This summer has been a whirlwind starting with our daughter’s high school graduation to getting her ready for college, swim team for two kiddos and horseback riding for another. This is all while also preparing several design projects for fall construction so last week as we set off for our family vacation to Michigan, we were more than ready!  

My husband and I both grew up in Michigan and it has some of the most beautiful and inspiring natural beauty, ranking high with several top travel destinations. I am excited to share a glimpse into this magical island and some of our favorite things to do and see. Mackinac Island can only be accessed by ferry and there are no cars on the island, as people get around on bikes and horse carriages.

We took Shepler’s Ferry from Mackinaw City to downtown Mackinac Island where we met the hotel horse carriage shuttle.  

We stayed at the newly renovated and recently opened, Inn at Stonecliffe that is a couple of miles from the busier downtown and with spectacular views of the Mackinac Bridge, a suspension bridge built in 1957 connecting Michigan’s upper and lower peninsula. On the shuttle ride in we passed the iconic Grand Hotel of Michigan and it is definitely a great place to stay and a one-of-a-kind experience. 

We all loved our stay at the Inn at Stonecliffe! I think this is the first time EVERYONE in my family was thrilled with our hotel and vacation destination. It is a gorgeous property with lots to do! We enjoyed the upscale but casual atmosphere with captivating views of Lake Huron. We enjoyed several meals at the Inn on their outdoor patios, lawn games, and smores around the fire pits! We also enjoyed their pools, wellness center, a morning barre class, and a wonderful wine and fudge tasting. I highly recommend the vanilla fudge from Murdick’s with the Le Cabon Riesling from Michigan’s Old Mission Peninsula, Left Foot Charley.  

During our stay on the island we walked from the inn to downtown Mackinac to rent bikes for the day and to ride the 8.2 miles around the island. This is hands-down my favorite thing to do on the island. It is the perfect activity to see the majestic views and beauty of the island. We stopped for lunch and snacks along the way, dipped our toes in Lake Huron (it’s always chilly), took the more than 200 steps to see the Arch Rock and peaceful views of the turquoise waters of the lake.

We also spent time in downtown for shopping, fudge tastings, dinner and ice cream. We can’t go to Michigan in the summer without a superman ice cream from Kilwin’s which started in Petoskey, Michigan back in 1947 so it is a must stop! My girls loved shopping for all the souvenirs at the Pink Pony, Poppins which always reminds me of my favorite Red Barn Mercantile here in Alexandria, and Little Luxuries. 

It was a beautiful, joy-filled week with family and this mama soaked up every minute! If you see me this week, know that I’m a little fragile adjusting back while packing up Lilly for college drop off at Virginia Tech next week, Caroline’s 12th birthday Friday, and Genna’s tryouts for high school volleyball and back-to-school next week. I know it’s that time of year for you, too and sending all the good vibes and strong coffee to get you through! And feel free to reach out with all questions on Mackinac Island or Michigan in general! Cheers! 

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