Grand Hotel
Iconic historic hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan, offering timeless elegance, stunning architecture, and a car-free island experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, crisp air, beautiful foliage.
Grand Hotel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, crisp air, beautiful foliage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic historic hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan, offering timeless elegance, stunning architecture, and a car-free island experience.
"A museum-like, timeless quality that makes it one of the most unique hotels in the country."
🚲 Embrace Island Transport
Rent bikes or enjoy carriage tours; cars are not allowed on Mackinac Island.
👗 Evening Dress Code
Men often need jackets for dinner. Embrace the elegant atmosphere!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Front Porch
Grand Hotel
World's longest porch, offering breathtaking views and a quintessential Grand Hotel experience. Perfect for people-watching.
The Secret Garden
Grand Hotel Grounds
A hidden oasis of tranquility, discover this charming garden for a peaceful escape and beautiful photo opportunities.
Mackinac Island's Car-Free Charm
Mackinac Island
Experience a unique step back in time with horse-drawn carriages and bicycles as the primary modes of transport.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Island Pace
Dress for Elegance (Evenings)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Embrace Island Transport
Rent bikes or enjoy carriage tours; cars are not allowed on Mackinac Island. +1
👗 Evening Dress Code
Men often need jackets for dinner. Embrace the elegant atmosphere!
🌸 Secret Garden Check
The Secret Garden's condition can vary; check its status before visiting.
☕ Afternoon Tea Experience
Indulge in Afternoon Tea for a delightful and elegant break.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Embrace Island Transport
Rent bikes or enjoy carriage tours; cars are not allowed on Mackinac Island. +1
👗 Evening Dress Code
Men often need jackets for dinner. Embrace the elegant atmosphere!
🌸 Secret Garden Check
The Secret Garden's condition can vary; check its status before visiting.
☕ Afternoon Tea Experience
Indulge in Afternoon Tea for a delightful and elegant break.
📸 Picture-Perfect Views
The hotel's architecture and grounds are incredibly photogenic. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Grand Hotel's iconic beauty, historic ambiance, and exceptional service, particularly highlighting the stunning Front Porch and elegant interiors. While some find the prices high and the 'tourist attraction' aspect a bit much, most agree it's a memorable, bucket-list experience. The food receives good marks, though not always spectacular, and the Secret Garden's condition can be a minor disappointment.
"First, I did not stay here so I cannot speak on the rooms. I visited during a trip to the island. The hotel is beautiful and very fancy. We loved walking the grounds and the amazing porch. The secret garden was dead.. completely dead when we visited this week, it would be nice if they told people that when they enter.. we still would have paid and toured and walked the grounds but we would have been less sad when we found the secret garden to be dead. Other than that we 10 out of 10 recommend."
Courtney Hamblen
"A tremendous stay at a beautiful residence. Grand Hotel lives up to its name—it is the best hotel experience I’ve ever had. The room was unique and beautiful, with a phenomenal shower. When we shorted the electricity in the room, the staff was quick to fix the error and gave us a chocolate hammer for the inconvenience. Even the small details matter here. They provided a bottle of wine for our honeymoon, and our friends asked for a bouquet and a small fruit, cheese and fudge basket for our room. It was perfection. The dinner was delicious and hefty—you will not leave the five courses hungry. Our favorite course was the soup. The lobster bisque and pho contended for best bites of the trip. The breakfast the next morning was nice, but a bit confusing as to how it works. The server had to explain it to us that you order what you like, but they take the menu after you order—get everything you want at the beginning. And the checkout process was smooth as can be!"
Cody Harrell
"It was a wonderful place to spend our few days. As an interior designer I really appreciate Dorothy Drapers design work and the history of the Grand. Very picture worthy! The staff was friendly and very helpful. I would love to go back and sit on the Fabulous porch again."
m orlandini
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You'll need to take a ferry to Mackinac Island, as cars are not allowed. Shepler's Ferry and Star Line Ferry are popular options from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace. +1 From the ferry dock, you can walk, take a horse-drawn taxi, or rent a bike to reach the Grand Hotel.
