Mackinac Island named best island in continental U.S. by Travel + Leisure

MACKINAC ISLAND, MI – If there was any secret left to the beauty of Michigan’s Mackinac Island as a destination trip, it’s pretty safe to say this latest accolade being laid at its shore will take care of that. Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards came out today, with newcomer Mackinac Island getting the top spot as the Best Island in the Continental U.S.

Mackinac topped 14 other spots including Hilton Head, the Florida Keys and other popular island destinations.

A clip from the “Today” show saw Travel + Leisure pouring out lots of affection for this little spot in the Straits that already sees about a million visitors each year, the majority during the warm-weather months. On the show, they applauded the island’s “Victorian charm,” mentioned the fudge, the nature trails in the state park, the horses and gave a shout-out to Grand Hotel.

“We are elated to be recognized by the readers of Travel + Leisure for this prestigious award,” said Tim Hygh, executive director of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau. “Mackinac Island is a destination full of character that has made it a nostalgic place people keep coming back to time and time again. This accolade is not only a testament to the charm of the island, but the incredible community and businesses that make this destination so special.”

While awards are nothing new to Mackinac, this is a big one and it’s something island businesses plan to celebrate. Earlier accolades include being selected as a top U.S. island by TripAdvisor and USA Today.