Mackinaw City Lakefront Boardwalk
Charming lakefront cabins offering stunning views of Lake Huron and easy access to Mackinac Island adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Mackinaw City Lakefront Boardwalk
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Charming lakefront cabins offering stunning views of Lake Huron and easy access to Mackinac Island adventures.
"This is our little piece of paradise! We love vacations in Mackinaw City."
Pack Your Own Essentials
Bring linens, towels, and kitchenware. Charcoal grills are available for use.
Embrace the Views
Enjoy stunning sunrises and watch freighters from your cabin window.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Huron Waterfront Cabins
Mackinaw City Lakefront Cabins
Cozy cabins with incredible views of Lake Huron, the Mackinac Bridge, and passing freighters.
Sunrise on a Private Beach
Lakefront Cabins
Wake up to breathtaking sunrises over the water from your practically private beach.
Proximity to Mackinac Island
Mackinaw City
An excellent launchpad for day trips to the car-free, historic Mackinac Island.
Community Fire Pit & Playground
Lakefront Cabins / Mill Creek Campground
Gather around the fire pit or let kids enjoy the playground for evening fun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cabin Comforts & Campground Access
Best Views & Island Proximity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Your Own Essentials
Bring linens, towels, and kitchenware. Charcoal grills are available for use.
Embrace the Views
Enjoy stunning sunrises and watch freighters from your cabin window.
Easy Island Access
Perfect base camp for Mackinac Island adventures. Ferries are nearby.
Budget-Friendly Island Day
Consider a day trip to Mackinac Island to save on accommodation costs.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Your Own Essentials
Bring linens, towels, and kitchenware. Charcoal grills are available for use.
Embrace the Views
Enjoy stunning sunrises and watch freighters from your cabin window.
Easy Island Access
Perfect base camp for Mackinac Island adventures. Ferries are nearby.
Budget-Friendly Island Day
Consider a day trip to Mackinac Island to save on accommodation costs.
Cabin Variety
Choose from 2-person to spacious 6-person cabins, some with direct lake views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests rave about the incredible lakefront views and the cozy cabin experience, often calling it a 'little piece of paradise.' The proximity to Mackinac Island and the friendly staff are frequently praised. However, some guests note that cabins may require bringing personal linens and kitchenware, and a few mention outdated aspects.
"This was our first time staying here. We tried before, a couple years ago however there was a water issue so we got moved to a local hotel so disappointed. But this is a great location and it is awesome to stay in a little cabin with the granddaughter. She loves it"
Renee C
"Absolutely worth the trip! On my first one to the area, I tried to research as much as possible, and opted for the Lakefront Cabins. As long as you know what you're dealing with going in, like bringing your own linens and towels, as well as utensils, cups and food to cook in a charcoal grill, it absolutely is the move to book here. Check in was super easy, and at Mill Creek Campground. Going towards the end of the season was my favorite choice in the fall, but anytime you can here is beautiful. Highly recommend!"
Ashley Keller
"awesome place the cabins are way better then I was expecting for the size and great view to watch the boats come in to and from the island and seeing cargo tankers on a daily basis is cool. staff is by far the greatest and they kept us stocked with supplys when needed for the cabin and the fire pit."
jeromy w
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mackinaw City is accessible by car via I-75. The Lakefront Boardwalk is centrally located within Mackinaw City, making it easy to reach from most accommodations. Many visitors use it as a starting point for ferry trips to Mackinac Island.
Parking is generally available in Mackinaw City, especially near the ferry docks and along the waterfront. During peak season, it can be busy, so arriving earlier is recommended.
Many hotels in Mackinaw City are within walking distance of the boardwalk, especially those located along the lakefront. Check your hotel's proximity before you go.
The most common way to reach Mackinac Island is by ferry. Several companies operate from Mackinaw City, offering frequent departures.
While Mackinaw City is walkable, public transport is limited. Most visitors rely on their own vehicles or walk to attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Mackinaw City Lakefront Boardwalk is a public area and does not require tickets for access. Enjoy a stroll anytime!
The boardwalk is accessible 24/7, allowing for leisurely walks at any time of day or night.
There are no entry fees for the boardwalk itself. Any costs would be related to parking or activities in the vicinity.
Yes, booking your cabin in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, as they are popular.
Check-in is typically easy and often handled at Mill Creek Campground. Confirm details with your booking.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy scenic walks, watch boats and freighters, enjoy the sunrise, and access nearby beaches. It's a great spot for photography.
While the boardwalk itself is primarily for strolling, Mackinaw City has numerous restaurants and cafes nearby offering various dining options.
The boardwalk is generally flat and paved, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Keep an eye out for bald eagles, various bird species, and the impressive freighters navigating the Great Lakes.
While not specifically designed for fishing, some areas might allow it. However, dedicated fishing spots are usually found elsewhere.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning sunrises over Lake Huron, the majestic Mackinac Bridge, passing freighters, and the charming cabins. +1
Early morning for sunrise and golden hour before sunset offer the best light. Midday can be harsh but still offers great views of the bridge and lake.
The end of the boardwalk offers expansive views of the lake and bridge. The cabins themselves also make for picturesque shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and bridge views. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details on passing freighters.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local ordinances and any posted restrictions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Being so close to the ferry docks for Mackinac Island is a huge plus for families. A day trip to the island offers a unique experience with no cars, just bikes and horse-drawn carriages, which kids often find fascinating.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider Mackinaw City as a base for exploring Mackinac Island. Instead of staying on the island, opt for a day trip via ferry. This strategy allows you to experience the island's charm without the higher accommodation costs.
couples
For a truly memorable experience, consider a day trip to Mackinac Island. Renting bikes and exploring the island's scenic paths or enjoying a quiet moment on the island's shores can be a perfect romantic outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Cabin Life and Amenities
Beyond the individual cabins, the area provides communal amenities that enhance the stay. A community fire pit is a popular spot for guests to gather in the evenings, sharing stories and enjoying the cool Michigan air. For families, a playground offers entertainment for children. Access to the nearby Mill Creek Campground expands your options, including a swimming pool and a small camp store for any forgotten necessities. This combination of private cabin living and shared facilities creates a well-rounded vacation experience.
Gateway to Mackinac Island
Once on Mackinac Island, you can explore historic Fort Mackinac, rent bicycles to tour the island's scenic roads, or indulge in the famous Mackinac Island fudge. The experience of stepping back in time, with horse-drawn carriages replacing cars, is a significant draw for many tourists. Returning to your cozy cabin in Mackinaw City after a day of island exploration provides a comfortable and convenient end to your adventures.
Scenic Views and Natural Beauty
Sunrise over Lake Huron is frequently cited as a highlight, with many guests enjoying the spectacle from their cabin's doorstep or the adjacent beach. The Mackinac Bridge, a marvel of engineering, also dominates the skyline, providing a dramatic backdrop for photos and contemplation. The natural beauty extends to the possibility of spotting local wildlife, such as bald eagles, adding an extra layer of wonder to the experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit