Island House Hotel: Everything You Need to Know Before You Check In

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to stay at the Island House Hotel on Mackinac Island? Or maybe you’re planning a trip and are curious about what you should know before booking your stay. As one of the oldest and most historic hotels on Mackinac Island, the Island House Hotel offers a unique blend of Victorian charm, modern amenities, waterfront views, and a convenient downtown location.

Whether you’re looking for information about Island House Hotel room types, restaurants, amenities, check-in policies, bike rentals, or what makes this historic Mackinac Island hotel so special, we’ve put together this guide to help. After our recent stay, we’re sharing everything you need to know before checking-in so you can decide if the Island House Hotel is the right fit for your Mackinac Island vacation.

This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn compensation when you click on the links at no additional cost to you. This compensation is used to support our website so we can continue to bring you great content. As always, all opinions are our own. Thank you!

A special thank you to Island House Hotel for hosting our stay. While our accommodations were provided as part of a partnership, all opinions, experiences, and recommendations shared in this post are entirely our own.

Island House Hotel Mackinac Island

How Far Is Island House Hotel From the Ferry Docks?

One of the best things about staying at the Island House Hotel on Mackinac Island is its convenient location. Located at 6966 Main Street, the hotel is just a short walk from both the Shepler’s and Arnold Transit ferry docks. In fact, you won’t need to take a horse-drawn taxi carriage unless you prefer to.

Island House Hotel Map

How To Get To The Island House Hotel on Mackinac Island

When you arrive at the ferry docks on Mackinac Island, head toward Main Street and turn right. Continue past Marquette Park, and you’ll find the Island House Hotel on the left side of the street, directly across from the marina. The walk is relatively flat and easy for most visitors, making it a convenient option when arriving with luggage.

One tip: If you have mobility concerns, use a cane, or sometimes struggle with balance, I recommend staying on the right side of Main Street as you walk toward the hotel. The sidewalk on the left side of the street has more of a slant to it, while the right side is generally flatter and easier to navigate.

Is Island House Hotel Within Walking Distance of Downtown Mackinac Island?

Yes! Island House Hotel is within easy walking distance of downtown Mackinac Island. While it sits just far enough from the busiest section of Main Street to feel a bit more relaxed, you’re still only a short stroll from many of the island’s most popular shops, restaurants, fudge stores, attractions, and ferry docks.

Its location near Marquette Park also places you within walking distance of popular attractions such as Fort Mackinac, the Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum, and the scenic waterfront. For guests who want convenient access to downtown without being in the middle of the busiest crowds, the Island House Hotel offers an excellent location.

Island House Hotel Check-In Time

Check-in at the Island House Hotel begins at 4:00 p.m. If you arrive on Mackinac Island before your room is ready, don’t worry. The hotel is happy to hold your luggage so you can start enjoying the island right away. It’s a great option if you want to spend a few hours exploring downtown, visiting local attractions, or grabbing a bite to eat before check-in.

Island House Hotel Check-Out Time

Check-out at Island House Hotel is 11:00 a.m. If you’re taking advantage of the hotel’s luggage transfer service, I recommend bringing your luggage to the Bell Captain at least one hour before you plan to leave the island. This will help ensure your bags make it to the ferry dock before your departure and give you a little extra time to enjoy Mackinac Island before heading home.

We used the luggage service on departure day and loved being able to squeeze in a few last-minute activities before catching our ferry back to the mainland.

Island House Hotel Luggage Policy

One of the perks of staying at the Island House Hotel is that you won’t have to worry about hauling your luggage around the island. The hotel provides luggage transfer service for guests, both when you arrive and when it’s time to head home.

Before boarding your ferry, you’ll check your luggage with the ferry company’s baggage attendants on the mainland and let them know you’re staying at the Island House Hotel. They will tag your luggage for the hotel and give you a claim ticket. Don’t lose it—you’ll need it when you check in. Once you arrive on Mackinac Island, the hotel’s dock porters will coordinate getting your luggage to the hotel while you begin exploring the island.

When your room is ready, simply stop by the front desk to pick up your room keys and provide your luggage tags. A member of the hotel staff will then deliver your bags directly to your room. Since delivery times can vary depending on how busy the island is, I recommend keeping medications, valuables, chargers, a change of clothes (if needed), and anything else you may need right away with you rather than in your checked luggage. If you arrive before your room is ready, lockers are available at both the Shepler’s dock and the Arnold Transit/Ryba’s dock for storing items you want to keep with you.

When it’s time to leave, the process works in reverse. The hotel staff will transport your luggage from the hotel back to the ferry docks, making departure day just as easy as your arrival. Be sure all bags are securely zipped or closed before checking them with the ferry service.

