Visiting Mackinac Island In October: Everything You Need To Know
Want to know a secret? Mackinac Island, the “Jewel of the Great Lakes” is one of the top destinations for summer travelers, but visiting Mackinac Island in October is even better.
This small island in Michigan attracts scores of tourists and school groups eager to learn a bit of history, eat pounds of fudge, and enjoy the natural splendor.
It’s a great destination from spring to fall. But in October, the scenery is more breathtaking, the crowds are lighter, and amazing deals abound.
The summer heat dissipates into crisp, clear air, the waters of Lake Huron are glittery and calm, and the forest transforms into a glorious display of gold, crimson, and orange.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about visiting Mackinac Island in October.
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Is October A Good Month To Go To Mackinac Island?
If you’re wondering if October is a good month to go to Mackinac Island, the answer is yes!
During October, Mackinac Island is less crowded, cozier, and wonderfully festive. Storefronts are adorned with fall-themed decorations, pumpkins, wreaths, and mums.
Since most shops close for the winter, they mark down their products during October to help clear out their inventory. The result? Amazing bargains!
Hotels also offer discounts and special deals. It’ll be easier to find lodging during this non-peak season, and you may get to stay in a hotel, resort, or B&B that would have been fully booked otherwise. And for less money to boot.
The weather is often sunny and clear during the day with cold crisp nights… perfect weather for jeans and sweaters.
Many iconic events take place on Mackinac Island in October, including the Great Turtle Trail Run – one of the most scenic trail events in Michigan. Halloween also comes early on the island, with costume parties, trick-or-treating, and magic shows.
Last but not least, nothing beats the stunning array of autumn foliage on Mackinac Island. The trees put on a showy display of cranberry red, sunset orange, and glittering gold. The colors usually reach their peak early in October but last for the rest of the month.
Bike, walk, hike, or take a carriage around the island to soak in the fabulous colors of fall.
October is Mackinac Island’s last hurrah for the year. Why not join in the fun?
Is Everything Open On Mackinac Island In October?
Yes, most things are still open on Mackinac Island in October. Most businesses open their doors in May and stay open until the end of October.
Naturally, some warmer-weather activities will no longer be available such as sunset cruises and kayaking tours. However, everything else is still in full swing… and getting ready to go out with a bang.
Since businesses will be preparing to close for the winter, this is a perfect time to shop for discounts, buy Christmas presents, and stock up on souvenirs.
Read on to learn about the best things to do on Mackinac Island in October.
21 Best Things To Do On Mackinac Island In October
Ride horses through the autumn-painted forests. Eat out at restaurants that are full during the summer. Taste fudge in over 30 fudge shops, go shopping, take a haunted history tour, forge your own knife, play golf, and more.
There are many wonderful things to do on Mackinac Island in October. The hard part will be choosing what to pack in on this trip and what you’ll have to save for next time!
1. Go on a Haunted History Tour
Nothing says October like ghosts, ghouls, pumpkins, and bone-chilling stories.
Join a Mackinac Island Haunted History Tour to get into the spirit of the season. This 90-minute walking tour is based on a bestselling book series called Haunts of Mackinac.
As you wander the island with your expert guide, you’ll hear legends, ghost stories, and lots of creepy “buried” history. It’s a great way to discover for yourself if Mackinac Island is haunted. How fun is that?!
2. Enjoy Mackinac Island’s Halloween Weekend
Did you know that Halloween comes early on Mackinac Island?
Halloween aficionados rejoice, come to Mackinac Island during the second to last weekend of the month and enjoy the festivities.
One of the biggest events during this “early Halloween” weekend is the Great Turtle Trail Run. The run includes a half marathon or a 5.7 mile run/walk. Up to 3,000 people can participate in the event.
Why not join in? Run or walk around this beautiful island and collect a Sherpa blanket and finisher’s medal at the end. Woot woot!
There are lots of fun events for kids this weekend as well, including a Spooktacular Magic Show at the Mackinac Island Public Library, downtown trick-or-treating, and a haunted maze at the Grand Hotel.
Once the kids are in bed, adults can join in the Halloween spirit with costume parties, live music, dancing, and costume contests at local restaurants. Candy and spirits, anyone?
