The 50 best things to do in the Upper Peninsula (2024)

If you come before the season officially starts, you can't rely on the website to tell you what amenities they are actually offering. The main dining options were closed and tea time wasn't offered, but no notice was given and we planned our trip around these amenities. Dress code wasn't enforced, staff weren't helpful, food was fine. I recommend starting some place closer to main street, probably at a better rate

This is the second year in a row that we have stayed at the Grand Hotel. We had such a wonderful stay last time that we decided to go back. Unfortunately our second stay wasn't as satisfactory. First off let me say, the property is unsurpassed, with its over-the-top decor, service, and views. A true bucket list place to visit! For this visit we reserved a balcony room with a lake view. The rooms are decorated with floral walls, so cheerful and bold! However, as chance would have it, our room happened to be located directly under the Cupola Bar, which of course came with a certain amount of noise above us.The staircase to the bar was located located just outside our door, and the foot traffic up and down the stairs could also be heard from inside our room. On our second night a group of adolescents in the room next to us could be heard jumping and shouting and running up and down the hallway. They may have been part of a larger group of kids (looked to be about one hundred) that we ran into at the buffet in the dining room the next morning that were at the hotel for some function. Word to the wise, check ahead of time where your room is going to be located, and opt out of the one below the Cupola bar. And inquire about large events that may be scheduled at the hotel during your stay if you're looking for a quiet getaway.

Everything is great except the room. At $700 per night, I expected an old hotel with modern life cleverly integrated. What I received, however, was an old hotel with cheap motel room vibes. Doesn’t seem like a ton of thought was put into the rooms.Just some thoughts as I try to sleep in the hot and freezing room.-A modern mini split hvac system for the rooms. Should be quieter and hopefully, hold temperature better. At least they have a fan to move air around when not actively cooling.-adjoining doors that seal better so I at least have the opportunity to not eavesdrop on my neighbors.-TV mount that hides the electronics better (don’t really need the nightlight).-maybe antique furniture with a built in wireless cellphone charger?I know the seasonality of the location is a challenge, but it sure seems like it could be a whole lot better.I’m content with the overall experience thus far, but I just don’t see it being something I ever do again.

We visited for the day to take a tour and ended up staying overnight.The location and hotel absolutely gorgeous. The Geranium Bar and the porch service is excellent. Everyone is helpful and the check in staff was great. Unfortunately, in the Cupola Bar the service was lacking. Maybe it was an off night. We were on the very top floor after trying to sit in the lower area where a child (in a bar) was being allowed to run wild through the area. It was not busy at all. There was one party below and maybe six total people at the top. We received our first drink and cheese board quickly. However, we asked for water we never got. A group of about six people came in and ordered, our server descended and never came back to check on us. We were about to get up and go downstairs when she finally returned to give the group their drinks. Apparently she waited the entire time below where the preparation is done. A couple coming before dinner waited an extremely long time even to be acknowledged.The server was pleasant and nice, when she was there. However, felt it necessary to remind us of the dress code (we were in casual attire). We were in the cupola because of this reason. We weren’t trying to attend high tea or dinner in the main dining area…A little snooty, like we did not know.For the cost of everything and the claims of service at this hotel/resort the service was lacking. More hospitality training is needed. Most of the employees were year one. Overall a great time and beautiful place.

Very nice setting. Every room is uniquely decorated. Lots of flowers, colors. Geraniums are everywhere! This is a very large facility, well maintained, although not new. It's definitely worth a visit. I would not recommend it if one is not able to walk, climb stairs (getting in and out of horse-drawn carriages). There is no vehicular traffic on the island. Taxis are horse-drawn; walking or bicycling are the most common mode of transportation.

Our family enjoyed our overnight stay at the hotel in mid-October. We were delighted to still be able to use the pool, as it was heated, even though it was quite chilly outdoors. Our tween felt very comfortable in the formal surroundings because of the gracious friendliness and hospitality of the staff. We enjoyed all our meals, short walk to town, the secret garden, the ice cream shop, the mini golf and croquet. We opened our window in the evening and all we could hear was Lake Huron and the gentle clip-clop of the horse carriages. There is something for everyone!

My wife and I spent the night at the Grand Hotel on October 18-19 and had a terrific experience. We decided to upgrade to a lake-view room, and we couldn't have been happier with the room we were given (364). Great view, very comfortable beds, nice furnishings. But, more importantly, every staff member we interacted with during our stay was friendly, helpful, and efficient, including the servers at dinner and breakfast and on the porch and in the Cupola Bar, the people at the front desk, and the young guy on the entrance steps who took our picture more than once. The hotel itself is, obviously, just beautiful, inside and out. We spent part of an afternoon on the big porch, having a drink and taking in the incomparable view. We enjoyed our food at both dinner and breakfast and had excellent service at both. But more than any single thing, the experience as a whole--the surroundings, the views, the sense of history and elegance (dressing up for dinner, something we normally would shy away from, is actually a nice touch in this context)--was really great. (We were also extremely lucky with our weather: two fantastic Fall days.) Five stars all the way.

