Answer: For the second half of your Upper Peninsula trip after staying at Mackinac, both routes — south to Milwaukee or west to Duluth — offer very different experiences. Your choice depends on what kind of scenery, activities, and driving time you prefer before heading home.

Answer: Mackinac Island and the surrounding area offer some fantastic dining options with great views, especially in October when the fall foliage provides a stunning backdrop. Since you’re looking for casual restaurants, here are a few places you might enjoy during your trip:

Answer: Good questions — and you’re right to check ahead. From what I can find, it is very likely that boat tours along Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore / from Munising, Michigan will be closed by the weekend of October 25 (your trip dates). Here’s a breakdown of what I found — and some alternate ideas for your 4-day weekend.

Answer: Mackinac Island is famous for its horse-drawn carriages, and a private carriage tour is an excellent way to experience the island, especially for travelers with limited mobility and those bringing small dogs. Many companies offer private, customizable tours, and mid-July is a great time to visit, though booking in advance is essential due to peak tourist season.

Answer: It sounds like you're in for a wonderful time on Mackinac Island! Each of the three hotels you're considering—The Grand Hotel, Iroquois, and Chippewa—offers something special, so let me break down their strengths to help you make a decision.

Answer: In late June, particularly on a Monday like June 30th, Mackinac Island can still see a fair number of visitors, but Mondays are typically a bit quieter than weekends. However, since it’s still a popular time to visit, the ferries can get busy, especially with the 9 am departure. Since you’re visiting in the summer season, there is a chance that there will be a higher volume of visitors traveling to the island, particularly as the day progresses.

Answer: Tahquamenon Falls, located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, is a popular destination for its stunning waterfalls and scenic forested surroundings. Visitors typically stay in nearby towns or lodges that provide easy access to the falls, as accommodations within the park itself are limited.

Answer: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a spectacular destination, and choosing where to stay depends on the type of experience your family wants—whether close to the park entrances, near the lakeshore, or in nearby towns with more amenities.

Answer: Visiting Mackinac Island in November can be quite different from the busy summer months, and it’s important to plan around what is actually open during this off-season period.

Answer: Both the Mackinaw City (MC) and St. Ignace (SI) ferry terminals offer ferry service to Mackinac Island, but there are a few differences that could influence your decision on which ferry to take, including parking, crowd sizes, and the ferry ride itself. Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide:

Answer: For a short fall trip to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, driving from St. Ignace to Pictured Rocks offers some of the most scenic routes in the region, especially during early October when the fall colors are at their peak. Since you already have two nights booked on Mackinac Island, you can plan your UP leg as a loop with 2 nights/3 days focusing on Munising and the surrounding areas.

Answer: Planning a first-time trip to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and Northern Lower Peninsula in mid-October is a fantastic choice for fall scenery and outdoor experiences. Since you enjoy quaint towns and outdoor beauty, here’s a detailed itinerary suggestion that balances driving time with sightseeing and allows you to enjoy the main highlights you mentioned.

Answer: For your travel from Mackinac Island to Pellston Airport, here’s a breakdown of the timing and logistics to help you determine if you’ll make your 10:18 am flight:

Answer: It sounds like you’re looking for places to park your 5th wheel in exchange for carpentry work while traveling through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. There are several options to explore that can match your skills with a place to stay:

Answer: Munising and the surrounding Upper Peninsula offer several excellent locations for paddleboarding, both on inland waters and along Lake Superior. The area is known for its scenic beauty, calm inland lakes, and clear rivers, making it ideal for both beginners and more experienced paddlers.

Answer: If you’re looking for vacation rentals in the Manistique area that are not listed on Airbnb or Vrbo, there are several alternative resources you can explore. Working with local realtors or using regional vacation rental websites can often provide access to properties that are not widely advertised online.

Answer: Your plan for 1.5 days in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (UP) is ambitious but definitely doable if you’re focused on short bursts of activity rather than the multi-day hiking and slow exploration you usually enjoy. Given your timeframe, prioritizing Painted Rocks and a rafting trip makes sense, and you can still get a taste of the UP scenery without feeling rushed.

Answer: Visiting Pictured Rocks National Seashore in June is a fantastic choice, but it's important to be prepared for the potential presence of black flies and mosquitoes, especially during the first half of the month.

Answer: Great choice in planning a stay on Mackinac Island at the Grand Hotel! It's a beautiful place, especially if you're looking to step back in time and experience something truly unique. Here’s a breakdown of your questions about visiting during July 4th and whether the Grand Hotel lives up to the hype:

Answer: The suspension of ferry service to and from Mackinac Island due to ice conditions is certainly a significant event for those planning to travel to or from the island. Arnold Transit has been running the Straits of Mackinac II instead of the Mighty Huron due to ice, but as you've mentioned, this boat is single-hull, making it less suited for ice conditions. The Mighty Huron is undergoing long-overdue maintenance, which has contributed to the current situation. Fortunately, Arnold Freight’s The Senator, which is better equipped for icy conditions, was able to make the last trip off the island at 2 PM today.