3. Forge Your Own Knife on Mackinac Island
One of the most unique and incredible things you can do on Mackinac Island is forging your own knife. You’ll come away with the experience of a lifetime and a beautiful knife to help you remember your time on the island.
If that sounds good, head over to Forge a Memory, a blacksmith shop run by bladesmith and blacksmith Chad Osborne. He’s a talented farrier and a two-time finalist (and crowd favorite) in the Forged in Fire TV show.
Head to his shop, choose a knife, and pick up a hammer. Depending on the size of the knife, you’ll spend the next 20-60 minutes learning how to heat, forge, sand, and buff your very own knife… all with guidance, of course!
Next, an employee will take over the profiling, sharpening, and finishing stages to get your knife honed to perfection.
This could be the coolest thing you’ll ever do!
Drop-ins are welcomed, but this experience can fill up FAST. Do yourself a favor and call as far ahead as you can to reserve a spot.
4. Hike Around Mackinac Island
Nothing beats hiking on a crisp October day with the sun gilding the red and gold leaves. With over 70 miles of trails, Mackinac Island is an incredible place to explore on foot.
Consider hiking the northern area of the island via Tranquil Bluff Trail. This rugged walking-only path leads through quiet woods but offers views of the water as well.
Looking for a high vantage? Head to Point Lookout or Fort Holmes.
Another wonderful way to enjoy October on the island is by hiking through the forest at Mackinac State Park or going on excursions to Arch Rock and Sugar Loaf.
Breathe the crisp fall air and delight in nature’s autumn palette.
Here’s everything you need to know about hiking at Mackinac Island.
5. Visit Fort Mackinac
Another great thing to do on Mackinac Island in October is to visit Fort Mackinac.
This historic military outpost is made of limestone and dates back to 1780. During your time at the fort, you can watch 19th-century reenactments by costumed interpreters. Get a glimpse into the lives of soldiers, fur traders, and Michigan’s famed Dr. William Beaumont.
Wander the grounds and witness cannons firing to further immerse yourself in the history of this place.
Make your experience into a memory of a lifetime by firing the Mackinac Island Cannon yourself. Oh yeah! Sign me up!
6. Watch a Movie on Mackinac Island
Another wonderful thing to do on Mackinac Island in October is watch a movie at the Mission Point Theater.
Watch one of the classic Hollywood blockbusters filmed on Mac Island, or enjoy an indie flick.
The best part? This activity is completely free!
A mix of classic and new movies is shown every Tuesday evening and Sunday afternoon. They are also shown continuously on rainy afternoons, making this a fabulous rainy-day activity.
7. Visit Arch Rock
Arch Rock is one of the most iconic formations on Mackinac Island. It is over fifty feet wide and soars above the water in a stunning natural display.
This is one thing you can’t miss while visiting Mackinac Island! Head over in a carriage, taxi, bike, or on foot.
Wander, explore, take pictures, and enjoy the beauty of the island.
8. Visit the Butterfly House & Insect World
On the way back from visiting Arch Rock, stop at the Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House and Insect World. This attraction is open until mid-October.
Check out an 1800-square-foot tropical garden filled with live butterflies from four different continents.
Visit the adjacent Insect World, complete with 16” walking sticks, tons of beetles, displays, and the world’s heaviest bug.
9. Play Golf
If you love playing golf, Mackinac Island offers two incredibly unique playing opportunities and a couple of casual/family-friendly options.
The Jewel Golf Course is divided into two nines: the Grand nine and the Woods nine. You’ll start playing just across from the Grand Hotel, with gorgeous views of Lake Huron and Round Island.
Once you finish playing, you’ll load yourself and your clubs into a horse-drawn carriage. This leisurely carriage ride will take you to the Woods nine, with gorgeous views of the Upper Peninsula and Mackinac Bridge. Talk about a scenic spot to play golf!
The Wawashkamo Golf Club is the oldest continuously played golf course in the state of Michigan. It dates back to 1898 and was laid out on the site of the Battle of Mackinac Island. You’ll be playing through history on this course which has few trees, short holes, and a long rough–all distinctive characteristics of 19th century golf links.
Looking for something shorter or more kid friendly? Check out The Gem at The Grand Hotel, a miniature golf course. Alternatively, head to Golf at the Green, an 18-hole putting course perfect for a bit of friendly competition.
