The 4th of July on Mackinac Island means pulling out the stops for a star-spangled celebration. To make sure you make the most of your Northern Michigan 4th of July, we’ve got you covered with plenty of Northern Michigan travel ideas to make your 4th of July stay on the island memorable. From food and drink to fireworks, celebrate America’s birthday with a star-spangled Mackinac Island 4th of July.
Begin your day with with some 4th of July fuel at JL Beanery located 5 minutes east of the docks. Snag a cup of joe and a bagel before you start a star-spangled day of fun. Then head over to Fort Mackinac and cover your ears during the 38 gun salute: watch canon firing and more from one of the only two remaining Revolutionary War forts in America. Find the fort’s demonstration schedule at MackinacParks.com.
After kicking your morning off with a blast, decide on one or two of the many activities on the island to enjoy. Stop and grab some fudge at Murdick’s while you roam the streets of downtown Mackinac. Head to the Pink Pony for a refreshing Lilac Lemon Drop while you revel in the sunshine and cool breeze off the water. If you have kiddies in tow, head over to Windermere Point to take part in activities hosted by the Mackinac Island fire department, like the greasy pole climb and sack races.
If you have a good amount of time on your hands, then the best way to enjoy your 4th of July is by renting a bike and taking a trip around the island. Most vacationers stretch their legs on the South Boulevard loop that runs along the shoreline. If you’ve mastered the South Loop then head into the woodsy interiors of Mackinac Island for stunning views and glances at last-century cottage mansions.  Click to learn about biking on Mackinac Island.
Watch this video on Mackinac Island Biking to learn more:
When it’s dinnertime, head back to Fort Mackinac for the All-American picnic, an all-you-can-eat feast featuring, hot dogs, BBQ ribs, corn on the cob and more from the kitchens of the Grand Hotel. Tickets include admission to the fort for $49 per adult and $26 per child, and can be purchased at the Grand Hotel, Fort Mackinac, and Mackinac Island State Park Visitors Center.
Finish the day off by heading over to the Grand Hotel and grabbing a 4th of July drink from ‘Red Hot Best’ bartender Jesse Bader at the Gate House. Then, gather your chairs and blankets and find a spot to catch the spectacular fireworks show over the water at dusk. Most grab a seat at the school yard or shoreline along the southern edge of the island, and guests of the Grand Hotel can stretch out on the worlds biggest front porch. If you’re searching for a truly remarkable experience, purchase tickets and hop aboard Shepler’s or Star Line Ferry for a 4th of July Fireworks Cruise:
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