A Perfect Day in Mackinac Island State Park Posted April 26, 2022 There’s no wrong way to enjoy Mackinac Island. But what would a perfect day look like if you spent it ONLY in Mackinac Island State Park? Here are some ideas and a sample itinerary to help you start planning your Mackinac Island State Park trip:Fire the Cannon at Fort Mackinac Start your day off on Mackinac Island with a blast! Every morning, from May to October, one lucky individual gets to fire the first cannon volley of the day at Fort Mackinac. Firing the Fort Mackinac cannon involves going through the very same steps the fort’s soldiers took many years ago. You will load and prime the cannon, then wait for the signal, and … fire! Be sure to book this unique experience in advance by calling our office, (906) 847-3328. More information about this unforgettable opportunity can be found on our website. Keep your Fort Mackinac ticket handy, as you’ll need it again later.Take a Hike Through Mackinac Island State Park After the excitement of firing the cannon, take some time to enjoy Mackinac Island’s more serene sights. There are more than 70 miles of trails and paths in Mackinac Island State Park with extraordinary limestone rock formations, breathtaking lake views, and beautiful wildflowers to discover along the way. To get started, exit Fort Mackinac through the Avenue of Flags and start towards Anne’s Tablet Trail. Within the wooded surroundings, you will find the gazebo from the movie Somewhere in Time starring Jane Seymour and Christopher Reeve, and filmed mostly on the island. Upon arriving at Anne’s Tablet, you will find a bronze plaque honoring author Constance Fenimore Woolson. Mackinac Island is the setting for her 19th-century novel, Anne. The view from Anne’s Tablet is one of many amazing overlooks on Mackinac Island. Continue along Garrison Road past the Rifle Range. Here on this 600-yard range, Fort Mackinac soldiers practiced shooting at targets located on the side of the hill below Fort Holmes. After a few turns, the road will straighten and lead you to Skull Cave. This is the cave in which British merchant Alexander Henry, in his recollection of the event, hid during Pontiac’s Uprising in 1763. Make sure you read all about Henry’s experience in our Historic Mackinac Island Visitor’s Guide. A few hundred feet ahead you will see three cemeteries including Mackinac Island’s Post Cemetery, the final resting place for Fort Mackinac soldiers, their families, and local officials. The earliest known burials in the Post Cemetery date to the mid-1820s. At the north side of the Protestant Cemetery, Fort Holmes Road come in from the right. When you are going up, be sure to make a stop at Point Lookout where you will see Sugar Loaf, a limestone rock formation rising 75 feet from the forest floor. Take the stairs if you want a closer look at Sugar Loaf or continue the summit to Fort Holmes. Fort Holmes sits atop the highest elevation on Mackinac Island with spectacular views of Lake Huron, Round Island Lighthouse, and the Mackinac Bridge. Take your time touring Fort Holmes and learning all about the War of 1812 and the spot’s historical significance.Cave of the Woods on Mackinac Island. After leaving Fort Holmes, follow the road to the left for the most direct route back to Garrison Road. Experienced hikers may want to continue straight down to British Landing Road. Beyond a large clearing, featuring the Mackinac Island Airport, State Road branches to the left. Make sure you spot the short trail that leads off State Road to the Crack-in-the-Island and Cave in the Woods. While these geological formations may not be as well known, it is still worth discovering. That being said, if the hike to Fort Holmes was enough for you, it might be best to return to Fort Mackinac at your own leisurely pace.Explore Fort Mackinac After traversing the interior of Mackinac Island, it is time to return to Fort Mackinac! More than just a military outpost, Fort Mackinac served as a home for soldiers and their families. It eventually became the headquarters for Mackinac National Park, where tourists to the island visited the great fortress on the bluff, much like they do today. Take your time exploring the 14 historical structures which feature exhibits explaining everything from military training, medical treatments, and family life within the fort. While the historic aspects of the fort are fascinating for adults and older kids, everyone will get a kick out of the daily demonstrations provided by costumed interpreters.Have Lunch at the Tea RoomThe view from the Tea Room at Fort Mackinac. Once you are done exploring Fort Mackinac, take time to relax at the Tea Room located on the porch of the Officers’ Stone Quarters. The Officers’ Stone Quarters is the oldest public building in Michigan and provides the best view of any restaurant on the island along with offering a wonderful menu.The Tea Room has been a memorable part of a visit to Fort Mackinac for decades. Whether you are craving a delicious lunch or a quick refreshment, grab a spot on its terrace and just relax. Reservations are not required but can be made by calling Grand Hotel at (906) 847-6327.Discover Historic Downtown Mackinac Island After finishing tasty refreshments at the Tea Room, take the South Sally Ramp or the stairs from the Tea Room to Market Street. Just one block over from busy Main Street, visitors can step inside several historic buildings. The best part – these historic sites are included with your Fort Mackinac admission! First stop on your list is the American Fur Co. Store & Dr. Beaumont Museum. 2022 marks the 200th anniversary of Dr. William Beaumont’s famous achievement. Make sure you talk to the historical interpreter to learn about the building and the significant medical breakthrough that happened here, and explore the brand new exhibit. Right across the street is the McGulpin House. This house is one of the oldest private residences in Michigan. Built in the late 1700s, the house is an excellent example of early French-Canadian architecture. Look inside and imagine what it was like to live on Mackinac Island in the 1820s. Continue further down Market Street to Biddle House, featuring the Mackinac Island Native American Museum. The Biddle House has two exhibits inside the house, as well as a parlor restored to its historical appearance, that will tell the story of Agatha and Edward Biddle, the Anishnaabek of northern Michigan, and the critical decade of the 1830s. Stay and listen to stories from several members of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians. Within the same area, you can visit the Benjamin Blacksmith Shop. This shop is maintained today in a similar fashion to how it was in the 1950s, during the latter years of the Benjamin’s ownership. There you can watch live demonstrations and learn about traditional blacksmithing techniques. If you are looking for a cool souvenir to take home, ask the blacksmith if they have anything available from small nails to giant dinner bells. Once you complete everything on Market Street, make your way to The Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum. Nowhere else does a collection of Mackinac-related art and photography come together to tell Mackinac Island’s story. Multiple galleries focus on fine and decorative arts throughout the years – from hand-beaded Native American garments and 17th and 18th-century maps of the Great Lakes to one-of-a-kind pieces from the height of the island’s Victorian era. If you are visiting with kids, then they will love the hands-on activities at the Kid’s Art Studio as well!Bike Highway M-185 Since cars are not allowed on Mackinac Island, one of the most scenic ways to take in the natural beauty is by bicycle. Bring your own bicycle or rent one from one of the many bicycle shops located on Mackinac Island. M-185 encircles the island, and is the only state highway where cars are banned. The 8.2-mile loop will take about one hour to complete at a leisurely pace, but you will definitely want to plan more time for stops. Make sure to start at “Mile Marker 0” located in front of the Mackinac Island State Park Visitor’s Center. There are many historical and natural sights to see during your bike ride. If you do not want to bike around the entire island, there is one spot you do not want to miss. Arch Rock is one of the most famous rock formations on the island. You will see a pull-off area with bicycle racks and benches on the east side of M-185. It is a steep 207-step climb to Arch Rock, but the views are worth it! If you continue the M-185 loop, another popular stop is British Landing. This location has several historical markers, picnic tables, and great spots to take photos of the Mackinac Bridge. Do not forget to visit the British Landing Nature Center during your stop. Experience the wildlife, plants, and geology of Mackinac Island in this interactive nature center. Inside you will find a large cedar tree trunk, native animals on display, and more information about the natural history of Mackinac Island. Also, there are 24-hour accessible restrooms, a water fountain, tables, benches, and a bike repair station if needed. Once you get your second wind, continue riding your bike through downtown Mackinac Island to complete your 8.2-mile journey.Picnic in Marquette Park End your fun-filled day in Mackinac Island State Park relaxing at Marquette Park. This beautiful greenspace at the foot of Fort Mackinac is where soldiers in centuries past tended a garden. These days, the park is the perfect picnic location. Pick-up a meal from one of the many nearby restaurants and enjoy the flurry of horses, bicycles, and ferries that go by. Marquette Park is a popular venue for performances. Check our calendar of events to see what exciting events are scheduled in 2022.Bonus – Stargaze at Fort Holmes While it is not as dark as the nearby Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Fort Holmes is a great location for stargazing. If you are staying overnight on Mackinac Island, you should consider a night hike to Fort Holmes. The fort sits atop Mackinac Island’s highest point, 320 feet above lake level, and is accessed by either Fort Holmes Road or climbing 141 stairs from Rifle Range Road. At the top of the island, not only can you see stars, but also the Mackinac Bridge illuminated, and if you are lucky, the Northern Lights. Just remember to bring your flashlight to navigate the trails at night. With so much rich history and natural beauty, it is easy to see why Mackinac Island State Park is a popular destination. Whether you follow this guide or plan your own journey, there is no wrong way to explore Mackinac Island State Park!
