Mackinaw City Chamber ^of Tourism

Inside the stately stone walls it’s a different time.

The cannon blasts, the rifles fire, the soldiers march and history comes alive. 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.

More than just a military outpost, Fort Mackinac served as a home for soldiers and their families and eventually the headquarters for Mackinac National Park, where tourists to the island visited the great fortress on the bluff, much like they do today.

Highlights

Live Programs and Tours

Demonstrations and tours by costumed interpreters are scheduled throughout the day.

Exhibits

All fourteen buildings in the fort are restored and open to the public. They are furnished with period settings highlighting the building’s particular function or a themed exhibit. Special exhibits include:

• Mackinac, An Island Famous in These Regions on the second floor of the Soldiers’ Barracks presents the full history of Mackinac Island. 
• Military Medicine at Mackinac: 1780-1895 in the Post Hospital explores medical care at the fort and changing nineteenth-century medical practices. 
• Kids’ Quarters features hands-on displays and interactive games.

Audiovisual Programs

Heritage of Mackinac is featured in the Post Commissary, providing an overview history of Mackinac. It repeats every 20 minutes.

Hours of Operation

May 3 – June 8
9:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m.
Last Admission 4:30 p.m.

June 9 – September 2
9:30 a.m. 6:30 p.m.
Last Admission 6:00 p.m.

September 3 – October 7
9:30 a.m. 5:00 p.m.
Last Admission 4:30 p.m.

October 8 – October 28
11:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m.
Last Admission 3:00 p.m. Admission is ONLY at the Avenue of Flags or north entrance.

Fort Mackinac is located on Mackinac Island within the boundaries of Mackinac Island State Park, on the bluff overlooking the City of Mackinac Island and Haldimand Bay. There are two entrances: via the front ramp off Fort Street and at back off Huron Road.

Visitor Services

Dining

The Tea Room, operated by Grand Hotel, is open all day serving snacks, beverages and desserts. Lunches are served from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. A Food Cart, adjacent to the Parade Ground, serves hot dogs, snacks and soft drinks.

Shopping

The Sutler’s Museum Store is located within the ground floor of the Soldiers’ Barracks. It offers a variety of apparel, unique mementos, gifts, and publications.

Restrooms

Accessible restrooms are located within the fort.

Accessibility 

Fort Mackinac warmly welcomes guests with special needs. Visitors using wheelchairs should use the back entrance off Huron Road. Learn more about how guests with limited mobility or other special needs can fully enjoy their visit.

Visitation Tips & Courtesies

Getting Around

Please keep in mind that Fort Mackinac is very much an outdoor experience so prepare accordingly for various weather conditions. We recommend walking shoes and comfortable clothing. Please be sure to collect a Map & Schedule at the entrance.

Touring Time

There is a lot to see and do at Fort Mackinac. We recommend that you plan to spend a minimum of one to two hours touring the site.

Pet Friendly

Well-behaved pets on leashes are welcome. Water bowls are located adjacent to front entrance.

Photography

Photography is permitted and encouraged in all areas. Professional or group photography must be approved in advance.

Electronic Devices

Please silence electronic devices during audiovisual presentations and live demonstrations.

Smoking

Fort Mackinac is a smoke-free site.