Happy Friday from our store to YOU!
September is off to a great start and I am loving the coming of fall this time of year! For this blog, I wanted to share what my family and I would consider a perfect September day on Mackinac Island! Read along for a taste of beauty and some ideas for your next island visit:
First, a morning wake-up drink from Lucky Bean Coffeehouse is a must...
... Then, a bike ride around the island on M-185, taking stops at your favorite scenic photos...
...If you've never been inside The Grand Hotel, you must! It is worth the $10 to take a self-guided tour through the famous historic hotel. Head to the very top, to the Cupola bar, for more beautiful views of the island and the Straits of Mackinac and for a delicious cocktail or mocktail! The News Stand in the hotel is a cute little shop with magazines, books about the Grand Hotel, cards, snacks and beverages. I like to look at the sweet cards and pick up a homemade caramel...
...On your bike ride or walk back downtown, take a little detour in the 'forest' just before the hotel. It's a peaceful walk through trails that leads you to the famous Esther Williams Pool and even a 'Secret Garden'...
...For lunch, I suggest the Tea Room inside Fort Mackinac. The Tea Room has some of the best views, the food is light but delicious and then you can tour Fort Mackinac following lunch...
...Of course shopping has to be on your agenda! Hit the local shops on Main Street and Market Street. Make sure you visit Little Luxuries, Artists Market and Canvas and Paddle!...
...While downtown, visit the famous Pink Pony bar and America's Oldest Grocery Store, Doud's Market...
...Need a rest? Find a spot in Marquette Park to relax and watch the boats in the harbor, or just people watch along Main Street...
...For dinner, if you want to escape downtown, head for a leisurely bike ride to the Woods Restaurant, or the restaurant at Stonecliffe Inn. After dinner, go to Sunset Rock, which is behind Stonecliffe Inn, for some stunning sunset views overlooking the Mackinac Bridge ...
...On your ride back downtown, take a bike ride through the Annex, a historic neighborhood just past the West Bluff. There are beautiful homes and landscape to enjoy...
...By this time, it's probably time to catch an evening boat back to the mainland. Hope these insider tips for a perfect day on the island are helpful!
Enjoy!
Nicole,
xoxo