A quick note about gratuities: The dock porters and hotel staff who transport luggage work hard to make your arrival and departure as seamless as possible, and gratuities are appreciated. A common guideline is $3–$5 per bag, with larger tips for oversized, heavy, or specialty items. If you’re traveling with several bags, it’s a nice way to thank the staff for handling them throughout the luggage transfer process.

Island House Hotel Mackinac Island Room Types

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a trip with friends, Island House Hotel offers a variety of room types to fit different travel styles and group sizes.

Current room options include:

• Premium Lake View King (Sleeps 4)
• Traditional King (Sleeps 2)
• Deluxe Lake View King (Sleeps 2)
• Traditional 4th Floor Queen (Sleeps 2)
• Deluxe Lake View Queen (Sleeps 2)
• Traditional Queen (Sleeps 2)
• One Bedroom King Suite (Sleeps 4)
• Harbor View Suite (Sleeps 6)
• Deluxe Two Queens (Sleeps 4)
• Premium Lake View Two Queens (Sleeps 4)
• Deluxe Lake View Two Queens (Sleeps 4)
• Traditional Two Queens (Sleeps 4)
• Traditional Two Doubles (Sleeps 4)
• Family Suite (Sleeps 8)

During our stay, we were in a Deluxe Lake View Two Queens room. I’ll share more about our experience later in this post.

Click HERE to book your stay!

Which Island House Hotel Rooms Have Water Views?

One of the perks of the Deluxe Lake View Two Queens room we stayed in was being able to look out toward the water. There was one day during our visit when the weather was cold, rainy, and windy, so we ended up spending the afternoon in our room playing games. Having a lake view gave us something beautiful to see even when we weren’t outside. We enjoyed watching the boats come and go from the marina, as well as the horses and carriages passing by along Main Street below.

If you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoy watching the activity along the waterfront, or simply want to wake up to a beautiful Mackinac Island view, I think the additional cost for a lake view room is well worth considering.

Are There Family Suites at Island House Hotel?

Yes! If you’re traveling with a larger family or group, Island House Hotel offers a Family Suite that can accommodate up to eight guests. The suite includes two separate bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living area with a sleeper sofa, and a kitchenette with a mini refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker.

One feature families will appreciate is the extra space to spread out after a day of exploring Mackinac Island. The Family Suite also includes a balcony overlooking the wooded area near the pool and restaurant. Just keep in mind that stairs are required to access these suites, which may be a consideration for guests with mobility concerns.

What Is Included in the Rooms?

Is Island House Hotel on Mackinac Island Accessible?

Does Island House Hotel Have Elevators?

Yes, Island House Hotel does have an indoor elevator. However, elevator access is limited and does not serve every floor or room type. The elevator provides access between the lobby and the third floor, but some guest rooms and public areas still require guests to use stairs.

Is Island House Hotel Handicap Accessible?

Island House Hotel offers accessibility features, including outdoor lift access to the lobby and the 1852 Grill Room.

Note: Accessibility needs can vary greatly from person to person. If you have mobility concerns, use a wheelchair, or would like to minimize the use of stairs during your stay, I recommend contacting the hotel directly before booking. The staff can help explain the accessibility features available and recommend the room type that best fits your needs.

Does the Island House Hotel Allow Smoking?

No, Island House Hotel is a completely smoke-free property. To comply with Michigan law and help preserve the historic hotel, smoking and vaping are not permitted anywhere inside the building. Violation of this policy will result in a $250 penalty fee.

Does the Island House Hotel Allow Pets?

One of the questions I frequently see from travelers is whether Island House Hotel is pet-friendly. The information below is the current pet policy as listed on the Island House Hotel website at the time this post was written:

“Island House Hotel does not allow pets. As a historic Mackinac Island property, preservation standards do not allow pets or emotional support animals. However, in accordance with ADA regulations, trained service animals are welcome.

For the comfort and convenience of all guests, we kindly ask those traveling with a service animal to notify us in advance of arrival. This allows our team to help ensure a smooth and accommodating stay. Service animals must remain with their handler at all times and may not be left unattended in guest rooms.

To maintain a clean and allergen-free environment, non-service animals are not permitted anywhere in the hotel. Any guest found with a pet or emotional support animal in their room will be subject to a $250 cleaning fee to restore the space to a pet-free condition. Event organizers may also incur penalty fees if attendees bring non-service animals into the hotel.”

Island House Hotel Amenities

Island House Hotel offers a variety of amenities designed to make your Mackinac Island stay both comfortable and convenient.

Amenities include:

• 1852 Grill Room Restaurant
• Ice House BBQ Restaurant
• Indoor Pool
• Outdoor Hot Tub and Sundeck
• Fire Pits (Lit from 7pm to 10pm)
• Complimentary Luggage Transportation
• On-Site Bike Rentals
• Sundry Shop (Offers snacks, drinks, health and beauty products, and phone chargers.)

