Detroit to Mackinac Island Road Trip Michigan Adventure

Trip Snapshot

• Distance & Drive Time: ~290 miles from Detroit to Mackinaw City (approximately 4.5 hours drive north on I-75), plus a 15-minute ferry ride to Mackinac Island. Additional side trips (Upper Peninsula, Tunnel of Trees, Traverse City) will add miles.
• Best Time to Visit: Summer (June–August) is peak season for Mackinac Island and northern Michigan, with warm weather and all attractions open. Late spring and early fall are also lovely (think lilacs in June or fall foliage in October), but pack layers. Many island businesses close in winter.
• Ideal For: Nature lovers, families, couples seeking a romantic getaway, history buffs, and anyone looking to slow down and enjoy small-town charm and great lake views.
• Route Summary: Drive north on I-75 through Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, passing cities like Flint and “Up North” communities. Stop off in friendly small towns (Midland, Gaylord) or natural spots along the way. End at Mackinaw City at the tip of the mitten, then ferry over to Mackinac Island, where cars are banned and time feels frozen in the Victorian era. Optionally, cross the Mighty Mackinac Bridge into the Upper Peninsula for a taste of the U.P., or detour on the way back via the scenic Tunnel of Trees route near Harbor Springs.
• Top Highlights: Strolling the immaculate gardens of Dow Gardens in Midland, savoring a slice of pie in the Alpine-themed village of Gaylord, crossing the iconic Mackinac Bridge between Michigan’s peninsulas, circling Mackinac Island by bicycle (no cars allowed!), trying the island’s famous fudge, enjoying lake vistas along M-119’s Tunnel of Trees, and perhaps wine tasting in Traverse City if time allows.

Route Overview

Leave behind Detroit’s skyline as I-75 leads you directly north. The first leg cuts through Michigan’s heartland. About 1.5 hours from Detroit, consider a detour in Midland (via US-10 W for 5 miles) to visit Dow Gardens a 110-acre botanical paradise created by the Dow chemical family, bursting with flowers, water features, and even an elevated forest walkway. It’s a perfect spot to stretch your legs and inhale some fresh pine-scented air. Back on I-75, continue north past miles of green forest and farmland. Another possible stop is Gaylord, nicknamed Michigan’s “Alpine Village” for its quaint Bavarian-style downtown. This is a convenient lunch stop try a local café or grab snacks for the road.

As you approach the top of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, you’ll start sensing the change: vast Lake Huron appears on the horizon and signs for Mackinaw City pop up. After roughly 4.5 hours of driving, you’ll roll into Mackinaw City, the end of I-75 at the Straits of Mackinac. Here stands the engineering marvel Mackinac Bridge, a majestic suspension bridge spanning 5 miles across the straits. But before crossing it, look for the ferry docks it’s time to park the car and hop a ferry to Mackinac Island. Two main ferry lines (like Shepler’s Ferry or Star Line) offer frequent departures from Mackinaw City to the island (as well as from St. Ignace on the U.P. side). Mackinac Island is just a 15-minute boat ride away; as you approach, you’ll see the island’s wooded bluffs and grand Victorian hotels greeting you.

On Mackinac Island, motor vehicles are prohibited in fact, cars have been banned here for over a century, preserving the island’s peaceful 19th-century atmosphere. The only ways to get around are by foot, bicycle, or horse-drawn carriage. Wander down Main Street with its colorful Victorian architecture and smell the sweet scent of fudge wafting from the many candy shops. (Mackinac Island is famous for its fudge don’t be surprised to see tourists dubbed “fudgies” carrying pink boxes!)

Spend the day exploring the island: rent a bike and pedal the 8.2-mile loop around the island’s shoreline, passing natural curiosities like Arch Rock (a limestone archway over the water) and historic sites like Fort Mackinac (an 18th-century fort with guided tours). You’ll hear the clip-clop of horse hooves as carriages taxi visitors about consider taking a horse-drawn carriage tour for a narrated journey to sites like the Grand Hotel and Surrey Hills. The crown jewel of the island is the Grand Hotel, a colossal white hotel from 1887 with the world’s longest porch. Even if you’re not staying there, you can visit for a fee to enjoy its famous porch views or afternoon tea service.

After enjoying Mackinac Island (whether as a day trip or with an overnight stay), make your way back to the mainland via ferry. From Mackinaw City, you have options: head back south toward Detroit or continue the adventure. Many road trippers choose to cross the Mackinac Bridge into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (U.P.) even if just for a quick look. The bridge crossing is unforgettable (and slightly thrilling on a windy day). On the U.P. side is the town of St. Ignace, where you can reward yourself with a classic U.P. treat: a hot pasty (a savory meat-and-potato hand pie introduced by Cornish miners, beloved in these parts). Lehto’s Pasties in St. Ignace is a famed spot for this local comfort food.