What can you say about the Grand Hotel, but "Step back in time." Room was lovely decorated and beautiful view. Dinning is a experience in itself, five courses and all delicious. Dinning staff should be commended for excellent service. All other hotel staff friendly and attentive to our needs. So happy to have been able to stay.

The Grand Hotel was a really nice visit. We didn't stay here, but we did pay to go in and see the place. Great architecture all around. A relaxing cafe to stop and have a drink. Patio was nice to sit on and relax to overwatch the lake. A lot of nice decorations and history to view around the walkable areas of the hotel too.

Room was A+. Service was A+. First time here and was like pinch me I am dreaming as felt like a piece of heaven. Flowers in bloom. Horses absolutely gorgeous and hard working. Took a day to explore the island and found so many cool things. The magic garden was magical...stunning!!! The restaurant staff really took care of every detail...going to be hard to plan next trip as going to be most difficult to top such an awesome first trip!

Very impressive grand hotel on Mackinaw Island. A short horse taxi ride from the ferries, or a nice walk. We weren't staying here so paid $10 each to get in and walk around. Worth the cost as you can do a tour, walk the grounds, and sit on their balconies.Totally get why they charge, don't want all the crazy tourists wandering around here!Take the elevator up to the Cupola bar or walk down to the fountain for some amazing views!

Grand hotel is a beautiful place on the island, not to mention an iconic landmark. It costs a fortune to stay, though you can find some relatively inexpensive prices if you hit it just right. The service is AMAZING. Everyone is so friendly, very helpful, and quite knowledgeable.The reason for 4 stars- The food was not amazing for the price you pay here. Respectfully, I’ve had much better at other restaurants in the US. I don’t mean that in a stuck up way, but in the sense that I paid $75 per person to eat lunch; so I expected a lot more than it was. Lovely setup, but the flavor just wasn’t there.It was overall a lovely stay, I’d definitely recommend at least once.

We decided on the Grand Hotel for our anniversary, and it was a fantastic choice. There's a lovely balance of historical charm and modern comfort. The dining was an experience in itself – truly delightful. We enjoyed sipping drinks on the porch and unwinding at the Cupola Bar. Plus, the car-free atmosphere of the island is such a refreshing change. A heads up: they have a dress code after 6pm, which added a classy touch to our evenings. Overall, a memorable stay that we'd highly recommend.

There is no other place like The Grand Hotel. Experiencing true grace, charm and a gentile way of life is the hope for every traveler at this hotel. It is truly remarkable. No matter where or how long you stay, you will want to come back again and again. Take the time to have tea, sit on the front porch, enjoy all the daily activities, wonderful meals and embrace what leisure vacation should be. The offerings at the hotel are impressive along with the daily list of activities. Walk to town, see the intriguing sites (Somewhere in Time locations), the charm of downtown and rock an afternoon away on the front porch. Celebrate life in the finest tradition while savoring high tea. The staff at the hotel are incredible, management excels and cleanliness is definitely above and beyond usual high standards. The Grand Hotel is a fine example of elegance. Long may The Grand Hotel remain true to its legacy.

My family and I have been coming up to stay here since before I was born (first trip was actually the same year Somewhere in Time was being filmed) and I am extremely pleased to now be able to share the experience with my wife! Like me when I was a kid, she has fallen in love with the history and beauty of the Grand Hotel, and Mackinac Island as a whole. The room was beautiful and comfortable, and the views from the hotel were amazing! I especially want to compliment the staff waiting on our table for the multiple nights we ate dinner there. The accommodations they made for my grandfather, who had to use a wheelchair, were greatly appreciated, and they made sure he was comfortable and were extremely friendly. The food and service was excellent for our entire stay, like it always has been, so a huge thank you to the entire dining room staff! We were also really impressed by the many activities the hotel had, especially the pool and mini golf (which was hilarious and an awesome way to spend Father’s Day with my dad). Both of these features were a great addition to the whole hotel experience! Overall, we had a wonderful time during the 4 days we stayed here this year. My family has a deep love for the island and the hotel, and I was very pleased to see that the standards of service have been consistently exceptional over the years. My wife and I are looking forward to continue the family tradition of making memories up here for years to come!

