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New York City, NY, USA to Mackinac Island, MI, USA from $60: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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New York City, United States of America
to
Mackinac Island, United States of America

How to Get from New York City to Mackinac Island: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$60 by busBest price
1500 kmDistance
15h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from New York City 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
Drive
Average Duration
15h  30m
Estimated price
$150-250
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
20h  45m
Estimated price
$60-90
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1500 km
Duration: 15h 30m

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Company
various
Train
Average Duration
18h  15m
Estimated price
$100-180

Traveling From New York to Mackinac Island

Traveling from the bustling streets of New York to the tranquil charm of Mackinac Island offers a stark contrast between urban excitement and serene natural beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island features charming neighborhoods, each offering a distinct experience.

Main Street
• Bustling shops and eateries line the street.
• Offers stunning views of the harbor.
East Bluff
• Known for its panoramic views of the island.
• Peaceful residential area with historic homes.
West Bluff
• Beautiful Victorian architecture throughout the area.
• Scenic trails perfect for leisurely walks.

Best Times To Visit Mackinac Island's Attractions

Maximize your enjoyment of Mackinac Island by timing your visits just right.

Mackinac Island State Park
Early mornings or late afternoons offer quieter trails and stunning light.
Fort Mackinac
Visit right at opening for an engaging, less crowded experience.
The Butterfly House
Afternoons, especially weekdays, typically see fewer visitors.

Mackinac Island Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Mackinac Island experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers ideal for outdoor activities and cold winters perfect for cozy getaways. Late spring to early fall offers the best weather for exploring, though each season brings its own charm, influencing how you experience this picturesque destination.

Dining Recommendation

A visit to Mackinac Island isn't complete without trying the famous fudge from Murdick's Fudge, which offers a delightful contrast to the sophisticated dining options in New York. The charming atmosphere and use of locally sourced ingredients create a homely, nostalgic experience that showcases the island's sweet heritage in a way that vibrant city eateries can't match.

New York City - Mackinac Island operators

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

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Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from New York City to Mackinac Island.

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The distance between New York and Mackinac Island is approximately 700 miles. By air, a flight from New York to the nearest airport typically takes around 2 hours, while driving can take around 12 to 14 hours, depending on traffic. If you opt for a train or bus, the journey might take considerably longer, often exceeding 15 hours. Once you arrive in the area, a ferry is necessary to reach Mackinac Island, which adds about 15-20 minutes to your travel time.
The most cost-effective transportation option from New York to Mackinac Island is typically by bus, which can be more affordable than flying but takes longer. However, for a balance of time and cost, booking a flight to Pellston Regional Airport and then taking a ferry to Mackinac Island would be the most efficient choice. Flights can often be found at competitive prices if booked in advance, and the entire journey can be completed in a reasonable amount of time. Once at the airport, it's just a quick transfer to the ferry terminal that connects you to the island.
Prices for traveling from New York to Mackinac Island can vary significantly based on the mode of transportation chosen. A one-way flight to Pellston Regional Airport typically ranges from $100 to $300, depending on the airline and how far in advance tickets are purchased. Bus tickets can be more economical, often priced between $50 and $150, but they come with a longer travel time. Additionally, the ferry to Mackinac Island usually costs around $30 to $40 round trip, adding to the total travel expenses.
To travel from New York to Mackinac Island without using public transportation, you can drive your own vehicle or rent a car. The journey will take about 12 to 14 hours of driving, depending on traffic and road conditions. Once you reach the mainland near Mackinac Island, you'll need to take a private water taxi or charter boat. This option allows for a customized travel experience while avoiding public transit.
Traveling from New York to Mackinac Island without a car can be accomplished by first taking a flight to a nearby airport, such as Pellston Regional Airport or Traverse City Airport. From there, you can arrange for a taxi or a rideshare service to a ferry terminal, where you can catch a ferry directly to Mackinac Island. Alternatively, you can consider flying to a major city like Detroit and then taking a combination of train or bus services to complete your journey. This option provides a convenient way to reach the island while enjoying the scenery along the way.
There is no direct public transportation link between New York and Mackinac Island since Mackinac Island does not have an airport or road access. Travelers typically fly to nearby airports, such as Pellston Regional Airport or Traverse City Airport, before taking a taxi or shuttle to a ferry terminal. Ferries are the primary means of reaching the island from mainland Michigan. Hence, you'll need to combine air travel with ground transportation and ferry service to complete your journey.
There are no direct flights to Mackinac Island, but typically, a flight from New York to nearby airports like Pellston Regional Airport takes about 2 hours. Depending on the season and how far in advance you book, ticket prices usually range from $150 to $400 for one-way flights. After arriving at the airport, you'll need to take a taxi or shuttle to a ferry terminal, which will then transport you to Mackinac Island. Overall, when factoring in the ferry ride, your total travel time from New York to the island would be longer than just the flight duration.
Near Mackinac Island, you can find a variety of accommodations ranging from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Some popular options include the historic Grand Hotel, known for its stunning views and elegant amenities, and the Island House Hotel, which offers a more casual atmosphere with easy access to the ferry dock. Additionally, there are several rental cottages and vacation homes available for those seeking a more private experience. If you prefer to be on the mainland, St. Ignace and Mackinaw City also provide numerous hotels and motels with ferry access to the island.

Trips from New York City

Trips to Mackinac Island