Travel&Vacation

Summer yesteryear still thrives on a small island in Michigan. Located in Lake Huron’s Straits of Mackinac at the juncture of the Upper and Lower Peninsulas, the winning destination of Mackinac Island is an idyllic place for cool lake breezes, cottage-dotted bluffs, and blissful repose. Plus, little else connotes a summer getaway better than preserved beaches, a boardwalk, fudge shops, bicycles, State Park land, and a grand hotel of the Gilded Age.

Although this National Historic Landmark is a suitable destination for railroad and automaker tycoons, you don’t need to make a hefty salary to visit. And yes, you too can come and play for a few days—sipping lemonade in wicker chairs under famous lilac trees—for under $500.

What’s the deal?

Because the island is literally a summer place—only around 500 residents remain year round—there’s no escaping peak travel season. Thus, successful planning hinges more on finding availability than snagging the lowest price. Ideally, it’s best to book several months before summer even starts. However, there’s no need to despair if you’re late in planning like I was. I booked my mid-June escape in late May and still found airfare for under $300, and a handful of hotel options, great and small.

Getting there

The only direct ways to reach the island are by boat or noncommercial aircraft. However, nearby Pellston Airport (PLN) on the mainland is only a 20-minute drive away. With a short series of land and water transfers, getting to the island is relatively convenient, not to mention affordable.

Only one airline, Northwest Airlines partner Mesaba Aviation, flies into Pellston. However, its frequent-enough service to Northwest Airlines’ Detroit hub makes it accessible to most North Americans. My flight from Boston cost $284.30 round-trip, which was lucky considering that I purchased it only three weeks in advance. It’s best to book as early as possible though, because once summer hits, fares typically shoot up $100 or more and can become scarce. Also, for the cheapest fares, the old standard Saturday-night stay still applies here.

Once at Pellston, you have to take either the Mackinaw Shuttle or Wolverine Stages shuttle for $40 round-trip, less for kids, to the Mackinac Island ferries. I booked in advance with Mackinaw Shuttle and found my name on its whiteboard when I arrived at the tiny airport, which felt more like a remote hunting lodge. Both companies will also schedule pickups based on your flight schedule.

Three ferry lines service the island—Star Line, Shepler’s Ferry, and Arnold Line—with competitive fares for around $18 round-trip per person—again, less for kids. Each company offers its own incentives as discount promotions or online coupons, usually shaving a buck or so. My hotel even sent me a dollar-off discount coupon, but I used my AAA card and saved $1.50. I chose the Arnold Line because of its high-speed catamaran service to the island in 14 minutes and because it docked closest to my hotel. It really doesn’t matter which ferry though, because all disembark right in town. Plus, porters at each dock will take your luggage to your hotel, so no schlepping is required.

Getting around

Despite the island’s industrialist homeowners, motorcars are not permitted, except for certain emergency vehicles and disabled persons’ aids. As a local guide told me, even the poor soul who decided to joyride his golf cart in the street got his comeuppance with a revoked license. The only legit ways to get around are by foot, bicycle, and horse and buggy.

Cost Breakdown:

For 3 nights and 3 days, including all taxes and fees, based on two people traveling together

Airfare:
$284.30

Lodging:
$99.75

Shuttle transfer:
$40

Ferry:
$16.50

Admissions:
$35

Total cost:
$475.55

Tip:

If you have an early morning flight on the way home, stay at one of the hotels near the ferry docks on the mainland in Mackinaw City. There are dozens of affordable chain hotels. You won’t have to worry about catching the ferry en route to the airport, and you’ll pay much less than staying an extra night on the island. The Econo Lodge, for example, had rooms for under $50 per night.

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