Getting Here
Traveling to Mackinac Island is part of the adventure. Whether you’re arriving by car, ferry, plane, or private aircraft, reaching Lilac Tree Suites is simple and scenic.
Because Mackinac Island does not allow personal motor vehicles, all visitors arrive by ferry or small aircraft before exploring the island by foot, bicycle, or horse-drawn carriage.
Below is everything you need to know about planning your journey to Mackinac Island.
By Land
Most visitors traveling by car will arrive at the ferry docks located in Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, Michigan.
If you are traveling from southern Michigan or Detroit Metropolitan Airport, take I-75 North to Mackinaw City. Visitors coming from northern Michigan or Canada can take I-75 South to St. Ignace.
Both locations provide easy access to ferry service to Mackinac Island.
For navigation systems or mapping services, use these zip codes:
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49701 – Mackinaw City
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49781 – St. Ignace
From either dock, the ferry ride to Mackinac Island typically takes about 15–20 minutes.
Ferry Service to Mackinac Island
Two ferry companies provide regular service between the mainland and Mackinac Island throughout the travel season.
Ferry Options
- Shepler’s Ferry
- Mackinac Island Ferry Company
Both ferry services offer frequent departures from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace, making it easy to plan your arrival and departure times.
Parking & Luggage
Main Land Parking
Visitors driving to the ferry docks will find ample parking available near the terminals. Both ferry companies offer convenient parking options including:
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Self-parking lots
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Valet parking
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Luggage unloading areas
Upon arrival at the dock, luggage can be tagged for delivery directly to your hotel on Mackinac Island.
Luggage & Porter Service
Dock porters are available to assist with luggage once you arrive at Mackinac Island.
After stepping off the ferry, porters will transport luggage to the hotel until check-in time. Once your room is ready, they will be happy to deliver your luggage directly to your suite.
Before returning to the mainland, luggage may be tagged and stored at the hotel’s front desk. When you are ready to depart, dock porters will transport your luggage back to the designated ferry dock.
(Gratuities are appreciated for porter service.)
Guests bringing their own bicycles are responsible for transporting them between the ferry dock and the hotel.
Our Dock Porters
Learn more about our Dock Porters and how they transfer luggage to and from the hotel each day.
By Air
Commercial Flights
The nearest commercial airport to Mackinac Island is Pellston Regional Airport (PLN). Delta Airlines offers flights from several major cities.
Transportation from Pellston Airport to the ferry docks is available through Mackinaw Shuttle, located inside the airport terminal.
Travelers may also arrive through Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) in Traverse City, Michigan, which offers additional flights through Delta and United Airlines.
Charter & Island Flights
Visitors can also fly directly to Mackinac Island using charter or small aircraft services.
North Woods Aviation in Gaylord, Michigan offers charter flights to Mackinac Island and other destinations throughout northern Michigan.
Fresh Air Aviation provides regular service between St. Ignace, Beaver Island, and Mackinac Island, along with charter flight options.
Private Aircraft
Mackinac Island also welcomes private pilots. The Mackinac Island Airport, operated by Mackinac State Historic Parks, offers a scenic arrival experience.
Airport coordinates:
45° 51.89′ N / 084° 38.24’ W
The airport features a 3,500-foot runway, along with daily, monthly, and annual landing fee options.
Flying into Mackinac Island offers incredible views of Lake Huron, the Mackinac Bridge, and the surrounding forests and shoreline.
On Island Transportation
Transportation on Mackinac Island
Because cars are not permitted on Mackinac Island, transportation is part of the island’s charm.
Guests can travel around the island by:
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Walking
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Bicycling
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Horse-drawn carriage
Taxi service via horse-drawn carriage is available from the ferry docks or airport to the hotel.
Reservations are recommended. To arrange transportation, contact:
Mackinac Island Carriage Tours
906-847-3323
Start Your Mackinac Island Adventure
Once you arrive on Mackinac Island, everything is within easy reach. From historic attractions and waterfront views to downtown shopping and dining, the island offers a truly unique travel experience.
The team at Lilac Tree Suites looks forward to welcoming you and helping make your Mackinac Island stay unforgettable.
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