Thursday, September 29, 2016

Destination: Mackinac Island, Michigan

The ultimate destination for the Michigan Tea Tour was a journey to Mackinac Island with an overnight at the Grand Hotel. We traveled to the very tippy-top of Michigan to catch the ferry to take us to the Island. As a bonus, the ferry sailed under the Mighty Mac bridge. This 5-mile suspension bridge (the largest in the Western Hemisphere) divides Lake Huron from Lake Michigan and connects Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas.



No vehicular traffic is allowed on the island, so all transportation is by horse and buggy, bicycles, horse drawn taxis, or walking. With approx. 600 horses on the island, there is a continuous clippity clop of hooves throughout the community and pooper scoopers are kept busy. Thousands of tourists arrive on the island from May thru October while approx. 450 permanent residents reside here year round. They rely on snowmobiles during the winter months.
The Grand Hotel, constructed using Michigan white pine, opened in 1887 and is considered the world's largest summer hotel. Famous for its stately colonial porch, the showy display of American flags, and window boxes full of red geraniums, it exudes elegance from a former era. 





Luxurious and elegant inside and out, Afternoon Tea is served daily in the lobby.

4 comments:

Ruth from Eugene Oregon said...

I am really enjoying your trip to Michegon and all the tea parties,

Marilyn Miller said...

It looks just wonderful. I have seen pictures of this hotel and always dreamed of visiting there. Sitting in one of those rocking chairs on the porch is part of that dream.

Teresa said...

I'm transported back to Mackinac Island by your photos. I can hear the clip clop of the horses and the quietness of the Island.
Sips and Smiles,
Teresa

relevanttealeaf said...

Mackinac Island and the Grand Hotel is one of Michigan's Crown Jewels and I'm so glad it was part of our itinerary.