In search of a site where the sound of your own (or anybody else’s for that matter) wheels won’t drive you crazy? No contest. Make tracks to Mackinac Island, Michigan – home of the granddame Grand Hotel, one of a handful of this planet’s truly iconic places to escape from the madding crowd.
You know, of course, that on Mackinac virtually all motorized vehicles are verboten. Horse and carriage hold the upper hand, as do pedestrians and bicycles. That’s how you get around here.
On Mackinac, you can step back and survey your soul.
- Visit the Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum is a good place to start. From Native American baskets to today’s’ paintings, see the art inspired by this special place.
- See the legendary Old Mackinac Lighthouse. From 1892 to 1957 it guided ships through the Straits of Mackinac. This trip will take you to nearby Mackinaw City.
- Rent a bike, take along a GPS, and pack a picnic lunch. Explore the Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory, Arch Rock, or simply discover you own special slice of Mackinac.
- All of this peace and quiet getting to you? Head to Horn’s Gaslight Bar & Restaurant, where the entertainment is as good as the brew and the pub grub.
Mackinac Island is food for the soul. If you’re famished, head north to Lake Huron and redefine what it means to leave the world behind.
Story by Jerry Chandler
(Images: Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island)
