I don't know why it is but I always seem to have weird things happen to me either immediately before one of my trips or during them. Titanic weekend on Mackinac (pronounced Mack-in-naw) Island with my friend, Rose was no exception.
Here's the back story to this trip:
Ever since I was a little kid I've for some inexplicable reason been fascinated with ships and shipwrecks. My dad would take me swimming in Lake Michigan as a kid, which was a couple of blocks away from the Kenosha Harbor. Despite the water temperature being less than 40 degrees F and beginning to turn blue from hypothermia, my dad would have to drag me kicking and screaming from the frigid water. I'd then tell him I wanted to go to the harbor to see the ships. Mind you, I couldn't have explained this to you if I'd tried. I didn't understand this myself! I'd never even been on a ship.
Kenosha Harbor once upon a time in the 1960's
Fast forward to a few years ago. My psychic friend, Lisa and I were chatting about nothing in particular when she suddenly began reading me:
Lisa: Patty? You were on a ship once upon a time. Looks like the early 1900's from the dress you're wearing? You had a younger male with you on this ship, a relative.
I'm seeing the flag of Sweden. I think the two of you were from Sweden. You both were traveling 3rd class on this ship. I'm getting the name Johanna? I think your name was Johanna. I'm also seeing a P and an A. Maybe your middle and last names?
Patty, this ship sunk! Both you and this male were lost at sea! OMG PATTY! YOU WERE ON THE TITANIC!"
I'd never as much as mentioned my fascination with shipwrecks (especially the Titanic) to Lisa. Or anyone else for that matter. Still, I'm a skeptic even though I'm a professional psychic myself.
I pulled up Titanic's 3rd class passenger list. And nearly fell of my chair...
Sure enough, there she was - Johanna Persdotter Ahlin, 3rd class passenger on Titanic, traveling with her younger brother Johan. Both lost in the sinking, their bodies either never recovered or identified. Both from Sweden.
Lisa had gotten everything right. But it gets more WOOWOO yet.
My grandmother from Sweden
My grandmother was from Sweden.
Like Johanna and Johan, she and her younger brother, Alben traveled to America on a ship, 3rd class.
My grandmother settled in the same city Johanna had.
Johanna's husband was in the dairy business. My family in Sweden owns an apparently pretty famous farm that's over 400 years old and my cousin, Lisbeth owns a dairy farm.
The more I dug, the more sychronicities between Johanna and my Swedish relatives I found.
Had I been Johanna in a past life? There's no way to ever know...but the synchronicities are pretty woowoo. At the very least, the story makes for an entertaining topic of conversation - as it would come to at the Titanic weekend.
Every year the Grand Hotel on Mackinac (pronounced Mack-in-naw) Island holds a Titanic weekend. I've always attended every Titanic event I possibly could so asked my friend, Rose to go with me to the Grand's Titanic weekend.
The event is usually held late May to early June.
Package Includes:
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Grand Hotel accommodations
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Breakfast and dinner daily
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All resort amenities
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Friday evening Bon Voyage party and reception
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Friday evening themed entertainment
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Saturday morning History Lecture with Resident Historian Bob Tagatz
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Saturday afternoon presentation
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Saturday dinner inspired by the last meal served on the Titanic
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Sunday morning wrap-up
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Admission to the Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum
The event is lead by a group of professional immersive actors that did a phenomenal job!
Photo credit: Grand Hotel
The Grand Hotel is an elegant place with a 660 foot long front porch lined with rocking chairs. It's so fancy it even has an evening dress code.
I did upgrade our accommodations to a room with a balcony overlooking the Mackinac Straight.
Photo credit: Grand Hotel
To give you an idea of what the Grand Hotel looks like...
(Although I can't say much for the hideous re-decorating job!)
When we arrived for Titanic weekend we're given a boarding pass with the name of an actual Titanic passenger on it. Things were about to get WOOWOO again. I'd told Rose about my psychic friend saying I'd been Johanna Ahlin.
I take my boarding pass from the woman handing them out...look at it...
Rose took one look at my face and gasped "PAT! WHAT'S WRONG? ARE YOU OK?"
Boarding pass number 7546 - Johanna's ticket number.
At that point the now very confused woman who'd handed me the boarding pass asked to look at the pass. Then she said "We didn't print out any 3rd class boarding passes! We only printed out 1st class boarding passes!"
All I could manage was "But you just handed it to me yourself!"
Everyone in line behind us was listening in and now they wanted to see the boarding pass. The story spread through the room like wildfire. No, we never figured out the mystery of how I got handed a 3rd class boarding pass, much less Johanna's.