Answer: Mackinac Island is a charming place to visit, especially in October when the fall colors are in full swing and Halloween festivities begin to take shape. While the official Halloween event, which typically happens toward the end of the month, is a major highlight, the island does start decorating for the season a bit earlier.

Answer: Copper Harbor, located at the northern tip of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, is a fantastic destination for hiking enthusiasts. With three nights and two full days, you can experience some of the most scenic trails in the region.

Answer: Good question. It turns out that while ferry service to Mackinac Island *does* continue in winter — but under different arrangements depending on the time of year — it’s not quite as simple as the summer schedule.

Answer: High Tea at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is a classic experience and a highlight for many visitors, especially those who enjoy a touch of elegance and tradition. Here’s what you should know based on recent experiences:

Answer: When deciding whether to stay on or off Mackinac Island, it really depends on the type of experience you're looking for. Both options have their perks, but staying on the island can provide a truly unique and immersive experience. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each option to help you decide:

Answer: As of now, there does not appear to be an official historical marker designating the southernmost point on Lake Superior. While there has been interest in documenting various geographical points along the Great Lakes, including Lake Michigan, the southernmost point on Lake Superior hasn't been marked in the same way.

Answer: It’s true that Mackinac Island’s lilac season can be affected by weather events like ice storms, which can cause damage to the flowers and trees, especially the older, more established lilacs. While the lilacs are typically a highlight of the island’s spring and early summer season, it’s important to be aware that unexpected weather like this can impact the bloom. An ice storm can cause branches to break, reduce the fullness of the blooms, or even delay the peak of the lilac season.

Answer: Thank you for sharing your detailed trip report! Your experience provides a fantastic outline for anyone planning a visit to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and Mackinac Island. Your itinerary highlights transportation logistics, accommodations, dining, activities, and tips for a smooth visit.

Answer: Traveling to Mackinac Island with a companion who has limited mobility can be very manageable with a little planning. The key is to minimize walking distances and plan for accessible transportation both on and off the ferry. Here are detailed tips based on common traveler experiences:

Answer: Choosing between Harbor Haus in Houghton and Fitzgerald’s in Hancock depends on what kind of dining experience you’re seeking, as both have their own strengths and appeal.

Answer: Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! Las Vegas is a popular destination for elopements, and there are plenty of options for couples looking to get married on a budget. Here's some helpful information to guide you through your plans:

Answer: Good question — you remembered correctly that there *are* winter-festivals around Marquette / nearby UP towns that include fireworks. Which one you saw will depend on the year and exact date, because festivals vary. Here are the main candidates (and caveats) for February-season events that may include a fireworks display — or at least used to.

Answer: Your trip to Mackinac Island sounds like a wonderful experience, and I can definitely help you figure out if you can fit all the activities into one day! With the things you’re planning to see and do, I think it is possible to make the most of a single day on the island, especially with an early start and good planning. Here’s a breakdown of the itinerary:

Answer: Your fall drive from Chicago up to Door County, across to Mackinac Island, circling Lake Michigan, and returning offers a fantastic mix of scenic drives, charming towns, and natural beauty. Fall is a particularly beautiful time for foliage in Wisconsin and Michigan, so planning your route to take advantage of scenic overlooks and small towns is ideal.

Answer: Choosing between the Holiday Inn and Comfort Suites in Munising largely depends on the current renovation status of the Holiday Inn and your specific preferences in terms of amenities, location, and room features. Let’s take a closer look at both options:

Answer: Good questions — yes, there *are* a number of worthwhile stops if you drive from Mackinaw City (after the ferry) up to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan and beyond, before you head on to Marquette. Depending on how much time you want to spend “sight-seeing vs driving,” you can do a full-on detour or just a few quick highlights. Below are my recommendations for interesting places to visit along the way and near Sault Ste. Marie — plus a sense whether your plan to do the 3:30 PM locks tour or detour to other attractions makes sense.

### 🚗 On the drive from Mackinaw City to Sault Ste. Marie (or shortly thereafter)

Answer: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a beautiful destination, but accessibility can be a challenge depending on where you want to go. Since you are using a portable scooter and your husband has limited mobility, here’s a detailed breakdown for the areas you mentioned:

Answer: You should have a wonderful — and very different — experience staying at in October compared with summer. But it also means embracing a quieter, more seasonal pace. Here’s what to expect (and to watch out for) based on what’s typical for the island in early-to-mid October.

Answer: Welcome to Marquette! The Upper Peninsula is a fantastic mix of outdoor adventure, hearty local cuisine, and small-town charm. Here’s a detailed guide for your visit, covering hikes, waterfalls, restaurants, coffee spots, and local specialties like whitefish and pasties.

