Historic Downtown Mackinac Visitor Information

Visitation Tips & Courtesies

Getting Around

Please keep in mind that the buildings of Historic Downtown Mackinac are all original and historic. Some sites contain outdoor elements. We recommend walking shoes and comfortable clothing.

Our Interpretive Staff – Your Guides to the Past

As you explore the sites, you will meet members of our interpretive staff. Some of these people will be dressed in historic clothing. None of our interpreters pretend to be people from the past, so feel free to approach and talk to them like you would anyone else in your daily life. We know that for some people, asking questions at museums and historic sites can feel awkward or intimidating. Don’t worry – the interpretive staff is happy to have a conversation and answer your questions! Staff will do their best to talk to you first, but we encourage you to jump in and begin a conversation. We ask that you approach the staff and your time at the site with the same level of respect and courtesy you use when visiting a friend.

Exploring our Museums

As you explore the site, take your time and explore the buildings, grounds, and exhibits. In addition to talking to the interpretive staff, here are a few questions to ask yourself while exploring:

• What would it have been like to live at the site, or just stop for a visit? How would you get there? Where would you live? What might you do for a job? How would you spend your free time?
• Look around at the buildings and landscape. Note the differences and similarities between what you see and your own home and neighborhood.
• Look for objects that people used in their daily lives. Find out what they were used for and where they came from. Compare them to items that w use for the same purpose today.
• Take a moment during your visit to close your eyes and identify the smells and sounds that you encounter. How do the sounds and smells change at different places throughout the site? Have you heard or smelled those things at home?

Touring Time

We recommend that you plan to spend a minimum of 30-60 minutes touring each site.

For the Comfort of All

With the historic nature of the Historic Downtown Mackinac buildings, it is recommended that strollers be left at entry points. 

Pet Friendly

Well-behaved pets on leashes are welcome at all sites with the exception of The Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum.

Photography

Photography is permitted and encouraged in all areas. Please keep other guests in mind. Professional or group photography must be approved in advance.

Electronic Devices

Please silence electronic devices during audiovisual presentations and live demonstrations.

Smoking

All buildings of Historic Downtown Mackinac are smoke-free.

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