Accommodations and Food

With the Straits a major tourism draw, Mackinaw City [1] alone has more than 3,000 rooms. For a variety of amenities, check out the Comfort Inn Lakeside (611 S. Huron Ave., 231/436-5057, www.comfortinn.com [2], $75–108 d) or the Ramada Inn Waterfront (723 S. Huron Ave., 231/436-5055, www.ramadainn.com [3], $48–278 d).

In between sightseeing and shopping, grab a bite to eat at one of the numerous area restaurants. Step back a couple of centuries at the Dixie Saloon (401 E. Central Ave., 231/436-5449, www.dixiesaloon.com [4], hours vary, $6–24), a historic landmark. Try the potato-encrusted walleye or the fried perch, both of which are locally caught.

For something a little more elegant, stop by The Lighthouse Restaurant (618 S. Huron Ave., 231/436-5191, 11 a.m.–9 p.m. daily, $10–42), with its prime rib, lobster, and excellent wine list.