THE

 

GRANDEST HOTEL

Mackinac Island would not exist as it does but for the Grand 
Hotel. Built in 1887 by 400 carpenters in only 3 months, it 
was both isolated and very, very grand. At the time, visitors 
arrived by railroad and then ferry or lake steamer. Its iconic front 
porch, lined with white rocking chairs, massive white pillars 
and signature red geraniums, leads to 393 rooms, each with a 
one-of-a-kind design and a splash of the riotous colors that also 
mark the expansive lobbies and dining rooms. Rates include 
meals, with multiple dining choices. 

The Grand’s traditions are also historic. After 6 pm, there is a 
dress code for all guests in the dining room (where 5-course 
dinners are served by tuxedo-clad wait staff and the background 
music is live) and communal areas: men in jackets and ties; 
women in dresses or dressy pants/outfits; children “dressy” 
as well. Coming down the elevator and into the massive lobby 
my first evening, I felt as if I’d stumbled into a wedding. It’s 
rare to see little boys in vests and bowties and every girl in a 
frilly dress. More fun was listening to the nightly music (a very 
accomplished and versatile 8–9 piece band) and watching dads 
dancing with young daughters, grandmothers with adolescent 
grandsons. Until that moment, I didn’t know I missed the waltz 
and cha-cha. The elegance that has long disappeared from 
cruise ships remains ensconced at The Grand. While rack rates 
in high season are pricey, there are often online specials.