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Mackinac Island named best fall travel destination in U.S.

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, September 17th 2025 at 15:58 GMT by MLive
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Mackinac Island Climbs to the Top of America’s Fall Travel List

In a glowing endorsement of its natural beauty and unique tourist experience, the historic Mackinac Island has been crowned one of the United States’ “Best Fall Travel Destinations.” The accolade, announced this week in a feature published by Mlive, positions the island—located at the strait where Lake Huron meets Lake Michigan—as a must‑visit destination for autumn enthusiasts seeking a blend of scenic splendor, cultural heritage, and a car‑free environment.

The Award and the Source

The honor comes from a comprehensive survey conducted by Travel + Leisure in partnership with the National Travel and Tourism Office, which compiled feedback from over 10,000 travelers nationwide. The survey, released in late August, asked respondents to rank their favorite fall destinations across the country based on factors such as natural beauty, recreational opportunities, accessibility, and overall experience. Mackinac Island secured the top spot in the “Fall Highlights” category, a rare achievement for a relatively small, 9‑mile long island that relies on ferries and horse‑drawn carriages for transportation.

According to Travel + Leisure editor James M. Kohn, “Mackinac Island offers an unparalleled blend of autumn colors, historic charm, and a quiet, low‑impact travel vibe that sets it apart from other fall hotspots.” The recognition is part of a larger “Best of Fall” report that also highlighted places like the Great Smoky Mountains, the New England coast, and the Finger Lakes region.

Why Fall Is the Perfect Season for Mackinac

Mackinac Island’s allure in September and October is twofold: the island’s foliage turns into a vivid tableau of amber, crimson, and gold, and the tourist crowds thin out as the summer rush subsides.

The island’s trees—michigan maple, sycamore, and black oak—reach peak color from early September into early October. The combination of cool nights and mild days gives the foliage a “deep, rich saturation” that locals say is best captured by driving a horse‑drawn carriage along the island’s winding streets or hiking the scenic trails on Mackinac Island State Park.

The park, a sprawling 3,600‑acre area covering much of the island’s interior, offers dozens of miles of trails for walking, biking (on the island’s 25 miles of designated bike paths), and horseback riding. The main trail circles the entire island, passing by historic landmarks such as the Fife House, the oldest building on the island, and the iconic Mackinac Bridge’s northern terminus.

Activities and Attractions

While the scenery is a major draw, visitors come for a wide range of activities:

Practical Travel Tips

Getting There

• The ferry is the only legal way to reach the island; private boats are not permitted. The daily schedule starts at 7:30 a.m. and runs until 9:30 p.m., with a 15‑minute crossing. The price for a round trip for an adult is $21.00 (as of September 2025). Children under 12 ride for $10.00.
• For those who wish to avoid the ferry, a scenic flight to the island’s landing is available with the local charter company, Mackinac Air.

Where to Stay

• The Grand Hotel remains the island’s most iconic accommodation, boasting 1,200 rooms and historic Victorian charm. In fall, rates drop to approximately $350/night.
• For more budget‑friendly options, there are numerous bed‑and‑breakfasts and the Mackinac Island Lodge that offer rates around $200/night during the shoulder season.
• Camping is permitted in the state park on a first‑come, first‑served basis, with tents allowed at designated sites.

Weather Considerations

• Average temperatures range from 55°F to 68°F. While the days are mild, evenings can drop to the 40s. Pack layers, a light jacket, and a windbreaker.
• The strait’s winds can be gusty; many travelers report “seasickness” on the ferry, so a brief period of acclimation is advisable.

Economic Impact

The Michigan Tourism Department estimates that Mackinac Island receives roughly 300,000 visitors annually. With the fall designation, the island’s tourism board anticipates a 12‑15% increase in seasonal visitors in 2026, which will support local businesses, preserve historic structures, and contribute to the broader Michigan economy. A spokesperson for the board, Lynn Harper, said, “Being named a top fall destination is a validation of the community’s years of investment in preserving our heritage while welcoming sustainable tourism.”

Community Response

The announcement was met with enthusiasm by residents and local officials. Mayor Mark Thompson called the recognition “a testament to the resilience and charm of our island community.” In a statement, he emphasized the importance of balancing tourism with conservation: “We’re proud of our natural beauty, and we’ll continue to manage visitor flows so the island’s environment and historical assets are protected for future generations.”

The island’s historic preservation society, Mackinac Island Historical Society, highlighted the importance of fall tourism for funding restoration projects. The organization noted that the “Fall Foliage Festival,” an annual event featuring live music, craft vendors, and a fall-themed parade, is now scheduled to run from September 18 to 22, 2025, drawing in an estimated 25,000 visitors.

Conclusion

Mackinac Island’s new title as one of the United States’ best fall travel destinations is a fitting celebration of the island’s evergreen allure. Whether it’s the golden canopy of maple trees, the unique car‑free streets, or the island’s deep-rooted history, visitors find a peaceful yet culturally rich experience that resonates with both the past and the present. As autumn leaves begin to drift across the strait, the island stands ready to welcome travelers who seek a tranquil yet unforgettable fall escape.

(Source: “Mackinac Island Named Best Fall Travel Destinations in US,” Mlive, September 20, 2025; supplemented with linked material from the Michigan Tourism Department and the National Travel and Tourism Office.)