7. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Mackinac Island offers a truly unique main street experience, as no cars are allowed. The primary modes of transport are horse-drawn carriages, bicycles, and your own two feet. Main Street is a bustling hub of fudge shops, historic hotels like the Grand Hotel, and waterfront restaurants overlooking the Straits of Mackinac. The entire island is a National Historic Landmark.
When to Go & Weather: The season is short, running from late April to late October. The best months are June through September, with temperatures averaging 60–75°F (15–24°C). July and August are the busiest.
Getting There & Around: You must take a ferry to the island from either Mackinaw City (Lower Peninsula) or St. Ignace (Upper Peninsula). The ferry ride is about 20 minutes. Pellston Regional Airport (PLN) is the closest airport, about 12 miles from the ferry docks. Once on the island, everything is accessible by walking, biking, or carriage tour.
Accessibility: While cars are banned, electric mobility scooters are permitted for those with disabilities. You can bring your own on the ferry or rent one on the island. Many hotels and restaurants are accessible. The main roads are paved and relatively flat, but some of the interior trails can be hilly.
Actionable Tip: To escape the Main Street crowds, rent a bicycle or mobility scooter and take the 8.2-mile paved road that circles the entire island. It is mostly flat and offers stunning water views and quiet, natural scenery.
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