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Chicago, IL, USA to Mackinac Island, MI, USA from $62: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Chicago, United States of America
to
Mackinac Island, United States of America

How to Get from Chicago to Mackinac Island: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$62 by trainBest price
586 kmDistance
8h 56m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Mackinac Island with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
8h  56m
Estimated price
$148-697
Recommended
Company
Various
Train
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
12h  44m
Estimated price
$62-260
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 586 km
Duration: 8h 56m

See more options

Company
Various
Train
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
11h  50m
Estimated price
$63-267
Company
Various
Bus
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
12h  54m
Estimated price
$75-246

Traveling From Chicago to Mackinac Island

The journey from Chicago's bustling cityscape to Mackinac Island's serene, car-free charm offers a stunning contrast between urban energy and tranquil island life.

Best Neighbourhoods in Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island features charming neighborhoods that showcase its rich history and beauty.

Main Street
• Heart of shopping and dining options
• Vibrant atmosphere with local events
British Landing
• Stunning views of the shoreline
• Peaceful spot for picnics and relaxation
Haven Park
• Lush green spaces for outdoor activities
• Great trails for biking and walking

Best Times To Visit Mackinac Island's Attractions

Planning your visit to Mackinac Island can help you enjoy its attractions to the fullest.

Fort Mackinac
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Mackinac Island State Park
Weekdays in spring or fall offer scenic trails with fewer visitors.
The Grand Hotel
Go during weekdays in June or September for a peaceful experience.

Mackinac Island Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Mackinac Island features a humid continental climate, with warm summers ideal for outdoor activities and cold winters perfect for cozy retreats. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures, providing an excellent time to explore without the summer crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Mackinac Island

Indulge in a classic fudge treat from Murdick's Fudge, where the rich flavors crafted from local ingredients offer a delightful contrast to Chicago's diverse dining scene. The charming atmosphere and the aroma of freshly made fudge provide a unique experience that captures the island's quaint essence.

Chicago - Mackinac Island operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Mackinac Island, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Traverse City

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$1484-1485
Website
aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Traverse City

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$1484-1486
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to East Lansing Amtrak Station

Average Duration
3h 55m
Estimated price
$1487-1488

Train from Chicago Union Station to Grand Rapids Vernon J. Ehlers Station

Average Duration
4h 4m
Estimated price
$620-1484
Bus
Contact phone
+1 800-292-3831
Website
indiantrails.com

Bus from Traverse City, MI to Mackinaw City, MI

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$625-6975

Bus from East Lansing, MI to Mackinaw City, MI

Average Duration
6h 20m
Estimated price
$623-6976

Bus from Grand Rapids, MI to Mackinaw City, MI

Average Duration
7h 5m
Estimated price
$6973-6976

Bus from Kalamazoo, MI to Mackinaw City, MI

Average Duration
8h 25m
Estimated price
$6979-2601
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Kalamazoo Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 50m
Estimated price
$2602-6975
Ferry
Contact phone
231-436-5023
Website
sheplersferry.com

Ferry from Mackinaw to Mackinac Island

Average Duration
20m
Estimated price
$2603-2603

Chicago to Mackinac Island: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chicago and Mackinac Island offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

Useful tips for train travellers
• On your trip from Chicago to Mackinac Island, travel with Amtrak, which offers several onboard catering services. Depending on the train you choose, you can enjoy a cafe car with light snacks and beverages available for purchase. For longer journeys, look out for meal services which might include full meals, especially if you’re traveling in Business Class or First Class. Be sure to check the Amtrak website for specific menu offerings and hours of service during your trip.
• Amtrak provides a few seating options for your journey to Mackinac Island. You can choose from Economy Class, Business Class, and First Class. Economy Class offers spacious reclining seats, while Business Class provides larger seats with more legroom and complimentary snacks. First Class, available on certain routes, might include more expansive seating, meals, and better service. Ensure to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• The primary operator for the Chicago to Mackinac Island route is Amtrak. You can visit their website at amtrak.com for schedules, fares, and more details about your trip. An important note: Mackinac Island doesn’t have a traditional train station; instead, the last leg of your journey involves ferry services that transport you to the island. For timing and local transportation options once you're in Mackinac City, check the ferry services’ websites as well.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Mackinac Island.

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The cheapest way to travel from Chicago to Mackinac Island is by taking a combination of train, bus, and ferry through Grand Rapids. This route can cost anywhere from $60 to $260, depending on the specific travel dates and booking options. The journey typically takes around 12 hours and 44 minutes, but it offers a budget-friendly option for those looking to save on transportation costs. Be sure to check schedules and availability beforehand to plan your trip accordingly.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago to Mackinac Island is by taking a combination of a flight, bus, and ferry. This route typically takes around 8 hours and 56 minutes, making it the quickest option available. The cost for this journey ranges from $140 to $700 depending on the specific dates and availability of flights and transportation services. Flying to a nearby airport and then taking ground transportation to the ferry terminal can help expedite the journey to Mackinac Island.
The distance between Chicago and Mackinac Island is approximately 364 miles. The most common modes of transportation from Chicago to Mackinac Island include driving, flying, or taking a combination of train, bus, and ferry. Depending on the chosen method of travel, the journey can take anywhere from around 6 to 13 hours. However, the quickest way to reach Mackinac Island from Chicago is by flying to Pellston and then taking a ferry to the island.
To travel from Chicago to Mackinac Island without a car, the most convenient option is to take a combination of train, bus, and ferry. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 50 minutes and can cost between $60 to $270 depending on the specific routes and timings chosen. You can board a train from Chicago to Grand Rapids, then transfer to a bus to reach St. Ignace, and finally take a ferry to Mackinac Island, offering a scenic and enjoyable travel experience without the need for a personal vehicle.
The journey from Chicago to Mackinac Island typically takes around 8 hours and 56 minutes, which includes transfers. Travelers usually have to make transfers in cities like Grand Rapids before reaching Mackinac Island. It's advisable to plan for these transfer times to ensure a smooth and efficient journey to the beautiful destination of Mackinac Island.
There are over 93 hotels available on or near Mackinac Island, offering a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels on the island start at $65 per night, with varying amenities and locations to choose from. Visitors can opt for charming bed and breakfasts, historic inns, or even luxury resorts with stunning waterfront views. It is recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and the best rates.

Trips from Chicago

Trips to Mackinac Island