Inside the Inn at Stonecliffe: Patrick's Take on Mackinac Island's Hidden Treasure
The Inn at Stonecliffe has been a cherished landmark on Mackinac Island since the year 1904. The rich history behind this iconic resort is truly captivating, and it is something that visitors and locals alike will enjoy learning about in depth. Originally built by the industrialist Michael Cudahy, it served as a beloved summer retreat for his family, reflecting both grandeur and warmth. Resort manager Patrick Conlon provides a wealth of valuable information for listeners to absorb throughout the interview. He delves into the resort's fascinating history, discusses the extensive two-year renovations that have recently taken place, and highlights the humanitarian aspects that are being incorporated into the resort's mission. There is so much that I learned during this enlightening conversation. I must admit, I had no prior knowledge about the concept of a humanitarian hotel. Patrick shares in detail all about the impactful work done by the Pulte Family Foundation. I thoroughly enjoyed discovering all the wonderful aspects of this fantastic organization and the positive difference it strives to make in the community.
Our weekend at The Inn St Stonecliffe
As a seasoned traveler to the enchanting island, I was beyond excited to finally experience a stay at the newly renovated Inn at Stonecliffe. Tucked away approximately 2 miles inland from the bustling downtown, this charming resort offers everything you could possibly need, ranging from fun pizza-making activities to a well-equipped wellness center. With the magnificent historic mansion welcoming you upon arrival, the sense of magic inherent in Mackinac is even more palpable. They offer a total of four delightful dining options available right on site. Each dining establishment, while unique, allows you the opportunity to sample dishes from the other restaurants as well. I particularly enjoyed the fries from the lively pub, especially when paired with their delicious garlic aoli sauce.
The staff on site was truly beyond compare. The bartender was particularly exceptional, making a genuine effort to engage in conversation and share his personal experiences about the island's unique charm and beauty. The front desk crew was not only informative but also consistently welcoming, making us feel at home from the moment we arrived. My favorite spot to sit and unwind was definitely the back porch, a serene area where you simply couldn’t help but relax and soak in the atmosphere. That evening, they had a talented musician performing out on the patio, which added to the delightful ambiance and made the experience even more enjoyable. To top it all off, while we were soaking in the beautiful surroundings, Neil surprised me by asking me to marry him. Now we have an even more special connection to the island, as we got engaged there, at the picturesque Grotto on The Inn at Stonecliffe property, creating memories that we will cherish forever..
Unveiling the Future of Mackinac Island Ferries: A Conversation with the Hoffman Family
Back in June, it was brought to everyone's attention that the Hoffman Family of Companies had successfully acquired The Mackinac Island Ferry Company. During the course of this acquisition, they quickly became aware that many of the boats from this ferry line were unfortunately not meeting the necessary safety standards. As a result, they made the decision to shelve some of the vessels, while only allowing a few to operate sporadically. After some time, they realized, with the support of Shepler’s Ferry (the line they had purchased two years prior), that it was essential to shut down the operations of the Mackinac Island Ferry Company entirely, resulting in a situation where all ferry services were strictly provided by Shepler’s. Taking over this responsibility was no small task, especially during the peak tourist season, but the Hoffman family along with Shepler’s and their team managed it with impressive professionalism and great stride. Now, with the Mackinac Island Ferry Company transitioning back to the Arnold Transit line, the President of the Marine Division for the Hoffman family, Jenny, is excited to share insights about what the future holds for both ferry lines. Of course, this also includes their popular Sip n Sail cruises, which are an integral part of the marine offerings.
Check the Hoffman Family of Companies website and Sheplers Ferry for updates.
Island Slice Pizzeria
In this episode, we will explore another fantastic option for dining on Mackinac Island, focusing specifically on Island Slice Pizzeria. Conveniently located in the heart of downtown, this popular eatery boasts a delicious and varied selection of pizza, wings, fresh salads, and mouthwatering subs. It’s an excellent choice for groups looking to share a meal together, as the menu caters to a variety of tastes. Additionally, Island Slice provides convenient delivery services to various locations downtown and offers the ease of online ordering, making it simple to enjoy a tasty meal from the comfort of your own space.
