Built in 1780, Fort Mackinac commemorates the island’s history as a British, French, and American military outpost. The imposing fort overlooks the harbor, and is the oldest building in Michigan. Through a number of live demonstrations, tours, special exhibits, and audiovisual programs, learn all about the fort's past and how, as well as serving as an outpost, provided a home for many members of the military and their families. The 13 other historical structures, furnished with period settings, give insight into the military training, medical treatments, and family life within the fort. Remember to bring suitable clothing for the trip as it is very much an outdoor experience. Walking shoes are recommended. To visit Fort Mackinac on your trip to Mackinac Island, use our Mackinac Island visit site.
Create an itinerary including Fort Mackinac
© OpenMapTiles © OpenStreetMap contributors
Fort Mackinac reviews
-
There are so many things to view, explore, and learn about here. Take time to investigate each of the well-maintained exhibits while you wait for the next demonstration activity. The fort is well... more »
-
Definitely need to visit this Fort if visiting the Island. Very educational and very well preserved. My grandkids loved the hands on experiences. Demonstrations were awesome. more »
-
This is a great way to see the history of the island. Staff was very informative and took there time making sure we had a great experience. One of the coolest things there was the fact they shot off old canons every hours or so. I will definitely come back.
-
There are several events throughout the day like cannon blasts, the rifle fire and the soldiers march, etc. There are different demonstration buildings/sites inside this fort. We explored all the buildings. The exhibits are very well presented. We enjoyed the music and the firing of the cannon demonstrations. The views from this high top area were magnificent.
Plan your trip to Mackinac Island
Get a personalized trip
A complete day by day itinerary
based on your preferencesCustomize it
Refine your trip. We'll find the
best routes and schedulesManage it
Everything in one place.
Everyone on the same page.
Popular things to do in Mackinac Island
Hidden gems in Mackinac Island
Shopping in Mackinac Island
Historic Sites in Mackinac Island
Nearby attractions in Mackinac Island
Nature in Mackinac Island
Trips to Fort Mackinac by other users
8 days in Upper Peninsula
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Munising
Paradise
Saint Ignace
15 days in Midwest
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Branson
Custer
Badlands National Park
5 days in Upper Peninsula
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Marquette
Munising
Paradise
7 days in Upper Peninsula
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Mackinac Island
Paradise
Sault Ste. Marie
15 days in Michigan
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Munising
Mackinac Island
Traverse City
8 days in Upper Peninsula
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Saint Ignace
Mackinac Island
Paradise