Yes, ferry services offer parking lots at their mainland departure points. You'll leave your car there for the duration of your island visit.
The island is car-free! The most popular ways to get around are by bicycle (rentals available) or by horse-drawn carriage. Walking is also a great option for exploring the town. +1
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on Mackinac Island, but they must be leashed and are typically not permitted inside the Grand Hotel itself. Some ferry services also allow dogs.
The Grand Hotel is a short distance from the ferry docks. Depending on your pace, it's a pleasant walk or a quick carriage ride away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, if you are not a registered guest, you will need to purchase a visitor's admission ticket to access the hotel's public areas, including the famous porch and gardens.
The Grand Hotel is open year-round for guests, but public access hours for non-guests may vary by season. It's best to check their official website for the most current information.
Room rates at the Grand Hotel can be quite high, reflecting its historic luxury status. Prices vary significantly based on room type, season, and day of the week. Booking in advance is recommended.
While daytime attire can be casual, the Grand Hotel has a dress code for the evenings, particularly for dinner. Men are typically required to wear jackets, and women are encouraged to dress accordingly.
Yes, the Secret Garden is accessible to visitors with an admission ticket. However, its condition can vary, so it's wise to inquire about its current state.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the iconic Front Porch, the beautiful gardens (including the Secret Garden), and the elegant interior public spaces. The hotel itself is a historical landmark. +2
The Grand Hotel offers various activities, including tennis, golf, afternoon tea, and exploring the grounds. Many guests enjoy simply relaxing on the porch and taking in the views.
While the hotel is historic, they do offer services like elevator access and assistance from staff. However, navigating the island itself might require planning, as it's largely car-free.
Dining at the Grand Hotel is a significant part of the experience, often featuring multi-course meals. Breakfast and dinner are typically included for guests. Afternoon Tea is a popular add-on.
The hotel charges admission for non-guests to access its public areas, which helps maintain its upkeep and revenue. This can sometimes lead to crowds of tourists.
📸 📸 Photography
The Front Porch, the gardens, the grand staircase, and the exterior architecture are all fantastic photo opportunities. The surrounding island also offers scenic backdrops. +1
Yes, photography is generally allowed in the public areas of the Grand Hotel, but be mindful of other guests and any specific restrictions.
While generally permitted in public areas, it's always a good idea to be respectful of guests' privacy and any posted signage regarding photography.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more golden hue.
The Secret Garden, though its condition varies, can offer unique shots. Exploring the hotel's various nooks and crannies can also lead to unexpected photographic gems.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Grand Hotel has a formal atmosphere, especially in the evenings, families can still enjoy its grounds and public spaces during the day. The Afternoon Tea service can be a special treat for families looking for a touch of elegance.
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider booking a room with a view of the lake or gardens for an extra special touch. The Secret Garden can offer a secluded spot for a romantic moment.
🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
Beyond the hotel itself, Mackinac Island is steeped in history, with Fort Mackinac offering a glimpse into military life in the 18th and 19th centuries. Exploring the island's historic sites, combined with the architectural splendor of the Grand Hotel, provides a comprehensive historical immersion. The car-free environment further enhances the feeling of stepping back in time, allowing for a deeper appreciation of the island's past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Design
Stepping into the Grand Hotel feels like stepping back in time. The Front Porch, stretching over 600 feet, is the world's longest and offers a perfect vantage point to observe the island's unique horse-and-buggy traffic and the serene waters of Lake Huron.
Beyond the main hotel, the grounds are equally enchanting. The Secret Garden, though its condition can vary, offers a more intimate and secluded experience.
The Car-Free Island Experience
Getting around the island is an experience in itself. You can rent bicycles from various shops and explore at your own pace, discovering hidden coves and scenic overlooks. Alternatively, horse-drawn carriage tours offer a guided and relaxing way to see the island's highlights, including Fort Mackinac and the charming downtown area.
The car-free policy also extends to the Grand Hotel's surroundings. While guests arrive via ferry, their experience on the island is one of gentle movement and connection with nature. This unique characteristic is a major draw for visitors seeking a different kind of vacation, one that emphasizes relaxation, natural beauty, and a step back into a simpler time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit