You can’t miss the Grand Hotel. It sits high on the hill like a postcard come to life, all sweeping porch and crisp white lines, looking out over that shimmering slice of Lake Huron. I spotted it from the water— while swimming around the island—glistening on the ridge like a promise. It is magnificent. The public spaces are beautifully decorated, and the main dining room is as lovely as everyone says. But my stay turned out to be a mix of moments I’ll remember fondly and a handful of frustrations I didn’t expect.
The Good
Let’s start with the good. The room itself was comfortable, with a deep soaking tub I actually used (bliss after 8.2 miles around the island). I didn’t have a view, so I kept the curtains closed, but the space still felt classic and calm. Breakfast was a delight—buffet style with nearly everything you could want, and the option to order off the menu if you’re feeling particular.
Dining Experiences
Dinner in the main dining room carried an old-world charm that made me slow down and enjoy it: five courses with a trio playing light jazz. The first night I had beef Wellington; the second night, prime rib. Both were tasty and felt special without being fussy. Afternoon tea after the swim was the treat I told myself I’d earned, and it didn’t disappoint. It came with a glass of champagne, tea, and an assortment of cookies and mini-sandwiches.
I also enjoyed the Jockey Club for lunch—lovely, relaxed, the kind of mid-day pause that feels like a vacation within a vacation. On a different day, I tried the Gate House, but after 15 minutes without anyone stopping by, I gave up and wandered next door to Mackinac Island Pizza Company. I had to order half a pie, which meant extra slices—two of which went to a young family I met. Sometimes the best moments aren’t the planned ones.
In addition, they had an ice cream parlor which was super yummy, especially in the heat of the day.
The Challenges
Now, the less charming parts. The pool is huge, and I was excited to use it, but every chair was “claimed” by towels. No space, no swim. Yet I was still hit with a $158.15 resort fee, which apparently covers air conditioning, electricity, the pool (which I couldn’t use), and building maintenance. So what, exactly, does the $750-a-night rate cover—just the room? Without the power and water? I get that taxes are taxes, but fees like that should be baked into the advertised price. It feels more honest.
Transportation and Fees
Transportation was another surprise. I assumed there’d be a horse-and-buggy transfer for hotel guests, at least to and from the ferry. Not so. Each ride was $9, and if you were alone, $22 for a trip. Add in the ferry, a shuttle, two planes, and a night at the Westin because there weren’t any evening flights to Pellston—let’s just say the nickel-and-diming feeling grew louder. They also charged a $15 baggage handling fee. When I asked about it, I was told the ferry charged that fee. I paid the ferry separately, so that answer didn’t land. They ended up crediting me back the $15. (I still don’t understand what that was for.)
Service and Check-In
Check-in didn’t help. The front desk person didn’t smile once and had an attitude that clashed with the hotel’s gracious reputation. I even noticed a sign that said if the receptionist didn’t smile, the first night would be free. When I mentioned it to Matthew Rose, one of the managers, he laughed and moved on. Joking or not, it didn’t leave a great impression. Service beyond that was hit-or-miss: one night I had turndown service, then nothing the rest of the time. Water was in my room the first night, but I had to ask for more the next morning and again after I complained about check-in. To their credit, they did bring it.
Exploring the Island
There were bright spots outside the hotel bubble. I loved biking around the island—though you rent in two-hour blocks, and that set me back $36. Still worth it for the views and the breeze. Each night, I found a schedule of the next day’s activities slipped under my door, a small touch that made the island feel alive. And yes, the hotel is beautiful. Walking through the public spaces is like strolling through a curated time capsule—colorful, polished, and undeniably grand. Just note: if you don’t stay there, it’s $15 per person to walk around the resort.
Parting Reflections…
So, did the Grand Hotel live up to my expectations? In some ways, absolutely. The setting is stunning. The dining room dinners and afternoon tea felt special. My room was comfortable, and the hotel’s historic charm is real. But the experience was uneven. The resort fee stung, especially when I couldn’t use the pool. The separate transportation costs and baggage fees added up. Service lacked warmth where it mattered most—at check-in and in basic follow-through.
I had a good time on Mackinac Island. I’m glad I stayed at The Grand once and saw it for myself. Would I stay again? Maybe—if I knew I’d get consistent service and clearer value for the price. Otherwise, I suspect I’d be just as happy at one of the island’s other lovely spots, like Mission Point or a well-run B&B.
