When I stayed at The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, it felt like stepping into a dream—or maybe a perfectly preserved chapter of American history. Perched on the island’s shoreline, this elegant resort has been welcoming guests since 1887. If you're craving timeless charm, sweeping lake views, and a touch of old-world hospitality, I think you’ll fall for it just like I did.
Recommended for
From my experience, The Grand Hotel is perfect for:
- Couples and honeymooners—it’s incredibly romantic, with candlelit dinners and historic charm everywhere you look.
- Families—I saw multigenerational groups making beautiful memories together.
- Business travelers—this is a retreat setting like no other, ideal for unplugged productivity.
- History buffs—if you're like me and love vintage architecture and stories from the past, you’ll be in heaven.
- Event planners—the wedding and celebration backdrops here are straight out of a fairytale.
What Makes the Grand Hotel Special?
- A 390-room Victorian masterpiece with lush interiors, fine dining, and the longest front porch in the world—660 feet of rocking chairs and views I never got tired of.
- No cars allowed on Mackinac Island, so I rode horse-drawn carriages and bikes all weekend—it felt refreshingly peaceful.
- Flawless service, a dreamy spa, and interiors designed by Carleton Varney that made me feel like royalty.
Accommodations & Themed Suites
- Pick from traditional guest rooms, lake-view balconies, or one-of-a-kind themed suites—I stayed in one inspired by Jacqueline Kennedy and felt like a First Lady myself.
- The Masco Cottage is the ultimate splurge—four bedrooms, private hot tub, and even a personal chef. It’s on my bucket list!
- Every room includes thoughtful touches like mini-bars, air conditioning, cable TV, and those signature geranium-scented toiletries.
Dining Experiences
- Whether I was dressing up for the Main Dining Room or grabbing a cone at Sadie’s Ice Cream Parlor, every bite felt special.
- You’ll also love Sushi Grand, Woods, Jockey Club, Gate House, and Carleton’s Tea Store.
- The food, service, and ambiance are all top-notch—you might start planning your meals before you unpack!
On-Site Activities & Amenities
- I swam laps in the famous Esther Williams pool, then tried my hand at tennis and pickleball.
- Indoors, you’ll find a fitness center and a spa where I melted into a massage I’m still thinking about.
- Evenings were magical with live music and entertainment—the perfect way to wind down.
Meeting Spaces & Event Hosting
- If you’re planning a corporate retreat or elegant wedding, this place can handle up to 450 guests in style.
- The Woodfill Conference Center blends vintage charm with everything you need tech-wise for a smooth event.
- Their event team truly takes care of every detail—from AV setups to gourmet meals.
Weddings at the Grand Hotel
- Want to say “I do” on the front porch or in the Tea Garden? Both are breathtaking.
- The staff handled everything from florals to music during my friend’s wedding—and it was flawless.
- They even offer full honeymoon and anniversary packages, which is such a lovely bonus.
Nearby Attractions
- Fort Mackinac: I watched a live rifle demo and toured historic buildings—super fun and educational.
- Downtown Mackinac: You’ll love strolling through shops and soaking in the island’s old-world vibe.
- Butterfly Houses: I didn’t expect to be enchanted, but walking among butterflies was pure magic.
- Mackinac Art Museum: A beautiful way to see Native American and local art in a quiet, creative space.
- Old Mackinac Lighthouse: Don’t skip the view—it’s worth the climb!
Planning Your Visit
- Location: 286 Grand Avenue, Mackinac Island, Michigan 49757
- Phone: 800-334-7263
- Website: grandhotel.com
- Getting there: I took a ferry from Mackinaw City (you can also leave from St. Ignace)—and remember, no cars are allowed on the island, which makes it feel extra peaceful.
- Tip: Book early, especially for summer or holidays—rooms fill fast, and I’d hate for you to miss out!
Plan Your Trip