The Inn at Stonecliffe and Mackinac is #2 for autumn destination
In October we head back to the island. Mackinac was recently named #2 in USA Today autumn escapes. Here is the list:
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Allegany County, Maryland
Lafayette, Louisiana
Estes Park, Colorado
Saratoga County, New York
Loudoun County, Virginia
Columbus, Ohio
Cody, Wyoming
Branson, Missouri
While we are on the beautiful island, we are truly excited to be guests of the historic Inn at Stonecliffe. This charming establishment is reopening this year after being closed for a significant two years due to extensive remodeling efforts. The breathtaking location offers a stunning Mansion, a delightful Summer House, and a selection of inviting Cottages, all providing a unique stay on Mackinac Island.
Offering several luxury amenities that include: Views of the Straits of Mackinac and the Mackinac Bridge, custom mattresses made exclusively for Stonecliffe, elegant decor, spacious rooms, Nespresso machine in Mansion and kuerig in Summer House, and cottages offer food delivery from Doud’s.
On site there are 2 pools. 1 for families and 1 for adults. Indulge in spa services and bike rentals. With on site dining at The Straits, The Backyard or Horsey’s Pub. Plan your wedding or business event at multiple venues. Complimentary events are:
Movie Night
Meditation in Orchard
Watercolor Painting
Kids craft corner
Live music
Pizza making
barre class
kickboxing class
Plein Air Painting
Fudge & Wine Tasting
Tie Dye
Pilates
Board Games and bingo
Shopping Series -starting with Garden Gate and Cherished Memories at Mission Point
This week starts a new series: Shopping on Mackinac. Before I get into that I was sharing how The Mackinac Ferry Company former owner was filing a lawsuit against the new owner. Plus how Mackinac lost power for a bit due to a squirrel.
The shops I talk about are Garden Gate and Cherished Memories. Both of these shops are located in the Main Building of Mission Point. If you wish to know more the hours for Cherished Memories are 9-6 and number is (906)847-3063.
A huge shoutout to the retirement of Mustache Merle and his companion Lady from the Mackinac Island Carriage Tours. You will be missed.
You can’t visit Mackinac and not think of fudge. After all it is the fudge capital of the world. So I decided to do a new series all about the fudge shops on the island.
Starting with Joann’s Fudge. Starting back in 1969, Joann’s has 2 shops on the island and one in Mackinaw City. They offer a variety of options for purchasing your treats. Also consider buying some fudge for corporate events and even wedding favors.
Visit www.joannsfudge.com or contact them at orders@joannsfudge.com or call them (906)847-6357
Joann’s Fudge
Pancake House
Learn about another great place to get food on the island. The Pancake House, located on Main Street attached to Ryba’s Fudge. Open since 1963, this place offers breakfast all day. The hours are daily 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. From May 3rd to October 27. They have an online order option as well too. Be sure to add to your 906 Rewards and if you aren’t a member sign up now at www.906rewards.com.
visit the website at www.mipancakehouse.com
Murray Hotel
Sure trying to decide where to stay on Mackinac can be a bit overwhelming. One place I can assure you (because I stayed here myself) is the Murray Hotel.
www.mymurrayhotel.com shares a lot more about this charming spot. Starting back in 1882, this 69 room boasts a prime spot on Main Street. Murray also has their own fudge made on site with Murray Hotel Fudge Co. that has fun and innovative flavors. Then you can do either breakfast or lunch at the on site Amigo Burrito.
The hotel amentities:
Fully air- conditioned rooms
Free wifi
Complimentary donuts 8-10:30 am
Located in the heart of downtown
elevator access to each floor
whirlpool baths in Deluxe King room
Murry Hotel Fudge Com
Amigo Burrito
Complimentary luggage service
meeting rooms
spacious sun deck and pool
microwave and refrigerator access via Front Desk
Mackinac Islands Original Bike Tours Cap Excursions
When visiting the island it is always great to learn all you can about it. So this then takes you to a newer business on the island. This is Mackinac Islands Original Bike Tours Cap Excursions. As shared on their website:
www.mackinacislandbiketours.com
They offer interior and exterior tours that range from 1.5 to 2 hours.
