30 years seems so far back in time. But in some ways it feels like it was just yesterday. My oldest daughter Jessie was 4 and my daughter Kelly had just turned 1. When I think back to those days and the memories and the great times we had, it’s like going back in time. Just like on Mackinac Island. 30 years ago, on Mackinac Island another big milestone was taking place. The grand opening of the Lilac Tree Hotel! This season, everyone’s happy and proud to be celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the Lilac Tree Suites and Spa! 30 years! And speaking of anniversaries, my wife and I always spend our anniversary on Mackinac Island!

Mackinac Island is rich with history and the history of The Lilac Tree Hotel is proud to be a part of that. The hotel was completed in June 1991 and was the first hotel built on Mackinac Island in over 75 years. The Lilac Tree has 39 uniquely appointed suites which include a large bedroom, luxurious bathroom, a living area (some have balconies), TV’s, phones, a wet bar with a refrigerator, microwave and air conditioning. Each suite vividly reflects the French, English and American heritage of Mackinac Island with variations of wood, wicker, and iron antiques highlighting bold patterns and colors. No two suites are alike. The Lilac Tree Hotel which is now called The Lilac Tree Suites and Spa, and with its central downtown Mackinac Island location and modern-day amenities, has become one of the more popular hotels on Mackinac Island. And with beautiful rooms and views like this, it’s no wonder!


This year’s Mackinac Island’s Lilac Festival was a huge success! The Lilac Tree Suites and Spa was booked solid and everyone had a great time! That’s a great sign that Covid is in the rear- view mirror as Brian Bailey, the GM said during a live MI Best video interview on Mackinac!

As things are getting back to normal on the island, It’s great that masks are no longer required at the Lilac Tree Suites and Spa if you’re fully vaccinated! That’s a great feeling even though I’m used to wearing my mask for so long! But, I have a Pink Pony mask so I was okay with that!

In one of my prior blogs, I wrote that in many rooms, bathtubs are being removed to be replaced with brand new shower stalls which I’m sure you will love! This is what I was talking about! You’ll love these brand new, roomy shower stalls! Check this out!
There’s so much to do and see when you return to Mackinac Island this season!

We love biking around the island and exploring the beauty of all things Mackinac!


Arch Rock is one of our favorite places to go on our journey whether on top or down on M-185!

Whether you love to bike ride like us, go for walks or take a Carriage tour, you’ll have a great time taking in the breathtaking beauty and views as you go back in time.

The role Mackinac Island played in our nation’s history is amazing. Go to British Landing and take it all in.

Going to the West Bluffs always guarantees a great view!
Here are some exciting events that are coming up soon to so if you haven’t made your reservations yet, now is the time! Here’s what’s coming up in July for Mackinac’s 2021 season!
- Stone Skipping Contest, Sunday, July 4
- Mackinac Island Fireworks, Sunday, July 4
- Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac, July 17-20
- Vintage Baseball Game, Saturday, July 24
- Bayview Mackinac Race, July 24-27

The fabulous hard-working teams are looking forward to your return to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Lilac Tree Suites & Spa! 2021 is going to be a fantastic season on Mackinac Island and you’ll enjoy the “suite” lake cottage feel that everyone loves. Give them a call to make your reservations for your great get-away that you deserve and tell them I said “hi!” They have a suite with your name on it. Sweet!
George Piliouras for The Lilac Tree Suites and Spa
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