How to Visit Mackinac Island on a Budget: 7 Smart Tips to Save Money

If Mackinac Island is famous for anything, it’s horse-drawn carriages, historic charm… and sky-high prices. As a budget traveler, I put off visiting for years, assuming it would be way out of reach. But last summer, I finally made it happen—and guess what? Visiting Mackinac Island on a budget is totally doable with the right planning.

In this guide, I’ll share the exact money-saving tips I used to make this dreamy little island work without blowing my travel budget. From ferry deals and affordable hotels to packing a picnic and skipping pricey attractions like the Grand Hotel, here’s how to enjoy Mackinac without the sticker shock.

Don’t miss my detailed Mackinac Island itinerary for the perfect 2-day trip—complete with ferry tips, biking routes, and the best spots for fudge (obviously). It pairs perfectly with these budget-saving tips!

Is Mackinac Island Expensive? (And Why It’s Worth It)

Let’s be honest—Mackinac Island has a reputation for being expensive. Between luxury hotels like the Grand Hotel, touristy restaurants, and ferry tickets that add up fast, it’s easy to see why. But don’t let the price tag scare you off. With a few smart strategies, it’s absolutely possible to plan a Mackinac Island trip on a budget.

Think of it this way: you’re getting access to one of the most unique destinations in the U.S.—a car-free island filled with Victorian architecture, lake views, historic sites like Fort Mackinac, and the scent of fresh fudge wafting from Main Street. And you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy it.

Over the rest of this post, I’ll show you exactly how to save money on everything from ferry rides and bike rentals to food and lodging—so you can have a rich experience without the rich price tag.

Tips and Tricks for Visiting Mackinac Island on a Budget

Getting to Mackinac Island on a Budget

First things first: you’ll need to plan your ferry ride. Ferries depart from both St. Ignace and Mackinaw City, and round-trip tickets usually cost between $30-$35 per adult. It adds up fast—especially if you’re traveling with a group.

Budget-Saving Ferry Tips:

• Buy tickets online in advance – Companies like Star Line Ferry and Shepler’s Ferry often offer online discounts or bundled multi-day passes.
• Watch for promos – Keep an eye on seasonal specials (especially spring and fall) or follow the ferry companies on social media for flash sales.
• Skip the extras – The ferry ride across the Straits of Mackinac is scenic enough without paying extra for the “Mighty Mac” bridge tour (unless that’s on your bucket list).

We opted for a two-day ferry pass through Star Line, which was perfect since we were camping nearby in St. Ignace and planned to come back the next day.

Tip: If you’re staying off-island, look for free or low-cost parking options near the docks to avoid daily fees.

Where to Stay on Mackinac Island on a Budget

Let’s just say it: hotels on Mackinac Island are expensive. During peak summer months, even the most basic room can run you $300+ a night—and that’s before taxes and fees. But the good news? You don’t have to stay on the island to experience the magic.

We opted to stay just across the water in St. Ignace, and it was a total win. For under $30 a night, we snagged a waterfront campsite at Castle Rock Campground—complete with hot showers, incredible lake views, and the friendliest owner ever. Plus, we were only five minutes from the ferry dock.

Budget-Friendly Lodging Near Mackinac Island

Here are a few great options if you’re watching your wallet:

• Castle Rock Campground (St. Ignace) – Beachfront tent sites, peaceful vibes, and super affordable
• Cedars Motel – Clean, cozy, and consistently rated one of the best budget hotels in St. Ignace
• Sunset Motel at Armand’s Garden – Adorable landscaping, lake views, and excellent value
• Breakers Resort – Lakeside – A bit pricier, but still budget-conscious with great amenities and ferry packages

If you are determined to stay on the island, look for early-season deals or weeknight rates. Some budget hotels on Mackinac Island occasionally offer shoulder-season discounts—just book early and be flexible.

Pro Tip: Watch for Mackinac Island vacation packages that include ferry tickets or bike rentals for added value.

Cheap & Free Things to Do on Mackinac Island

One of the best things about Mackinac Island tourism is that you don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy it. Sure, there are high-end activities like tea at the Grand Hotel, but there’s also tons to do that’s totally affordable—or even free.