We have been coming to the Grand Hotel for the last 15 years. Upon arrival, they make you feel like you are at home. From check-in to check-out, the service is outstanding. Dining at the Grand is an experience everyone should have at least once. One of my favorite spots to spend the day is at the Esther Williams Pool. Make sure to try the Esther Williams smash burger – it's outstanding! The staff is friendly and always happy to help. The rooms are beautifully designed and comfortable. We are looking forward to our return trip in 2025.

It had been a life-long dream of mine to visit Mackinac Island and stay at the Grand Hotel. It didn't disappoint! I was unsure how it would all work out: from arriving on the ferry, to our luggage, to check-in - but everything was seamless! Everyone at the Grand was friendly and helpful. Also, the evening dress policy made the experience even more magical. We enjoyed the free guided tours of the stables and the "meet the coachmen" experience. The food at all the restaurants is delicious. If you travel to Mackinac, do consider staying at the Grand Hotel. You will remember your stay forever!

We really enjoyed our first time staying as guests at Grand Hotel, and our Lake View Balcony double room. The view was spectacular, providing perfect views of the bright red trees lining Cadotte Road, the Grand Hotel lawn, gardens, and pool, and the Mackinac Bridge and straits. Seeing everything all lit up at night was even better! We also loved the geranium-scented soaps and lotions in our bathroom. The bright floral decor in the room was also beautiful! I couldn’t spend enough time out on the balcony even though it was cold, and I loved that we were right beneath the cupola. It was so cool to go out there at night and hear the piano music coming from the Cupola Bar right over our heads!We also really enjoyed leisurely exploring the hotel and grounds. Everything was so lovely and luxurious, we felt like kings and queens. We enjoyed shopping in the stores on the lower level, getting ice cream at Sadie’s, walking from one end of the porch to the other, finding the secret garden, and relaxing while enjoying a snack and taking in the breathtaking views at the Cupola Bar. I was even able to look down at our balcony from one of the Bar’s windows!A pleasant surprise for us was being invited into the Governor’s Suite! A lovely group of older women were having a meeting inside, and we just happened to be passing by in the hall when one of them opened the door and invited us to come inside. We walked through the sitting room, peeked into the bedroom from afar, and stepped onto the balcony and were stunned to be looking down at the Grand Hotel porch! I always wondered what the balconies by the porch ceiling above the entrance to the parlor were for, and now I know that they are part of the President’s and Governor’s Suites! I still can’t believe I was up there! It was definitely a special experience that we all appreciated so much.A major highlight of our stay was enjoying a scrumptious afternoon tea while listening to heavenly harp music in my favorite part of the hotel, the parlor. It was also so much fun getting dressed up for dinner, enjoying a five course meal with a waiter who balanced the trays of food on his head(!), and eating my first ever grand pecan ball (I loved it)! Ending the evening with dancing in the Terrace Room was also so much fun. The next morning, we enjoyed a sumptuous breakfast in the dining room, and I was very impressed with the quality and variety of foods offered. It was the perfect way to end our stay.I would love to come back again sometime, and hopefully we will (perhaps when the weather is a bit warmer so we can enjoy the sprawling outdoor pool). Overall, I couldn’t have asked for a better first experience staying at Grand Hotel. It was everything I was hoping it would be, and then some.

Everything about the Grand Hotel is elegant and beautiful. The grounds and gardens are colorful and continually updated. The new pool area is colorful and very family friendly from the zero entry to all the amenities. The rooms are colorfully decorated and each is different. There is an evening dress code and it's fun to dress up for dinner and go into the main dining room to be served by elegant waitstaff in formal wear. The food is top notch and there are many choices. Desserts are fabulous. There is much to do if you want or it's fun to take a seat in a rocker on the porch and watch boats and people go by. It even smells good thanks to the signature geranium scent!

This reviews on the decor and just the opulence of this very old hotel. We did not stay here as the rates are excessive. They do have a lunch buffet for $75 but we chose to opt out of that as well as we thought the price was excessive. In fact prices overall at this hotel are excessive and I droped it down one star. The hotel is historically very significant to the island and to tour it will cost you $10 per person. We actually thought it was worth the price and once you start walking around you will just see how stunning this hotel is and it seems to make you go back in time.The movie somewhere in Time which starred Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour was partially filmed at this hotel. They have a small alcove dedicated to this movie with memorabilia from the stars and pictures.From the minute you walk in you feel as though you were transported back in time. The decor resembles period furnishings from the 1800s. Of course quite a few famous people and politicians have stayed here over the years. If you plan on staying for dinner you will need to be dressed in proper attire.

We didn’t stay overnight here but we did the day tour. It was $10 per person and you have access basically to the whole hotel and can tour around. There was some convention going on and they had areas blocked off because of it which was a little frustrating but we still enjoyed our time. There’s a lot of history on the walls to read about. Definitely make sure to make it to the very top of the hotel. You know you are there when you find the area painted with blue clouds on the walls then keep going up until you find the very top bar area with a panoramic view of the water and down to the pool and everything.