Natural Springs of Mackinac Island Posted April 19, 2022 Mackinac Island is blessed with a number of natural springs which percolate through limestone bedrock. An 1882 tourist booklet, Mackinac Island, Wave-Washed Tourists’ Paradise of the Unsalted Seas, boasted of “living streams of pure water, cooled down to the temperature of forty-four degrees, gushing from its lime-rock precipices.” A few of these, such as Dwightwood Spring and Croghan Water, are well known by many of today’s visitors. Others, such as Wishing Spring, Wawatam Brook, and La Salle Spring, are less familiar or forgotten. When you do encounter a natural spring, please enjoy the view, but remember untreated water is considered unsafe for drinking.Sinclair’s map of Mackinac Island, 1779 A Fine SpringAs the British settled Mackinac Island from 1780-1781, water was viewed as a valuable resource. Lieutenant Governor Patrick Sinclair noted “a fine spring of water” on a map he drew after visiting the island in 1779. He wrote his superiors, “Our Village will be washed on one side by a fine Spring which with some care may be brought to turn a mill at least one day in seven.”More pressing priorities meant Sinclair never built his water-powered mill on Mackinac Island. The spring he referred to once fed a small trickle of water named Wawatam Brook for 20th century guidebooks. The brook originated near the Grand Hotel and emptied into a small lake now called Hanks Pond, which serves a water feature on the Jewel Golf Course. La Salle SpringThis 1829 survey map shows La Salle SpringA second natural spring once trickled into Hanks Pond, originating below Fort Mackinac’s West Blockhouse. Eventually christened La Salle Spring, it became a reliable source of water for Island residents and soldiers alike. In his 1895 book, Mackinac, Formerly Michilimackinac, Dr. John R. Bailey noted that log piping was used for feeding water to town, supplying “stores, warehouses, and dwellings of the fur company.”In 1881, a steam-powered pump was installed which elevated water from the spring through ½ inch lead pipes to a reservoir located in the second story of the North Blockhouse. From this high point, it then flowed through pipes into various fort buildings. In Annals of Fort Mackinac, author Dwight H. Kelton enlightened his readers, “This innovation on the old-time water-wagon was made… in accordance with a plan devised by, and executed under the direction of Lieut. D.H. Kelton, Post Quartermaster. Water was first pumped October 11, 1881.” Croghan WaterCroghan Water, 2021The north-central portion of Mackinac Island once featured the Island’s largest farm. By 1804, Michael Dousman harvested hay, raised cattle, and even built a horse-powered mill and distillery there. In 1814, the Battle of Mackinac Island was fought on Dousman’s hay fields. Today, links of the Wawashkamo Golf Club cover much of the site.Dousman’s distillery was situated near a flowing spring of cool water. On early maps, it was simply labeled “Cold Spring.” In 1913, the spring was renamed Croghan Water, in honor Colonel George Croghan, commander of American forces during the 1814 battle. Wishing SpringWishing Spring, ca. 1910This spring was the first which became a popular tourist destination. Once located near Devil’s Kitchen, it was also known as Lover’s Rest or Fairy Spring. During her 1872 visit to the site, novelist Constance Fenimore Woolson offered a token knot of ribbon and wished for health during the year.Rev. Frank O’Brien summarized the site in the 1916 guide, Names and Places of Interest on Mackinac Island, Michigan. He wrote, “This Wishing Spring is within a fragrant, fairy grotto. The water, clear as crystal, flows from above, dripping, cool and refreshing. If you drink and wish, and keep the secret for three days, tradition says you will get whatever you wish.” Dwightwood Spring Dwightwood Spring, ca. 1909This well-known spring is located along Lake Shore Boulevard (M-185), near the southeast corner of Mackinac Island. In 1909, Edwin O. Wood donated funds for a canopy, fountain, and benches in memory of his son, Dwight Hulbert Wood, who perished after his bicycle was struck by a horse-drawn fire engine in Flint, Michigan.That July, a dedication ceremony was held to christen Dwightwood Spring. During the ceremony, park superintendent Benjamin Franklin Emery noted the site was dedicated “to preserve the work of nature, to make the spring accessible, to prove a shelter in time of storm, to be a resting place for the weary, long to be remembered after leaving the beautiful Island shores.” An InvitationThe springs above represent just a few of Mackinac Island’s “living streams of pure water” which bubble up from its limestone bedrock. During your next visit, you’re invited to seek out these peaceful places, enjoy their quiet beauty, and discover special plants and animals that thrive there. Perhaps, like Ms. Woolson, you’ll feel inspired. “Now I am a sensible, middle-aged woman,” she wrote, “but something in the moonlight bewitched me, and I consented, much to the delight of my niece.”