$50/person (2 hour tour)
$25/person for each additional hour over the standard 2 hour tour
Bikes- $15/hour per bike
50% deposit required at booking - refunded if bad weather
GOOD DAY CAFE
CAFE + COFFEE BAR
Back with another place to eat on the island. Located on Mains Street, Good Day Cafe is a great idea. This charming cafe offers food, beverages and ice cream.
With a fully stocked coffee menu finish that off with any of their baked goods, breakfast sandwiches or subs.
After all is done you can glimpse at the 16 ice cream flavors and have a scoop or sundae.
Open daily 8am to 8 pm
May- October
www.gooddaycafemackinac.com
906-847-3550
Mackinac is my favorite place to go to escape. To reconnect with nature and loved ones. This trip was very unusual due to the fact that the morning we were headed to Colonial Michlimackinac I go word my dad had suffered a strong stroke. The magnitude of this situation was very surreal. My family wanted us to stay up north as we couldn’t do anything for him and he was ok but would need PT. This put a could over the trip for sure. I barely took photos and just wanted to be with my loved ones.
But while we were there I was able to enjoy the newly renovated MissionPoint Resort for our lodging, Got to tour the newly renovated Stonecliff Manor and then finally visited the Art museum.
Dominick Part 3
Joined once again with Dominick from the Mackinac Parks Department, this episode was extra fun. Did you know that Mackinac has an airport? Not only that it is controlled by the state park. Dominick shares more about that as well as the cemeteries on the the island, of which there are 3.
Pink Pony
The famous Pink Pony. That is all you have to say. You know it even if you have never gone to it. With the patio covered in pink umbrellas to the pink pony in front of the door, it draws you in.
Located below the Chippewa Hotel it has breakfast, lunch and dinner to choose from. The menus also offer great Gluten free options. Open 8 am to 2 am daily, May- October.
The Pink Pony also has 2 fun shops to explore and a thriving entertainment night life (some afternoons artists perform outside too) the website has all the information on that.
www.pinkponymackinac.com
Dominick Part 2
So lucky to have Dominick from the Mackinac Parks Department come back and share The Rock formations on Mackinac Island. Now obviously the most well known Rock formation is Arch Rock. Dominick shares some great insights to the new Arch Rock Plaza (now open).
But have you ever visited the other rock formations? Here are ones you need to be sure and explore. Also be sure to go to www.mackinacparks.com for great information to explore the parks.
Arch Rock
Robinson’s Folly
Skull Cave
Devils Kitchen
Crack- in -the- island
Cave of the woods
Sugarloaf
There is also a great botanical trail for you to explore that Dominick shares where it begins and ends.
Alissa from The Mackinac House
I have been lucky enough to stay at quite a few places on the island. The Mackinac House was one is set my eyes after it opened. Finally I got the opportunity and it was worth it.
Alissa is the manager of the Mackinac House and shares all about this unique boutique hotel. How it came to be, where it is located, amenities and more.
I also follow Alissa on her TikTok @adoeinthewoods for valuable island information. She shares her island adventures.
The Mackinac House is on social media and they use this to share if any cancellations occur. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram @themackinachouse.
Photographer Katharine Rose Witt
Katharine was kind enough to come on the show and not only share all about her photography business but her love of Mackinac that started at a very young age.
Traveling to the island was a favorite of her parents. So much so that they wanted to find a way to experience the island even more by working and living there. So once they did that it was a chance for Katharine to visit and unbeknownst to her a window for her photography business opened.
Not only do her photographs speak volumes but so does her website, www.katharinerosephotography.com.
Here is a great place to get some extra ideas of what to do, eat and stay on Mackinac Island. She shares a lot of this on the show.
Follow her on Instagram: @katharinerose.phototgraphy
Facebook: Katharine Rose Photography
Micah from Threads of Mackinac
You can’t help when you go to Mackinac Island to want to bring back a souvenir. Luckily there are plenty of choices to make your trip memorable. This is where Threads of Mackinac comes into play. Here is what they have to say from their website: www.threadsofmackinac.com
We created Threads of Mackinac because we loved every second being on one of America's Favorite Islands. Our design centric apparel was inspired by the sights, sounds, and mystical creatures who inhabit this very special place.
We think that the visitors of Mackinac Island should have the opportunity to take home a memory of their vibrant experience as a Wearable Postcard. Our island apparel was stitched for your enjoyment with cozy sweatshirts, long sleeve t's, short sleeve t's, and hats in our unique designs.
We hope that you enjoy the memories, stories, and experiences woven together from the team at Threads of Mackinac.
Micah owner/creator of Threads of Mackinac comes on the show to tell his unique Mackinac story and how Threads came to be.
I love this store and all they have accomplished in the years since opening. Visit the website and follow them on social media:
Instagram: @threadsofmackinac
Facebook: Threads of Mackinac
website: www.threadsofmackinac.com
Dominick from Mackinac Parks Department
Back on one of my visits I was lucky enough to meet up with McKenzie (who was interning at the Grand Hotel). While on the walk we ran into someone she introduced me too. Dominick , head of Marketing for the Mackinac Parks Department. This was truly a fortunate event. This has lead to having him on the show for a few episodes to skim the knowledge of all he has with the parks.
On the show we learn all about Fort Michilimackinac to Fort Mackinac and Fort Holmes. Dominick goes into the history of how the forts came to be and what is done with them now. Tune in to learn all about it.
Opening Dates and Fort Mackinac Tea Room
The opening dates are posted. That means it is time to make sure you have secured your stay on Mackinac Island. Which was just honored with the #2 Flower Festival in the nation for the Lilac Festival.
The next thing I talk about is another place to eat on the island. Only offering a lunch and kids menu, Fort Mackinac Tea Room is the part of the Fort you first notice with the yellow umbrellas lining the front. With the best view of the harbour, consider a drink and appetizer from the Tea Room.
Run by the Grand Hotel, the menu even has an option to get the famous pecan ball.
Admission to the fort is a requirement to eat at the Tea Room.
www.grandhotel.com
www.mackinacparks.com
https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/travel/best-flower-festival-2024
Meet Mackinac Max
Debbie Nellis joins the podcast to share her very unique Mackinac Island origin story then she talks about Max.
Sharing inside stories from the Turtle Max- he goes on some adventures on Mackinac Island. Tune in to learn about the books. You can purchase them on Mackinacmax.com which will direct you to Amazon or at the Island Book Store.
Be sure to follow Max on Instagram @mackinac_max for “Where am I Wednesday?” series
Author Carrie Fancett Pagels
On the show Carrie Fancett Pagels joins by telling us her fascinating Mackinac Island origin story.
Carrie’s novel, My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island, won the Maggie Award and was a Romantic Times Book Reviews Top Pick. The Steeplechase was a finalist for the Holt Medallion. Her short story, “The Quilting Contest”, was the Historical Fiction Winner of Family Fiction’s “The Story” national contest. Her novella, The Substitute Bride, was a Maggie Award finalist for Romance Novellas. All three of her Christy Lumber Camp books were long list finalists for Family Fiction’s Book of the Year and The Fruitcake Challenge was a Selah Award finalist.
www.carriefancettpagels.com
Learn what you can eat and drink when you stop off at Watercolor Cafe. This is one of my favorite spots on the island to go. The location is so unique and I am obsessed with the bright colors all around.
Owner Kate Dupre was on the show before talking about the cafe and the art classes they do after hours there. Be sure to give it a listen for a refresher.
www.watercolormackinac.com
Watercolor Cafe and a bit more
On the upcoming episode
I mention these videos to check out so here they are to view now!!!
Watch and learn about the golf course on Mackinac island- Wawashkamo
Preview of Expedition X that took place on Mackinac island
Lana from Swit Gallery Gifts
Let me tell you how excited I was to be able to talk to Lana. Little did I know her story was way more than ever expected.
Located at the famous Baxter’s Coin Shop (from Somewhere In Time), Swit Gallery offers very unique gifts from Mackinac. A lot of this had to do with the vision Lana had to create this space. So I encourage you to follow her on Instagram @switgallerygifts and stop in the gallery on your next visit to Mackinac.