Tip: Go to the Green after dark to play with glow-in-the-dark balls. Fun!
10. Visit The Mission Church
Another great thing to do on Mackinac Island is visit the Mission Church. This New England style church is nestled in the heart of the island’s historic downtown. It’s the oldest surviving church in the state and dates back to 1830.
The church is now a public museum (and popular wedding venue) maintained by Mackinac Island State Park.
Take a look for yourself, snap some photos, or get hitched.
11. Learn About Round Island Lighthouse
The Round Island Lighthouse is a fascinating historic building located on Round Island. Round Island is just south of Mackinac Island and is only accessible by boat. Unfortunately, not just anyone can go to the island, so unless you’re visiting during a Round Island Open House, you’ll have to enjoy it from afar.
Grab your binoculars, find a good vantage point on Mission Point or Biddle Point, and take in the sight. Take a virtual self-guided tour of the lighthouse through the Hiawatha National Forest app.
12. Ride a Horse
Riding a horse is a popular and historic way to explore Mackinac Island. In October, this activity is even more splendid than usual, offering you a way to enjoy the autumn weather and fall colors.
Fort Holmes is one of the best spots to ride to. This fort sits 350 feet above lake level and is the highest point on the island. It’s an excellent spot to get panoramic views of the island cloaked in its fall foliage.
13. Go on a Carriage Tour
Going on a Carriage Tour on Mackinac Island is a lot of fun. Not only will you get to see a large portion of the island, but you’ll also get to hear about the area’s history from your guide.
Carriage tours are available through Gough Livery Carriages.
14. Shop Great Deals
Downtown Mackinac Island features a huge array of boutiques, clothing stores, fudge shops, artisan shops, bookstores, and more. Buy trinkets and Michigan-made handicrafts, and visit a historic grocery store.
Get a jump on your Christmas shopping and enjoy the falling prices as shops try to clear out their inventory before closing for the winter.
✔️Sew U.P. Style Co offers unique snap scarfs, called “snarfs” that are stylish and cozy. Visit the shop on Astor Street and get yourself a snarf or poncho to fend off the cold.
✔️Poppins is a great store for cards, paper goods, personal care items, candles, and accessories.
✔️Look for original artwork at Mackinac’s Little Gallery. The Gallery features work from regional artists in a variety of mediums including watercolor, oils, pastels, prints, ceramic sculpture, and batik.
✔️Little Luxuries is the perfect spot to find whimsical gifts. You can find everything from T-shirts and granola to luxury bath products, pillows, and jewelry.
✔️Caddywampus also sells an assortment of humorous gifts, fun glassware, fake tattoos, mugs, and more.
✔️If you’re looking for sustenance, or just want to visit America’s oldest grocery store, be sure to stop by Doud’s Market. Pick up some picnic fare or snacks.
15. Visit the Stuart House Museum
Delve into the history of the fur trade on Mackinac Island by visiting the Stuart House Museum.
The house dates back to 1817 and is open from 10 am to 4pm. Enter by donation and learn about fur trader John Jacob Astor.
Tip: If you love history, consider visiting the Grand Hotel Horse Carriage Museum and the Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum as well.
16. Relax with a Great Read
Book lovers, you’re going to be in heaven because Mackinac Island has two great stops for you. After all, October is a great time to snuggle under soft blankets with pumpkin spice lattes and a fabulous read.
Check out The Island Bookstore for reads “all things Mackinac.” Alternatively, head to the Mackinac Island Public Library. The library has ongoing used book sales and is a tranquil spot to read.
If the weather is warm, take a book out to the stunning library porch. Just remember to look up from the pages now and then. The views will be lovely!
17. Pamper Yourself at a Spa or Salon
Another excellent activity to enjoy on Mackinac in October is to pamper yourself at a spa or salon.
The island has plenty of choices for self-care, beginning with Astor’s Salon and Spa. Located downstairs in the Grand Hotel, Astor’s offers manicures, pedicures, facials, massages, and body treatments. You can also get salon treatments for your hair, or waxing and makeup.