Mackinac Island’s Other Arches Posted January 21, 2022 Arch Rock is Mackinac Island’s most famous and spectacular limestone formation. A century ago, curious visitors could find two additional arches, also celebrated for their natural beauty and rich traditions. Today, Sanilac Arch exists as a remnant of its former self, while Fairy Arch only remains in artwork, photos, and written accounts. Their stories highlight the importance of preservation and serve as reminders of nature’s continual process of change.For many years, a small boat was the easiest way to access Fairy Arch (1872) Fairy Arch Fairy Arch was first described in 1802 by Dr. Francis LeBarron as one of Mackinac Island’s two “natural arches of the Gothic order.” Over the following decades, a thick undergrowth of young trees blanketed the island landscape, which had been previously cleared for firewood. For most of the 19th century, Mackinac’s eastern shoreline was difficult to explore, covered by huge boulders and thick vegetation. In 1866, Fort Mackinac surgeon Dr. John R. Bailey rediscovered the 40-foot formation and coined the name Fairy Arch. Despite challenging access, the lovely arch appeared on 19th century maps and in guidebooks. In 1872, Constance Fenimore Woolson wrote, “Fairy Arch is of similar formation to Arched Rock, and lifts from the sands with a grace and beauty that justify the name bestowed upon it.” In an 1875 guidebook for visitors of the newly created Mackinac National Park, publisher John Disturnell noted Fairy Arch was about ¼ mile from Arch Rock. He wrote: “A little north and beyond [Robinson’s Folly] a high pinnacle of rude rock crops out from the mountain side, near the base of which is a very picturesque arch, known as the ‘Fairy Arch,’ or Arch of the ‘Giant’s Stairway.’ This spot is rather difficult of access owing to the presence of huge rocks and an entangled forest.” Fairy Arch became more accessible about 1900, when a boulevard completely encircling Mackinac Island was completed. From the shore, visitors were encouraged to climb huge limestone ledges, like giant steps, to explore this natural wonder. A 1918 guidebook noted, “To visit Mackinac Island and fail to climb the Giant’s Stairway and view this beautiful handiwork of nature, is to miss one of the leading features of the “Fairy Isle.”Views of Fairy Arch were sold as souvenir prints and postcards. The Detroit Publishing Company offered these two images in the first decade of the 20th century. To improve travel around Mackinac Island’s lakeshore, state highway M-185 was completed in 1933. In a misguided erosion control effort, Fairy Arch was destroyed in the late 1940s. Today, this unique formation only remain accessible through artwork, photographs, and written reminisces.Fairy Arch by Henry Chapman Ford (1874) Visitors to The Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum may enjoy a lovely and somewhat idealized view of Fairy Arch painted in 1874 by landscape artist Henry Chapman Ford. This oil on canvas painting is an example of luminism, a type of landscape painting popular from the 1850s through the 1870s. Click Here for museum hours and information. The Little ArchMen explore the “Lower Arch” in this view by photographer James A. Jenney (1874) One half of Arch Rock rests on a large pinnacle of Mackinac breccia limestone that towers 130 feet above Lake Huron. Near the base of this cliff is a small, tunnel like arch, which is now nearly filled with rocky debris. Once much larger, this small arch has been known through the years as the Lower Arch, Little Arch, Maiden Arch and Sannillac Arch. In 1874, photographer James A. Jenney, of Flint, Michigan printed a series of Picturesque – Mackinaw stereoview cards. His view, entitled, “Lower Arch to Natural Bridge” is one of the earliest known photos of this formation. A similar view was published by Mackinac Island photographer Edward P. Foley in 1887, entitled “Maiden Arch, Under Arch Rock.” For many visitors, this smaller formation was easier to explore from the lakeshore rather than risking a steep hillside climb to view Arch Rock from above. When Mackinac National Park was dissolved in 1895, the island’s arches became part of the newly created Mackinac Island State Park. That year, a visitor named “M.A.” described Maiden Arch in a small volume entitled, Eight Days Out. Victorian era tourists explore Maiden Arch.1886 (left) & 1890 (above) “From [Robertson’s Folly] we followed the beach north to the foot of Arch Rock… There we discovered an interesting arch, which is not on the program, but is more wonderful, and will exist for ages after the renowned arch has crumbled and gone. It is directly under the high cliff, or promenade which extends out into the lake, that tourists walk out upon while viewing the Arch Rock… Two hundred dollars would pay the expense of a winding stairway, down through the principal arch, then under the lower one, and extending to the lake, which would be the most picturesque scene on the island.” Maiden Arch was renamed Sannillac Arch in 1916, by author Frank O’Brien, in his booklet Names of Places of Interest on Mackinac Island, Michigan. Sannillac, a Wyandot leader, was the subject of an 1831 narrative poem by Henry Whiting. Written in the style of Native American legend, the popular work contained notes by Henry R. Schoolcraft, Indian Agent on Mackinac Island from 1833-1841. According to local lore, this small arch was a gate through which fairy children entered Mackinac Island, while giant fairies entered through the larger portal, Arch Rock. Over the years, its name was shortened to Sanilac Arch.A boy explores Sannillac Arch (ca. 1910-1920) Before 1950, tourist literature encouraged visitors to climb through Sanilac Arch. In 1948, an article in The Island News noted, “Mackinac Island [State Park] does not point it out with an official marker and it can only be reached by scrambling up the bluff. The little limestone rocks crumble underfoot and make ascent a tricky accomplishment. The alpenstock is proper equipment.” For thousands of years, erosion has naturally carved out the hillside beneath Arch Rock. Today, the space under Sanilac Arch has nearly filled in with small rocks and other debris. Protected behind a fence and stone wall, the little arch may only be enjoyed from a distance to protect this unique formation and preserve visitor safety.Today, the opening of Sanilac Arch has nearly filled in with stones and other natural debris. (October 2021)
