Best hotels in North Michigan
Grand Hotel
286 Grand Ave, Mackinac Island, MI, 49757
Walk in the footsteps of Thomas Edison, Mark Twain and numerous presidents at this historic late-19th century hotel close to Lake Huron. It’s an elegant and genteel place, with its vast porch (the world’s longest), attention to detail and superb service making this very much a premium stay.
Chippewa Hotel Waterfront
7221 Main St #103, Mackinac Island, MI, 49757
There are wonderful harbor views at this Downtown hotel, which offers rooms and suites, with balconies perfect for drinking in the sights of Mackinac Island. It’s also know for the Pink Pony bar and grill, with its funky décor and superb whitefish burger and dip.
Stafford’s Crooked River Lodge & Suites
6845 US 31, Alanson, MI, 49706
The epitome of cozy, this lodge is close to some of northern Michigan’s loveliest spots, only a short drive from Burt Lake, Hay Lake and Crooked Lake. In winter you can snowmobile across the frozen landscape, up to Petoskey or Cheboygan. Rooms are snug, the pool and hot tub the perfect place to warm yourself after a day of exploring.
Best restaurants in North Michigan
Kingston Kitchen at the Village Inn
1384 Hoban St, Mackinac Island, MI, 49757
Mixing American classics with Caribbean flair is a winning formula at this popular Island eatery. Fusion is handled with real aplomb in dishes like the tomahawk pork chop with caramelized walnuts and mango, or a jerk-seared Scottish salmon. A mac ‘n’ cheese with jerk bacon is simply genius.
Chuckwagon
7400 Main St, Mackinac Island, MI, 49757
Small but full of personality, this friendly, Cowboy-themed diner is the place to be for breakfast and lunch. Sweet tooths will love the French toast and flap jacks, while the bleu cheeseburger and patty melt are both generous and delicious.
Rusty Saw North Smokehouse
3459 US 31, Brutus, MI, 49716
Located at Maple River Golf, just to the south of Pellston, this is some of the best and most addictive barbecue in the area. The pulled pork and brisket are consummate, burgers, sandwiches and sides all stacked. The meats also make their way on to wood-fired pizzas – go for ‘The Viking’ laden with brisket, smoked gouda and tomato, caramelized onion, mozzarella and BBQ sauce.
What to do in North Michigan
Fort Mackinac
7127 Huron Rd, Mackinac Island, MI, 49757
This historic fort was constructed by the British back in 1780, and today it’s a great place to learn about the past, with costumed staff on hand to answer questions and explore the remaining features. There are cannon and rifle firing demos, stunning views and interactive, hands-on games for the kids.
Carriage Tours
Mackinac Island, MI, 49757
Mackinac Island is car-free, so your only options for exploration are on foot, bike hire and the island’s many horses. Carriage Tours are a comfortable way to make the most of the scenery at a sedate pace, with informative guides who’ll talk you through the landmarks and history of this historic place. Livery stables let you hire your own horse and buggy too.
Wilderness State Park
Carp Lake, MI, 49718
Blanketed in snow during winter, kissed by the sun in summer, the 100,000 acres of Wilderness State Park are a wonderful place for recreation on the northern fringe of Michigan. There are miles of trails for cycling and hiking, 26 miles of shoreline and great places to camp. Stargazers will love it too – it’s a dark sky preserve.