Another option is the Lakeside Spa and Salon, a full-service Aveda salon at Mission Point Resort. This is Mackinac Island’s largest spa, offering everything from full body massages and scrubs to cupping and plant peeling.
Vintage Glam on the historic market street is Mackinac Island’s only independently owned free-standing hair salon. They offer hair, nail, styling, and waxing services.
18. Eat Candy & Fudge
It’s time to let your sweet tooth loose! Mackinac Island is famous for fudge, and Halloween is right around the corner. If you ever needed an excuse to eat sweets, now you have two!
There are over 30 different fudge shops on the island, each with their signature recipes and flavors. It’s probably not a good idea to try them all, at least not on one visit! However, it is definitely worth sampling 3-5 different shops. Or even taking a fudge-making class!
Check out these favorite fudge and candy shops:
- Joann’s Fudge
- May’s Candy Shop
- Murray Hotel Fudge Co.
- Kilwins Candy
- Original Mudick’s Fudge
- Sanders Fine Chocolates
- Ryba’s Fudge
19. Ride a Bike Around Mackinac Island
One way to enjoy the natural beauty and fall colors on Mackinac Island is to rent bicycles and explore on two wheels.
Many visitors enjoy biking around the perimeter of the island, hugging the coast. If you choose this option, you can enjoy views of Lake Huron’s shimmering turquoise water, beautiful bays, and show-stopping sights like British Landing, Sunset Rock, Devil’s Kitchen, and Arch Rock.
With up to 140 miles of trails, footpaths and carriage roads crisscrossing the island, there are scads of scenic inland landscapes to discover as well.
Meander through downtown and check out the historic buildings, or cut through the island to visit Skull Cave.
Tip: Pick up a map when you rent your bike so you can plan out the best route for you.
Bike Rental Spots:
- Island House Bike Rental
- Mackinac Bike Barn
- Mackinac Cycle
- Mackinac Wheels
- Mission Point Bike Rental
- Ryba’s Bicycle Rentals
20. Eat Mackinac Island Classics
One of the big perks of visiting Mackinac Island in October is that you can get a table at restaurants that are otherwise crowded.
Consider heading to the Cannonball Oasis. This restaurant has been around for 115 years and is famous for its deep-fried pickles, barbecued chicken, steaming cider, and uber-fresh homemade doughnuts. Yum! Sit at the picnic tables outside to soak in the beauty of British Landing, an iconic Mackinac Island spot.
Mary’s Bistro & Draught House is another favorite island eatery. Mary’s offers craft beer on tap, cocktails, and a delicious lunch and dinner menu. Try their thin-crust stone-fired pizzas, whitefish and chips, grilled tomahawk pork chops, mac & cheese, and more.
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, The Pink Pony is another tasty Mackinac Island dining option. This restaurant, bar, and music venue is inside the Chippewa Hotel. Start off with their Smoked Whitefish Dip, then order a soup and salad combo or their Classic Roasted Turkey Sandwich to keep things festive.
Seabiscuit Café is a popular spot for food and drinks in downtown Mackinac Island. Order the Seabiscuit Sangria and signature Whitefish Ruben or mix things up with a Kentucky Bourbon Steak or Cajun Pasta.
Looking for coffee and dessert? Check out Lucky Bean Coffee, Good Day Café and Coffee Bar, Watercolor Café, or the Grand Hotel’s Grand Coffee and Provisions.
You can’t go wrong with these amazing restaurants!
21. Go Kayaking
If you have your own kayak and want to enjoy some time on the water, kayaking is still an option until mid-October (weather permitting of course). The water will be cold, so if you have one, you may want to throw on a wetsuit.
Explore the scenic shoreline and glimpse must-see sites like Arch Rock from the water.
Beautiful!
Best Places to Stay on Mackinac Island
Check out the top two most popular hotels on Mackinac Island to make your stay extra special.
Mission Point Resort
The Mission Point Resort is a beautiful resort with an on-site spa, observation tower and museum. Avoid the hustle and bustle of town in this more tranquil location.
One of the most iconic features of the Mission Point Resort is its extensive lakeside green. It’s perfectly placed for amazing sunrise views. Watch the sun come up from an Adirondack chair. Breathe deep. Smile.
