Mackinaw city or st ignace?

Question

Finishing up our plans for our October trip. So far:

Oct 2-4 Wausauki (2nights)

Oct 4-8 Keweenaw peninsula (4 nights)

Oct 8-10 Munising (2 nights)

Oct 10-12 ???? St. Ignace OR Mackinaw city???

Oct 11 day trip to Mackinac island

Oct 12 late afternoon flight out of Milwaukee

So any advice is welcome. Which place to stay the last two nights? (10th and 11th)

Thank you!!!

Answer

For your final two nights before your flight out of Milwaukee, both St. Ignace and Mackinaw City have their advantages, especially considering your day trip to Mackinac Island on October 11. Choosing the right location depends on what kind of experience you want and how much driving you are comfortable with before your departure.

Considerations for each location:

St. Ignace: Located on the northern side of the Mackinac Bridge, St. Ignace tends to be quieter than Mackinaw City and has a more local feel. It offers good access to ferry departures for Mackinac Island, sometimes with shorter lines depending on the time of day. You’ll also be closer to some scenic drives along the Straits of Mackinac and can enjoy the historic downtown area.
Mackinaw City: Located just south of the bridge, Mackinaw City is more tourist-focused with plenty of shops, restaurants, and lodging options. If you prefer more activity, dining choices, and convenient amenities, this can be a good choice. The ferry terminal to Mackinac Island is very close, which may save time on your day trip.

Other points to consider:

Since you’ll be flying out of Milwaukee on the 12th, staying slightly south in Mackinaw City could give you a shorter and easier drive across the Lower Peninsula and down I-75/I-43 toward Milwaukee, compared to staying in St. Ignace.
Both towns are similar in travel time to the ferry for Mackinac Island, so your day trip logistics won’t be significantly affected either way.
Weather in early October can be variable, so either location offers easy access to indoor activities and restaurants in case of cooler or rainy days.

Recommendation:

If you prefer a quieter, small-town experience with some scenic charm, choose St. Ignace.
If you want more tourist-oriented amenities, restaurants, and slightly easier access for your post-island drive south, choose Mackinaw City.

Both options are workable; your decision really depends on whether you prioritize quiet charm (St. Ignace) or convenience and tourist amenities (Mackinaw City) for the last two nights of your trip.

Mackinaw city or st ignace?

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