American Fur Co. Store & Dr. Beaumont Museum Visitor Information Posted January 10, 2022 Travel Information The American Fur Co. Store & Dr. Beaumont Museum is located on Mackinac Island within the boundaries of Mackinac Island State Park, on the corner of Fort and Market Streets. Street Address 7232 Market Street Mackinac Island, MI 49757 Travel Directions Click here to map your route to the American Fur Co. Store & Dr. Beaumont Museum and for general travel information on your visit to Mackinac Island. Visitor Services Restrooms There are no restrooms at the American Fur Co. Store & Dr. Beaumont Museum. The nearest restrooms are located at the Mackinac Island State Park Visitor’s Center, down Fort Street on Main Street. Accessibility The American Fur Co. Store & Dr. Beaumont Museum warmly welcomes guests with special needs. Learn more about how guests with limited mobility or other special needs can fully enjoy their visit. Click here for complete information about accessibility. Visitation Tips & Courtesies Getting Around The American Fur Co. Store & Dr. Beaumont Museum is a small two-room house with two exhibits and live interpretation. Touring Time We recommend that you plan to spend a minimum of one half hour touring the site. Pet Friendly Well-behaved pets on leashes are welcome. Photography Photography is permitted and encouraged in all areas. Professional or group photography must be approved in advance. Electronic Devices Please silence electronic devices during audiovisual presentations and live demonstrations. Smoking The American Fur Co. Store & Dr. Beaumont Museum is a smoke-free site. Buy Tickets
Benjamin Blacksmith Shop Visitor Information Posted September 28, 2021 Travel Information Benjamin Blacksmith Shop is located on Mackinac Island within the boundaries of Mackinac Island State Park, on Market Street near the intersection of Astor Street. Street Address 7406 Market Street Mackinac Island, MI 49757 Travel Directions Click here to map your route to the Benjamin Blacksmith Shop and for general travel information on your visit to Mackinac Island. Visitor Services Restrooms There are no restrooms at the Benjamin Blacksmith Shop. The nearest restrooms are located behind the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau information building, or at the Mackinac Island State Park Visitor’s Center. Accessibility Benjamin Blacksmith Shop warmly welcomes guests with special needs. Learn more about how guests with limited mobility or other special needs can fully enjoy their visit. Click here for complete information about accessibility. Visitation Tips & Courtesies Getting Around The Benjamin Blacksmith Shop is a small shop featuring a working blacksmith, which includes some loud noises. Touring Time We recommend that you plan to spend a minimum of one half hour touring the site. Pet Friendly Well-behaved pets on leashes are welcome. A water bowl is located on the Biddle House grounds Photography Photography is permitted and encouraged in all areas. Professional or group photography must be approved in advance. Electronic Devices Please silence electronic devices during audiovisual presentations and live demonstrations. Smoking Benjamin Blacksmith Shop is a smoke-free site. Buy Tickets
3 ways to explore the ‘wild side’ of Mackinac Posted August 3, 2021 As the name suggests, the Mackinac State Historic Parks are full of history. Glimpses of the past are preserved through original structures such as the 240-year-old Officer’s Stone Quarters at Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island and artifacts such as the original Fresnel lens at Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse in Mackinaw City. But really, the human history on exhibit at Mackinac State Historic Parks is all recent history. The attractions in Mackinaw City and on Mackinac Island also represent eons of natural history that go back much, much farther in time. Some of the iconic rock formations in Mackinac Island State Park, for example, are estimated to have been shaped many thousands of years ago. And the forest of Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park, as well as the Straits of Mackinac itself, are even older than that. In fact, the region’s natural history is the reason there’s any human history to explore in the first place. After all, it was the narrow Great Lakes passage that brought people to the area and it was the forests that provided for them – lumber for homes, animals for food and pelts for the once-lucrative fur trade, for example. Mackinac State Historic Parks attractions showcase that mix of natural history and human history. It’s fascinating to tour Colonial Michilimackinac in Mackinaw City and learn about 18th-century life on the fort or step inside the old American Fur Company Store on Mackinac Island and discover what it was like to be a 19th-century trapper or trader. It’s also enlightening to get the backstory of those human experiences by stepping way back