If time permits on your return journey, consider a scenic detour along M-119, the Tunnel of Trees. This historic route begins near Harbor Springs (reachable by heading west from I-75 past Petoskey). The Tunnel of Trees is a narrow, winding road that snakes along the Lake Michigan coast under a canopy of lush hardwoods offering breathtaking lake vistas and autumn colors if you come in the fall. The drive leads to quaint stops like the Good Hart General Store and ends in Cross Village, home of the legendary Legs Inn restaurant (known for Polish food and quirky décor). It’s a slow, relaxing drive that really showcases Michigan’s natural beauty. From there, you can loop back to I-75 or continue south toward Traverse City, the cherry-capital resort town famous for its wineries and beaches, if you want to extend your trip westward. Finally, head back toward Detroit with memories of Mackinac’s timeless charm still fresh in your mind.

The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, with its 660-foot long porch and historic charm, epitomizes the leisurely elegance of a bygone era. Arriving by ferry, you’re greeted by horse carriages and the clatter of hooves a step back in time.

Top Stops & Experiences

• Midland & Bay City, MI Get a taste of small-city Michigan. In Midland, stroll through Dow Gardens with its beautiful flowerbeds and the nation’s longest canopy walk through the trees. Adjacent is the Whiting Forest, offering a serene woodland experience. Nearby Bay City (if you take a slight eastward route on US-10) sits on Lake Huron’s Saginaw Bay and has a charming riverside downtown check out any local festivals in summer or the antique shops.
• Gaylord, MI This “Alpine Village” in Northern Michigan is a convenient stop along I-75. Its downtown features Alpine-style architecture and even a glockenspiel that plays music. Stretch your legs at Aspen Park (with walking trails and maybe a chance to spot elk at the city’s elk park). If you’re hungry, try a hearty meal at a local tavern or German-style bakery as a nod to the town’s theme.
• Mackinaw City, MI The gateway to Mackinac. Visit the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse near the base of the Mackinac Bridge for great views and a dose of maritime history. Kids will enjoy the kitschy Mystery Spot or Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park (with a zipline and sawmill demos) just outside town. Don’t leave town without grabbing some Mackinac Island fudge or fresh caramel corn from a shop it’s a preview of the treats on the island.
• Mackinac Island, MI The centerpiece of this trip. Top experiences include renting a bike to circle the island on M-185 (the nation’s only state highway that bans cars!), touring Fort Mackinac (try to catch the cannon firing demonstration), and sampling fudge from famous spots like Murdick’s or Ryba’s. History enthusiasts might visit the Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum or the tranquil Mission Church (one of Michigan’s oldest churches). Nature lovers can hike up to Fort Holmes (the island’s highest point) or explore the interior forests on horseback. Evening on Mackinac is magical as day-trippers leave, the island quiets. If you stay overnight, consider a sunset stroll by the harbor or a ghost tour through downtown’s historic buildings.
• St. Ignace & Upper Peninsula, MI After crossing the Mackinac Bridge into the U.P., explore St. Ignace’s laid-back waterfront. The Bridge View Park on the north side offers a panoramic look at the Mackinac Bridge (beautifully lit at night). Learn about Native American history at the Museum of Ojibwa Culture in St. Ignace. And of course, try a Lehto’s pasty or two a U.P. rite of passage! If you have more time in the U.P., natural wonders like Tahquamenon Falls or Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore beckon a few hours away.
• Harbor Springs & Tunnel of Trees (M-119), MI On your return south (or on the way up, if you detour west at Petoskey), drive the famed Tunnel of Trees. Start from Harbor Springs, a picturesque resort town where you can grab an ice cream cone or coffee by the marina. As you drive north on the winding road, you’ll be treated to overlooks of Lake Michigan and lush hardwood forests. Stop at Good Hart’s general store for homemade pot pies or jam, and at Legs Inn in Cross Village even if just to peek at its bizarre driftwood-adorned building and lovely garden overlooking the lake. This scenic route (especially stunning in autumn) is a slow 20-mile drive worth every moment.

