view of the beautiful Lake Huron. To participate in parasailing, you do not need any special skills or training. The activity is typically supervised by trained staff who will provide you with all the necessary equipment and instruction.
Price: $95.00
Duration: 0 hours
A one-hour cruise departing just before dusk daily. Departure times vary from 6 pm to 9 pm depending on the time of year. Please call or email to get departure times. It’s the best seat on the Straits for the sunset over Lake Michigan. Breathtaking views of Michigan’s grand peninsulas and architectural jewel, the Mackinac Bridge.
Price: $38.00
Duration: 1 hours
Learn the history of shipwrecks as you travel over them, local Native American folk-lore, learn about living in the north country and the maritime history of the area while cruising under the “Mighty” Mackinac Bridge. Get up close to this awe-inspiring piece of architecture.
Price: $31.00
Duration: 1 hours
Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone. We are an Austin, TX-based global custom event design company offering scavenger hunts and other events in 300+ cities in North America and beyond. Our specially hand-crafted adventures are equal parts tour, creative challenge, detective hunt, and social experiment! Guests get to discover in an alternate reality our favorite hidden gems off the beaten trail and creatively interpret fun art, history, and culture clues - for points! They get to enjoy fame and glory while appearing on our website’s international leaderboard, no matter what their score. They get to essentially race other teams in other cities, even if they don’t have competitors who have signed up in their city that day. Get ready to discover unusual oddities, laugh out loud, and make the experience your own!
Price: $27.00
Duration: 2 hours
Take a relaxing evening cruise under one of the wonders of Michigan, the Mackinac Bridge. Your will get some interesting facts about the Straits of Mackinac while enjoying the sights, from our historic Straits of Mackinac cruise boat. Beverages are served for an additional cost
Price: $31.00
Duration: 1 hours
Parasailing is a water sport in which a person is towed behind a boat while attached to a parachute-like canopy. The parasail is suspended from a harness that is attached to the boat, and as the boat moves, the parasailer is lifted into the air and glides through the sky. Parasailing in the Straits Area, you can see views of the famous Mackinac Bridge, see Mackinac Island from a distance and a birds eye view of the beautiful Lake Huron. To participate in parasailing, you do not need any special skills or training. The activity is typically supervised by trained staff who will provide you with all the necessary equipment and instruction.
Price: $95.00
Duration: 0 hours
Mackinac Island has been called the queen of the Great Lakes for centuries. On this self-guided cycling tour, you'll follow a circular route around the island. As you take in the island’s beauty at your own pace, you’ll delve into its history, from quite recent to ancient, and everything in between. You’ll find out how a single woman took on the powerful John Jacob Astor fur empire, how Fort Mackinac played a big role in the American Revolution, and how the War of 1812 forced the Americans out of the fort. This tour isn’t all history. You’ll see big geologic wonders like Arch Rock, and little ones, too, like the Devil’s Kitchen cave. We’ll take you to a hidden gem on a tiny nature trail, and let you in on a dirty little secret about the wonderfully clear water surrounding the Island. You’ll also get to know who lies buried beneath the altar at St Anne’s church (and why), and learn about the most important subject on the Island: who makes the best fudge.
Price: $9.99
Duration: 1-2 hours
Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone. We are an Austin, TX-based global custom event design company offering scavenger hunts and other events in 300+ cities in North America and beyond. Our specially hand-crafted adventures are equal parts tour, creative challenge, detective hunt, and social experiment! Guests get to discover in an alternate reality our favorite hidden gems off the beaten trail and creatively interpret fun art, history, and culture clues - for points! They get to enjoy fame and glory while appearing on our website’s international leaderboard, no matter what their score. They get to essentially race other teams in other cities, even if they don’t have competitors who have signed up in their city that day. Get ready to discover unusual oddities, laugh out loud, and make the experience your own!
Price: $16.00
Duration: 2 hours
Mackinac Island’s East Bluff is home to some of the island’s most elegant summer cottages, where prominent families have retreated for over a century. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll hear how the area earned its reputation as “the quiet bluff” as you stroll past a collection of private Victorian and Edwardian homes. Starting outside the Michigan Governor’s summer residence, this leisurely walk covers just over a mile through scenic roads. You’ll pass charming cottages. Each home tells a different story about island life. Among them is the summer retreat for the groundbreaking Hamilton sisters – one taught America about Greek mythology, and the other became Harvard’s first female faculty member. As you make your way to Cedar Hill cottage, where the tour ends, you’ll enjoy views of Fort Mackinac. You’ll learn why the fort’s commanding position had one critical vulnerability and how British forces exploited it during their nighttime invasion in 1812.
