Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island Events
Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island host festivals, shows and celebrations from June through October. Parkside Inn Bridgeview is near the Mackinac Island ferry docks and downtown Mackinaw City.
Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island Events
Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island host festivals, shows and celebrations from June through October. Parkside Inn Bridgeview is near the Mackinac Island ferry docks and downtown Mackinaw City.
June
- Annual Lilac Festival on Mackinac Island
- Annual Mackinaw City Motorcycle Rally
- Annual St. Ignace Auto Show
- Mackinaw City Arts & Craft Show
July
- Mackinaw City Fourth of July Celebration
- Annual Mustang Stampede
- Chicago to Mackinac Yacht Race
- Mackinaw Area Historical Festival
August
- Rendezvous in Mackinaw
- International Ironworkers Festival
- Annual Corvette Auto Show
- Mackinaw City Arts & Craft Show
- Mackinac Island Fudge Festival
September
- Annual Labor Day
- Bridge Walk
- Tractor Show
- Annual Big Truck Show and Parade of Lights
- Trek the Mighty Mac
October
- Fort Fright : Colonial Michilimackinac
There is no Event
Plan Your Mackinaw City Trip
Whether you are here for a day on Mackinac Island or a night on the way to the Upper Peninsula, Parkside Inn Bridgeview is a good place to start. Pick the trip that sounds like yours.
Sample itinerary: a day trip to Mackinac Island
This is a sample itinerary. Times and what is open vary by season, ferry schedule and your group, so adjust it to fit your trip.
- 8:30 AMFerry to Mackinac IslandTake an early boat from Mackinaw City and bring layers for the water.
- 9:30 AMExplore the islandRent bikes for the 8-mile loop around the island, or take a carriage tour. Stop at Arch Rock.
- 12:30 PMFudge and lunch on Main StreetWander the shops and grab lunch before the afternoon crowds.
- 2:00 PMFort Mackinac or free timeThe hilltop fort has views of the straits and the bridge.
- 4:30 PMFerry backCheck the last boat time before you go.
- 5:30 PMRelax at the hotelSwim in the indoor pool, soak in the hot tub or relax on the grounds before dinner.
- 7:00 PMDinner, then ice cream in downtown Mackinaw CityFinish the day in town with dinner, then stroll to one of the iconic ice cream shops for a favorite summertime treat.
- DuskHeadlands Dark Sky ParkHead to the Headlands for spectacular stargazing on a clear night, and if you're lucky, a chance to see the Northern Lights. About two miles west of town, it is free and open 24 hours. Bring a red-light flashlight and warm layers, arrive before sunset, and give your eyes 20 to 30 minutes to adjust. White lights are not allowed in the viewing area.
The ferry companies run complimentary shuttles to their Mackinaw City docks during their operating hours. Check Shepler's and Arnold Transit for ferry schedules and the last boat back.
Families
The indoor pool, hot tub and game room are the evening plan after a ferry day. Parking is free. Alexander Henry Park and Lake Huron beach access are across the street, and Colonial Michilimackinac and Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse are a short walk away. Check Mackinac State Historic Parks for seasonal hours.
Couples
Ask about a Bridgeview room. Select Bridgeview rooms look straight at the Mighty Mac. Take a carriage ride on Mackinac Island, then head to the Headlands Dark Sky Park after dinner.
Car enthusiasts
The events list above includes the Mackinaw City Motorcycle Rally and St. Ignace Auto Show in June, the Mustang Stampede in July, the Corvette Auto Show in August, and the Tractor Show and Big Truck Show and Parade of Lights in September. Dates change each year, so check each show before you book.
Stopping on the way to or from the U.P.
Break up the drive. Parkside Inn Bridgeview is just off I-75 near the bridge. Check in, swim or soak, walk downtown for dinner, and start across the bridge fresh in the morning.
Trip questions
What is there to do in Mackinaw City in a day?
Take an early ferry to Mackinac Island, or stay in town for Colonial Michilimackinac, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, the waterfront, downtown shops and dinner. Colonial Michilimackinac and the lighthouse are a short walk from Parkside Inn Bridgeview, and hours are seasonal.
How do I get to Mackinac Island from Mackinaw City?
By ferry from the Mackinaw City docks. Shepler's and Arnold Transit run boats, so check their sites for schedules and the last boat back. The ferry companies run complimentary shuttles to their Mackinaw City docks during their operating hours.
Where can I see the stars near Mackinaw City?
Headlands International Dark Sky Park is about two miles west of Mackinaw City. On a clear night it offers spectacular stargazing and, if the timing is right, a chance to see the Northern Lights. It is free and open 24 hours. White lights are not allowed in the viewing area, so bring a red-light flashlight.
Is Parkside Inn Bridgeview a good stop on the way to or from the Upper Peninsula?
Yes. It is just off I-75 near the Mackinac Bridge, with an indoor pool, hot tub, game room and free parking, and downtown dinner is nearby.
Ready to book your stay?
Check availability online or call Parkside Inn Bridgeview at 1-231-436-8301.