into the natural “wild side” of Mackinac. Here are three of the best ways to get an understanding of the incredible natural history within Mackinac State Historic Parks: – Did you know that more than 80% of Mackinac Island is state parkland? It was even once a national park! While many visitors rent bikes and pedal all the way around Mackinac Island on M-185, that scenic loop is partially closed in 2021 due to ongoing erosion repairs. All the more reason to pedal up into the middle of Mackinac Island instead and find more than 70 miles of roads and trails through forest that looks much like it did millennia ago. (Get the latest updates on M-185 repairs and detours on Mackinac Island.)Another popular ride is Mackinac Island’s Arch Rock Bicycle Trail, which takes you out to the iconic Arch Rock overlooking the southeast corner of the island. Arch Rock is a bucket-list natural history destination on its own. But along the way you can make stops on the Mackinac Island Botanical Trail, too. There are several trailside turnouts with interpretive areas where you can learn about the flowers and plants of Mackinac Island. – If hiking is more your style of exploration, then lace up your boots and take on the trails of Mackinac Island by foot. Many miles of trail aren’t even passable by bike, in fact. Roots and rocks combined with big changes in elevation make some trails within Mackinac Island State Park ideal for a strenuous hike, while the paved roads through the island’s interior offer a more leisurely option for immersing yourself in the ancient forest. Birdwatching on Mackinac Island is another great option for experiencing the wild side of Mackinac.In Mackinaw City, you can enjoy a stroll along the Straits of Mackinac at the foot of the Mackinac Bridge at Colonial Michilimackinac or walk for miles through the woods of Historic Mill Creek. Just as many visitors to Mackinac Island only scratch the surface of all there is to see, so do most people only see a fraction of Mill Creek. Many of the trails into the wilds of Mill Creek are even accessible, and there also are guided hikes scheduled each day.Before or after your tour, be sure to take the 71 steps up to the viewing platform atop the park’s Treetop Discovery Tower. The panoramic vista from up there offers a spectacular view of the whole region, and a great perspective on the natural features that attracted people to the Straits of Mackinac.There’s lot of history to experience at Mackinac State Historic Parks, including the wilderness where not many visitors venture. Come explore Mackinac’s wild side!
The Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum History Posted March 26, 2021 Constructed in 1838 as part of the federal Indian Agency, the “Indian Dormitory” served its original purpose for less than a decade. Use for a variety of federal government and public purposes through the middle nineteenth century, in 1867 it became the island’s public school. With several additions, it served this purpose until 1960. Surround by park commission-owned property, the Park Commission purchased the school in 1963 and restored it to its original appearance. The building opened as a museum in 1966. Featuring 1830s period settings and a Native American exhibit, by 2001 the exhibits were showing their age, and the structure was closed for renovation and reinterpretation. The evaluation of the future uses of the structure as a publicly accessible museum space thus coincided with the need for a venue for the commission’s art gallery. The upper floor, which previously contained the Native American exhibit, did not meet accessibility requirements, and, in fact, had been closed several years before the rest of the building. There was no climate control and, with the adoption of higher standards of collections care, the most fragile objects had been removed from exhibit even earlier. The building would need full climate control, fire suppression, and an elevator, all installed so as not to compromise the building’s original historic fabric. The funds for such a transformation were not available in the Park Commission’s budget. A private donor was needed. Fortunately one was available, whose interests were perfectly aligned to the idea of an art museum for Mackinac. Richard Manoogian is a major art collector and benefactor, and a Mackinac Island State Park Commissioner. With his wife Jane he is also a summer cottager with an intense interest in Mackinac Island. Impressed by the proposal, the conversion of the Indian Dormitory into an art museum was fully funded by the Richard and Jane Manoogian Foundation. Work commenced on the project in 2009. An addition to the back of the building was required to house an elevator and emergency stairway. Before construction began, archaeologists performed a full excavation to study the site of the addition. A number of the items found during the excavation related to the history of the structure itself. Prehistoric items were also uncovered, including pottery sherds dating from ca. 800-1000 A.D. One is the rim of a vessel decorated with a linear punctuate design. It is an example of the earliest type of Mackinac art, and is featured in the museum. The addition was carefully joined to the back of the original structure in an area that had previously been altered, with no loss of historic building fabric. Adapting the rest of the structure into a modern gallery space included the same level of care. All original material was carefully preserved and some features, such as the reconstruction of original hearths not done during the 1966 restoration, were finished at this time. Dedicated in July 2010, the museum showcases Mackinac art from Native American objects to recent creations.
