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Detroit, MI, USA to Mackinaw City, MI, USA from $30: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Detroit, United States of America
to
Mackinaw City, United States of America

How to Get from Detroit to Mackinaw City: 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.

$30 by busBest price
409 kmDistance
3h 35m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Detroit to Mackinaw City 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
Delta
Plane
Average Duration
3h  35m
Estimated price
$196-622
Recommended
Company
Indian Trails
Bus
Average Duration
9h  40m
Estimated price
$30-180
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 409 km
Duration: 3h 35m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  31m
Estimated price
$50-1960
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  22m
Estimated price
$148-577
Company
various
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  54m
Estimated price
$280-722
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Detroit to Mackinaw City

The journey from Detroit's urban energy to Mackinaw City's serene landscapes offers a fascinating contrast, blending the hustle of city life with the tranquility of northern Michigan's natural beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in Mackinaw City

Mackinaw City features charming neighborhoods that highlight its history and natural beauty.

Downtown Mackinaw City
• Bustling with shops and restaurants.
• Close to ferry docks for island access.
Historic District
• Rich in local history and architecture.
• Home to George E. McNab House Museum.
Mackinaw City State Park
• Offers stunning waterfront views.
• Great for hiking and picnicking.

Best Times To Visit Mackinaw City's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Mackinaw City.

Mackinac Island Ferry
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid long lines.
Fort Mackinac
Weekdays during June and September offer fewer crowds for exploration.
Mackinaw Bridge
Dawn provides stunning views and fewer tourists for perfect photos.

Mackinaw City Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Mackinaw City experiences a varied climate, with warm summers ideal for outdoor activities and cold winters perfect for enjoying winter sports. Understanding the seasonal weather can help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this charming area.

Dining in Mackinaw City

You can't leave Mackinaw City without trying the famous whitefish, a local favorite available at restaurants like The English Inn, where fresh, locally-sourced ingredients shine through in every dish. This dining experience, set against a backdrop of charming décor and picturesque views of Lake Huron, provides a stark contrast to the fast-paced culinary scene of Detroit.

Detroit - Mackinaw City operators

Explore transport companies operating between Detroit and Mackinaw City, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
delta.com

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Pellston (PLN)

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$1964-1965

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Sault Ste Marie (CIU)

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$1964-1965

Plane from Detroit (DTW) to Alpena (APN)

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$1966-1965
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-292-3831
Website
https://www.indiantrails.com/

Bus from Detroit, MI to Bay City, MI

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$1967-1968

Bus from Bay City, MI to Mackinaw City, MI

Average Duration
5h 20m
Estimated price
$6223-6224
Taxi

Taxi from Sault Ste Marie to Mackinaw City

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$1964-300

Detroit to Mackinaw City: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Detroit and Mackinaw City 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.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque road trip from Detroit to Mackinaw City, spanning 290 miles of scenic highways and charming small towns. The journey typically takes around 4 hours and 31 minutes, making it a perfect weekend getaway. 💰 Experience the freedom of the open road while keeping your budget in check, as the cost of driving from Detroit to Mackinaw City ranges between $50 to $80. Enjoy the flexibility to stop at intriguing roadside attractions and savor delicious local cuisine along the way.
Average price
$50 - $80
🕒 The train journey takes approximately 8 hours and 45 minutes to cover the 362-mile distance between Detroit and Mackinaw City. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the views as you make your way to this historic and picturesque destination.
🛫 Flying from Detroit Airport to Pellston Airport in Mackinaw City is a quick and convenient option, with a direct flight lasting just 1 hour and 12 minutes. Delta is one of the airlines that offers flights on this route. 🌲 After reaching Pellston Airport, travelers can expect a total flight time of 3 hours and 35 minutes to get to Mackinaw City. This allows for a comfortable journey with minimal layover time and hassle. 💸 The prices for flights between Mackinaw City and Detroit can range from $196 to $622, providing a range of options for travelers with different budget constraints.
Departure Point
Detroit Airport
Arrival Point
Pellston Airport
🚌 If you're looking to travel from Detroit to Mackinaw City by bus, be prepared for a journey with transfers. The trip typically takes around 9 hours and 40 minutes, with services operated by Indian Trails. 💰 Bus ticket prices between Mackinaw City and Detroit can range from $30 to $180, offering flexibility for travelers with different budget preferences.
Departure Point
Detroit, MI station
Arrival Point
Mackinaw City, MI station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Opt for the Indian Trails route for the most direct connection from Detroit to Mackinaw City; it involves transferring in Bay City and takes about 9h 40m total, ideal for a scenic bus ride. More details can be found at indiantrails.com
• Bring snacks and entertainment for the journey, as the long travel time may leave you with few options to purchase food, especially once you’re on the bus; pack a small cooler or a backpack with your favorites.
• Upon arrival at Mackinaw City, you'll disembark at City Hall; familiarize yourself with the local area ahead of time via a map and make a plan for your next steps, whether it’s catching another bus, taking a taxi, or exploring downtown. A helpful resource can be found here: mackinawcity.com

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Detroit to Mackinaw City.

