Mackinac Island named among best fall travel destinations in US

MACKINAC ISLAND, MI – In autumn, the signature clip-clop sound of carriage horses’ hooves are muffled a bit by the fallen leaves. And a fresh breeze is blowing in from across the Straits. For these and a million other reasons, Michiganders aren’t the only ones who love Mackinac Island in the fall.

The island today is celebrating another travel win after being named the No. 2 Best Fall Travel Destination by USA Today. The publication’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards asked travel enthusiasts to vote for their top places to visit in autumn. Last year, Mackinac Island landed in third place. This year, it moves up a notch.

“This award is more than a recognition; it’s a reflection of the dedication our members pour into making Mackinac Island a place that offers unforgettable memories,” said Tim Hygh, executive director of Mackinac Island Tourism. “We are truly humbled to be named a top fall destination and are grateful to all our guests for letting us be a part of their special moments on the island.

“As we celebrate this achievement, we are inspired to continue creating experiences that resonate in the hearts of everyone who visits for years to come.”

The continuing warm temperature pattern has made it feel more like summer than fall these last few weeks. But Mackinac’s unique island location also means it’s a “coolcation destination,” with light breezes off the Straits of Mackinac keeping daytime temps more comfortable than the mainland. There’s a reason locals call fall “the perfect season” on Mackinac, tourism leaders said.

It also means rounds of golf, bike rides around the island, and visits to shops and restaurants can stretch to the end of October on Mackinac. Looking for a hotel or resort package to save on your stay? Check the tourism website here.

The award is just the latest jewel in Mackinac’s stack of honors. The island was recently named the No. 1 Best Summer Travel Destination in 2024

In today’s award-winning announcement, Mackinac was edged out for the top spot by Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Other spots in the top five include Estes Park, Colorado and Lafayette, Louisiana. You can see all the winners on the website here.

What is USA Today’s 10Best saying about Mackinac? Here’s what was included in the winner’s list:

“The vibes are just right on Mackinac Island each fall. Crisp, sunny days with vibrant foliage give way to a slower pace of life in this resort town. A carriage ride is one of the best ways to peep those leaves, and Halloween weekend is always a fun event. Kids can go trick-or-treat at the downtown shops while adults enjoy grown-up costume parties at local establishments later in the evening.”