Unforgettable Ways To Celebrate Birthdays on Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is the perfect destination for a birthday celebration filled with charm, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re planning a special day for kids or for those who are young at heart, this unique island offers endless opportunities to make the occasion truly magical. From exploring butterfly houses to riding a bike along the shoreline, these ideas are sure to bring joy and excitement to every guest. Read on to discover the ultimate Mackinac Island birthday ideas!

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Mackinac Island Birthday Ideas

Go Mini-Golfing

Whether you choose to play at the Grand Hotel’s or Mission Point Resort’s The Greens of Mackinac, mini golf is a fun way to celebrate a birthday. The Grand Hotel’s Woodlands Activity Center offers an 18-hole miniature golf course, while Mission Point’s waterfront course provides breathtaking views of Lake Huron. At night, Mission Point even offers glow-in-the-dark mini golf, adding an extra layer of fun to the experience. Add some friendly competition and prizes for extra excitement!

Enjoy a Scoop of Ice Cream

Treat the birthday child and their friends to a sweet celebration with some of the best ice cream on Mackinac Island. Sadie’s Ice Cream Parlor at the Grand Hotel serves Guernsey Farms Dairy, a local Michigan company, known for its small batch, award-winning flavors. Alternatively, grab a cone at Boxwood Cafe at Mission Point Resort or check out Good Day Cafe for a flight of Moomers Ice Cream and just enjoy the laid-back vibe.

Celebrate with Shakes at Fort Mackinac Tea Room

A visit to Fort Mackinac can be made even more special with a stop at the Tea Room for their famous milkshakes. Overlooking the Straits of Mackinac, this spot combines history, stunning views, and delicious treats for a memorable birthday moment.

Afternoon Tea at the Grand Hotel

For a more elegant birthday experience, consider afternoon tea at the Grand Hotel. This timeless tradition includes finger sandwiches, sweet treats, and a variety of teas—perfect for kids who enjoy a touch of sophistication. Don’t forget to dress up and take plenty of photos to mark the occasion.

Visit One, or Both, Butterfly Houses

Step into a world of wonder at one of Mackinac Island’s butterfly houses. Both Wings of Mackinac, located at Surrey Hill, and The Original Butterfly House, located just east of downtown, are magical spaces where kids can marvel at these delicate creatures.

The Original Butterfly House also features Insect World, where kids can explore fascinating exhibits about insects from around the globe. This is a fantastic way to create lasting memories for a nature-loving birthday child.

Drive Your Own Carriage

For a unique adventure, families can rent their own horse-drawn carriage and take the reins. The horses are well-trained and know the routes, making it easy for first-time drivers to navigate the island. This activity allows the birthday group to explore the island at their own pace and create their own memorable experience.

Book a Private Carriage Tour

Make the birthday child feel like royalty by booking a private carriage tour. Customize the journey to include their favorite spots, like Arch Rock, the Grand Hotel, or the peaceful state park trails. It’s an exclusive way to celebrate while taking in the island’s charm.

Go Horseback Riding

For older kids who meet the requirements (10 years old and 50 inches tall), horseback riding offers a thrilling birthday experience. Guided trail rides allow them to enjoy Mackinac’s natural beauty from a unique perspective while creating memories to last a lifetime.

Have a Souvenir Made at the Benjamin Blacksmith Shop

Step back in time at Benjamin Blacksmith Shop, located on Market Street next to the Biddle House, and watch the blacksmith at work. For a truly special birthday keepsake, have a custom souvenir made. The clinking of hammers and glowing forge create a captivating atmosphere for kids.

Make Your Souvenir at Forge a Memory

Unleash your creativity at Forge A Memory, where you can make your own special souvenir. This hands-on blacksmithing experience allows participants to craft unique items like knives or necklaces under the guidance of skilled artisans. It’s an exciting and memorable activity that combines craftsmanship with a keepsake to treasure forever.

Brave the Hall of Mirrors: Mackinac Island Birthday Ideas

Bring laughter and fun to the party with a visit to the 3D Hall of Mirrors. This mind-bending attraction offers endless entertainment as kids navigate the maze and enjoy its quirky optical illusions. Can you make it out?!

Have a Picnic In Marquette Park

Set up a birthday picnic in the scenic Marquette Park. Doud’s Market offers decorated cakes for purchase, ready-made or custom orders accepted, making it easy to add a festive touch. With a playground just behind the art museum, younger kids can burn off some of that sugar while the parents enjoy the park’s beautiful setting.

Have a Bike “Parade”

Grab your family and enjoy a bike “parade” around Mackinac Island by riding along the island’s scenic perimeter trail. There are plenty of areas along the route to pull off for a rest and to enjoy stunning views of the water, making it a delightful and memorable activity for kids and families alike.

Go on a Scavenger Hunt

Visit the Toy Store

Let the birthday child pick out a special gift from Great Turtle Toy Store. This simple but delightful activity allows them to choose a keepsake that will remind them of their birthday celebration. They even sell kites for the next activity!

Go Fly a Kite on the Great Lawn at Mission Point Resort

Head to Mission Point Resort’s expansive Great Lawn for an afternoon of kite flying. With open spaces and gentle breezes from Lake Huron, it’s the perfect spot for kids to watch their kites soar while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Pack a picnic or grab snacks from the resort for a fun-filled outing.

Go Kayaking: Mackinac Island Birthday Ideas

For water-loving kids, kayaking is an adventurous birthday option. It’s a fantastic way to explore Mackinac Island’s shoreline and enjoy some quality family time. While they don’t have an age requirement, they do request that children must ride in a tandem kayak with an adult and they must be able to sit still without rocking the boat.

Take an Art Class

Creative kids will love taking an art class at Watercolor Café or at the Art Museum. These sessions offer hands-on opportunities to learn new skills and create unique pieces of art. Check their schedules ahead of time for availability.

Fire the Cannon at Fort Mackinac

Give the birthday child an unforgettable experience by letting them fire the cannon at Fort Mackinac. This unique activity comes with a bit of history and plenty of excitement as they take part in a ceremonial firing—a moment they’ll talk about for years to come. Make sure to contact Fort Mackinac for any age requirements and availability.

Try Rock Skipping

Find a quiet spot along Mackinac Island’s shoreline to test your rock-skipping skills. The calm waters and abundance of smooth stones make it a simple yet fun activity that kids and adults alike can enjoy. It’s a wonderful way to connect with nature and add a bit of friendly competition to the day. If you happen to be on the island on July 4th, make sure to check out the annual W.T. Rabe Stone Skipping Competition at Windermere Point.

Stop by the Arcade

Add some classic fun to your celebration by visiting one of Mackinac Island’s arcades. The Carousel Arcade on Market Street offers a variety of games to keep kids entertained, while the arcade at Mission Point Resort provides a cozy spot for gaming fun. These arcades are not only great for birthday celebrations but also perfect rainy day activities, ensuring the fun doesn’t stop even if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Make sure to check out some of these other Mackinac Island posts to help you plan your ideal vacation:

• WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT A MACKINAC ISLAND WINTER
• DISCOVER WHAT TO DO ON MACKINAC ISLAND IF IT RAINS
• UNFORGETTABLE SOMEWHERE IN TIME MOVIE LOCATIONS EVERY FAN MUST SEE
• EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE MACKINAC ISLAND FERRY
• 22 UNIQUE THINGS TO DO ON MACKINAC ISLAND WITH YOUR TODDLER
• GRAB YOUR ESSENTIAL MACKINAC ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE EBOOK TODAY!
• HOW TO BE A PART OF FORT MACKINAC HISTORY
• 12 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE STAYING AT MISSION POINT RESORT