Trip Planner: USA / Michigan / Upper Peninsula / Mackinac County / Mackinac Island / Fort Mackinac

Fort Mackinac, Mackinac Island

4.6

#1 of 18 in Historic Sites in Upper Peninsula

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. Use our Mackinac Island trip builder to arrange your visit to Fort Mackinac and other attractions in Mackinac Island.

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Reviews

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

1,572 reviews

Google

4.6

facebook

4.7

1,975 likes

Barbara V

August 14, 2017

Loved all the history and hands on exhibits. The fort had multiple reenactments that really took you back in time. There was also a pretty restaurant overlooking the Strait. more »
JSOColumbus

August 13, 2017

I really didn't know that the first battle of the French and Indian War was there. Not much for us to be proud of. Many actors there to demonstrate was life was like there. Make sure you eat lunch at ... more »
TAMMY G

August 13, 2017

We visited here on a Saturday afternoon 7 of us four adults and three teenagers. It was like we traveled back in time. Seeing how people used to do things the hard way. The fort kept three teenagers a... more »

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Lowell Ricketts

May 29, 2017

Well preserved fort offering informational and fun tours through history for all. The live cannon and rifle demonstrations are awesome! Take your time to stroll through the forts information panels as there is quite a lot to learn about Mackinac Island's military history. There are snacks and a restaurant at the Fort in case you are famished from all the excitement. Admission also includes the art museum.

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Summer Card

June 10, 2017

Very informative and interesting they also had some interactive displays, and robotic animations that told the story of a battle of 1812. Also told the history of the fort and how it changed over the years . We got to see a live Fire display of muskets I'm gentleman and historical uniforms. There were helpers of Boy Scout Troops all over the place helping today guide people. A good place for school visits or, for anyone else interested in learning about the time.

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Spencer Owen

June 16, 2017

Stunning historical fort, features informatively displays including animatronics and digital. $13.00 to get in but this gets you into a large amount of other things on the island as well. The place is often quite busy but people are quite polite.

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Rav Sasson

June 19, 2017

Excellent place. Everything very expressive. Good for one Time

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Andrew Schwalbe

May 15, 2017

We have toured this place twice and are still impressed it. I especially enjoy the medical facility exhibit and the regular shooting demonstrations.

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