Planning a 2025 escape to Michigan’s magical car-free haven? If you’re departing from the Twin Cities, here’s your complete guide on how to get to Mackinac Island from Minneapolis with the best routes, transportation options, travel tips, and estimated costs. Whether you’re traveling by car, flight, train, or bus, this step-by-step breakdown ensures a smooth journey to one of America’s most iconic summer destinations.
🚗 Option 1: Drive from Minneapolis to Mackinac Island (via Mackinaw City)
Total Distance: ~580 miles
Total Drive Time: ~9.5 to 10.5 hours (without major stops)
Final Destination on Mainland: Mackinaw City, MI (Ferry terminal to Mackinac Island)
Route Summary:
- Take I-94 E from Minneapolis through Eau Claire, Wausau, and Green Bay
- Connect to US-2 E along Lake Michigan’s scenic Upper Peninsula
- Arrive at Mackinaw City ferry docks to board the passenger ferry
🅿️ Parking: Free and paid valet parking options are available at both ferry operators in Mackinaw City
✈️ Option 2: Fly from Minneapolis to Airports Near Mackinac Island
There are no direct commercial flights to Mackinac Island. However, you can fly to nearby regional airports and take ground transportation to the ferry terminal.
Best Flight Options (2025):
| Airport | Code | Distance to Ferry (Mackinaw City) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pellston Regional (PLN) | ~15 miles | Closest option – ~25-min taxi ride to ferry | |
| Cherry Capital, Traverse City (TVC) | ~105 miles | ~2-hr drive or private shuttle | |
| Alpena County (APN) | ~90 miles | ~1.5-hr drive |
✈️ Flight Routes:
- MSP ➝ DTW ➝ PLN (via Delta)
- MSP ➝ ORD ➝ TVC or MSP ➝ DTW ➝ TVC
🚖 Ground Transfers: Book airport shuttles or local taxis from Pellston or Traverse City to Mackinaw City
🚆 Option 3: Train + Bus Combo to Mackinaw City
While Amtrak does not serve Mackinaw City directly, you can combine Amtrak + intercity bus:
Route:
- Minneapolis ➝ Milwaukee ➝ Escanaba or Green Bay (Amtrak + Bus)
- Rent a car or take another bus to reach Mackinaw City
- Not ideal for tight schedules; better for scenic or budget travelers
⏱️ Total Time: ~13–16 hours depending on connections
🛳️ Final Step: Ferry from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island
Once you reach Mackinaw City, take a passenger ferry to the island:
Ferry Companies:
- Shepler’s Ferry – ~16-minute ride
- Star Line Ferry – ~16 to 25 minutes
Cost (2025): ~$34 round-trip per adult
Ferry Season: Late April through late October
Extras: Luggage handling, bike transport, and valet parking
🎯 Pro Travel Tips for 2025
- Book ferry and flight tickets in advance during summer months
- Avoid winter travel, as ferries do not run November–April
- Leave your car in Mackinaw City – motor vehicles are banned on Mackinac Island
- Bring layers, as lake winds can be brisk even in summer
- Use airport shuttle services from Pellston to ferry docks for convenience
✅ FAQs
Q: How do I get to Mackinac Island from Minneapolis in 2025?
You can get to Mackinac Island from Minneapolis by driving ~10 hours to Mackinaw City and then taking a ferry, or by flying to Pellston or Traverse City and taking ground transportation to the ferry terminal.
Q: What is the fastest way to reach Mackinac Island from Minneapolis?
The fastest way is to fly from Minneapolis to Pellston Regional Airport (PLN), then take a taxi or shuttle to Mackinaw City and catch a ferry to Mackinac Island.
Q: Can I take a train from Minneapolis to Mackinac Island?
There is no direct train to Mackinac Island. You can combine Amtrak with a bus or rental car to reach Mackinaw City and then take the ferry.
Q: Are there direct flights from Minneapolis to Mackinac Island?
No, there are no direct flights to Mackinac Island. The nearest airport is Pellston (PLN), and from there you must drive or take a shuttle to the ferry.
Q: How long does it take to drive from Minneapolis to Mackinac Island?
It takes about 9.5 to 10.5 hours to drive from Minneapolis to Mackinaw City, plus a 16–25 minute ferry ride to Mackinac Island.
Trusted Sources:
- https://www.mackinacisland.org
- https://www.michigan.gov
- https://www.amtrak.com
- https://www.sheplersferry.com
- https://www.mackinacferry.com