From Detroit to Mackinac Island

Where to Stay & Dine -- For a romantic getaway, the historic Grand Hotel (tel. 800/33-GRAND or 906/847-3331; www.grandhotel.com) disappoints no one. The individually decorated rooms feature all the expected comforts; some have balconies with lake views. If money's no object, the suites are exceptionally luxurious; many are named and themed after famous figures, including six First Lady rooms. Resort grounds include tennis courts, an 18-hole golf course, and formal gardens. Doubles start at $350, including breakfast and dinner daily, horse-drawn carriage shuttle service, and all tips. A great family resort is Mission Point (tel. 800/833-7711 or 906/847-3312; www.missionpoint.com), with 18 acres on the lakefront and a host of recreational facilities. Doubles begin at $194. Other moderately priced choices include the family-run Hotel Iroquois, Main Street (tel. 906/847-3321), a 100-year-old but thoroughly modernized inn where doubles start at $160; and the Lilac Tree Hotel, Main Street (tel. 906/847-6575; www.lilactree.com), whose suites come with fridges and microwaves and whose rates start at $130.

For fine dining on the island, nothing surpasses the Grand Hotel's Salle à Manger (tel. 800/33GRAND), known for its French-inspired entrees, decadent pecan ball dessert, and service fit for royalty. The hotel's Jockey Club and Woods restaurants offer casual meals -- pasta, chicken, and steaks -- at lower prices. The Carriage House, Main Street (tel. 906/847-3321), in the Hotel Iroquois, features local specialties such as broiled whitefish and pork tenderloin served with a chutney of Michigan apples and cherries. A nice family choice is Dockside Inn, near Star Line Ferry (tel. 906/643-7911), a casual restaurant serving local fish, chicken, ribs, burgers, and over 140 types of beer.

Getting There -- The major route to Mackinac Island is I-75 from the south. From the lower peninsula, you can reach the island by ferry from Mackinaw City. From the upper peninsula, ferries depart from St. Ignace. Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry (tel. 800/828-6157), Arnold Transit Company (tel. 800/542-8528; www.arnoldline.com), and Star Line Ferry (tel. 800/638-9892; www.mackinacferry.com) all service the island from both cities, and all charge the same rates: $17 adults, $8 children 5 to 12, free for children under 5. Bike transport is $6.50. You can also travel by plane from St. Ignace on Great Lakes Air (tel. 906/643-7165; www.greatlakesair.com).

For more side trip ideas from Detroit, visit our complete guide online at www.frommers.com/destinations/detroit.

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