Harbor Springs, MI, USA to Mackinac Island, MI, USA from $149: 1 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$149 - Taxi, FerryBest price

0 kmDistance

1h 20m Fastest

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Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Harbor Springs 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.

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Traveling From Harbor Springs to Mackinac Island

Traveling from Harbor Springs to Mackinac Island offers a striking contrast between the charming, laid-back vibe of Harbor Springs and the bustling, historic atmosphere of Mackinac Island.

Best Neighborhoods in Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island features neighborhoods rich in history and charm, each offering a distinct experience for visitors.

Downtown Mackinac

• Bustling shops and restaurants abound.

• Close to ferry docks for easy access.

Mission District

• Home to historic Mission Church.

• Scenic views of the Straits of Mackinac.

British Landing

• Historic site of British military camps.

• Perfect spot for quiet picnics by the water.

Best Times To Visit Mackinac Island's Attractions

Maximize your experience on Mackinac Island by timing your visits just right.

Mackinac Island State Park

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and cooler weather.

Fort Mackinac

Weekdays are best for exploring this historic site with minimal distractions.

The Butterfly House

Consider visiting during the opening hour for a tranquil experience.

Mackinac Island Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Mackinac Island experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters, making late spring to early fall the best times to visit. Weather can significantly influence your travel experience, so packing accordingly ensures you enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views, regardless of the season.

Dining Recommendation in Mackinac Island

When in Mackinac Island, try the famous Mackinac Island fudge at shops like Murdick's Fudge, where the rich, sweet flavors contrast sharply with the more understated culinary offerings in Harbor Springs. The lively atmosphere and the ability to watch the fudge-making process create a unique experience that adds local charm to your visit.

Harbor Springs - Mackinac Island operators

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

Taxi

Taxi from Harbor Springs to Mackinaw

Average Duration

1h 20m

Estimated price

€149-170

Ferry

Ferry from Mackinaw to Mackinac Island

Average Duration

1h 20m

Estimated price

€149-170

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Harbor Springs to Mackinac Island.

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The distance between Harbor Springs and Mackinac Island is approximately 50 miles. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: by car, it takes around 1.5 to 2 hours driving around the Lake Michigan shoreline and crossing the Mackinac Bridge; by ferry, it takes about 20-30 minutes from St. Ignace or around an hour from Mackinaw City. Additionally, there are also plane and boat charter options available for a faster and more scenic journey between the two destinations.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Harbor Springs to Mackinac Island is typically taking the ferry from either St. Ignace or Mackinaw City. The ferry ride is relatively affordable and takes around 20-30 minutes from St. Ignace or about an hour from Mackinaw City, providing a scenic and enjoyable journey to the island. Alternatively, driving by car can also be cost-effective, but it may take longer due to the need to drive around the shoreline and cross the Mackinac Bridge.

The prices for traveling from Harbor Springs to Mackinac Island vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. Taking the ferry from St. Ignace or Mackinaw City typically costs around $25 to $30 per person for a round trip. Driving by car may incur costs such as gas, tolls for crossing the Mackinac Bridge, and potential parking fees on the island. Additionally, other options like plane or boat charters can range in price depending on the provider and services offered.

If you prefer not to use public transportation to travel from Harbor Springs to Mackinac Island, you can drive your own car or rent a vehicle for the journey. The drive from Harbor Springs to Mackinaw City takes about an hour, and from there, you can park your car and take a ferry to Mackinac Island. Alternatively, you could arrange for a private boat charter from Harbor Springs directly to the island for a more personalized and private transportation option.

To travel from Harbor Springs to Mackinac Island without a car, you can take a combination of transportation modes. Start by taking a taxi or shuttle service from Harbor Springs to either Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, where you can then board a ferry to Mackinac Island. The ferry ride typically takes around 20-30 minutes from St. Ignace or about an hour from Mackinaw City, offering a scenic and convenient way to reach the island without a car. Alternatively, you could also consider booking a private boat charter for a more personalized and direct transportation option.

No, there is no direct link between Harbor Springs and Mackinac Island. Travelers typically have to take a combination of transportation modes to reach Mackinac Island from Harbor Springs, such as driving to Mackinaw City or St. Ignace and then taking a ferry to the island. While there are no direct routes, the ferry service from the mainland to Mackinac Island is readily available and offers a scenic and enjoyable journey across the water.

There are no commercial flights between Harbor Springs and Mackinac Island as the island does not have an airport with scheduled airline service. Travelers would need to fly to a nearby airport like Pellston Regional Airport or Traverse City Cherry Capital Airport and then take ground transportation to reach Mackinac Island. The cost of a flight to these nearby airports varies depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors, but typically ranges from around $200 to $500 round trip.

There are several accommodation options near Mackinac Island including hotels, motels, inns, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals in towns like St. Ignace and Mackinaw City on the mainland side. These areas offer a range of lodging choices to suit different preferences and budgets, providing convenient access to the ferry services that transport visitors to Mackinac Island. It's recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to secure your preferred stay.