2. Mackinac Island is located about 7 miles east of the Mackinac Bridge, which connects the upper and lower peninsula. Mackinac Island is actually only about 8 miles around. The total area is 3.8 miles, which may not seem like much - but it is when you’re on a hike or bike ride around the island. Did you know that since 1898, motorized vehicles have been banned from Mackinac Island? So if you’re planning on taking a leisurely bus tour around the island, think again. Introduction to Mackinac Island
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4. Main Street - Shops and Stores There are many different boat companies that you can hire to take you to Mackinac Island, like the boat to the left. You can also take horse-drawn carriage rides around the island. Fudge shops are everywhere, so if you would like a fresh treat, just stop by the nearest store and order up. Main street, Mackinac Island is almost always a busy, bustling place full of shoppers and tourists alike. So get out your money and head on down to Main Street.
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9. The History of Mackinac Island Mackinac Island was discovered in 1634 by a French explorer. He established missions for the Native Americans there and spent the winter there with them. Forts were built on Mackinac island to protect the people there from Indian attacks and from invading soldiers. There were several countries that occupied mackinac Island over the years, but in the end it was returned to the Americans. The history of Mackinac island is pretty interesting.
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11. In 1715, Fort St. Philippe de Michilimackinac was built by French soldiers. The fort became the great fur trade center of the Northwest, until it was relocated to nearby Mackinac Island in 1781. above is a map of the fort in 1765. It was made by Lt. Perkins Magra. The North is to the Bottom of the map. The Fort
12. Fudge Festival The Mackinac Island Fudge Festival is a great excuse to try all the different types of fudge the island offers. This year, the 4 th annual Fudge Festival is from August 22-23, 2008. About 10,000 pounds of the common ‘slab fudge’ are made daily each season. Did you know that there are 17 fudge shops on the island? It’s true, so come on up and try some!
13. This might sound weird, but since the year 1898, motorized vehicles have been banned from the island. Many people walk around the island. Some jog or run around the shoreline. Many others take horse – drawn carriage rides. So no long rumbling bus rides ! No Motors!
14. The annual Lilac Festival is being held June 15-18 this year. People come from all around to see the sights and smell the sounds. There are ten days of fun. Bands come and play throughout the festival also. Also, representatives form the ILS (international lilac Society) will be there also. lilac festival
15. It turns out that even with all of the many people that visit Mackinac island every year, there are only about 500 permanent residents. The home owners work hard to keep their Victorian age homes in perfect condition. There are some homes that you can take a tour of, if you were wondering what the inside looked like. The people are friendly, the weather is nice and there is tons of stuff to do. Mackinac Island really is one of the nation’s best places to stay. The End