As Jeff Foxworthy would say, "AND THERE'S YOUR SIGN!"
At least the story made for a good ice breaker at our Friday night reception if nothing else. Dancing was held that evening in the Terrace Room, to 1900's music by a live band. It really felt as though one were on the Titanic.
Saturday morning a Titanic historian gave a presentation, followed by a showing of the movie, Titanic. Both Rose and I had seen the movie several times so we decided to skip out and do some exploring on Mackinac, then return for the dinner that night.
I'll take you exploring with us, then we'll return to the Titanic weekend.
Before you arrive at Mackinac Island
Download the Mackinac Island App for iPhone or Android.
There are no motor vehicles allowed on Mackinac Island. There are three ways you get around: walk, bicycle or horse drawn carriage.
You arrive on the island by ferry.
Two ferry companies service Mackinac Island - Shepler's and Star Line. Ferries to Mackinac Island depart from docks in Mackinaw City and St. Ignace.
Ferry dock at Mackinac Island
When your ferry docks, you have 3 options:
Walk to your accommodations carrying your own luggage
Hire a horse drawn taxi service
If you're staying at the Grand, take their horse drawn taxi service for $9 per person.
We brought our own bikes with us as they were already set up for ourselves as far as riding them, whereas rental bikes are not. So we took advantage of the Grand's horse drawn shuttle and our luggage and bikes were delivered right to our room.
Accommodations
No two ways about it, accommodations on Mackinac are expensive. But Rose and I had decided to spend 2-3 days after the Titanic weekend ended to explore Mackinac, check out of the Grand and move to less expensive accommodations for those extra 2-3 days.
So I've already done the homework for you as far as recommendations on more budget friendly places to stay.
I'll give you some luxury options, some mid price range options and some budget friendly options.
LUXURY OPTIONS
MACKINAC HOUSE
While not as opulent as the Grand, The Mackinac House is a boutique inn that's just as wonderful.
Photo credit: Mackinac House
Located just minutes from downtown Mackinac Island, this hotel is perfectly placed for those wanting to get stuck right into the action and it delivers a "home away from home" vibe.
HOTEL IRIQUOIS
Photos credit: Hotel Iriiquois
The Hotel Iroquois is a sophisticated hotel that mixes in a good dash of charming.
The interior design is great.
Located on the waterfront, this is one of the Mackinac Island hotels that feels serene and welcoming.
The landscaping of the garden surrounding it is breathtaking.
On site waterfront dining is available in the Carriage House.
MISSION POINT RESORT
Photo credit: Mission Point Resort
What sold me on Mission Point Resort was not only quality but what it had to offer as far as the kids - with everything from a ‘Kids Eat Free’ policy and complimentary kids’ activities on offer. They even offer a complimentary Kids Club for children ages 5-12.
The Resort has 2 lodges - The Main Lodge (A) and the Straits Lodge (B).
A. Main Lodge amenities
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Four restaurant and eateries
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Mission Point marketplace
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Lobby and check-in
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B. Straits Lodge amenities
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Dog-friendly guest rooms ($100 more)
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Grab-and-go cafe
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Closer to downtown
There's a nice sized outdoor swimming pool and a spa.
MID RANGE OPTIONS
ISLAND HOUSE HOTEL
Photo credit: Island House Hotel
If you’re after views of the marina, then The Island House Hotel is an excellent pick. Almost every room has clear views over the harbor.
It's close to town so the location is ideal and the hotel has its own bike rentals.
There's an on site restaurant, the 1852 Grill Room.
The hotel is a member of Mackinac Island's 906 Rewards Club so be sure to sign up to receive exclusive deals.
PINE COTTAGE BED & BREAKFAST
This hidden gem is tucked away in a quiet spot on Bogan Lane, just minutes from downtown.
Pine Cottage B&B has hosted the likes of Ernest Hemingway and baseball great, Ty Cobb. It's actually one of Mackinac's oldest hotels.
It's decorated in Victorian Farmhouse so has a very welcoming, quaint vibe.
Photo credit: Pine Cottage B&B
LAKE VIEW HOTEL
Photos credit: Lake View Hotel
Located right on Main Street is the ever-popular Lake View Hotel. Although it’s not the most luxurious hotel on my list of the best Mackinac Island hotels, it’s one of the most reliable options out there.
If there's a drawback to Lake View (if you can even consider it a drawback) it's that in the middle of the atrium is the pool so you'll get some pool noise during the day if you're spending your day in your room. The pool closes at 10 pm so there shouldn't be any noise after that.