Island House Hotel Restaurants

1852 Grill Room

Located inside Island House Hotel, the 1852 Grill Room offers a casual fine dining experience with beautiful views of the Straits of Mackinac. *The restaurant serves breakfast daily from 8:00–10:00 a.m. and dinner from 5:30–9:00 p.m., with Happy Hour offered from 4:00–5:30 p.m. While there is no formal dress code, guests are asked to remove hats while dining. Reservations are accepted and recommended, especially during the busy summer season. (*Please be sure to check the Island House Hotel’s website before your trip for current information regarding hours of operation for the 1852 Grill Room, as they may change throughout the season without notice.)

The restaurant also offers Rose’s Afternoon Tea, which takes place daily at 3:00 p.m. from May 30 through October 24, 2026. Reservations are required, and seating is limited.

During our stay, we enjoyed both breakfast and dinner at the 1852 Grill Room. We even celebrated my in-laws’ 62nd wedding anniversary here one evening. The food was excellent, the service was outstanding, and the views overlooking the water made the experience even more memorable.

Ice House BBQ

For a more casual dining experience, Island House Hotel also offers the Ice House BBQ. This seasonal restaurant features outdoor garden seating tucked away at the back of the property, creating a peaceful setting away from the bustle of downtown Mackinac Island. The menu includes smoked barbecue favorites, as well as hand-tossed stone-fired pizzas.

Unfortunately, the weather during our stay was cold, rainy, and windy, so we opted for carryout rather than dining outside. Even so, the food was fantastic, and I highly recommend the Burnt Ends Mac & Cheese. It was one of our favorite meals of the trip!

BOOK THE ISLAND HOUSE HOTEL HERE!

Island House Hotel Activities

Island House Hotel Pool & Hot Tub

Guests staying at Island House Hotel have access to a heated indoor pool, outdoor hot tub, and sundeck, making it easy to relax after a day of exploring Mackinac Island. *The pool area is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (*Please be sure to check Island House Hotel’s website before your visit for the most current information regarding pool hours.)

The outdoor hot tub is especially inviting after a long day of biking, hiking, or sightseeing around the island. During the warmer months, the sundeck provides a great place to unwind and enjoy the fresh air. Even though the weather during our stay was cool and rainy, it was nice having these warm amenities available just a short walk from our room.

Island House Hotel Bike Rentals

One of the most convenient amenities at Island House Hotel is its on-site bike rental shop. Since biking is one of the most popular ways to explore Mackinac Island, having rentals available right at the hotel makes it easy to hit the road without having to visit another rental location.

Island House Hotel offers a wide variety of bicycles and equipment, including 7-speed cruisers, tandem bikes, single-speed cruisers, adult trikes, Fuji Gravel bikes, children’s mountain bikes, children’s single-speed bikes, tagalongs, Weehoo bike trailers, and Burleys. Rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are open to everyone—not just hotel guests.

The bike rental shop is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Helmets and locks are included with all rentals, and adult bicycles come equipped with baskets. (*Please be sure to check Island House Hotel’s website before your visit for the most current information regarding bike rental hours.)

Can You Bring Your Own Bike?

Yes! Guests are welcome to bring their own bicycles to Mackinac Island. Both ferry companies allow bikes onboard for an additional fee. If you already own a bike that you’re comfortable riding, bringing it can be a great way to save on rental costs and explore the island at your own pace. Just be sure to check current bike transportation fees with the ferry companies before your trip.

Where Do You Park Your Bike at Island House Hotel?

If you bring your own bike or rent one during your stay, Island House Hotel offers convenient bike parking right on the property. Bike racks are available for guests to use, making it easy to securely leave your bicycle while relaxing at the hotel, dining at one of the on-site restaurants, or heading to your room.

Island House Hotel Fire Pits

One of my favorite amenities at Island House Hotel is the pair of fire pits located on the front lawn overlooking the water. The fire pits are typically lit nightly from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and provide a cozy place to relax after a day of exploring Mackinac Island.

They’re especially enjoyable on cool evenings when you want to warm- up while taking in the night sky and passing horse-drawn carriages. If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, the Sundry Shop located next to the front desk sells s’mores kits that can be purchased and enjoyed around the fire.

Island House Hotel Porch

Note: Couple things to keep in mind is that the front porch and rocking chairs are closed to visitors from 10:00 p.m. to 10:00 a.m. This policy helps provide privacy and quiet for guests staying in the porch-facing rooms. The rocking chairs are reserved for hotel guests and those dining at one of the Island House Hotel restaurants, helping ensure there is plenty of seating available for those enjoying the property.

Make sure you check out their LIVE WEB CAM!

Island House Hotel Mackinac Island History

When Was Island House Hotel Built?

The Island House Hotel has been welcoming guests to Mackinac Island since 1852, making it the oldest hotel on the island. What began as a small beach house eventually grew into the beautiful Victorian hotel visitors enjoy today. Over the years, additions and renovations helped shape the property into one of Mackinac Island’s most recognizable landmarks.

