Mackinac Island & Frankenmuth: Five Days of Michigan Memories

Five-day Mackinac Island and Frankenmuth Tour

Some getaways called for slowing down and enjoying the ride. Our five-day Mackinac Island and Frankenmuth tour did just that, bringing together island sightseeing, history, and a little early Christmas shopping.

Packing a sense of adventure was easy. Leaving room for purchases took more planning.

Settling into Mackinaw City

We began with a journey to Mackinaw City, our home for two nights. Nearby shops and restaurants offered opportunities to explore after a day on the road.

Discovering Mackinac Island and the Grand Hotel

A ferry ride took us to Mackinac Island, where a carriage tour introduced us to the island. Lunch followed at the Grand Hotel’s buffet, with the afternoon free for exploring.

The day balanced planned sightseeing with something equally welcome on vacation: time to follow our own curiosity.

Visiting the Henry Ford Museum

We continued south to the Henry Ford Museum before arriving in Frankenmuth for two nights at the Bavarian Inn. That evening, we enjoyed the town’s famous chicken dinner.

Nobody had to debate what was for dinner. Sometimes, that was part of the vacation.

Exploring Frankenmuth’s Shops and Riverfront

Our Frankenmuth visit included Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, River Place Shops, and a cruise aboard the Bavarian Belle Riverboat.

Christmas shopping in September suddenly seemed perfectly reasonable. And after browsing, a riverboat ride offered a welcome change of pace.

Heading Home with More to Remember

After breakfast on our final morning, we began the journey home.

The trip had made room for sightseeing, browsing, and time to enjoy ourselves. Five days away had given us plenty to look back on—and a reason to start thinking about the next getaway.