The hotel's upsides are it's located right in downtown and it offers shuttle service to its guests to get their luggage from the ferry dock to the hotel.
Also, be sure to check out the Specials section on their website.
THE MURRAY HOTEL
This is where Rose and I stayed after checking out of The Grand. We had no complaints with Murray Hotel whatsoever.
The location on Main Street in downtown is right across from the ferry dock so you can simply walk across the street with your luggage and you're right in the thick of downtown.
The staff were very friendly and helpful, the rooms clean and comfortable but on the smaller side. We were only in the room to sleep anyway so this didn't bother us.
There's a large hot tub behind the hotel. But when they said they had a Mexican restaurant on site and fudge shop right in the hotel lobby? BAZINGA! We were sold! Great place to stay if you want to be in the heart of the action.
BUDGET OPTIONS
BREAKERS RESORT & BEACH BAR
Photos credit: Breakers
If you’re on the hunt for a cheap hotel that is extremely well-reviewed, look no further than Breakers Resort & Beach Bar.
Located only 10 minutes from the St. Ignace Mission, this is one of the Mackinac Island hotels that’s perfect for sightseeing. In addition to free Wi-Fi and soundproofed rooms, this Mackinac Island hotel also offers a bowling alley and indoor pool!
I recommend booking into this hotel if you’re traveling with kids.
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS ST. IGNACE
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Photos credit: Holiday Inn Express
Holiday Inn Express hotels are always reliable, budget options for travelers. Although they’re on the cheap side, they are always clean, well-equipped, and simply get the job done. Holiday Inn Express St. Ignace is one of the most budget friendly motels and good for those who aren't planning to spend a lot of time in their room.
Offering breakfast at no extra charge, great Wi-Fi, and complimentary coffee and tea.
INN ON MACKINAC
Photos credit Inn On Mackinac
Only 10 minutes from the ferry terminal, Inn on Mackinac will have you checked in and settled in record time. It doesn’t offer any major extras, but it does provide a free breakfast, high-speed Wi-Fi, and an amazing Spa Pool! But one of the best parts about this Mackinac Island hotel are the warm bedtime cookies that guests receive each night.
SUNSET CONDOS & GUEST ROOMS
Photos credit: Sunset Condos & Guest Rooms
Sunset Condos & Guest Rooms are for those of you who are traveling with large groups. Each of the units is independently owned and decorated and can sleep up to 12 people.
Located in the serene Stonecliffe area, Sunset Condominiums is an ideal choice for introverted travelers who need quiet time in the evenings. With outdoor picnic areas and full kitchens available, you can enjoy a self-catered breakfast, lunch, and dinner onsite if you wish.
That wraps up Accommodations and I hope I've given you enough info there that you'll find something to suit your needs and budget.
Dining
Because our meals were included at the Grand for most of the weekend, we didn't eat out all that much. But I will tell you about the restaurants we did try.
CHUCKWAGON RESTAURANT
Always ask the locals! They turned us on to Chuckwagon, which we probably would have never found on our own. This little hole in the wall restaurant reminded me of a similar locals haunt we have here at home. It's long, narrow and has a counter and a few tables along the wall.
One of Mackinac's best loved restaurants, the Chuckwagon has been serving locals and visitors for almost 60 years. There are very few places anymore that do something simple, yet do it well. Chuckwagon is definitely one of them. $
PINK PONY
Photo credit: Pink Pony
The Pink Pony is always packed during the summer. The outdoor patio dining affords you sensational views of the water while sipping on one of Pink Pony's signature cocktails.
The prime rib french dip sandwiches weren't bad either!
The Pink Pony is located within the Chippewa Hotel on Main Street. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner.
$$
GOOD DAY CAFE
Again, nothing fancy but if you want to grab a sub sandwich to go, visit Good Day Cafe.
$
They also serve breakfast.
The Cafe is located on Main Street.
ICE HOUSE BBQ
Ice House BBQ is renowned for classic home-style smoked barbecue favorites and hand-tossed stone-fired pizza. $$
Tucked away in a tranquil garden oasis near the Mackinac Island marina, Ice House BBQ is a peaceful hideaway from downtown Mackinac Island. Just follow the path to the left of Island House Hotel.
Back to our Titanic weekend...
Saturday night was interesting. On the actual Titanic that last night 1st Class was served a 10 course meal. Back then, meals lasted from approximately 5 pm to midnight. They were social occasions, not just meals.
One needed a PhD just to figure out what utensil went with which course!
Luckily for us, the Grand pared everything down to about half Titanic's dinner's size.