Historic Mill Creek Private Events Posted November 19, 2020 Historic Mill Creek was originally in operation in the late 1780s, providing much of the lumber used to help build Mackinac Island. Witness the power of the creek harnessed to cut timber into lumber at one of the oldest industrial sites on the Upper Great Lakes. Then take time to explore the natural beauty of Mill Creek State Park, which has more than three miles of groomed hiking trails. Schedule & Amenities Private events may be scheduled at Historic Mill Creek from early May through October. All reservations include a 3-hour time block with the exhibits available for viewing. In the summer months, Historic Mill Creek is available daily 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Event set-up and preparation may begin after 5:30 p.m. for reception/dinner functions. No vendor or guest will be allowed to enter before that time. Guests may begin arriving any time after 6:30 p.m. Events and clean-up must be concluded by 10:00 p.m. In the case of inclement weather at Historic Mill Creek, the pavilion located near the David A. Armour Visitor’s Center will be available to guests. The pavilion offers 6 picnic tables for 36 people. Tables will be arranged underneath and the grounds near the pavilion. Programs All historic buildings will be open for guests. MSHP provides two historical interpreters to present a program highlighting the mill’s history which includes a mill and sawpit demonstration. Guidelines — A Mackinac State Historic Parks representative will be available throughout the private event to answer questions about the historic site. — Decorations must not in any way be affixed to, or otherwise endanger, museum buildings or collections. No tape and tacks of any type may be used to install decorations. Signage cannot be hung on the walls or within any windows. — It is the responsibility of the group to designate an individual to remove any decorations or other items immediately following the reservation; otherwise, the items will be removed and discarded by Mackinac State Historic Park staff. Mackinac State Historic Parks will not take the responsibility for storage of any items before or after the scheduled date. — Any special equipment brought onto a Mackinac State Historic Parks site must be approved prior to the day of the event. This includes lighting or amplifications systems. — Due to Mackinac State Historic Parks’ mission of preserving the natural integrity of the state park, only acoustic music is allowed. Use of amplification and sound systems must be approved by the Marketing and Group Travel Coordinator. Volume will be monitored by the Park Manager. — Properly licensed caterers are welcome at Historic Mill Creek. Excessive alcohol consumption within MSHP buildings and grounds is strictly prohibited. — “No Smoking” policy is enforced for all Mackinac State Historic Parks buildings and grounds. — Electricity is available in the park, but accessibility to the outlet is limited. — Restrooms are located at the pavilion and will remain open for the guests. — Parking must be in the parking lot of the Historic Mill Creek Visitor’s Center. No vehicles will be permitted onto the actual historical site grounds. Most of the trails and pathways within Historic Mill Creek are not paved. Fee A non-refundable $250 deposit must be made to secure Historic Mill Creek for a private event. Deposits can be made via check or credit card. 0-99 guests $750 100-200 guests $1,500 Refund Policy — $250 is non-refundable under any circumstances. — Cancellations 30 days or less prior to reserved date are non-refundable. Contact If you wish to view Historic Mill Creek, please call to schedule a visit. The historic site is open to the public, and you may also view it without an appointment. Dates and times fill up fast and are reserved on a first come, first served basis. Madisen Hansen (231) 436-4100 207 W Sinclair, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse Private Events Posted November 19, 2020 Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse was established in 1889 and provides beautiful views of the Mackinac Bridge and Straits of Mackinac. Authentically restored quarters and exhibits, including the original lens, a chance to explore the second floor of the house, a movie, Shipwrecks of the Straits, and the Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Museum make this “Castle of the Straits” a true gem of the Great Lakes. Schedule & Amenities Private events may be scheduled at Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse from early May through October. All reservations include a 3-hour time block with the exhibits available for viewing. In the summer months, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is available daily 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Event set-up and preparation may begin after 5:30 p.m. for reception/dinner functions. No vendor or guest will be allowed to enter before that time. Guests may begin arriving any time after 6:30 p.m. Events and clean-up must be concluded by 10:00 p.m. In the case of inclement weather, the private event will be relocated to the buildings, located within the lighthouse. This property is not approved for tent usage. Programs All historic buildings will be open for guests. A historical interpreter will present a program highlighting the lighthouse’s history and lead guests up the tower. Guidelines — A Mackinac State Historic Parks representative will be available throughout the private event to answer questions about the historic site. — Decorations must not in any way be affixed to, or otherwise endanger, museum buildings or collections. No tape and tacks of any type may be used to install decorations. Signage cannot be hung on the walls or within any windows. — It is the responsibility of the group to designate an individual to remove any decorations or other items immediately following the reservation; otherwise, the items will be removed and discarded by Mackinac State Historic Park staff. Mackinac State Historic Parks will not take the responsibility