How to Get to Mackinac Island From NYC [2025]

Posted on by John Mathew

Dreaming of escaping the hustle of New York City for the tranquil charm of Mackinac Island? In this 2025 travel guide, you’ll discover how to get to Mackinac Island from NYC with all the best routes by flight, car, train, and bus, plus ferry details. This article is your breakdown to plan your journey smoothly to one of the most enchanting islands in the U.S.

✈️ Option 1: Fly from NYC to Airports Near Mackinac Island

There are no direct flights to Mackinac Island from any major city, including New York. However, you can easily fly to nearby regional airports and then take a short drive or shuttle to the ferry docks in Mackinaw City or St. Ignace.

Best 2025 Flight Routes from NYC:

NYC Airport Connecting Airport Destination Airport Final Transfer
JFK / LGA / EWR DTW (Detroit) / ORD (Chicago) Pellston (PLN) 25-min taxi/shuttle to Mackinaw City
JFK / LGA / EWR DTW / ORD Traverse City (TVC) 2-hour drive to Mackinaw City
  • Airlines: Delta, American, United
  • Tip: Book a shuttle from Pellston Airport to Shepler’s Ferry Dock in Mackinaw City for a seamless transfer

🚗 Option 2: Drive From NYC to Mackinac Island (via Mackinaw City)

Total Distance: ~790 miles
Drive Time: ~13–14 hours (without major stops)
Route:

  • Start on I-80 W or I-87 N from NYC
  • Merge onto I-90 W (New York State Thruway)
  • Continue via I-75 N through Michigan to Mackinaw City

🅿️ Parking: Long-term parking is available at ferry docks in Mackinaw City. Cars are not allowed on Mackinac Island.

🚆 Option 3: Amtrak Train + Bus Combo

Although Mackinac Island is not directly accessible by train, you can take an Amtrak train + intercity bus or rental car.

Sample Route (2025):

  1. Take Amtrak Empire Service from NYC to Buffalo or Detroit
  2. Transfer to Greyhound or Indian Trails Bus heading to Mackinaw City
  3. Walk to the nearby ferry terminal for Mackinac Island

⏱️ Total Time: ~18–20 hours
🛌 Consider an overnight in Detroit or Traverse City for a more relaxed itinerary

🚌 Option 4: Bus From NYC to Mackinac Island (Budget Option)

Taking a bus from NYC to Mackinac Island (via Mackinaw City) is the cheapest but most time-consuming way.

Operators: Greyhound, Megabus (to Detroit) + Indian Trails Bus
Total Duration: ~24+ hours
Fare: Starts at ~$90–$120 one-way

⛴️ Final Step: Take the Ferry to Mackinac Island

Once you reach Mackinaw City, hop aboard one of the ferry lines for a scenic ride to the island.

Ferry Options (2025):

  • Shepler’s Ferry – ~16-minute ride
  • Star Line Ferry – ~16–25 minutes

🎟️ Ferry Price: ~$34 round-trip per adult
🧳 Luggage, bikes, and strollers allowed
🚫 Cars are not permitted on Mackinac Island – plan accordingly

🎯 Pro Tips for 2025

  • Best time to visit: May to October (ferries operate only seasonally)
  • Travel light: Pack smart as you’ll be walking or cycling on the island
  • Advance bookings: Reserve flights, hotels, and ferry tickets early during summer
  • Consider flying into Pellston (PLN) for the most efficient route from NYC

✅ FAQs

Q: How do I get to Mackinac Island from NYC in 2025?
To get to Mackinac Island from NYC, fly to Pellston (PLN) or Traverse City (TVC), then take a shuttle or drive to Mackinaw City and board a ferry to the island. Driving takes about 13–14 hours.

Q: Is there a direct flight from New York City to Mackinac Island?
No, there are no direct flights to Mackinac Island. The closest airport is Pellston (PLN), followed by a short drive or shuttle ride to the ferry docks.

Q: Can I take a train from NYC to Mackinac Island?
You can take an Amtrak train to Buffalo or Detroit and then transfer to a bus or rental car to reach Mackinaw City. From there, take the ferry to the island.

Q: How long does it take to drive from NYC to Mackinac Island?
It takes about 13–14 hours to drive from NYC to Mackinaw City, plus a 16–25 minute ferry ride to Mackinac Island.

Q: Are there ferries to Mackinac Island year-round?
No, ferries operate seasonally from late April to late October. There is no winter access by ferry.

🔗 Trusted Sources

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