What was interesting to see what the change of demeanor that slowly took place over dinner as the "She's sinking!" point in time approached. Everyone gradually grew more quiet and somber.
The immersive theater crew did a marvelous job of somehow eliciting all of the raw emotions that Titanic's passengers must have felt that night. The gal who portrayed Molly Brown later told me they'd rehearsed that ending time and time again so as to know how to elicit those emotions out of the guests.
All hell broke loose as it did that night on the "unsinkable" Titanic. I found myself wondering what Johanna and her brother, Johan had experienced. Were they trapped below decks with many of the other steerage passengers? Did they make it off the ship before it went down, only to succumb to heart failure from hypothermia in the near freezing waters of the Atlantic?
I found myself thinking about a photo I'd seen of the Titanic debris field - a pair of boots lying in the silt. I wondered if those boots could have belonged to Johanna or Johan?
It was odd, I felt a kind of kinship with Johanna as our 'ship' sank.
The weekend ended with a breakfast Sunday morning in which we champagne toasted all of those who lost their lives that night.
Photo credit: Pinterest
It was a fitting end to the weekend - and kudos to the immersive theater company who pulled it all off so brilliantly.
Just a note to anyone who may want to attend this weekend: You'll be in Edwardian dress virtually all weekend, so you'll want to bring at least 2 costumes. Those clothes were very heavy so you'll perspire a bit. And they will fulfill the Grand's evening dress code.
Mackinac Island Attractions
If you see nothing else on the Island, be sure to tour Fort Mackinac. It's absolutely fascinating!
The oldest building in Michigan and 13 other historical structures boast exhibits explaining everything from military training and battles to medical treatments to family life within the fort.
Walking tours of the fort include learning about the changing face of the fort, the people who lived and worked at Fort Mackinac, and what equipment was distributed to soldiers station there. Even the kids won't be bored.
Demonstrations and tours by costumed interpreters are scheduled throughout the day, including musket and cannon firing. You can even fire the cannon yourself!
Of COURSE I fired it! LOL
TAKE A HORSE & CARRIAGE TOUR
It's a great and fun way to learn island history and spot hidden gems you might miss on foot.
Contact Mackinac Island Carriage Tours to pre-purchase your tickets.
PEDAL AROUND MACKINAC
One of the best ways to explore Mackinac Island is by bike. You can bring your own or rent one on the Island. We brought our own as they were set up specifically for us, unlike rental bikes. If you want the full scoop on where to rent, what to bring, and the best routes, check out this detailed Mackinac Island Bike Guide to plan your perfect ride.
Consider biking the 8.2-mile M-185 shoreline loop. It’s the only state highway in the U.S. that doesn’t allow cars, and the lake views are unbeatable. Pack a picnic and stop at British Landing for a snack.
THE BIDDLE HOUSE & MACKINAC ISLAND NATIVE AMERICAN MUSEUM
Photo credit: Biddle House
Dating back to 1830, the Biddle House is believed to be the island’s oldest home. Now a museum, it features exhibits on fur trading, local history, and Agatha Biddle’s Anishnaabek heritage. There are 2 exhibit galleries inside the house, a historically restored parlor and your tour continues outside the house.
If you've bought either the Historic Downtown ticket or the Fort Mackinac ticket, your admission to Biddle House is included in those tickets. If not, you can purchase tickets here.
HIT THE FUDGE SHOPS
Mackinac Island is known for it's fudge and fudge shops! And you have no shortage of fudge shops to choose from:
The Original Murdick’s Fudge at 7363 Main St.
Ryba’s Fudge Shop.
Murray Hotel Fudge Company at 7260 Main St.
Sanders Candy at 7330 Main St.
May’s Candy at 7351 Main St.
Kilwins.
Joann’s Fudge.
Stop in to try some free samples and buy some to take home with you.
SEE THE BUTTERFLIES
Photo credit: Mackinac Island Butterfly House
Mackinac has 2 butterfly houses - the Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House or Wings of Mackinac. Hundreds of colorful butterflies flutter all around, making this a must-see for little explorers. Visit the links above for tickets and pricing.
STRAITS OF MACKINAC SHIPWRECK MUSEUM
The Straits of Mackinac Shipwreck Museum is different but very interesting.
It's located at the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse within Mackinac Island State Park.
There are different ticket options.
That's really your best bet as it includes everything. A 7 day family pass is also available. You can purchase tickets online here.
That wraps up Mackinac Island and Titanic weekend at The Grand. It's really worth a visit to participate in Titanic weekend and see Mackinac Island.