Another great activity is to join the Mission Point Picnic Society for a picnic lunch on the green. You can get food to-go from Boxwood, Strait Up Coffee, and Lily’s Lemonade. The green is also a perfect spot for flying a kite or stargazing.
Other on-site activities include bike rentals, a guided sunrise hike, informative garden and history tours on the grounds, and Admiral Dave’s Arcade–a great activity for kids, rain or shine.
As far as dining goes, consider reserving a table at Chianti for an elegant culinary adventure. This fabulous restaurant could be the best fine-dining experience on the island. Chianti offers a hand-crafted five-course fixed-price menu. Prepare to be wowed!
If you’d prefer a more casual dining experience, the Round Island Kitchen is a great choice. This cozy restaurant offers classic comfort foods with a Michigan twist.
Tip: If you’re traveling to Mackinac Island with a dog, you’ll be glad to know that Mission Point is the only dog-friendly resort on the island.
Grand Hotel
The Grand Hotel is Mackinac Island’s most iconic hotel. Even if you aren’t lodging there, it is worth a visit! It’s also an ideal spot to watch the sunset.
Keep in mind, if you go after 6:30 pm, you’ll need to observe a strict dress code in the main areas. Women, don your dresses or pantsuits, and men, get looking dapper in a suit jacket and tie. Enjoy a formal dinner and dance to the Grand Hotel Orchestra.
During the day, you can play bocce ball or croquet in the Tea Garden. Enjoy the Grand Buffet Luncheon, an afternoon tea, or visit the Cupola Bar.
The Cupola Bar is right at the top of the Grand Hotel offering striking panoramas of the Mackinac Bridge and the Straits. There is entertainment every night, and casual attire is welcome.
Alternatively, take a carriage ride to The Woods restaurant for a casual dining experience in a Tudor mansion with Bavarian flair. While you’re there, travel back through the ages and play old time duckpin bowling, the oldest of its kind still operating to this day.
Looking for something extra special? Consider attending the Grand Hotel during their signature Somewhere in Time Weekend.
This weekend, usually around October 7th, is a hugely popular event perfect for movie lovers. During the weekend, there will be a screening of the romance movie Somewhere in Time.
Following the screening, there are appearances from crew and cast members, discussions about how the movie was made, cocktail receptions, and costume promenades. Guests can dress up as characters from the movie and show off their elegant attire at breakfasts and dinners. How fun!
How to Get to Mackinac Island
There are three ways to get to Mackinac Island: by ferry, plane or personal boat.
Take a Ferry to Mackinac Island
The easiest and best way to get to Mackinac Island is to take a commercial ferry. Sheplers Ferry and Star Line are the two main ferry companies.
You can catch the ferry from Mackinaw City in the lower peninsula and St. Ignace in the Upper Peninsula.
Ferries run frequently through October and then on a more limited schedule through the winter.
Take a Plane to Mackinac Island
If you’d prefer to fly into Mackinac Island, you can do so! The island has its own self-service airport featuring a 3,500 foot long lighted runway.
You can catch non-stop flights through Delta from Minneapolis and Detroit.
Flights are available from Pellston, Chippewa, St. Ignace, and northern Michigan. Check out Great Lakes Air, Fresh Air Aviation, and North Country Aviation for additional passenger and charter flight options.
Take Your Own Boat to Mackinac Island
If you have your own boat or boat rental, you can travel to the island on your own.
You can reserve boat slips in the public marina up to six months in advance. There are 80 boat slips available through mid-October. Private slips are available at East Dock LLC.
What Is The Weather Like On Mackinac Island In October?
The weather on Mackinac Island in October averages 53ºF in the daytime, ranging from lows of 48ºF to highs of 60ºF. At night, the average temperature is 39ºF.
October in Mackinac Island offers quintessential fall weather with warm sunny days and crisp clear nights. It is great weather for hiking or biking, and the fall colors are spectacular.
Be sure to pack appropriately. Take long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and warm sweaters, as well as a beanie hat and gloves for cold snaps.
Conclusion: Mackinac Island In October
As you can see, October is a wonderful time to visit Mackinac Island. It’s the perfect combination of gorgeous weather, fun activities, fewer crowds, and discounted prices. Enjoy all that Mackinac Island has to offer during this “sweet spot” in the tourist season.
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