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The cheapest way to travel from Detroit to Mackinaw City is by taking a combination of a night bus and a regular bus. The total cost for this journey can range from $30 to $190, depending on the specific bus company and time of travel. The total journey time can take approximately 9 hours and 55 minutes. It is recommended to check different bus providers and book in advance to secure the best deals and schedules.
The fastest way to travel from Detroit to Mackinaw City is by driving. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 31 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The cost of driving includes fuel and toll expenses, which can range from $50 to $80, depending on the vehicle and current gas prices. It is important to note that the actual travel time may vary, and it is recommended to check for any potential construction or traffic delays before embarking on the journey.
The distance between Detroit and Mackinaw City is approximately 254 miles. If you are driving, the road distance is around 290 miles. This journey can take about 4.5 to 5 hours by car, depending on traffic conditions and route selection. Alternatively, there are also options to travel by public transportation, such as bus or train, which may have varying travel times and routes available.
The best way to travel from Detroit to Mackinaw City without a car is by taking a night bus and then a regular bus. This option takes about 9 hours and 55 minutes and can cost between $30 and $190. You can find bus companies that operate this route and book tickets online or at the bus terminal. It's a convenient and affordable way to reach Mackinaw City from Detroit without the need for a car.
The journey from Detroit to Mackinaw City usually takes around 4 hours and 43 minutes. This includes any transfers that may be required during the trip. It's worth noting that travel times can vary depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the mode of transportation chosen. It's always a good idea to check for any potential delays or disruptions before embarking on your journey.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Mackinaw City. With over 85 hotels to choose from, you have a wide range of choices for your stay. Prices for hotels in Mackinaw City start at $65 per night, so you can find something suitable for every budget. Whether you prefer a cozy bed and breakfast, a waterfront resort, or a budget-friendly motel, you'll find something that meets your needs in Mackinaw City.
Yes, you can definitely drive from Detroit to Mackinaw City. The distance between the two cities is approximately 290 miles, and it takes around 4 hours and 31 minutes to complete the drive. The route is fairly straightforward, with major highways like I-75 North connecting the two cities. It is recommended to check for traffic updates and plan accordingly, especially during peak travel times.
Yes, there is no direct bus from Detroit to Mackinaw City. However, you can take a bus from Detroit to East Lansing and then transfer to another bus that goes to Mackinaw City. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 9 hours and 55 minutes.
To catch the bus from Detroit to Mackinaw City you will need to go to the Detroit station. The bus services are operated by Indian Trails, and that is where they depart from. Make sure to check the bus schedule in advance and arrive at the station on time to ensure a smooth journey.
The bus from Detroit to Mackinaw City arrives at Mackinaw City station. This is the main bus terminal in Mackinaw City where passengers can disembark and continue their journey. The bus service is operated by Indian Trails, a reliable transportation company in the region. Upon arrival, travelers can easily explore nearby attractions or make connections to other modes of transportation.
To get to Mackinaw City from Detroit Airport, you can take a combination of public transportation and a bus. From the airport, you can take the line 261 bus, which will take approximately 56 minutes and cost around $1-$2. This bus will take you to the Rosa Parks Transit Center in downtown Detroit. From there, you can catch a bus to Mackinaw City, which typically takes around 5-6 hours. You can check with different bus companies such as Greyhound or Indian Trails for schedules and ticket prices.
Delta is the only airline that offers flights between Detroit and Mackinaw City. The flights operate from Detroit Airport to Pellston Airport, which is the closest airport to Mackinaw City. It is recommended to check with Delta for the most up-to-date flight schedules and availability.
The fastest way to get from Detroit to Mackinaw City is by plane. The quickest flight is a direct flight from Detroit Airport to Pellston Airport, which takes approximately 1 hour and 9 minutes. Delta offers flights between these two airports. Flying allows you to save time and arrive at your destination quickly.
The flight from Detroit to Mackinaw City typically takes about 1 hour and 9 minutes on a direct flight. However, it's important to note that this flight duration may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It's recommended to check with the airlines for the most up-to-date and accurate flight times for your specific travel dates.
The cost of a bus ticket from Detroit to Mackinaw City can range from $30 to $188. The price may vary depending on the bus company, the time of travel, and whether it is a one-way or round-trip ticket. It is recommended to book in advance and compare prices from different bus operators to find the best deal for your travel needs.
The cost of driving from Detroit to Mackinaw City can range from $50 to $80, depending on factors such as fuel prices, tolls, and vehicle efficiency. This estimate includes both the cost of gasoline and any expenses for tolls along the way. It is important to keep in mind that these are approximate costs and may vary based on individual driving habits and vehicle type.

Trips from Detroit