National Historic Landmark built in 1887. The 383 room hotel is a lovely novelty to be sure. Room prices: $319 - $2415. (we paid $499 per night for a standard room in April 2023) Meals for adults: Breakfast $49, Lunch, Grand lunch buffet $75 and dinner $120.We have been going to the Grand for 15 years and every year (understandably) the prices go up and the last few years, the quality and quantity have reached the bottom of acceptable for us. Sadly, we won't be back.

I didn’t get to stay at the Grand Hotel but we paid the $10 to be able to go in and look around.It is a beautiful old hotel with so much history! We went to the highest point and enjoyed a cocktail in the bar overlooking the island.I’d love to stay here one day !

Took over an hour to get tea during tea time. Then the next morning at breakfast, we had to remind our waiter to bring us tea. For a hotel that prides itself on the theme of colonizers taking land from the indigenous people and putting minorities to work in the kitchen, they sure are slow to serve the tea. The gardens and pool were beautiful and the view was great.

Amazing! Beautiful! Majestic! The Somewhere in Time memorabilia room is great. The souvenir shop had lots of items pertaining to the movie. The hotel itself is beautiful. The staff are very friendly and helpful. The day pass allowed us to roam the entire grounds and inside the hotel. They honestly didn’t check for the passes at all. I am so happy I was able to visit this filming location!

Grand HotelSuch a beautiful place. Nice lawn. Nice pool, etc. Well taken care of. The decor was excellent.My only wish would be to spend ONE night here. Maybe one day. I hear it's haunted too. Either way.The hotel made famous by the movie "Somewhere in Time"Highly Recommended

The hotel is very upscale and proper. The tour is unguided and without direction. The grounds were tailored and groomed. Not all the flowers had been planted, but the gardens were still beautiful. Worth the trip.

We finally stayed at the Grand after hearing so much about it. Beautiful from the outside. Grand porch with stellar views. Island itself is worth visiting. The hotel has lots of history so it’s neat in that sense. However, with all the foreign visa workers, our service, and disorganization with hotel info (too many miscues) it seemed like an average cruise ship event. Great views, great location, but the hotel experience is overrated. After having the lunch buffet (was good) but not worth the hype, we ventured elsewhere for dinner the night we were there. Drinks at the Cupola bar were nice and relaxing as well as the front porch. Room was well decorated but showing its age in a worn sense, not modern sense. It’s not modern and don’t expect it to be. It had character which was good; we liked the room with a balcony. Overall, a B- experience for us at the hotel. It’s an A+ for location and views. The scenic bike rides and hikes on the island were fantastic. Rent bike’s and go for a ride…

“Come Back To Me” !We brought mom her because of the movie - Somewhere In Time, her most favourite film in the 80s. The hotel looks so new and beautiful even when it is 137 years old. Rooms are traditional furnished and decorated. The hotel is wheelchair accessible everywhere.Everyone dressed up for dinner. High teas at the porch and buffet breakfast are all amazing. Will definitely come back again soon.

Rooms need an overhaul, pool and grouds are fantastic and the food was very good. Most importantly, the staff and employees at the Grand were helpful, kind, truly proud and invested in being customer oriented and professional. If only the rooms were as exceptional as the staff, this review would have been 5 stars. Food at peripheral Grand Hotel Restaurants was exceptional, better than expected but the main dining in the Grand was OK to good...on the verge of very good, but the menu needs to be freshened up.Luggage delivery did take a long time, so either get on a ferry before noon or backpack your luggage needs for the first night. Overall great experience, and the new pool and Gem mini golf was excellent.

We booked the Honeymoon package and we definitely were satisfied with our choice.When we entered our room, a beautiful floral arrangement, a fruit tray with cheese, fudge, and iced champagne were waiting. The view of the lake and particularly the lighthouse really made our experience special.The staff, the dining experience in the main dining room, the beautiful grounds, and the sense of history in the hotel confirmed that we had chosen well.The carriage ride was a highlight of our stay. It allowed us to see the beauty of the island in comfort. The driver was very pleasant and informative.Overall, it was a most enjoyable stay. We are looking forward to our next visit.

The Grand Hotel provides one of the most perfectly memorable vacation experiences in America. Every employee who we have met in two visits this year has been outstanding, providing warm and gracious service. The rooms, dining and drinking establishments (there are many!), and facilities are all wonderful. The hotel hearkens back to a past age where traveling was not only fun, but also elegant and gracious. If you desire an incomparable experience, The Grand Hotel is a must!

