Arrivals by Plane
Many guests enjoy flying directly to Mackinac Island Airport. This is a small 3,500-foot lighted, paved runway capable of accommodating private and charter aircraft. Some guests fly to the larger airports and transfer to Fresh Air Aviation, operating out of St. Ignace. They offer daily flights directly to the island in lieu of taking the ferry ride. Pellston Regional Airport (PLN) and Chippewa Country International Airport (CIU) are the two closest commercial airports and are both 35 minutes from the ferry docks. Some guests find it more convenient to travel from Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), located about 2.5 hours south in Traverse City.

The Ferry
Two ferry boat lines provide service to Mackinac Island from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace, Michigan. Boats run from May to October from early morning until 9 or 10 pm in peak season with frequent crossings throughout the day. Luggage transfer is simple and convenient, with assistance on both the mainland and the island. Please allow three hours for luggage transfer.

Parking
As you may know, Mackinac Island is car-free. If you are driving in, parking is available at all mainland ferry docks. Rates vary depending on the company and lot location.

On-Island Transportation
Once you are on the island, you will enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride to The Inn at Stonecliffe for a nominal fee (cash only).

9–12 Months Before Initial Phone Consultation

• Connect with the venue coordinator for a brief consultation to discuss your event wants, needs, style, scale, and budget.
• Receive an estimate of charges from the estimated guest count and based on information gathered. Please note the estimate of charges will remain "fluid" until we have absolute numbers from your final guest count and event design.

6–9 Months Before Wedding, Planning, and Design Collaboration

• Meet with your catering manager to discuss your selection of vendors.
• Review important dates: schedule all meetings, tasting, payment schedule, etc.
• Discuss the rehearsal dinner, welcome parties, and farewell brunch.

6 Months Before Menu, Cake Tasting, and Final Design Review

• Complete menu, bar type selection, and cake tasting
• Discuss floor plan and design mock-up
• Create weekend timeline
• Establish ceremony plans and hospitality ideas for guests

3 Months Before
Final Wedding Meeting

• Final walkthrough
• Confirm package information
• All guest room reservations due

30 Days Before Final Guarantee

• Final guarantee with dietary restrictions noted
• Final table seating and guest count

*Please note your estimate of charges will remain “fluid” until we have a final guest count and event design.