Discover the Charms of Mackinaw City, Michigan

At the tip of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, Mackinaw City is a delightful place where history meets natural beauty. This quaint village is much more than a launching point to the stunning Mackinac Island—it’s a vibrant community with its own unique allure.

Mackinaw City is a harmonious blend of timeless charm and modern convenience. Its streets are dotted with a variety of unique shops and inviting eateries, offering everything from locally-crafted treasures to mouthwatering local cuisines. Residents and visitors alike relish the friendly atmosphere and personalized service that these small businesses consistently provide.

Life in Mackinaw City is full of scenic moments, thanks to its location on the shores of Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. The breathtaking sunsets are a daily spectacle not to be missed, offering a moment of serene reflection after a day spent exploring the outdoors. Nature enthusiasts find endless joy here, with opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. The city is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, with beautiful parks and trails that showcase Michigan's natural splendor.

Living in Mackinaw City also means being part of a close-knit community that celebrates its rich history and vibrant cultural events. From the historic Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse to the Annual Lilac Festival, there's a warm welcome waiting around every corner. Embrace the laid-back, enriching lifestyle that Mackinaw City offers and discover a sense of belonging in this picturesque piece of Michigan.

Workforce & Industrial Development

Mackinaw City, located at the northern tip of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, serves as a strategic gateway between the state’s two peninsulas and a key access point to the Upper Midwest. Its proximity to major highways like I-75 and the iconic Mackinac Bridge provides direct connections for logistics, distribution, and manufacturing operations serving both Michigan and broader Great Lakes markets.

Industrial and commercial activity in Mackinaw City is supported by a growing interest in the region’s unique logistics advantages, including access to rail, deepwater ports, and cross-peninsular trucking routes. While the area is best known for tourism, local and regional leaders are working to diversify the economy by attracting light manufacturing, warehousing, and value-added agricultural processing.

Workforce development initiatives are coordinated through partnerships with Michigan Works! and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, offering programs tailored to upskilling local residents and meeting employer needs. State and regional incentive programs, such as the Michigan Business Development Program, provide financial support for companies investing in new or expanded facilities. Mackinaw City’s leadership also works closely with Cheboygan County to streamline permitting and provide site selection assistance for industrial projects.