Me and my friends stayed in the grand hotel last minute just for fun. We were so excited to have this experience because the rooms are so pricey we said why not just for 1 night. Check in wasn’t until 4:30pm. And by the time we got our bags up to the room and settled in we wanted to go to the pool but it closed at 6pm! Not even time to go to it and check it out. Not to mention that price didn’t even include breakfast or anything.Our room was on the 1st floor and we paid over $500 for a room that had a view of the roof. The room didn’t even have a microwave in it. We went out for dinner and drinks and had to go back to the room a couple of times and each time we walked into the building we were harassed by the staff asking us if we were staying here.After falling asleep in the perfectly average room I was awaken at 4am by the room above me. For an hour I laid there listening to people stomping and running around. It was so incredibly loud I could hear everything. So I called the front desk after it didn’t stop. They said they would call them and ask them to quiet down. Another half an hour goes by and nothing happens. So at 5am with no sleep I go down to the lobby. There is a line of people waiting to check out and 1 person working the desk. Finally I get to tell them what’s going on and they did not care at all.It was the worst sleep I’ve ever gotten at a hotel. I would have preferred a motel 6. I understand that it is a historical building but if the walls are paper thin and you don’t get a view of anything you can’t charge $500 a night with no breakfast or anything. Make the rooms without views less because it’s just robbery.It was a huge waste of money. I will never recommend anyone to stay there. If your visiting just go get a drink at the bar do not stay there you will regret it.

An incredible, beautiful experience. Came to celebrate my wife's 75th birthday and the staff was wonderful. Our room was gorgeous with an exceptional view of the lake and the bridge. My wife spent her birthday exactly as she wanted to........sitting on the porch of the Grand Hotel. Our three day stay left us wanting to return for many more special occasions.

Charming historic hotel on the island. A worthwhile visit and stay should you have the time. Beautiful gardens, lovely facility and remembrances of days gone by. Formal attire required in the evenings, so a bit of tradition still holds here. Stop by for lunch, tea or a stroll. Very busy in season so plan ahead.

The Grand Hotel was absolutely magnificent. It's definitely worth your time to visit because it transports you back to a simpler, more elegant era. The timeless architecture, exquisite decor, and refined ambiance create an enchanting experience reminiscent of a bygone age. From the moment you step inside, you'll be captivated by the grandeur and charm that define the hotel, making it a truly memorable and worthwhile destination.

Fabulous, historic hotel in a gorgeous location on Mackinac island! Flowers were spectacular at the hotel! One of the best amenities was sitting on the huge deck in rockers having cocktails and snacks! Breakfast really good and staff are great! Our room view was very disappointing for the price! Room decor is fascinating!

**Day pass review only**$12 per adult to go into common areas inside (secret garden is free). Must dos- fourth floor Cupola for view of island (elevator only goes to 3rd floor so there will be 2 flights of stairs). Beverage service starts at noon. Walk through the wine bar library. Parlor and wrap around porch - sit in the chair awhile and enjoy the breeze. The ice cream shop, best strawberry ice cream I've ever had in my life! The secret garden with special views of the hotel. A great 1-2hr walk around of a gorgeous historic hotel!

What a magnificent piece of architecture and history. It was fun exploring the hotel but I don't think I'd stay there. If you're into that type of experience I absolutely recommend it but I'm fine with a B&B or something more low-key. The Cupola Bar has the best view of the island. And don't forget to hit up the secret garden!

We only visited the Grand Hotel rather than lodge there.... Too pricy for our budget! What a beautiful and grand place, though! The interior is historically correct and the colors are fresh. Even though the temperature was hovering around 50°, the sunny porch was shirtsleeve weather. The service was exceptional. We had a cocktail and our server was pleasant and treated us like royalty. Will go back and stay another time!

A Truly Grand Experience at the Grand Hotel**I recently had the pleasure of staying at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, and my experience was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment I arrived, I was enveloped in a world of elegance and charm that exceeded all my expectations.**Food and Beverage: A Culinary Delight**The dining options at the Grand Hotel are exceptional. Every meal was a culinary delight, showcasing a diverse menu that catered to all tastes. Breakfasts were a perfect way to start the day with an array of fresh and delicious options. The dinners were equally impressive, featuring gourmet dishes that highlighted the skills of the talented chefs. The beverages were top-notch, from expertly crafted cocktails to a fine selection of wines and spirits. Each meal was an event to look forward to, and the attentive service made the experience even more enjoyable.**Staff: Exemplary Service**The staff at the Grand Hotel truly made my stay memorable. Every member of the team was courteous, professional, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure my comfort. Their warm hospitality and attention to detail did not go unnoticed. From the front desk to the housekeeping staff, everyone played a part in creating a welcoming and pleasant atmosphere.**Room: A Sanctuary of Comfort**My room was a sanctuary of comfort and luxury. One of the highlights was the private balcony, where I enjoyed my morning coffee while taking in the breathtaking views of the island. The room itself was beautifully appointed, combining classic elegance with modern amenities.The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island offers an unparalleled experience that blends historic charm with modern luxury. Every aspect of my stay was amazing, and I cannot recommend this hotel highly enough. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, the Grand Hotel is the ideal choice for a memorable and enchanting stay. I look forward to returning and creating more wonderful memories at this magnificent establishment.

