Chippewa Hotel Review

This is the third in a series of posts for Michigan 2013.
Other posts in this series include: Lumber Jack and Pink Pony. 

Despite all the trouble that Detroit has gone through with their recent bankruptcy, the state itself continues to make a strong push to boost their tourism revenue. I'm sure some of you have seen the

Pure Michigan commercials in Philly which often tout Mackinac Island as the premier destination 'Up North.' And staying on the island for four days, I can see what all the fuss is about. 

To get on the island, you have to take a ferry to get across the lake. You have a variety of options including Arnold Transit Co. and Shepler's. Though Arnold's is closer to the Chippewa Hotel, all the ferries have porters who will take your bags from the ferry to your hotel. This is appreciated, especially since the only form of transport on the island is by horse & carriage, bike, or by foot. Having lived in the city all of my life, it was nice to get away and be transported to a more relaxed way of living. 

Due to its history and having been featured in the Christopher Reeve movie Somewhere in Time, the Grand Hotel is often touted as the place to stay. However, that beautiful hotel is far from Main Street and maintains a bit more of a suit-and-tie demeanor which went against the whole idea behind this vacation.

So, we decided to stay at the Chippewa Hotel which is located on the inland portion of Main Street - a perfect location to get to all points on the island with a bike. Beautifully done and quite quaint, the GF's dad made the perfect choice. The Pink Pony Bar is also located in the hotel, which offers indoor seating and outdoor lake-side dining.

On the way up the stairs (the Chippewa Hotel does have a small elevator), we noticed the ice machine and vending machine right off of the second floor. And right from there was a nice three bed suite to house five of us.

As we entered the suite, there were two beds at the entrance.

Which opened up to a bathroom with a jetted tub to the left.

This opened up to a nice sitting room with several chairs and couches.

There was also a nice 40 inch flat screen mounted to the wall with free cable. Oh and if you're curious - this is one of those joints that DOES offer free Wi-Fi, which is much appreciated since I couldn't help but work despite being on vacation. Don't worry - I did so when everyone was in bed!

A small kitchen area was without a stove, but did have a nice fridge and microwave.

But the main perk of the suite? The balcony view.

It's right above the hot tub, which is open from 8AM to 11PM.

And offers great panoramic views of the Lake Huron.

Overall, the Chippewa Hotel is a great place to stay if you're looking to be on Main Street where all of the action is. However, I will say that having a room on the 2nd floor isn't ideal (we stayed in room 208). You're right above the Pink Pony Bar, which means that you will definitely hear the "coffee-shop" singer all through the night till about 2AM.

I will say that the one we heard singing was quite good. Also, I would request a room away from the stairs since apparently there are water pipes that run through the walls. However, first impressions are everything and the Chippewa Hotel is quaint and a nice choice for any stay on Mackinac Island.

Chippewa Hotel

7221 Main Street

Mackinac Island, MI 49757
(800) 241-3341 

www.chippewahotel.com