Where to Eat & Stay

• Up North Eats: Northern Michigan is known for hearty, homestyle fare. Along the way, you might find roadside stands selling fresh cherries, fudge shops galore, and local specialties like smoked whitefish dip. In Mackinaw City, get a whitefish sandwich or basket (fresh from the Great Lakes) at Scalawag’s Whitefish & Chips a local favorite. On Mackinac Island, treat yourself to afternoon tea at the Grand Hotel (dress code applies in the evening, but daytime tea is smart casual) or have a lakeside lunch at the Island House Hotel’s patio. Don’t forget dessert: Mackinac’s original Murdick’s Fudge has been making creamy fudge since 1887. For dinner, The Pink Pony is an iconic waterfront bar/restaurant where you can enjoy a burger or fresh catch with a view of the harbor. If you venture into the Upper Peninsula, a pasty from Lehto’s is the quintessential quick meal. And in Harbor Springs/Petoskey, sample Michigan’s craft beer and wine at a brewpub or winery (the Petoskey Wine Region is gaining fame).
• Lodging: Accommodations range from rustic to opulent. In Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, you’ll find many chain hotels and cozy motels booking ahead in summer is advised. For a special experience, stay overnight on Mackinac Island. Options include grand resorts like the Grand Hotel (historic luxury with strict dress codes for dinner and a premium price that includes meals) or Mission Point Resort (family-friendly with great sunrise views). There are also several charming B&Bs and smaller inns on the island, like the Island House or Chippewa Hotel, which let you soak up the evening ambiance after day-trippers leave. If you’re detouring to Traverse City on the way back, consider staying at a local inn or one of the waterfront resorts there (especially if you’re into wineries or beaches). Wherever you stay, book early for peak season (July-August), as this is a very popular route for Michigan travelers.

Practical Tips

• Start Early in Summer: Traffic heading north on Fridays or holidays can be heavy as everyone escapes the city for up north. To beat the crowds (and find smoother sailing on the ferries), leave Detroit early in the morning. The same goes for catching the first ferries to Mackinac Island morning boats are less crowded, and you’ll maximize your island time.
• What to Pack: Even in summer, northern Michigan weather can be capricious. Bring a light jacket or sweater, as mornings and evenings on the water can be cool. Comfortable walking shoes are a must (you’ll be on your feet a lot on Mackinac). If you plan to bike on the island, you can bring your own helmet or rent one with the bicycle. Don’t forget sunscreen the sun reflects off the water around the island and along the lakeshore drives. And if you’re sensitive to bugs, some mosquito repellent for evenings is wise (especially after rain or in wooded areas).
• Reservations & Tickets: During peak season, consider booking your ferry tickets online in advance you can often save a few dollars or at least skip the ticket line. Same goes for accommodation: Mackinac Island hotels should be reserved months ahead for summer weekends. If you want to dine at the Grand Hotel or have the famous Sunday brunch there, call ahead for a reservation.
• Bridge Crossing: The Mackinac Bridge can occasionally close or impose speed limits during high winds check the Mackinac Bridge Authority for any alerts, especially if you’re driving an RV or towing (there are escort services in very high winds). The bridge toll is $4.00 for regular vehicles (as of 2025, cash or card accepted). It’s a smooth drive across; just keep both hands on the wheel and enjoy the view!
• No Car, No Problem: Remember, Mackinac Island is car-free. Plan to leave your vehicle either at your hotel in Mackinaw City/St. Ignace or in one of the ferry company’s secured parking lots (some are free, others charge a daily fee for gated lots or indoor storage). Pack a day bag for the island with essentials so you can leave luggage in the car if not staying overnight. Everything on the island is walkable or reachable by bike/horse carriage. It’s a truly different pace of life.
• Respect the Island: The island’s charm comes from its preservation help keep it that way. Bicyclists yield to horses and pedestrians, and don’t litter (there are trash cans frequently along Main Street and the lakeshore trail). If you go for a late-night stroll, keep noise down to appreciate the rare quiet. The stars on a clear night up here are incredible, thanks to minimal light pollution.

Rentals & Logistics

If you don’t have a car, renting a vehicle in Detroit is straightforward and gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Opt for a rental with ample trunk space you may be hauling bags, picnic gear, or ferrying souvenirs like fudge and wine on the way back! Before leaving Detroit, fill up the gas tank (fuel prices might be higher in tourist towns up north). Along I-75, rest areas are plentiful, and towns like Gaylord or Grayling are good refuel points for both gas and snacks. Cell service is generally reliable on the main highways and in towns, but may get spotty on remote byways like M-119; download maps offline if you plan to wander off the beaten path. Lastly, this journey is as much about the voyage as the destination embrace the slower pace of Northern Michigan. There’s a famous local saying: “Up North, we go by ‘lake time’.” So relax, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy every mile from Motor City to Mackinac’s magical shores.