ICE HOUSE BBQ & 1852 GRILL ROOM
Featuring this week 2 great places to check out where to eat at the next time visiting the island. Located at the Island House Hotel-
Ice House BBQ
1852 Grill Room
visit the website for Island House https://www.theislandhouse.com
The menus are subject to change for the 2024 season by I share what the 2023 fall menu options. We went there last summer and enjoyed the pulled pork nachos and pizzas at Ice House BBQ. Then used the lunch to add to our 906 Rewards Program.
Welcome Back McKenzie
If you did not get a chance to listen to McKenzie on her first time on the show- please do. She was on Season 3 episode 19. This was before she went to the island to live and then work as Content Marketing Director of the Grand Hotel.
I got the chance to catch up with this gal. This episode was so fun to learn and experience what she did on Mackinac Island. I will share the original podcast link below.
Learn about another great place to eat on Mackinac Island. Located at Harbour View Inn in front of the Chateau LaFramboise. Open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Bill’s offer a simple yet delicatable menu. Hours are 11-3 daily. To read the menu go to link I post and go under dining.
www.harbourviewinn.com
Lucky Bean is a great place to get on the email list. Go to their website www.luckybeanmi.com. Also they have sales currently going on.
Below are the links I talked about on who is hiring on the island. All these can be found on the Facebook Page- Mackinac Island Job Posting page
Mackinac Island Birkenstock- email Mackinac.birkenstock@gmail.com
Lucky Bean Coffeehouse- https://www.luckybeanmi.com/employment
Little Luxuries- email littleluxuriesmanager@yahoo.,com
Sanders On Mackinac- email sanderscandies@yahoo.com
Kingston Kitchen at Village Inn- apply at https://www.kingstonkitchen.com/employment
Doud’s Irish Pub- email resume and references to info@patrickdoudspub.com
Doud’s Market- email info@doudsmarket.com
Wings of Mackinac- apply at wingsofmackinac.com or email mariehulett15@gmail.com 231-881-3530
Little Island Book Store- send resume to Diane.islandbookstore@gmail.com
Mackinac Island Ferry- apply at www.mackinacferry.com
Pink Pony Shop and Club- send resume to pinkponystore@outlook.com
Bill’s Grill
Mission Point Dining
If you are like me and love food the thought is always where should we eat? While on Mackinac there are a great variety of options. I will be sharing the dining that you can maybe try on your next visit.
Mission Point District has great dining options on site. Here they are:
Bistro on the Greens
Round Island Kitchen
Chianti
Boxwood Cafe
The menus have not been released for this year but I guarantee it will be worth it when they are. Be sure to go to the Mission Point website for even more information.
Surrey Hill
So if you go to Mackinac and take the Mackinac Island Carriage Tours no doubt you know this place. Located up behind the The Jewel is this great little gem on the island. What does it have?
Here a few things:
Aunt Mary’s Donuts (famous cake donuts that are a must)
Grand Hotel Carriage House
Carriage history on Mackinac
various gift shops
Keep in mind that these places are free to explore (minus Wings of Mackinac). You also don’t have to just take the carriage tour but you are able to walk or ride your bike there.
Inn on Mackinac
To book and learn more about the Inn on Mackinac you can call or email. Here are the info details-
855-784-3846
reservations@innonmackinac.com
As always there are plenty of lodging options on the Island. Here is a perfect example. The Inn on Mackinac is located is the historic Marina area. Away from downtown but still close enough to get there easily.
Here are some of the options:
44 rooms - Single, Double and Suite
prices from 130-405
fully air conditioned
all private bathrooms
award winning staff
Children 12 and under stay and have breakfast free
spacious front porch
cozy parlor
heated spa pool and waterfall
daily home baked bedtime cookies
Author Rod Sadler- Grim Paradise: The Cold Case Search For the Mackinac Island Killer
Beyond lucky to have connected with Author Rod Sadler and have him on the podcast. He is retired law enforcement. With a few other books under his belt, he felt the need to share the story of Frances Lacey. A widow murdered on Mackinac Island in 1960. With thorough detail he shares valuable information to maybe help get this cold case solved. Not only for the family but the victim Frances Lacey too.
