Straits of Mackinac

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Pure Michigan
Photo provided by Pure Michigan
Photo provided by Pure Michigan
Photo provided by Pure Michigan
Photo provided by Pure Michigan

This waterway connecting Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas blends a fascinating history with a host of amusements for visitors of every age.

Michigan is the only U.S. state that is split into two: the Upper Peninsula and the Lower Peninsula. The Straits of Mackinac is the narrow channel that creates this division. It also acts as a connector between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, two of the five Great Lakes. Visit the Straits of Mackinac to see several lighthouses and the charming Mackinac Island, a fascinating place to explore.

Although there are five lighthouses in the straits, only two are open to the public. McGulpin Point Light is a modest lighthouse, located next to the famous Big Rock on the shoreline of the Lower Peninsula. Inspect this large rock that has been relied on for centuries to measure changing water levels in Lake Michigan.

Just before crossing the Mackinac Bridge leaving the Lower Peninsula, stop by Old Mackinac Point Light. This picturesque structure looks more like a castle than a beacon for ships. Take a tour or pack a picnic lunch to enjoy the surrounding Colonial Michilimackinac State Park.

The water is also designated as the Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Preserve. This notoriously dangerous waterway is home to 13 known shipwrecks and is a popular destination for recreational divers.

Fly or ferry to Mackinac Island. You’ll be transported to a time before the age of motor vehicles. Take a horse-drawn taxi or rent a bike to get around. Get a taste of history at Fort Mackinac, an American military outpost that saw action in the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Don’t miss Arch Rock, an iconic geological marvel. Rent a kayak or go fishing to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

The Straits of Mackinac are only 5 miles (8 kilometers) wide, but the area offers much to do and see. To truly explore, charter a boat for the day. A drive across the Mackinac Bridge that spans the waterway gives you a starting appreciation for the unique beauty of the area.

Where to stay in Straits of Mackinac

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Harrisonville

While visiting Harrisonville, you might make a stop by sights like Lake Huron and Mackinac Island State Park.

Harrisonville
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Downtown Mackinac Island

While visiting Downtown Mackinac Island, you might make a stop by sights like Lake Huron and Haunted Theatre.

Downtown Mackinac Island
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East Bluff

While visiting East Bluff, you might make a stop by sights like Arch Rock and Fort Mackinac.

East Bluff
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Hubbard's Annex

While visiting Hubbard's Annex, you might make a stop by sights like Lake Huron and Mackinac Island State Park.

Hubbard's Annex
Hamilton Inn Select Beachfront Mackinaw City

Hamilton Inn Select Beachfront Mackinaw City

3 out of 5
701 S Huron Avenue, Mackinaw City, MI
The price is CA $137 per night from Sep 7 to Sep 8
CA $137
per night
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Stay at this 3-star beach hotel in Mackinaw City. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...
7.8/10 Good! (2,144 reviews)
"Great view, staff were friendly, easy walk to downtown area."

Reviewed on Aug. 7, 2025

Hamilton Inn Select Beachfront Mackinaw City
Cedar Hill Lodge

Cedar Hill Lodge

2.5 out of 5
680 West US2, St Ignace, MI
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is CA $105 per night from Sep 9 to Sep 10
CA $105
per night
Sep 9 - Sep 10
Stay at this motel in St Ignace. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
7.8/10 Good! (497 reviews)
Mackinac Island
"This is a no-frills hotel much like many other hotels in the area they are quite dated. It is simply a place to sleep and not much more than that. Breakfast was good and there was an energetic atmosphere with everyone anxious and excited to visit Mackinac Island. We were a group of seven and rented ..."

Reviewed on Aug. 6, 2025

Cedar Hill Lodge
Cabins of Mackinaw

Cabins of Mackinaw

2.5 out of 5
712 South Huron Ave, Mackinaw City, MI
The price is CA $95 per night from Sep 8 to Sep 9
CA $95
per night
Sep 8 - Sep 9
Book a stay at this beach holiday park in Mackinaw City. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
6.4/10 (1,001 reviews)
"Steps to second floor roo"

Reviewed on Aug. 7, 2025

Cabins of Mackinaw
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Mighty Mac Bridgeview Cabin 1

Mighty Mac Bridgeview Cabin 1

Mackinaw City
Stay at this cabin in Mackinaw City. Enjoy patios, cable/satellite TV service, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Mackinaw City Ferry Terminal and ...
7.4/10 Good! (32 reviews)
Best Lodging by Far
"I booked this this cabin after reading one review that said "best surprise". And i have to agree! This cabin advertised as able to sleep 6 and it fit our family of four perfectly (Mom, dad, 13yo, 9yo). The cabin was just off the main strip, sat right on the beach, and was so clean! (Rose Marie, the ..."

Reviewed on Jul. 11, 2025

Mighty Mac Bridgeview Cabin 1
Walk To The Lake, Beach, Indoor Waterpark And Downtown

Walk To The Lake, Beach, Indoor Waterpark And Downtown

Mackinaw City
Stay at this vacation home in Mackinaw City. Enjoy a water park, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Mackinaw City Ferry Terminal and Headlands ...
6/10 (86 reviews)
"Its better than sleeping in a tent."

Reviewed on Jul. 22, 2025

Walk To The Lake, Beach, Indoor Waterpark And Downtown
Beachfront Cabin on Straits of Mackinac

Beachfront Cabin on Straits of Mackinac

Mackinaw City
Stay at this vacation home in Mackinaw City. Enjoy a water park, laundry facilities, and cable/satellite TV service. Popular attractions Mackinaw City Ferry ...
6.6/10 (76 reviews)
Great place for a little va
"Great place to vacation"

Reviewed on Jul. 17, 2025

Beachfront Cabin on Straits of Mackinac
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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