Mackinac County - 39 Attractions You Must Visit

Arch Rock is a natural beauty rising around 40 feet high and 58 feet wide, the arch was naturally carved by Lake Huron’s waters for over 500 centuries. This captivating rock formation serves as an entrance to the north channel of the lake. Visitors of Arch Rock will marvel at its majestic views and be mesmerized by its unique limestone composition. Despite its beauty, wind and waves have caused numerous birds and animals in the area to be injured or killed.

Biddle House offers an interesting and educational experience for visitors. As the Mackinac Island Native American Museum, it celebrates the culture and history of the Ojibwe people of the area. The museum pairs displays with interpretive exhibits that explain how life used to be for these native peoples. Visitors also learn about how their legacy still survives today through displays like a birchbark canoe built by traditional methods.

Bois Blanc Island Lighthouse, is an iconic spot for many visitors to the beautiful Great Lakes State. Standing sturdy for more than 150 years, this impressive red-roofed tower stands 39 feet tall and contains a spiral staircase that takes you up a mere 55 steps to get you to the top of the lighthouse where remarkable views of Lake Huron await. Constructed in 1854 by order of President Franklin Pierce, this landmark was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Castle Rock is an unincorporated community of roughly 400 people. Much of the area maintains its rustic charm, with many historical sites, antique shops and eateries nearby. Outdoor activities such as fishing, boating and camping are quite popular in this area, making it a great destination for those looking to escape the bustle of modern life and reconnect with nature. There are also nearby state parks that feature bridle paths and hiking trails for visitors to explore.

Cedarville Bay, part of the magnificent Lake Huron, is located in Mackinac County in northern Michigan. It offers beautiful views of the Great Lakes, including towering limestone bluffs, secluded beaches, rustic lighthouses and lush forests. Perfect for all types of recreational activity and exploration, visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing and boating all along this breathtaking coast. Spectacular sunsets over the crystal-clear waters are a regular sight here.

Chain Lake is a beautiful natural lake that offers unbeatable views for outdoor adventurers. It's located about 30 miles from both Cross Village and Mackinaw City, making it a great backdrop for hikers, campers and boaters who are looking for a quiet corner of nature to explore. The lake is part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and is home to numerous species of native fish, as well as plenty of open space to explore.

The Cut River Bridge is an iconic part of the county's heritage. This 1930s bridge is the only remaining example of a "Camelback" bridge in the Lower Peninsula, and has withstood more than eighty years' worth of storms and wear-and-tear. With its two pointed arches connecting to piers of rusting iron reinforcing bars, it could very well be a scene out of a history book. it still incorporates modern features like sidewalk railings and a guardrail system for maximum security and safety.

Devil's Kitchen is a beautiful and breathtaking area where nature thrives. This secluded area is characterized by large rock ridges and small, lush forests that invite you to explore its beauty. It also consists of winding dirt trails and abandoned cabins giving it a mysterious atmosphere. Hiking here allows you to get up close and personal with the diverse native wildlife or climb some of the highest points in all of Michigan for a spectacular view across the lake to the horizon beyond.

Father Marquette National Memorial located on the Lake Huron shore, the memorial is an ode to the French explorer Father Jacques Marquette. The site pays homage to his incredible journey by providing detailed educational info on his travels and relentless determination to discover the region of Michigan in 1673-74. The memorial's main pavilion highlights these remarkable adventures as well as housing other helpful related info such as his living quarters.

Fort de Buade Museum offers a truly unique going back in time experience. The museum features rare artifacts and relics from the colonial fort that was built near the Straits of Mackinac by French colonial forces in 1683. Highlights of the visit include displays of period weapons and tools, interactive trips through history, self-guided tours of living quarters, and a breathtaking view of the Straits. Guests can spend hours learning about Native American culture.

Fort Holmes is an important part of Mackinac County, Michigan. It holds a remarkable place in the history of the area, having served as a military outpost in the early 19th century and even earlier during the time of Native American inhabitants. In its time it was an impressively organized and maintained fortification, with strategically placed walls and other features designed to provide both protection and defense against possible attacks.

Garlyn Zoo Wildlife Park is an incredible destination for all ages. The family-friendly park allows visitors the chance to observe some of the most beautiful and diverse animals from around the world up close. Here, guests can take a guided tour through the winding trails in search of creatures such as elk, mountain lions, timber wolves, black bears, bald eagles and turkeys. Other activities include a petting zoo with farm animals that are sure to be a hit with visitors to the park.

Grand Hotel is a beautiful historic building and resort. This 19th-century establishment houses more than 390 amazing guest rooms with breathtaking panoramic views of the Straits of Mackinac and the Mackinac Bridge. Offering guests a variety of amenities from concierge services to a private island access, it's no surprise that Grand Hotel has become one of the most prestigious vacation destinations in America.

Hiawatha National Forest is more than 870,000 acres, boasting over 500 miles of hiking trails and many lakes ideal for swimming and fishing. Not only is it an excellent spot for outdoor recreation, but it also features impressive geological features--mostly consisting of thick pine forests and limestone bluffs that are part of the Niagara Escarpment. Those exploring the nearby rivers can even find petrified trees which are estimated to be between 11-14 million years old.

The Historic Mission Church is a truly remarkable sight. Built in 1895 and now set amongst the trees, the church is a classic example of the Gothic Revival style. Every detail speaks to its elegant yet rustic beauty; from the eight-sided steeple bell tower with wood shingles to the pointed arches of the windows and doors. Inside, you can find exposed wooden beams, beautifully crafted original pews, and a marble altar from Spain.

Kewadin Casinos is a Native American owned and operated casino in Mackinac County. Located close to the Michigan-Canada border, Kewadin Casinos offers guests a wide range of gaming options and amenities. A variety of popular slots machines, table games like blackjack and roulette, video poker, live keno events plus bingo are all on offer. Guests can also take advantage of several different promotions throughout the year that provide extra chances for winning big.

Little Stone Church is an iconic landmark in Mackinac County, Michigan. The original chapel structure was built in 1882 and still stands today. Located on a small hill on the northern coast of Lake Huron, Little Stone Church serves as more than just a historical marker – it is also an active place of worship. The historic chapel offers religious services to the community throughout the year and is open to visitors who wish to view the grand architecture from the past.

Mackinac Bridge, is the fourth-longest suspension bridge in the world. Spanning more than five miles of open water from St. Ignace on the North side to Mackinaw City on the South side of the straits of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, it is hailed as a marvel of modern engineering. It was opened for traffic in 1957 as part of an effort to make travel easier between Michigan’s two peninsulas and has become an iconic symbol for residents throughout the state.

Mackinac Island is an impressive destination with a unique atmosphere. A hub of shopping and dining experiences, as well as horse-drawn carriages and bike rentals, make the island a fun spot for travelers. Those looking to relax and take in the scenery have plenty of options - taking a walk around the historic downtown area or visiting iconic landmarks such as Arch Rock are great ways to spend your time.

Mackinac Island State Park in Michigan's Mackinac County offers a unique blend of natural beauty and intriguing history. The rocky outcrops, steep cliffs, deep woodlands and expansive shoreline are all part of the 4.6 square mile island that is surrounded by sparkling blue waters. Visitors to the park can explore an array of historic sites, eat at unique restaurants, and shop for souvenirs among horse-drawn carriages.