When I head up north to Mackinac Island, the roads are filled with all kinds of traffic congestion. And this time heading to my favorite destination, I drove through many road construction areas in the great state of Michigan.
And then, like a ray of sunshine after a storm, we see the Mackinac Bridge in all its glory making the trek all the more worthwhile as I think, “hello old friend. It’s great to see you again!”
Driving over the Mackinac Bridge is great. Memories flood my mind of prior visits as I anticipate another Mackinac adventure. I become free once again as I imagine leaving the highway traffic, and the much needed road construction to a magical island where no cars are allowed. The traffic consists of horses, bikes and people. And I love to bike ride, especially on Mackinac Island.
This is my 16th year of going to Mackinac and my wife and I always stay at the Chippewa Hotel Waterfront. When we go in, it’s the feeling of “welcome home!”
The Chippewa is right on the water with amazing views.
The Chippewa team make us feel like family with big smiles, hugs and special treats. That’s why I refer to the Chippewa as my home away from home.
It was great seeing our good friends Brian and Jeri-Lynn Bailey again! Brian is the GM of the Chippewa Hotel, Pink Pony, as well as being a Councilman on Mackinac. Jeri-Lynn owns Destination Mackinac one of our favorite stores for all things Mackinac.
Our friend Bart, who’s the front desk manager always greets us with a big, warm hello!
Always great seeing our pal and dock porter extraordinaire Archie with Max, his sidekick pooch. I call Archie, Arch Rock!
We love walking and biking down Main Street and Market Street exploring the many great shops and places to eat. No matter your taste in food, souvenirs, clothes, art work, there’s something for everyone.
Our favorite place to eat is the Pink Pony! Surprise!
You’ve heard the expression about taking the roads less traveled in life. Taking different roads allow you to explore new things and get you off your regular routine. When you’re on Mackinac, try exploring some new things away from Main Street and you’ll really start to explore the magic and serenity of Mackinac.
Our favorite thing to do is bike around the island on M-185 in either direction which is 8.2 miles. I call it Highway to Heaven and when you ride around the island you’ll agree!
The views of the crystal blue water are spectacular.
Mackinac Island played a huge role in our Nation’s history at British Landing which is about the half way point around M-185. I’m always amazed at the history and the views.
We love stopping by Brown’s brook and enjoying the tranquil sights and sounds of the brook. In a high tech world, It’s my idea of a live stream.
I’ve discovered some years ago that when I venture up into different parts of the island to take the roads less traveled, it has opened up a new world for me.
The West Bluffs are beautiful and seeing the gorgeous homes, flowers and the views take your breath away.
Make sure you venture to the Hubbard’s Annex area where the views are worth the trip!
We love going into Harrisonville, or the Village as it’s called, where many islanders live year round.
It’s beautiful to bike ride and see and hear the peacefulness of the area.
Arch Rock is one of our favorites in so many ways. A natural beauty!
The views from Arch Rock are amazing with waters that look like you’re in the Caribbean, only better because it’s Pure Michigan.
Going to Sugar Loaf is a must! It’s up the road from Arch Rock and the history and view is spectacular.
Make sure you go to the East bluffs and take in the views of the water and the beautiful homes.
Plus an amazing view of town where you can see the Chippewa Hotel and Pink Pony waiting for you!
When I go out and explore Mackinac, leaving the Chippewa is like leaving home and knowing that it’ll be there when we return.
It’s like coming home after a long day of adventure with the sun slowly setting as if to say “welcome home.”
Next time you go to Mackinac Island, I’d highly recommend exploring the roads less traveled and getting to experience parts of the island that you’ve never seen before. You can walk, bike ride like us, or you can hire a carriage and take it all in!
We’re excited about our annual Fall visit for our anniversary when the colors are about to change into a symphony of blazing colors. I’m counting down the days before we go back in time to our home away from home, the Chippewa Hotel, seeing our friends and looking out at the majesty of the bay from our waterfront balcony!
As they say at the Chippewa, “welcome home!”
George Piliouras
