Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island, Michigan.

© randytate/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Fort Mackinac

Michigan


Fort Mackinac sits atop limestone cliffs near downtown. Built by the British in 1780, it's one of the best-preserved military forts in the country. Costumed interpreters and cannon and rifle firings (every half-hour) entertain the kids. Stop into the tearoom for a bite and a million-dollar view of downtown and the Straits of Mackinac from the outdoor tables.

The fort admission price also allows you entry to five other museums in town along Market St, including the Dr Beaumont Museum (where the doctor performed his famous digestive tract experiments) and Benjamin Blacksmith Shop.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Michigan attractions

1. Mackinac Art Museum

0.15 MILES

This museum houses Native American arts, historic maps and island photography. Admission is free with a Fort Mackinac ticket.

2. Fort Holmes

0.43 MILES

British forces built the small wood and earth fort in 1814 to protect against a US attack during the War of 1812. This is a replica, as the original…

3. Arch Rock

0.66 MILES

This huge limestone arch curves 150ft above Lake Huron and provides dramatic photo opportunities. You can get here two ways: from stairs that lead up from…

4. Colonial Michilimackinac

7.09 MILES

Next to the Big Mac bridge (its visitor center is actually beneath the bridge) is Colonial Michilimackinac, a National Historic Landmark that features a…

5. Historic Mill Creek

7.84 MILES

The site has an 18th-century sawmill where costumed interpreters chop wood, plus historic displays, a zipline and nature trails.