Self-Guided Scenic Mackinac Island Cycling Tour

What your day looks like

Mackinac Island has been called the queen of the Great Lakes for centuries. On this cycling tour, you’ll see just how true that is, and always has been. Starting on the fringe of Marquette Park, you’ll circumnavigate the island, sticking to a highway where cars are completely banned. As you take in the island’s beauty at your own pace, you’ll delve into its history, from recent to ancient, and everything in between. You’ll find out how a single woman took on the powerful John Jacob Astor fur empire, how Fort Mackinac played a big role in the American Revolution, and how the War of 1812 forced the Americans out of the fort. This tour isn’t all history. You’ll see major geologic wonders like Arch Rock, and smaller ones like Devil’s Kitchen. You’ll visit a hidden gem on a small nature trail and learn a surprising detail about the clear water surrounding the island. You’ll also discover who lies buried beneath the altar at St. Anne’s Church and why, and learn about one of the island’s most important topics: who makes the best fudge. Along the way, you’ll have a chance to: Whizz past Marquette Park while learning the unique history of its famous lilac bushes Hear the early history of the island’s 17th-century fort Find out about Madame La Framboise, a woman of Ojibwe and French descent Discover the multi-layered, sometimes unusual history of Mission Point, including its dangerous ski lift and connection to the Moral Re-Armament Group Enjoy lunch at Cannonball Oasis, a restaurant near the north end of the island, and discover why the British landed here at the start of the War of 1812 Discover the best parts of downtown, including where to eat everything from fine dining to casual meals, and the island’s best bookstore By the time you’ve finished this circular 120-minute tour, you’ll have a greater appreciation for the history of the island and its people. You may also feel inspired to explore more of the island, either with another tour or on your own.