The Grand is beautiful with lots of history. It feels a bit dated and tired but beautiful. The grounds are spectacular. The famous porch was wonderful and the pool area is so relaxing and very updated. A cabana is highly recommended. Meals were good and service was excellent. Again, overall a bit dated and almost a scene out of Dirty Dancing. I think it might be intentional and people that come every year like it that way. Worth seeing for sure. Not convinced you need to stay unless you like the idea of traveling back in time with modern prices.

We celebrated our 19th anniversary here, and it was absolutely stunning.Our room was gorgeous, very clean, and had a beautiful view of the lake. The restaurant was such a wonderful experience. It was wonderful to see everyone dressed up and enjoying the best food. I can't wait to return for a longer stay.

First time to the Grand Hotel at Mackinac Island. Lots of History which makes it interesting. The food is wonderful, the service is wonderful... However, maintenance that needs to be done. Benches with peeling paint, carpets that are raveling, ceiling plaster that needs to be repaired. All of this was quite disappointing.I do not think the iced teas are worth $10.00 a glass. I think it's a little overpriced. (The food was very good.)

Grand is the proper word to describe this magnificent hotel. I was amazed by the story regarding the construction of the facility in 92 days. Each guest room is uniquely decorated in a way that takes you back in time. The grounds are impeccably kept and the flower gardens are amazing. My only regret is that we did not book a longer stay.

This was amazing we went to celebrate your marriage conference and the grand hotel. The food was mouthwatering good. The service was impeccable. They treated us like royalty. The rooms were sparkling clean. The customer service was friendly

This Grand Hotel is a must-see and stay. Plus, we did their lunch buffet, and the food is amazing.I thought the price was high per person, but once you see what is available, you'll actually make back that money plus more. The only thing I have a complaint about was some of the young male staff. Our server for the area we were at made our friend wait for 45 minutes for her half lemonade and half ice tea. I've asked him politely 3 times during that 45 minutes. and he passed us off to this older lady. This lady was truly amazing it was sad that with such a Grand Hotel that we didn't get that Grand experience in the beginning.

Beautiful hotel and grounds!! However, we were very disappointed in the service we received as paying guest during our week long stay. When you pay the extravagant prices and resort fees I feel the paying hotel guest should receive 1st class service and the hotel should offer them the amenities first and foremost over the people paying day pass ticket to tour it. We were only able to ride the official grand hotel carriage 1 time the whole 7 days we stayed as they were too busy shuttling people with day pass tickets. Some amenities like that should be reserved for hotel guest only and hotel guest should get 1st choice of everything, since that's what they are paying for.Everything else was wonderful and we enjoyed our stay for the most part and the only complaint I have is that they should put hotel guest 1st and some amenities should be for paying hotel guest only. Why pay the big resort fees to stay if you can enjoy without paying and get better service on a day pass ticket?Next time we will prob stay somewhere different and just come enjoy everything on day pass ticket!The new owners definitely need to step up on their hospitality and service to hotel guest. I hate seeing nice places like this bought out and new owners start changing what has always made it so unique. Our whole stay seemed as if they were all new and no one knew what was going on, any questions we had no one knew answers. We would ask about different events for the next day and the staff wouldn't know anything about it. Some of the tours we wanted to do and was on schedule but we weren't able to do because they said it wasn't supposed to be on schedule etc... just alot of confusion 😕If it ain't broke don't fix it!!!

It’s historic and beautiful for its age but It boasts itself as a luxury hotel, which it is absolutely not. We were in an upgraded king bed room and the mattress was of poor quality. If either my wife or I moved even slightly, the other went for a ride. The pillows were also of lesser quality; thin and lumpy. And the towels were the thickness and quality of a Holiday inn Express. None were of luxury standards.Then there was the food and service quality. We ate at The Jockey Club the first night on the modified American plan. There were many items that had a surcharge but we didn’t choose any. The server was very, very, VERY difficult to understand (like many other servers) which made ordering a challenge. Neither my wife nor I really enjoyed our meal. I had the beef tips and she the trout.For the next morning we ate breakfast in the main dining room. It was okay. But everything was being measured against luxury and the exorbitant prices we paid to stay at this hotel.For our last evening, we had a 5 course dinner in the main dining room. Unbelievably, they don’t take reservations. You need to stand on line at 6:00 pm and seating does not start until 6:30 pm. Luxury hotels don’t have you stand on line!!! The dinner was actually pretty good.As I wrote, we were on the modified American plan. The Jockey Club restaurant asks you to sign for the full price of your dinner although it was already paid for via the plan. I caution you to decide if your signature for the full bill is appropriate or safe. Not surprisingly, our dinner was charged to our bill irrespective of our showing we were on the meal plan. So, I had to waste my time at check out to get it corrected.Overall, I suggest you visit Mackinac Island. It’s charming, unique and a pleasant experience. However, we would NEVER recommend to anyone nor would we stay again at the Grand Hotel. If you want to see its charm, just stop by for a couple of hours and save yourself a lot of money.

