Friday, August 07, 2009

Mackinac Island

My first day in Michigan, Gretchen and I decided to take advantage of the beautiful weather and spend the day on Mackinac Island.
Despite the sun, the ferry to the island was a bit chilly but it was a spectacular view of Mackinac Bridge which connects the Upper Peninsula to the rest of Michigan. Interestingly enough, the folks that live in the UP are called "Yoopers" and those who live south of the bridge are called "trolls." Doesn't seem quite fair but that's how it is. :)

Once on the island, we walked down the street to the Fort of Mackinac where we enjoyed a wonderful lunch in the tea room with a spectacular view of the straits of Mackinac.

There are no "horse-less" carriages (a.k.a. cars) allowed on the island so you either walk, ride a bicycle or take a carriage ride. We debated the bicycle option but decided we weren't quite capable of handling that mode of transportation.
After walking quite a bit, we decided we should take a tour of the island via horse and carriage. It's not a fast mode of transportation but it is a good way to see a larger portion of the island. Our driver/guide was entertaining as well as informational and we learned a lot as we rode.

Needless to say, the ride home on the ferry was even chillier without the morning sun but we were better prepared! It was a fabulous day and I'm so glad I got to experience Mackinac Island!

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