Price: $11.99
Duration: 1-1 hours
Explore Michigan’s Mackinac Island on a self-guided walking tour highlighting Somewhere in Time's filming locations. This picturesque island, with its preserved Victorian architecture and car-free charm, was the perfect backdrop for the 1912-set film. Starting at the iconic "Somewhere in Time Tree," you’ll visit spots like Windermere Point and Marquette Park while hearing insider stories from Dan Dewey, a production assistant and island resident. Along the way, gain behind-the-scenes insights into how the movie was made and the challenges of filming on this unique, timeless island.
Price: $9.99
Duration: 1-1 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: USD
- Languages: English
- Climate: Continental
- Timezone: America/Detroit
- Population: Approximately 1,200 residents
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is late spring through early fall for warm weather and open attractions.
- Visa Requirements Visitors to Mackinaw City generally follow the United States visa policies. Citizens of visa waiver countries, including most EU nations, the UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan, can enter the US for tourism without a visa for up to 90 days under the ESTA program. Other visitors must obtain a US tourist visa in advance. US citizens do not require a visa. Electronic visas (ESTA) are available for eligible countries, while others must apply for a visa at a US embassy or consulate before travel.
About Mackinaw City
Mackinaw City is a charming gateway town located at the northern tip of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, where Lake Michigan and Lake Huron converge. It is renowned for its scenic beauty, historic significance, and as the access point to the enchanting Mackinac Island. The city’s unique appeal lies in its blend of natural splendor and rich heritage, featuring the iconic Mackinac Bridge, which connects Michigan’s two peninsulas. Visitors are drawn to its waterfront parks, quaint downtown shops, and vibrant summer festivals. Mackinaw City offers a peaceful retreat with opportunities for boating, fishing, and exploring the surrounding forests and dunes. Its small-town atmosphere combined with easy access to outdoor adventures and cultural sites makes it a compelling destination for families, history buffs, and nature lovers alike.
Mackinaw City Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Michigan
- Duration Range: Half-day or Full-day
- Group Size: Flexible group sizes
- Difficulty Level: All Comfort Levels
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is late spring through early fall for warm weather and open attractions. Pack layers as temperatures can vary, especially near the water. Respect local customs and be prepared for outdoor activities with appropriate footwear and sun protection. Safety is generally good, but watch for changing weather conditions near the lakes. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors. Booking accommodations and ferry tickets in advance during summer is recommended.
Average Tour Price: $95
Lowest Price Tour: $50
Highest Price Tour: $180
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Mackinac Bridge: An engineering marvel and one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, offering spectacular views and photo opportunities. 2. Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park: A living history museum showcasing 19th-century logging and pioneer life with interactive exhibits. 3. Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse: A beautifully preserved lighthouse with a museum that tells the story of Great Lakes navigation. 4. Mackinaw Crossings: A shopping and dining complex featuring local boutiques, eateries, and entertainment. 5. Wawatam Park: A scenic waterfront park perfect for picnics, walking trails, and watching ferries depart for Mackinac Island.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy ferry rides to Mackinac Island, hiking and biking along scenic trails, fishing in the Great Lakes, and boating excursions. Cultural experiences include visiting local museums and historic sites. Seasonal events like festivals and fairs provide entertainment and insight into local traditions. Recreational options also include golfing, kayaking, and exploring nearby state parks. The town’s relaxed pace invites leisurely strolls through its charming streets and waterfront.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Mackinaw City’s food scene features classic American fare with a focus on fresh Great Lakes fish such as whitefish and perch. Signature dishes include fish fries, pasties (a regional meat pie), and locally made fudge. Dining customs are casual and family-friendly, with many waterfront restaurants offering scenic views. Noteworthy establishments include local seafood shacks and bakeries known for their homemade pies and sweets.
Getting Around
Mackinaw City is accessible by car via major highways, with the nearest airports located in Pellston and Traverse City. Local transportation includes taxis, shuttle services, and seasonal bike rentals. Walking is convenient within the town center. Ferry services provide transport to Mackinac Island. Parking is generally available but can fill up during peak tourist seasons. Costs for local transit are modest, and renting a car is common for exploring the wider region.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is late spring through early fall for warm weather and open attractions. Pack layers as temperatures can vary, especially near the water. Respect local customs and be prepared for outdoor activities with appropriate footwear and sun protection. Safety is generally good, but watch for changing weather conditions near the lakes. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors. Booking accommodations and ferry tickets in advance during summer is recommended.
Culture & Customs
Mackinaw City’s culture reflects Midwestern friendliness and a strong connection to maritime and pioneer heritage. Social customs are relaxed and welcoming. Local festivals celebrate regional history, Native American heritage, and seasonal changes, such as the Mackinac Bridge Walk and summer fairs. Visitors should be courteous in public spaces and respect natural areas. Tipping in restaurants follows standard US practices, typically 15-20%.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..