Looking for something different in the way of a Winter Get Away for the upcoming season? You probably have never considered Mackinac Island in WINTER. Few have, but those who do find a unique experience. Here’s a mni-preview.
For most travelers, Mackinac Island means lilacs, fudge, and horse-drawn carriages on warm summer days. But when the last ferry of fall departs and snow begins to blanket the island, a very different kind of magic takes over.
While many of Mackinac’s shops and hotels close for the season, a handful stay open to welcome visitors who prefer the quiet beauty of winter. The island’s wooded trails become playgrounds for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and fat-tire biking, while cozy spots like the Mustang Lounge offer warm food and local cheer. A few bed-and-breakfasts and small inns keep their lights on, providing a peaceful getaway far removed from summer’s crowds.
Winter visitors can also enjoy simple pleasures—an unhurried walk through the snow, a hot drink by the fire, or the community’s festive events like the December 5 Christmas Tree Lighting, Christmas Bazaar Weekend (Dec. 5–7), and the New Year’s Eve “Great Turtle Drop.”
For those planning ahead, many island hotels and shops are offering Black Friday and holiday specials for the 2026 season, making it easy to give (or plan) a future trip to one of Michigan’s most beloved destinations.
Getting there in winter takes a little extra effort—depending on ice, the ferry runs only until the lake freezes, after which small-plane service continues—but for those who make the journey, Mackinac Island offers a rare and refreshing stillness that feels worlds away.
More information: mackinacisland.org/mackinac-island-winter-season