Rent a Bike (Instead of Taking a Tour)

Want to see the whole island without shelling out for a pricey guided carriage tour? Rent a simple cruiser bike for around $15/hour from shops like Mackinac Island Bike Shop. The 8.2-mile loop around the island (M-185) is mostly flat, paved, and incredibly scenic.

Pro Tip: Pack a water bottle and snacks—you’ll want to stop often for views and photos.

Visit Fort Mackinac… From the Outside

Admission to Fort Mackinac costs $17 per adult, but the best view is actually outside the fort—from Marquette Park below or the overlook at Fort Street. If you’re really into history, go for it. But if you’re trying to save money, you can get the gist just by wandering nearby.

Take a Horse & Carriage Taxi (Not a Tour)

Full carriage tours can cost $40+ per person. Instead, do what we did: hop in a horse-drawn taxi (more like a shared carriage bus) for around $10 a person. It’s a fun, affordable way to experience one of Mackinac’s signature activities.

Walk & Explore on Your Own

This island is made for wandering. Get lost in the back streets lined with historic homes, explore the bluff trails, or read a book in the public library’s waterfront garden. It’s free, peaceful, and arguably the best way to soak up the slow-paced charm of Mackinac.

Affordable Food Options on Mackinac Island

Here’s the truth: eating out on Mackinac Island can drain your budget fast. We learned that the hard way after our first dinner set us back more than we expected—for pretty average food. The next day, we got smarter.

Pack a Picnic

The easiest way to save money on food is to bring your own. If you’re staying on the mainland, hit up a grocery store in St. Ignace or Mackinaw City before you board the ferry. Pack sandwiches, snacks, fruit, or anything that doesn’t need refrigeration.

There are tons of beautiful picnic spots on the island, from Marquette Park to the waterfront benches by the harbor. You’ll have a better view than most restaurants—and you’ll be saving cash while you’re at it.

Buy Lunch at Doud’s Market

Didn’t pack ahead? No problem. Doud’s Market—the oldest family-run grocery store in America—is located right on Main Street and sells grab-and-go items like sandwiches, cheese, crackers, and fruit. It’s still pricier than mainland groceries, but way cheaper than a sit-down meal.

Budget-Friendly Treats

You don’t have to skip dessert! Many Mackinac Island fudge shops offer free samples (yes, really), so you can indulge without overspending. If you’re craving ice cream, go for a small cone from a local parlor instead of a full sundae—it’s a sweet treat without the splurge.

When to Visit Mackinac Island to Save the Most

Timing your trip right is one of the easiest ways to save money on Mackinac Island—especially when it comes to lodging and ferry tickets.

Shoulder Season = Best Deals

The best times to visit on a budget are late spring (May to early June) and early fall (September to mid-October). Prices for hotels, ferry rides, and activities tend to drop outside of peak summer, and the island is still just as beautiful—think blooming lilacs or vibrant fall foliage, minus the crowds.

We visited in late summer and even then managed to find solid ferry discounts and affordable camping nearby. But if you have flexibility, aim for those shoulder season sweet spots.

Avoid Holiday Weekends

If you’re trying to do Mackinac Island cheap, steer clear of long weekends, especially around the Fourth of July and Labor Day. Prices skyrocket and availability disappears fast. Visiting midweek can also help you score better rates on accommodations.

Final Budget Tips + My Experience

After years of thinking a trip to Mackinac Island was out of reach, I was honestly surprised by how doable it was with a little planning. Between camping in St. Ignace, packing our own food, skipping pricey tours, and focusing on low-cost activities like biking and walking, we managed to have an amazing, full island experience on a pretty tight budget.

A Few Extra Budget-Saving Tips:

• Bring your own bike helmet or snacks if you’re renting on the island
• Book early if you’re traveling during summer—budget-friendly rooms go fast
• Follow the ferry companies for seasonal discounts and package deals

Honestly, the charm of visiting Mackinac Island isn’t in the fancy hotels or expensive restaurants—it’s in the slow pace, lake breeze, and the sound of horses echoing down Main Street. And none of that costs a dime.

So yes—Mackinac Island on a budget? Absolutely possible.

FAQ: Visiting Mackinac Island on a Budget

Like what you read? Pin it!