How to Get to Mackinac Island: Everything You Need to Know
This post contains affiliate links, which help support my blog at no extra cost to you!
Mackinac Island is one of those places that feels like it should be harder to reach than it actually is. It has the storybook charm, car-free streets, lake views, horse-drawn carriages, and endless fudge shops, but getting to Mackinac Island is pretty straightforward once you know the moving pieces.
Because cars are not allowed on Mackinac Island, the biggest thing to understand is that you’ll drive, shuttle, or boat to the mainland ferry docks first, then take a ferry over to the island. In this guide to how to get to Mackinac Island, I’m breaking down where to catch the ferry, which ferry companies to compare, parking, bringing bikes, arriving on the island, and where to stay so the whole process feels easy instead of confusing.
How to Get to Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island Ferry Services
The most popular way to get to Mackinac Island is by ferry from either Mackinaw City in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula or St. Ignace in the Upper Peninsula. The ferry ride is honestly part of the fun too, with views of the Straits of Mackinac, the Mackinac Bridge, and then that cute little island harbor as you pull in.
There are two main ferry companies to compare:
- Arnold Transit Company: This is the ferry company that the old Mackinac Ferry/Star Line site now redirects to. Arnold offers traditional fast ferry service from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace, plus a classic ferry from St. Ignace during part of the season. As of the 2026 posted rates, adult round-trip fast ferry tickets are around $37, while the classic ferry is around $26. Always check the current schedule and rates before you go.
- Shepler’s Ferry: Shepler’s is another super popular option with departures from both Mackinaw City and St. Ignace. Their 2026 basic adult round-trip ticket is listed at around $39, with enhanced boarding available for more. Reservations are not required for standard tickets, but buying ahead can make arrival smoother during peak season.
Most ferry rides are quick, typically around 16-30 minutes, depending on the route, dock, and service you choose. I’d still give yourself extra time at the dock, especially if you’re parking, checking luggage, traveling on a busy summer weekend, or hoping to catch a specific departure. When you’re planning how to get to Mackinac Island, this buffer time makes the whole ferry process feel so much less stressful.
Bikes are allowed on the ferries, but you’ll need a separate bike ticket. If you’re bringing an e-bike, check the ferry company and City of Mackinac Island requirements in advance because e-bike rules can be more specific than standard bike rules.
Parking at the Ferry Docks
Parking is where I would pay extra attention because pricing and policies can change by season. Both ferry companies have parking options in Mackinaw City and St. Ignace, and some lots include complimentary shuttle service to the dock.
As of the current 2026 info I found, Arnold Transit Company lists standard parking starting around $10/day in Mackinaw City and St. Ignace, with overnight and premium options costing more. Shepler’s lists day parking around $15, with standard overnight parking around $25/night and premium dockside overnight parking higher. Double-check the parking pages before your trip so you’re not surprised at the dock.
For our trip to Mackinac Island, we went with the Mackinac Ferry/Star Line option at the time because it was a little cheaper and easy for our plans. That route now points travelers to Arnold Transit Company, so I’d compare Arnold vs. Shepler’s based on your exact travel date, departure dock, parking needs, and schedule.
Private Boats
If you have your own boat, you can also reach Mackinac Island by water and use the island’s harbor/marina facilities. This route gives you the most flexibility, but you’ll want to plan ahead for dockage, weather, luggage, and how you’ll get around once you arrive.
If you need a rental car to get from Traverse City to the Mackinac Island ferries, use the tool below to compare pricing and availability for your dates. I’d book in advance if you’re visiting in summer because rental car availability can get tight in Northern Michigan.
Arriving at Mackinac Island
You made it to Mackinac Island; welcome to pure charm overload! Stepping off the ferry is such a fun little moment because you’re immediately dropped into the island’s old-world downtown, carriage sounds, bike-filled streets, and postcard-worthy lake views.
Getting around is easy here, just in a very Mackinac Island way. You can rent a bike, take a horse-drawn carriage, use a horse taxi, or walk around downtown. If you’re only visiting for the day, I’d keep your plan simple and focus on the downtown area, a bike ride, Arch Rock, fudge, and maybe Grand Hotel if it’s high on your list.
At just 3.8 square miles, the island is very manageable, and with Mackinac Island State Park covering more than 80% of the island, there’s a lot of natural beauty packed into a small area. Cars really are unnecessary here, and that’s a huge part of the magic.
Need ideas for your adventure? Check out my full guide to the best things to do on Mackinac Island!
Where to Stay on Mackinac Island
If you can swing it, I really recommend staying at least one night on the island. The day-trippers clear out, the streets feel calmer, and you get to enjoy that dreamy evening atmosphere. Just plan ahead because many of these charming inns and hotels book up quickly during peak season. Here are a couple of great options:
- Murray Hotel: This is where we stayed, and it was such a great fit for our trip. The location is perfect right near the ferry and Main Street, the rooms were simple but comfortable, and the morning donuts were genuinely some of the best I’ve ever had. You also get a little discount on their fudge, which is exactly the kind of dangerous perk I support.
- Grand Hotel: This is the iconic splurge. Even if you don’t stay here, it’s worth visiting for the massive porch, beautiful grounds, Cupola Bar views, restaurants, and classic Mackinac Island elegance. You can see it from the ferry as you approach the island, and if we go back, I’d love to stay here for a night.
Each place on Mackinac Island has its own personality, so I’d compare location, budget, and whether you want to be right downtown or somewhere quieter. Check what’s available for your dates here.
Are you ready to experience Mackinac Island?!
Getting to Mackinac Island is honestly pretty easy once you know that the ferry is the key piece. Choose the mainland dock that makes the most sense for your route, compare Arnold and Shepler’s for your dates, give yourself time for parking, and then enjoy one of the most charming little getaways in the Midwest. I hope you love this relaxing, adorable island as much as I did!
Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Midwest blog posts:
Best Traverse City Coffee Shops
Fun Things to Do in Traverse City, Michigan