What can I say is the grand hotel? Absolutely top-notch amazing!!! My wife and I and two girls went here for the night. Enjoyed dinner, High Tea and a bountiful breakfast! The dinner offers a multitude of options that are not in your ordinary menu. Very classy, high-end dining experience for breakfast tea and dinner alike dancing in the evening after 6 PM must be formal attire simply walking around the ground and enjoying all the hotel has to offer is unlike any other experience you have likely encountered!

I photographed a wedding at the Grand Hotel and had the pleasure of also staying in one of their suites. The historic charm and Victorian elegance make for the most romantic wedding venue. It was one of my favorite weddings to photograph because of the colorful and artfully decorated rooms, the immaculate gardens, the iconic porch, and the helpful staff. You will have an unforgettable experience if you book a wedding or event at The Grand Hotel! Highly recommend!

Mackinac island is beautiful historical island that is always worth the trip. However, the Grand Hotel left a lot to be desired. While the novelty of the hotel is great the service did not follow. Bags took hours to get to and from the dock. We spent hours waiting for our luggage upon arriving and more hours waiting upon leaving even though we were guaranteed our luggage would not take long. The workers present at the hotel were rude and misleading. The AC placement couldn’t be any worse in the rooms as it’s right over the head of the bed making it impossible to sleep because you’re either uncomfortably hot or going to wake up sick. This was a miserable experience at the price paid to stay here. We’ve been to the island many times and will be back just not here.

I didn't stay here while on the island, but I did have lunch there and walked around afterward. The lunch buffet was fantastic! Outside of the desert buffet, young palettes might struggle to find something they'd eat, but for the mature adult palette there was plenty to enjoy. I sampled a little of everything and it was all very good. The service was impeccable. As the name suggests, everything was on a grand scale. What a great historical building outside and inside. It truly felt like you'd stepped back in time. It was worth the stop.

This is my second time coming to the Grand Hotel. The service is mostly excellent, the food is delicious, and the location incomparable. I knocked off one main star simply for the rooms. They’re clean, the beds are comfy, and they are elegantly decorated, but some things are lacking that I’ve found to be better in other hotels I’ve stayed in:1. The bathroom is too small. Two people can’t fit at the same time and there is no tub. This makes getting ready for events difficult. Other rooms have tubs but I think a basic bathroom should always have a tub, especially at a luxury resort.2. The air conditioner is super noisy and situated in such a way that it blasts right down on the bed. This is super uncomfortable, especially at night.3. The shades are pull down plastic things that we could never get to work right. Sometimes they popped up on their own which was startling, especially when trying to put a baby to sleep.4. The walls are super thin. We could hear the man next to us snoring every single night. The room above us had children and we could hear them running back and forth when we were trying to sleep. Every time the door next to us closed our door rattled.5. We asked for a crib and got a pack n play with a terrible hard, wobbly mattress. We walked past another room and saw that they had a wooden style crib with wheels which would have suited our baby better. I’m not sure why were given the pack n play.6. We had the door lock on do not disturb several times and still the staff knocked and knocked until we opened it for housekeeping and had to refuse. What’s the point of the do not disturb lock?I’ve stayed in two rooms so far and found them both to have the same issues.

We've been to the island several times but this was our first at the Grand Hotel. We kept hearing about the Grand Hotel "experience", so we were very anxious to try it. Boy, were we disappointed...Here's the positive: Service was great, people were friendly, and the sheer size of the facility is impressive. The pool area is amazing and if you've got a family and want to spend plenty of time hanging out there like a true resort, you'd have a great time. However...We felt like it was significantly overpriced for so many reasons. The rooms are extremely dated, dark, and dingy. The bed had a huge hump in the middle because the sides were so sunken from wear and tear. Very uncomfortable. The shower had ridiculously low water pressure. The toilet paper was rough and cheap. The TV was small with no program guide, and the towels were very small and not very soft.The food is...fine. But again, when you are expecting an "experience", you anticipate exceptional everything across the board. I can definitively tell you there are plenty of other restaurants around the island that offer so much more bang for your buck.We stayed at a different hotel for one night and thought it was amazing because the rooms were so much nicer. It is well past time to upgrade the rooms instead of living off of the reputation of the "experience".

