Sights to see on a horse-drawn carriage tour

One of the most popular things to do is go on a horse-drawn carriage ride. Mackinac Island Carriage Tours runs tours that start and end right on Main Street, with several stops along the way.

For a glimpse of what it’s like, here are several sights to see:

After winding through historic downtown, the tour heads past Grand Hotel and the longest porch in the world

The first stop is Surrey Hill, where you’ll transfer from a two-horse carriage used in town to a 3-horse hitch for the main part of the tour. Feel free to explore the history of horse-drawn transportation at the Surrey Hill

Carriage Museum. Or venture into Wings of Mackinac, forge a memory and mingle with butterflies from around the world.

From Surrey Hill, the tour takes you through the state park past sights including Skull Cave and Post Cemetery where Fort Mackinac soldiers are buried.

• The next stop is picturesque Arch Rock, one of many famous rock formations. You can get out and see the view, and restrooms are available.

After reboarding your carriage, you’ll proceed to Fort Mackinac. For an additional fee, you can explore the historic fort’s 14 original buildings.

On the way back, you’ll pass by the Michigan Governor’s Summer Residence. Then, once back at Surrey Hill, you’ll switch carriages again for the return to town. If you prefer, you can end your tour at Grand Hotel.

Horse-drawn carriage tours start in early May. No reservations are needed. Just buy your ticket and off you go!