I’ve lived only a few hours away from Mackinac Island my whole life. It has once gone from being more of a hidden gem during my childhood to an internationally recognized destination. It’s busier now, a little pricier, and way more famous, but you can still visit Mackinac Island on a budget.
I’ve done the island every which way: day trips, overnights, with friends, with family, as a couple, on bikes, on foot. While it’s easy to spend a lot on the island, it’s just as possible to enjoy it on a budget without missing out on the best parts. Here’s how you can experience Mackinac Island on a budget.
affiliate disclosure: Please note this post may contain affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products and services that I personally use and believe in. Your support makes it possible for me to provide valuable travel content. Thank you!
Table of Contents
Getting to Mackinac Island on a Budget
The most common way to get to Mackinac Island is by ferry. Both ferry companies that go to the island are similarly priced, with Arnold being slightly cheaper than Sheplers.
Ferry Tickets
Round-trip ferry tickets are typically $36–$38 per person. Bike tickets are an additional $19-21.
Parking Tips
Use the cheapest lot ferry companies have to offer, no need to do the more expensive lots right by the docks. They will shuttle you from the off-site lot to the ferry dock. $25 per night for overnight parking with Sheplers and Arnolds is $20 per night.
Where to Stay: On-Island vs Mainland
Cheapest places to stay on Mackinac Island
Let’s be real—nothing on the island is truly “cheap.” . But these are the cheapest places to stay out of the bunch. If it is your dream to spend the night on the island, do it. Staying on Mackinac Island can be expensive, but these are the more budget friendly options. Midweek and shoulder season stays (May or Oct) are your best bet for lower rates.
Cheapest places to stay in Mackinaw City & St. Ignace
If you’re really looking to save, and do Mackinac island the cheapest way, you will stay on the mainland and do a day trip. Camping or motel is your best bet here.
- Castle Rock Campground St. Ignace
- Sunset Motel at Armand’s Gardens St. Ignace
- Straights Campground St. Ignace
- TeePee Campground Mackinaw City
- Clearwater Lake Shore Motel Mackinaw City
Budget Tip: If you’re planning a day trip, remember you’ll likely need two nights on the mainland (the night before + the night after) to make it work. On the flip side, if you’re coming from not too far away in Michigan and want the experience of staying on the island, you could stay one night, and especially in shoulder season it can sometimes cost about the same as two nights on the mainland. Do the math before you book; it may not be as big of a price jump as you’d think.
Cheap Eats on Mackinac Island
Pack a Picnic
This is my go-to. Swing by Doud’s Market (America’s oldest grocery store!) and build your own picnic. Grab bread, cheese, fruit, and drinks, or some of their pre-made options and head to Marquette Park or the waterfront to eat with a view. This is one of the best ways to save money on the island. Many of the trips I’ve done to the island I’ve eaten almost exclusively from the market.
Or if you’re staying off the island, bring your picnic with you from the mainland. It’ll be cheaper than on the island.
Where to Eat out on a Budget
Dining out on Mackinac is pricey. If you’re truly on a budget, you may not want to eat out at all. But a few spots that offer the best value on the island:
- Chuckwagon
- Island Slice Pizzeria
- Mustang Lounge
- Mighty Mac Hamburgers
Mustang Lounge and Horns are probably the best priced drinks for a night out.
Things to Do on Mackinac Island on a Budget
Explore Mackinac Island State Park
Over 80% of the island is a state park, and exploring it is entirely free. Whether you’re biking, hiking, or just strolling, there is plenty to see and do.
Visit the Carriage House Museums (Free!)
The Carriage Museum and Grand Hotel Stables are open to the public. Learn about Mackinac’s horse culture, and see vintage carriages. Check opening times, they are closed by late season.
Bike the Perimeter
I love this bike ride, it’s one of the best things to do on the island. Bringing your bikes from the mainland is the best value, but you can also rent bikes for a few hours to do this as well.
💡 Budget Tips
Bring Your Own Bike
One of the best ways to see the island is by bike. Rental fees can add up, so if you have the option, bring your own bike on the ferry. There’s a fee to transport it, but you’ll save big compared to renting once you’re there. You’ll also have the freedom to ride whenever you want.
Grand Hotel Day Pass: Worth the Splurge?
The Grand Hotel is iconic, and in my opinion is worth the $12 day pass—especially if it’s your first visit. I really enjoy the interiors.
Visiting Fort Mackinac: Is It Worth It?
If you’re truly on a tight budget – no, you can skip it. If it’s your first time on the island or you’re traveling with kids and are really into history, it might be worth it for you. The history, demonstrations, and views are nice. However, if you’ve visited before or are really sticking to a budget, it is not a must do in order to experience the island. The same goes with the butterfly house.
Travel Off-Season
Visiting in May or September-October can drastically reduce your costs. Hotels drop their rates, and the island is less crowded, making for a more relaxed experience. I often visit during these months to enjoy the best of the island without the peak season prices.
While not always possible, weekday travel is a good idea. Mackinac Island is the perfect weekend getaway for a lot of people, so traveling during the weekday is always a good idea when you can swing it.
Rewards & Deals
Sign up for 906 Rewards. You get $5.00 just for signing up. I spent mine on fudge on Ryba’s!
Also check for specials and deals that the hotels are having. Many have deals for staying more than two nights and some great off season deals.
Visiting Mackinac Island on a budget doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the things that make it special. Walking around town, picnic at the park, biking around the island. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy everything this unique destination has to offer.