Who Owns Island House Hotel Mackinac Island

By the late 1960s, the hotel had fallen into disrepair and was actually being considered for demolition. In 1969, the Ryba-Callewaert family stepped-in to save the historic property and began an extensive restoration project. Their efforts preserved many of the hotel’s original architectural features and helped secure its designation as a Michigan Historic Landmark in 1973. Today, the Island House Hotel remains family-operated and continues to be one of Mackinac Island’s most beloved historic hotels.

If you’re interested in learning more about the hotel’s fascinating history, be sure to check out the documentary “The Story of the Island House,” which plays on a continuous loop on the in-room television channel. As someone who loves history, I found it incredibly interesting and appreciated learning more about how this iconic Mackinac Island hotel was saved and restored.

Book Your Island House Hotel Stay Here!

How to Save Money on Your Island House Hotel Stay

If you’re staying at Island House Hotel, you’ll definitely want to sign up for their 906 Rewards Program before your trip. This free loyalty program allows members to earn rewards that can be used like cash at participating Mackinac Island businesses.

Members earn 5% back on eligible stays at Island House Hotel and 10% back on dining, shopping, and bike rentals at participating locations, including the 1852 Grill Room, Ice House BBQ, Island House Bike Shop, Ryba’s Fudge Shops, and several other island businesses. New members also receive a sign-up bonus.

The program is free to join, easy to use, and a great way to save money if you visit Mackinac Island regularly. Be sure to visit the 906 Rewards website for more information and the most current information and details regarding their program.

Island House Hotel Mackinac Island Reviews

What Our Family Liked Most About Staying Here

One of the things our family appreciated most about staying at Island House Hotel was its location. We loved being close enough to walk to the shops, restaurants, and attractions downtown while still feeling like we had a peaceful place to retreat to at the end of the day. The front porch quickly became one of our favorite spots, whether we were enjoying the views of the Straits of Mackinac from the rocking chairs or warming up by the fire pits in the evening.

We also appreciated how accommodating the staff was. We arrived before check-in, dropped off our luggage, and headed out to explore the island. The staff even offered to text me when our room was ready, which made the arrival process incredibly convenient.

What We Loved About Our Stay

Our Deluxe Lake View Room with Two Queen Beds was perfect for our family. The room felt spacious thanks to the tall ceilings and thoughtful layout. We especially enjoyed the seating area overlooking the Straits of Mackinac, which came in handy when the weather turned cold, rainy, and windy during our stay. Even from inside the room, we were able to enjoy watching the boats and activity along the waterfront.

One thing we absolutely cannot stop talking about is breakfast at the 1852 Grill Room. Between the Eggs Benedict and the famous Belgian waffles, breakfast quickly became one of our favorite parts of the stay. In fact, the Belgian waffles may be the best we’ve ever had.

Things We Wish We Knew Before Checking-In

If I had to share a few tips, I would recommend taking advantage of the luggage transfer service so you can start enjoying Mackinac Island as soon as you arrive. I would also encourage guests to make dinner reservations at the 1852 Grill Room, especially during the busy season.

Another thing I wish we had known is just how much time we would spend enjoying the front porch. It’s easy to focus on the room itself when booking, but the porch, rocking chairs, fire pits, and waterfront views ended up being some of our favorite parts of the property.

Who I Think Island House Hotel Is Best For

I think Island House Hotel is a great fit for a wide variety of travelers. Couples will appreciate the historic charm, waterfront views, and dining options. Families will enjoy the spacious room choices, pool, hot tub, bike rentals, and convenient downtown location. History lovers will appreciate staying in the oldest hotel on Mackinac Island, while anyone looking for a classic Mackinac Island experience will feel right at home here.

I think Island House Hotel is especially ideal for first-time visitors because of its central location and proximity to many of the island’s most popular attractions.

Would We Stay Here Again?

Absolutely.

Island House Hotel combines historic charm with modern amenities while offering one of the best locations on Mackinac Island. From the welcoming staff and comfortable accommodations to the excellent dining and beautiful waterfront views, our family thoroughly enjoyed our stay.

In fact, we’re already hoping for a return visit—preferably with a little more sunshine next time so we can enjoy even more of the outdoor spaces!

Do You Have Any Other Questions About Island House Hotel?

I hope this guide has helped answer some of your questions about staying at the Island House Hotel on Mackinac Island. If there’s something I didn’t cover, feel free to leave your question in the comments below and we’ll do our best to help!

And if you’ve stayed at the Island House Hotel before, we’d love to hear from you. What did you love most about your stay? Was it the historic charm, waterfront views, dining, front porch, fire pits, or something else entirely? Share your favorite part of the experience in the comments and help future visitors plan their Mackinac Island getaway.