Chicago - August 15, 2007

One Quiet Night

Visiting Mackinac Island

Nasty under-eye circles? Get outta town. We mean it. No Blackberry, gym, or impure thoughts. Just a quick escape to Mackinac Island in Lake Huron, where Victorian charm, R&R, and zero motorized vehicles await.

STAY
This tiny piece of rock is full of stately inns, but Grand Hotel (1 Grand Avenue; 906-847-3331) stands shoulders above the rest, offering kitschy, individually designed rooms with lake views. Nestled amid gingerbread houses in town, Lilac House B&B (corner of Market and Astor Streets; 906-847-3708) is charming and close to the action.

SUP (and SIP)
Get primped and head to the Grand Hotel Main Dining Room, where dinner means spectacular views, first-class service, and achingly delicious wild mushroom and pumpkin ravioli with candied walnuts and grilled lamb T-bone with eggplant and lentil ragout. Meet friendly locals at Horn’s Gaslight Bar & Restaurant (Main Street; 906-847-6154) over white-bean chili and heaping nacho plates.

Everyone gathers on the harborside patio at Pink Pony Bar & Grill (Main Street; 906-847-3341) at least once during the day — and again at night — for the rowdiest on-island scene (not to mention incredible burgers and fresh whitefish sandwiches).

SEE
The entire island is only eight miles around, so you can bike the whole thing and take in some spectacular views along the way. Rent wheels from OrrKids Bike Shop (Main Street; 906-847-3211). Refuel with a round of fudge — there are more than a dozen shops in town (come August 24-26 for the Fudge Festival). Taste test your way to Murray Fudge Shop (inside the Murray Hotel) for the best chocolate-peanut butter variety, hands down.