Mackinaw City Attractions
Mackinaw City and the surrounding area offer a multitude of sites and attractions that will provide endless fun for every member of the family. The Riviera Motel is located within minutes of many attractions. When you are ready to explore the area, ask for a map and we’ll be happy to help you with directions and information on places to visit!
In addition to the following Mackinaw City attractions, Mackinac Island is just a short ferry ride away! A day on Mackinac Island is filled with biking, carriage tours, historic tours of Fort Mackinac and several other historic homes and, of course, shopping and fudge. After a busy day on the island, return to the Riviera and relax around the pool.
Some popular Mackinaw City attractions include:
- Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse – Established in 1889, this lighthouse helped ships travel safely through the Straits of Mackinac. Operation ended in 1957 when the Mackinac Bridge became open to travel. Now the lighthouse is a popular site that draws visitors from around the country. The best part is you will have a clear view of this grand structure from the Riviera Motel!
- The Mackinac Bridge – Opened in 1957, this is currently the fifth longest suspension bridge in the world and the longest suspension bridge in the western hemisphere with a total length of 26,372 feet. The length of the suspension, including anchorages, is 8,614 feet. Stay at the Riviera Motel to get an unblemished view of this architectural wonder!
- Downtown Mackinaw City – Support local businesses by spending a day in Mackinaw City. It’s just a short, 15 minute stroll to downtown from our motel. Unique restaurants, book stores, candy and fudge shops, gift shops and more are right around the corner.
- Historic Parks – Our motel is surrounded by gorgeous state parks giving you a sense of quiet isolation with access to popular attractions. There are also several parks in Mackinaw that you can visit to enjoy the beautiful beaches, watch the sun set over the water or take the kids to have fun on the playgrounds. These parks are easily accessible just by walking around Mackinaw City.
Additional historic parks that offer endless fun for people of all ages include:
Colonial Michilimackinac Park is located along the Straits of Mackinac. This park is just a short stroll down the beach from the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse and will take you back in time to the 1700s. Explore this fort and fur trading village that has something for the entire family. Fort Michilimackinac, a national historic landmark, is located in this park.
Mill Creek Discovery Park is located just three miles out of town on US-23. When you’re looking for an adventure, this gorgeous park is the place to go. See a reconstructed sawmill in action, explore the nature trails and participate in interactive exhibits. You can then take the Adventure Tour which includes an exhilarating zip line, canopy bridge and climbing wall!
Conkling Heritage Park is also close by the Riviera Motel. You’ll enjoy numerous events hosted in this park including free concerts every Tuesday and Saturday evening and the largest Fourth of July fireworks display in Northern Michigan.
Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse Park is only 30 feet from the Riviera Motel. The property has been turned into a historic park for the public to enjoy. You can climb the tower and tour the restored quarters and exhibits.