Fort Mackinac
Michigan State Historic Park · Mackinac Island, Michigan
Fort Mackinac is a whitewashed and limestone fort on the bluff above the harbour of Mackinac Island, begun by the British in 1780 and later held by the United States, with a US Army garrison here until 1895. It has been restored and is run by Mackinac State Historic Parks, which also operates several other island and mainland sites. The Officers' Stone Quarters is widely described as the oldest building in Michigan. Inside the walls are a set of furnished historic buildings, a hospital, officers' quarters, a blockhouse and a Tea Room with a harbour view. Costumed interpreters run cannon and rifle firing demonstrations on a seasonal schedule. It suits families, history people and anyone who wants the best height view on the island. The walk up from town is steep, by stairs or by a road. Allow two to three hours. The fort is open in the warm season, roughly May to October, and closed in winter. Confirm dates, prices and firing times before you go.
7127 Huron Road, Mackinac Island, Michigan, 49757, United States
Fort Mackinac is a seasonal site, open roughly from early May through October and closed through the Michigan winter, when the island is quiet and ferries run on a reduced schedule. In season it is normally open daily from about mid-morning into late afternoon, with longer days in midsummer and shorter days at either end of the season. Opening and closing dates and hours change by year, so confirm with Mackinac State Historic Parks before you plan around them. The firing demonstrations, interpreter programmes and Tea Room service run on their own timetable inside those hours, and the daily schedule is normally posted at the gate. The last admission is earlier than closing, so do not arrive in the final hour and expect the full visit.