A stately presence on secluded Mackinac Island, the Grand Hotel is a great place for a Midwestern getaway. The Indians called this island Michilimackinac, or the Great Turtle, because that's what it looks like from the mainland. And like turtles, visitors to Mackinac Island like to hide away and escape into privacy.
Originally built in 1887, the Grand retains its historic charm. Situated on a high bluff overlooking the straits of Mackinac, the hotel commands a breathtaking view. No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island. After you step off the ferry, a horse-drawn carriage will arrive to take you to the hotel. Once you're there, footmen in white gloves will greet you, and take you inside to the Victorian decorated lobby.
Or you might want to linger on the "world's largest porch," a comfortable Victorian affair replete with wicker furniture, a picturesque spot for relaxing conversation and people-watching. Or you could take a turn on the expansive and meticulously gardened grounds. Eventually, you'll want to see your room, one of the hotel's 330 individually decorated guest accommodations. Among the most unique lodgings is the Wicker Suite, furnished with a brass bed and white wicker furniture.
Dining at the Grand is an experience to savor. The food is exquisite, and the atmosphere is unbeatable. At the main dining room, local, fresh-caught seafood is a specialty, and many dishes are garnished with Michigan cherries. Jackets and ties are required at dinner, which is a
five-course affair. After dinner, relax over coffee in the Parlor or enjoy cocktails at the Geranium or Audubon wine bars. The Jockey Club at the Grand Stand offers lighter fare, and the pool grill provides snacks and beverages. Afternoon tea is served in the Parlor, accompanied by a string quartet.
Live music and ballroom dancing are specialties here at the Grand. Dinner is accompanied by an orchestra, and there is a small dance floor in the dining room. After dinner, the dancing continues in the Terrace Room, where the Grand Hotel Dance Band plays in the manner of the great bands of the 1930s and '40s.
When you're not cutting a rug, there are other activities to enjoy. The hotel has a huge swimming pool and acres of grounds to walk through. There's a private golf course for duffers. Tennis courts and nature trails offer a pleasant workout. You can rent bicycles or saddle horses to get around the island. Take a scenic tour of this beautiful and historic island in a vis-à-vis, an antique carriage drawn by horses in dress harness.
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