Answer: Your proposed itinerary through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula for one day is extremely ambitious, especially considering you’ll have a family member in a wheelchair. The UP is beautiful but distances between major sights are long, and many of the highlights require some walking or short hikes, which can be challenging for limited mobility. Attempting Escanaba → Munising → Pictured Rocks → Grand Marais → Whitefish Point → Tahquamenon Falls → Soo Locks → St. Ignace in a single day would likely be overwhelming and very rushed.

Answer: Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island are wonderful destinations for a late June to July trip, especially if you enjoy scenic views, historic sites, and outdoor activities. Since you are traveling with a small dog, it’s important to consider pet-friendly accommodations and activities.

Answer: It sounds like you and your husband are planning an exciting and scenic trip, with a great mix of activities like hiking, kayaking, and sightseeing! The Western Upper Peninsula (UP) and Lake Michigan coast offer so many beautiful places to explore, and it seems like you have a great plan already in place. I’ll break down your itinerary, provide some recommendations for must-see spots, and suggest how to make the most of your two weeks. This will help you focus on the best areas and activities while making sure you’re not cramming too much into your schedule.

Answer: For a one-night stay in Sault Ste. Marie on 9/16, both the U.S. and Canadian sides have their merits, but your choice will depend on the type of experience you want, ease of access, and whether you prefer U.S. or Canadian amenities.

Answer: Visiting Mackinac Island for the first time is a memorable experience, and the best time to visit largely depends on what kind of atmosphere you're seeking.

Answer: Visiting Mackinac Island in mid-October, specifically October 13-16, is considered late in the season, but it can still be a very enjoyable time if you are prepared for a quieter experience. Most of the peak summer crowds have left, which makes for a peaceful visit and often lower prices, including at the Grand Hotel.

Answer: Visiting Mackinac Island for the first time is exciting! Regarding the ferry situation in early October, here’s what you can expect based on typical operations and traveler experiences.

Answer: Mackinac Island offers a unique blend of historic charm and scenic outdoor activities. While Main Street is the first area visitors encounter after disembarking from the ferry, it can feel very tourist-focused. The shops and restaurants there cater to visitors and tend to have higher prices and limited variety compared to what you might find online or in larger cities. Additionally, transportation options like horse-drawn buggies require advance reservations and are priced accordingly, so spontaneous rides are not always possible.

Answer: It sounds like you're planning an exciting girls' trip to Marquette in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan! The area offers a beautiful mix of outdoor adventures, unique attractions, and cozy spots for relaxation. Here's some detailed advice on where to stay, things to do, places to eat, and what kind of weather to expect:

Answer: This recent mini trip to Mackinac Island offers a detailed perspective on accommodations, ferry operations, and weather during a late-season visit.

Answer: It sounds like you're going to have a fantastic time exploring the Upper Peninsula (UP) of Michigan! The region is full of natural beauty, and it's perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and waterfall exploration. Here’s how I would suggest dividing your 8-9 days and making the most of your trip based on your interests:

Answer: Visiting Mackinac Island in early September is still considered part of the peak tourist season, although it is just after the busy summer months. Private carriage tours are popular, especially for visitors who want a comfortable and personalized overview of the island — and since you are traveling with an 80-year-old, a private carriage ride is a great way to see the sights without extensive walking.

Answer: Planning a road trip from Louisville, KY to the Upper Peninsula (UP) of Michigan is a fantastic adventure, especially with your group of active adults and two dogs. The UP offers beautiful outdoor scenery, plenty of hiking, and a variety of activities that are dog-friendly in many areas. Below is a suggested itinerary with overnight stops, pet-friendly lodging options, and recommendations for each location to help you make the most of your trip.

Answer: When choosing between Main Street Lakeview and Murray for a stay on Mackinac Island, both areas offer distinct advantages, so your decision largely depends on the type of experience you want. Here’s a breakdown of each area to help you decide:

Answer: Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales for hotels on Mackinac Island and the Upper Peninsula are generally targeted toward early planners for the summer season. Many of the well-known hotels and inns on Mackinac Island release discounts during these periods, often including package deals or percentage-off promotions for stays in June or July.

Answer: In mid-June, Mackinac Island typically enjoys pleasant, mild weather, making it a great time to visit. The average temperature during this time is usually in the mid-60s to low 70s°F (around 18–23°C), but it can occasionally reach into the 80s°F (around 27–29°C) during a warm spell. While the days are generally sunny and warm, evenings can be cooler, so it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater for the evenings. The weather is usually very comfortable for outdoor activities like bike rides, walking tours, and exploring the island’s natural beauty.

Answer: Visiting Mackinac Island while using a power chair is definitely possible, but there are a few factors to keep in mind as the island’s infrastructure is unique compared to typical tourist destinations.

Answer: Late May is a great time to visit the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, especially after Memorial Day, as the area begins to come alive for the summer season. Here's some detailed information about what you can expect during your trip:

Answer: Tahquamenon Falls State Park is located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Fortunately, there are a couple of options for entering the park, and the requirements aren't as complicated as some other parks may have.

Answer: Good questions. Yes — there *are* currently road-work issues on M-28 near Munising/Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore that may affect your travel.