Planning a scenic getaway to Mackinac Island from New Jersey in 2025? Whether you’re starting from Newark, Jersey City, or Princeton, this guide gives you full step-by-step details for reaching this iconic car-free island on Lake Huron. Explore the best ways to get there by flight, train, car, or bus, including the final ferry leg to Mackinac Island.
✈️ Fly from New Jersey to Mackinac Island (Best 2025 Air Routes)
Since there is no airport on Mackinac Island, your best bet is to fly from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) or other NJ airports to regional airports in northern Michigan, then take a car or shuttle to the ferry dock.
Best Flight Routes (2025):
| Departure Airport | Layover | Arrival Airport | Final Step |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newark (EWR) | Detroit (DTW) or Chicago (ORD) | Pellston (PLN) | Shuttle to Mackinaw City ferry terminal |
| Newark (EWR) | Detroit or Chicago | Traverse City (TVC) | Drive 2 hrs to Mackinaw City |
| Newark (EWR) | Detroit | Sault Ste. Marie (CIU) | Drive 1.5 hrs to St. Ignace ferry dock |
- Top Airlines: Delta, American, United
- Most Convenient Airport: Pellston Regional Airport (PLN) – just 20–25 minutes from Shepler’s Ferry in Mackinaw City
- Tip: Book early for summer weekends as flights sell out fast.
🚗 Drive from New Jersey to Mackinac Island (Road Trip Route)
Driving to Mackinac Island involves parking in Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, then taking a ferry to the island (no cars allowed on Mackinac Island).
Distance from Newark, NJ to Mackinaw City, MI: ~850 miles
Estimated Drive Time: ~13 to 14 hours (nonstop)
Route Summary:
- Take I-80 W through Pennsylvania and Ohio
- Merge with I-75 N near Toledo
- Continue north through Michigan to Mackinaw City
🅿️ Long-term Parking available near the ferry docks. Luggage and bikes are allowed on the ferries.
🚆 Amtrak Train + Bus to Mackinac Island
You can combine train and bus for a scenic, relaxing alternative to driving.
Suggested Train-Bus-Ferry Itinerary:
- Amtrak Cardinal or Northeast Regional: New Jersey → Washington DC → Chicago
- Amtrak Wolverine: Chicago → Detroit
- Indian Trails Bus: Detroit → Mackinaw City
- Ferry: Shepler’s or Star Line Ferry to Mackinac Island
🕒 Total Travel Time: ~24–30 hours
💡 Great for slow travel lovers and train enthusiasts
🚌 Budget Option: Bus from New Jersey to Mackinac Island
Ideal for backpackers and students, buses offer a budget-friendly, though longer, route.
Sample Route:
- Greyhound: Newark → Detroit
- Indian Trails Bus: Detroit → Mackinaw City
- Ferry: To Mackinac Island
🕒 Total Time: ~26–30 hours
💰 Cost: ~$120–$160 round trip
⛴️ Final Step: Ferry to Mackinac Island (2025 Schedule & Tips)
Once you reach Mackinaw City (Lower Peninsula) or St. Ignace (Upper Peninsula), board a ferry for the final leg.
Ferry Options in 2025:
| Ferry Company | From | Duration | Fare (Round Trip) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shepler’s Ferry | Mackinaw City / St. Ignace | 16–20 mins | ~$34 adults |
| Star Line Ferry | Mackinaw City / St. Ignace | 18–25 mins | ~$34 adults |
- Ferries run daily from late April to late October
- Luggage, bicycles, and pets welcome (check policies)
- Vehicles are not allowed on Mackinac Island
🏨 Bonus: Overnight in Mackinaw City or Mackinac Island
If you’re arriving late, stay overnight in Mackinaw City before taking the morning ferry. Or stay on Mackinac Island for a full island experience—think horse-drawn carriages, historic hotels, and lakefront biking.
✅ FAQs
Q: How do I get to Mackinac Island from New Jersey in 2025?
Fly from Newark to Pellston (via Detroit or Chicago), take a shuttle to Mackinaw City, then ride a ferry to Mackinac Island. You can also drive (~13 hours) or take a train/bus combo.
Q: Can I drive directly to Mackinac Island from New Jersey?
No. Mackinac Island does not allow cars. You must drive to Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, park, and take a ferry to the island.
Q: What is the closest airport to Mackinac Island if flying from New Jersey?
The closest airport is Pellston Regional Airport (PLN). It’s about 25 minutes from the ferry terminal in Mackinaw City.
Q: Is there a train from New Jersey to Mackinac Island?
No direct train exists. But you can combine Amtrak to Detroit or Chicago, followed by a bus to the ferry dock.
Q: Are there ferries to Mackinac Island in 2025?
Yes, Shepler’s Ferry and Star Line Ferry operate daily from late April to October 2025 from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace.
🔗 Trusted Sources
- https://www.mackinacisland.org
- https://www.michigan.gov
- https://www.amtrak.com
- https://www.sheplersferry.com
- https://www.mackinacferry.com