How to Get to Mackinac Island: Ferry, Parking, and Luggage Guide
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Mackinac Island, Michigan is a truly special vacation destination unlike any other in the Midwest. With its charming car-free streets, horse-drawn carriages, and sweeping views of Lake Huron, the island offers a step back in time that feels magical. It’s having a bit of a social media moment lately, and for good reason—this picturesque island is a one-of-a-kind experience. While getting there does require some planning, the extra effort only adds to the adventure and creates memories you’ll never forget.
Ways to Get to Mackinac Island
Because of its unique location and vehicle restrictions, you can only get to Mackinac Island by boat, plane, or snowmobile (in winter). Most visitors take one of two public ferry services: Shepler’s Ferry or Arnold Transit (formerly Star Line Ferry). Both operate from Mackinaw City in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula and St. Ignace in the Upper Peninsula.
While Arnold tickets are typically a bit cheaper, I personally recommend and always use Shepler’s Ferry. Known for its polished service and long-standing family ownership, Shepler’s offers an efficient, smooth, and even fun experience from start to finish—so much so that their employees are called “cast members,” just like at Disney!
Shepler’s Ferry Ticket Prices (Summer 2025)
- Adult Round Trip: $38
- Children (5-12): $26
- Children under 5: Free
- Pets (cats/dogs): Free
- Bring Your Own Bike: $21 (don’t forget bike locks!- this one comes in cute colors 🙂
- Day Parking Pass: $15 (self-park)
- Overnight Parking: $25 per night (standard)
Premium Parking is available right at the dock, while standard parking is located across the street on S Huron Ave. Both are self-park options.
Traveling to Mackinac Island for A Day Trip? Here’s What to Do:
If you’re visiting Mackinac Island just for the day, save yourself time by purchasing tickets and a day parking pass online and heading straight to the Day Parking Lot at 311 S. Nicolet Street (Exit 338 off I-75 North). A complimentary shuttle runs continuously between this lot and the dock. Once there, you can easily purchase tickets and your day parking pass if you haven’t already bought them online.
Staying Overnight? Here’s What to Expect:
If you’re staying overnight on the island, go directly to the Shepler’s dock. Overnight parking cannot be purchased online, so I would recommend just purchasing your tickets and parking at the dock. You can temporarily park there while Shepler cast members help unload your luggage.
How Luggage Works with Shepler’s
Hand your bags to a Shepler employee at the dock, and your luggage will be placed on the ferry. Once you arrive at Mackinac Island, you’ll claim your bags at the luggage claim area unless you are staying at a hotel that provides dock porters.
Pro Tip: Look for your hotel’s porter when you arrive, and they’ll transport your bags directly to your hotel—easy and stress-free!
Important Notes About Luggage While Traveling to Mackinac Island:
- Your luggage may sit unattended for short periods at your hotel lobby or dock claim area. For example, during my stay at the Chippewa Hotel, I saw luggage waiting in the lobby both on arrival and departure.
- When returning to the mainland, your luggage will be placed in a tented area at the dock, where you collect it yourself.
- While I’ve never experienced or heard of theft, I recommend keeping valuables (jewelry, cash, ID) with you. Consider using luggage locks and AirTags for added peace of mind.
- I recommend bringing cash to show appreciation for the dock porters taking care of your luggage for you. It is so nice not to have to schlep your luggage yourself.
Staying at the Grand Hotel?
Guests of the Grand Hotel enjoy elevated service—their luggage is automatically loaded onto a horse-drawn buggy and transported directly to the hotel via a private entrance. There’s no need to visit luggage claim, making for a truly seamless and magical arrival experience.
Mighty Mac Rides & Best Views on the Ferry
Shepler’s Ferry also offers select sailings called Mighty Mac Departures, where the ferry makes a special route under the iconic Mackinac Bridge before heading to the island. These scenic trips are scheduled at specific times, so check Shepler’s website or ask a cast member for the latest schedule if you want to experience this memorable ride.
Best Seats for the Best Views:
On the way from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island, sit on the port side (left side when you’re facing the front) of the ferry for stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge and the island as you approach.
On the return from Mackinac Island to Mackinaw City, sit on the starboard side (right side when you’re facing the front) for the best views of the bridge and water during the ride back.
Final Thoughts- Traveling to Mackinac Island is so worth it!
Getting to Mackinac Island may seem intimidating at first, but Shepler’s Ferry makes the process smooth and enjoyable. Their friendly, professional cast members are always available to assist and answer questions.
If you’re planning a trip to Mackinac Island—congratulations! It is truly a magical destination that’s worth every bit of planning and effort. The uniqueness of the journey is part of what makes the trip so special.
Have questions or personal experiences to share? Drop a comment below, reach out on social media, or email me at [email protected]. I’d love to hear from you! Links to my socials are on the homepage.
Cheers to your next great Michigan adventure! xx