Our accommodations were beautiful. The bathroom was SO clean and it was freshened while we were at dinner - that impressed us. The manager took the time to visit and answer questions when we met him on Sunday morning - and we were blessed to be able to hear the gospel music presented by some of their staff during breakfast. It was the first time they had used the talent they had right there at the hotel and it was wonderful! Everyone enjoyed it. The room, the food, everything was perfect.

We went with a senior group trip when a lot of other senior groups were there as well. We got there at 1130 and out of all the groups that came after us and our group, my mom and I were the last to get our room key at 4:15. We waited all that time just for our room which I have to say was nothing special. Roof view and the beds were nothing great compared to some of the other rooms we saw. The food was great except for 1 of the nights when the service for us was super slow. Took 20 minutes just to get water refilled. Would we come back... absolutely not!! To the Island, yes, but not to the grand hotel.

My family stayed here when visiting and the hotel is nice. It was in my mom's favorite movie, so it was fun for her to be there. It was a great location. It was pretty pricey, but it's like the only hotel on the island. I'm glad we stayed there. We had a nice dinner that was several courses. My mom loved this! The food was good, but the service made me uncomfortable. Don't get me wrong, the service was great! To the point of refilling my water each time I took a sip. I just personally don't like that much attention. The waiters stand and watch your every move so they can tend to your every need. Great service, just not my style. If you can afford it, I would recommend staying here at least once.

From the second we walked in the doors of the Grand Hotel, it was the worst experience any of us have ever had. The overall atmosphere was extremely snooty and unwelcoming. We didn’t see any of the front desk staff smile, not once. Our reservation was made with the promise of adjoining rooms. We reiterated the importance of this on the phone during the reservation process AND during check in. The woman who checked us in assured us the rooms were connected.. then proceeded to give us keys to rooms that were 20 digits apart. We asked again and she confirmed. Needless to say five minutes later we were back down at the desk because this was not correct. The gentleman who helped us this time let us know there was no mention of this on the reservation and the best they could do was neighboring rooms. Long story short, we spent 3.5 hours waiting in the lobby (with our infant) while the front desk staff continued to treat us like liars and a nuisance. Once they found our luggage they offered to call a taxi since we booked a new reservation at Mission Point Resort (do yourself a favor and just book here to begin with!!). Still waiting for the taxi 30min later so we go back inside to confirm they called. Instead of being apologetic, the unfriendly and unprofessional staff threatens to call security on us for voicing our frustration with the lack of customer service and informing them of the negative imagine they’re portraying for the Grand. If security will give us a ride to get us out of this place, PLEASE call them. The ONLY, and I truly mean ONLY positive part of this experience was Evan the doorman. Throughout our stay several other guests and locals voiced how the Grand has gone downhill. Do yourself a favor and DO NOT stay here.

We have enjoyed each of our visits to this gem of a hotel the past two years. It feels like you’re stepping back in time to enjoy the company of each other. We love the provided activities and pool for the kids. This year in the main dining hall we especially appreciated the addition of the buffet option for children. The dining was enhanced by our two servers, Gergo and Princess who made our evenings and children feel incredibly special. They are wonderful employees. Thank you!

The Grand Hotel was absolutely beautiful. It's definitely must to visit or stay like we did, to experience the Grand Hotel way which is just magnificent in our opinion. I understand not everything was perfect but we had an amazing time, great food, room was very clean, friendly employees. Love the landscaping, beautiful flowers everywhere. The pool was nice. We love everything about the Grand as a matter of fact can't wait to visit Mackinac Island soon.

This hotel has a historic and eclectic atmosphere that is hard to find, for that I thought it was great. I had a good time overall but would note that the service and food is sorely lacking. Although I understand the higher price points due to the location on the island, they were very steep for below average food. If I were to do it again, I would not go to any of the higher end restaurants. Especially not the 5 course dinner in the main dining room. Secondly, the service from the staff is very bad. They are not friendly and often would forget things in our meals such as bread, potatoes for our room service breakfast, etc. If you ask anything extra of them or ask any questions you can immediately tell they are annoyed. For them claiming to have fine dining and a luxury hotel experience they need to train their staff better. However the grounds are breathtaking and the bar atmosphere is unique.

The Grand Hotel is an amazing experience. The rooms are charming and the lobby and porch are beautiful. Each room is decorated differently, and is unique and lovely. The views from the lakeside rooms and the front porch are amazing. The grounds are meticulous and so nicely landscaped. The staff is gracious and attentive, and makes sure that everything is taken care of during your stay.