for storage of any items before or after the scheduled date. — Any special equipment brought onto a Mackinac State Historic Parks site must be approved prior to the day of the event. This includes lighting or amplifications systems. — Due to Mackinac State Historic Parks’ mission of preserving the natural integrity of the state park, only acoustic music is allowed. Use of amplification and sound systems must be approved by the Group Travel and Special Events Coordinator. Volume will be monitored by the Park Manager. — Properly licensed caterers are welcome at Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse. Excessive alcohol consumption within MSHP buildings and grounds is strictly prohibited. — “No Smoking” policy is enforced for all Mackinac State Historic Parks buildings and grounds. — Electricity is available in the lighthouse, but accessibility to the outlet is limited. — The nearest restroom is in Michilimackinac State Park, about 100 yards away. — Parking for guests must be in the lot of the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse. The fence gate adjacent to the parking lot will be the designated entrance and exit. Fee A non-refundable $250 deposit must be made to secure Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse for a private event. Deposits can be made via check or credit card. 0-99 guests $750 100 or more guests $1,500 Refund Policy — $250 is non-refundable under any circumstances. — Cancellations 30 days or less prior to reserved date are non-refundable. Contact If you wish to view Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, please call to schedule a visit. The lighthouse is open to the public, and you may also view it without an appointment. Dates and times fill up fast and are reserved on a first come, first served basis. Madisen Hansen (231) 436-4100 207 W Sinclair, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
Colonial Michilimackinac Private Events Posted November 19, 2020 Located on the shore of the Straits of Mackinac, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge, the straits, and the Upper Peninsula. Colonial Michilimackinac is a 18th-century fort and fur trading village, reconstructed based on historic maps and more than 60 years of archaeological excavations. Schedule & Amenities Private events may be scheduled at Colonial Michilimackinac from early May through October. Fort Mackinac is available for set-up 15 minutes after closing to the public. All reservations include a 3-hour time block with the Colonial Michilimackinac exhibits available for viewing. In the summer months, Colonial Michilimackinac is available for private events 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily during the operating season. Event set-up and preparation may begin immediately following the final rifle firing. No vendor or guest will be allowed to enter before that time. Guests may begin arriving any time after 7:00 p.m. Events must be concluded by 10:00 p.m. and clean-up finished by 11:00 p.m. In the case of inclement weather, the private event will be relocated to the Church of Ste Anne de Michilimackinac, located within Colonial Michilimackinac. This property is not approved for tent usage. Programs All historic buildings will be open for guests. MSHP provides two historical interpreters to present a program highlighting the fort’s history which includes firearms demonstrations. Guidelines — A Mackinac State Historic Parks representative will be available throughout the private event to answer questions about the historic site. — Decorations must not in any way be affixed to, or otherwise endanger, museum buildings or collections. No tape and tacks of any type may be used to install decorations. Signage cannot be hung on the walls or within any windows. — It is the responsibility of the group to designate an individual to remove any decorations or other items immediately following the reservation; otherwise, the items will be removed and discarded by Mackinac State Historic Park staff. Mackinac State Historic Parks will not take the responsibility for storage of any items before or after the scheduled date. — Any special equipment brought onto a Mackinac State Historic Parks site must be approved prior to the day of the event. This includes lighting or amplifications systems. — Due to Mackinac State Historic Parks’ mission of preserving the natural integrity of the state park, only acoustic music is allowed. Use of amplification and sound systems must be approved by the Group Travel and Special Events Coordinator. Volume will be monitored by the Park Manager. — Properly licensed caterers are welcome at Colonial Michilimackinac. Excessive alcohol consumption within MSHP buildings and grounds is strictly prohibited. — “No Smoking” policy is enforced for all Mackinac State Historic Parks buildings and grounds. — Electricity is available in the fort, but accessibility to the outlet is limited. — Parking for your guests must be at the Colonial Michilimackinac Visitor’s Center located underneath the south end of the Mackinac Bridge. The walk from the Visitor’s Center to the fort is 520 yards. — There are restrooms located inside within Colonial Michilimackinac will remain available for your guest. A 500-foot path leads from the Visitor’s Center to the fort. A layer of sand sometimes covers the hard-packed trail to and within the fort. Fee A non-refundable $250 deposit must be made to secure Colonial Michilimackinac for a private event. Deposits can be made via check or credit card. 0-99 guests $1,500 100-199 guests $2,000 200-299 guests $2,500 300 0r more guests $3,500 Refund Policy — $250 is non-refundable under any circumstances. — Cancellations 30 days or less prior to reserved date are non-refundable. Contact If you wish to view Colonial Michilimackinac, please call to schedule a visit. The fort is open to the public, and you may also view it without an appointment. Dates and times fill up fast and are reserved on a first come, first served basis. Madisen Hansen (231) 436-4100 207 W Sinclair, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
