If you're tired of the fast-paced, traffic-ridden, stress-builder that Chicagoland can be, Mackinac Island is the spot for you. Even the drive through Michigan can be a beautiful getaway (though nothing as fun and relaxing as the island itself). Spring, Summer, Winter, and Fall, this fantastic getaway has it all.

Mackinac Island (pronounced "Mack-in-aw) is one of the Midwest's most-photographed and talked about travel destinations. Located between Michigan's upper and lower peninsulas, the island offers unforgettable natural and historical treasures, surrounded by the sparkling blue waters of The Great Lakes.

Mackinac Island is accessible in winter by Great Lakes Air in St. Ignace and April through December via ferry boat service from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace. Try Arnold (800/542-8528) or Shepler's (800/828-65157). Mackinac Island is about a full day's drive from Chicago, and is a great choice for a quick getaway.

The residents of Mackinac Island banned the noisy, smelly "horseless carriage" in the late 1890's (cars still aren't allowed there today) and forever set the tone and solidified the character of this tiny two-mile-wide island.

Generations later, visitors still enjoy the the Victorian-era retreat. The only thing that's changed is that the straits are now marked by a five-mile suspension bridge, built in 1957.

Affectionately known as "Mighty Mac," its the world's third-longest suspension bridge (Mighty Mac looks excactly like the Golden Gate Bridge, and some speculate that it is even longer).

Even though its not the biggest island in the world, Mackinac has played a very important role in Midwest history. The Native Americans who originally lived there used it as a burial ground and called it Michilimackinac, or "The Great Turtle."

Later, British and French occupiers shortened the name to "Mackinac." They made it a fur-trading post, and it eventually became the headquarters to John Jacob Astor's American Fur Company.

Finally, tourists replaced rapidly diminishing furs and fur traders in the mid-1850's. The landmark Grand Hotel on Grand Avenue (906/847-3331) was build in 1887. It is the largest summer-only hotel in existence, and a place where guests still "dress" for dinner. Also, the Grand Hotel's front porch is the world's longest, at 680 feet.

Mackinac Island is also home to "Fort Michilimackinac," which has been worked since the 1950's. The summer dig here is the longest continuously-operating archaeological expedition in the United States. The old fort is now part of the 1,800-acre Mackinac Island State Park (906/847-3328), which occupies 80% of the island.

Because the only cars allowed on Mackinac Island are emergency and utility vehicles, you'll need a bike or horse & carriage to get around (if you don't want to walk, that is - remember, Mackinac isn't so big that getting around on foot is tough work).

Hwy-185 circles the island's rim and is usually crowded with bikes, rollerblades, and pedestrians. Those who take the road less-traveled and venture off the beaten path will be glad they did. They'll find quiet routes filled with gingerbread cottages, deep forests, small harbors, and breath-taking natural wonders. Make sure you see Sugar Load and Arch Rock; both make it easy to understand why the Great Lakes Indians considered Mackinac holy ground.

If you're looking for nightlife during your getaway, Mackinac Island offers something for everyone's individual taste. Whether it's live music or just a quiet romantic dinner for two, day or night, main street offers something special for everyone. Black tie to casual, "comfortable" is the style of the island.

Rooms at the Grand Hotel start at $350 (as many presidents can tell you), but other gracious - and less expensive - lodgings can be found. Try the 1887 Metivier Inn B&B on Market Street (906/847-6234); doubles here start at $120. Unfortunately, no camping is allowed on Mackinac Island, but there are plenty of places to stay, and LOTS of camping is available just across the straits in either the Upper or Lower Peninsulas.

Though primarily a summer resort, those in need of a wintertime getaway will find Mackinac Island an ideal spot as well. If the ice is thick enough, a snowmobile can speed you across the frozen straits. Other times you may depend on Great Lakes Air (906/643-7165). Passengers fly along with mail and other necessities (for under $20 one-way), and can even bring thier skis for free. Mackinac Island offers an extensive trail network for cross-country skiers or snowshoers. In fact, the east half of the state is designated for skiing and snowshoeing.

Carriage tours offers sleigh rides for those who would enjoy a tour of Mackinac's winter wonderland. Nothing is better than the coziness of sharing a thick wool blanket with friends and loved ones on a tour of the island in a sleigh drawn by horses.

If you're more interested in cozying up to a fire for a bit of relaxation, try a quiet inn like the Lilac Tree or Mission Point. You can also spend a snug evening at one of Mackinac's restaurants, like the Mustang Lounge; its a favorite among the island's 500 permanent residents.

No matter what you do or when you do it, Mackinac Island is a great choice for a fun getaway from the hustle and bustle of Chicagoland. Have a great time at this beautiful island resort!

Directions

It isn't hard to find Mackinac Island; just follow Lake Michigan to its northernmost point. Take 90/94 south out of the Loop, and hug the Lake Michigan shoreline until you reach Petosky, Michigan. From Petosky, US-31 cuts through the middle of the tip of Lower Michigan until it reaches the Straits of Mackinac.

For more information call: 1-800-454-5227