Where to get Rod Sadler’s book - Grim Paradise
Winter on Mackinac
Here is a great video from the movie you can buy and watch all about the Bridge and winter in Mackinac-
Ice Bridge: Mackinac Island’s Hidden Season
Mackinac Island has been knows as a summer destination for years. But as time has gone on they have extended the season longer. While the island has always been open year round it has only been the last few years the winter season has really blossomed.
Now to know what is available whether it is food, lodging or activities- this episode is gonna give you some guidance.
Here are the links to all I talked about for better reference:
Holiday Deals
It is hard to believe that the holidays are upon us but they are. With that comes a great opportunity to give the gift of Mackinac. On the show I talk about what all is available. Here are the links to what I mentioned.
For 1852 Grill Room, Ice House BBQ, Island House Bike Rental, Mary’s Draught House, Pancake House, Seabiscuit Cafe 906 Rewards
Meet Caleb
Let Caleb give you an insight to Mackinac Island from a kid perspective. Not a long show but you get the idea of what he likes and doesn’t.
Soup Of Success
A tour of Soup of Success
Soup of Success is an intensive 20-week program which addresses the whole woman mentally, physically, and spiritually. Empowerment is at the core of everything we do. We help our program participants to find their voices, discover their direction, establish their goals, and overcome their obstacles and achieve those goals.
I am inspired by this program which is why a special episode was made about this. SOS is in my hometown and to see and hear the women thrive from doing this is immeasurable. So be sure to buy the products on the website. Also follow them on social media .
Instagram: soup_of_success
Facebook: Soup of Success
100 Things to do continued and some spooky tales
Hear the rest of 100 Things to do on Mackinac before you die book. Excuse my butchering of some words on the podcast. Also I share some tales from Todd Clements and his book. To learn more about the Haunts of Mackinac look for his book available online or Mackinac Island Bookstore.
100 Things to do on Mackinac before you Die- Part 1
It is the age old question what to do on Mackinac Island? Well I definitely share all I can but so do others. I came across this book at Little Luxuries years ago and got it. Lots of fun ideas to think and learn about.
From author Kath Usitalo- she shares a great guide to help make your trip even more memorable. Click on her name to take you to her webpage.
I cover the first 50 and will finish it next week. Also I share what is happening the Halloween closing weekend Oct 27-29.
Mackinac Resorts
When you are looking to stay on Mackinac the question always is where. I know that some people prefer to stay at the same places as they always have, where I love to stay someplace new every time. This recent trip we stayed at Harbor suites and penthouse. This is part of a great business called Mackinac Resorts.
On the podcast I go into all the info about the lodging options. Those include :
DowntownHarbor Suites & Penthouse
Pontiac Lodge
Village Inn Suites
Sunset Condos
Mackinac Vacation Rentals
Tune in to learn about these great Lodging spots and go to the website Mackinac Resorts
Fall Deals for 2023
There is still time to visit Mackinac Island. And of course there are great deals that are being offered. I talk about them on the podcast. Below are all the links to the places I mention on the show. I hope this helps you take the fall trip of your dreams.
2023 closing dates
Yes Mackinac Island is open year round -however most restaurants, lodging and activities shut down at the end of October. All heading up to the big Halloween weekend on the island.
If you have never been in the fall to the island- I highly encourage it. Such a different pace and the colors are magnificent.
I share the closing dates that are posted on Mackinac Tourism. Tune in to learn about them as well and the activities on Halloween weekend.
Girls Trip 2023 recap
The time has come and gone for the girls trip. Starting out in St Ignace on the Mackinac Island Ferry Company we headed over from Thursday to Sunday. Staying the first time at Harbor Suites Mackinac Resorts. We had a great room with a full kitchen. I share on the podcast all the great food we ate and where at. Experiencing the Woods restaurant and seeing how Stonecliff is coming along was an added bonus. Tune in to learn all we did. Here are the links I mention on the show.
Girls Trip to Arch Rock closure
Trust me I am beyond excited for the upcoming trip with my Girl friends. Staying someplace new Harbor Suites. Then doing the Sip-n-Sail cruise along with eating lunch at The Woods.
I go into the closing of Arch Rock which happens Sept 11 (always Remember) and what is being done to it. State Park
Last learn about different running, walking and hiking trails you could explore in the 70 miles available in the Mackinac State Park. I use the blog entry from the tourism page Tourism page
