Imagine a place where the rumble of car engines and the rush of traffic are replaced by the gentle clip-clop of horse hooves and the serene whirring of bicycle wheels. This isn’t a scene from a historical novel. It’s the everyday reality of one charming island, offering a glimpse into a slower-paced, car-free world. Welcome to Mackinac Island, a unique corner of the United States where cars have been banned for over a century.
A Step Back in Time
Mackinac Island has maintained a ban on motor vehicles for over a century. You can access it only by ferry, airplane, or private boat. Since the ban’s implementation in 1898, the island has preserved a tranquil atmosphere and a slower pace of life.
Transportation on the Island
So, how do residents and visitors get around? The answer lies in simpler, more traditional modes of transportation: walking, bicycles, and horse-drawn carriages. Even Amazon packages are delivered by horse carriage!
A Historical Tapestry
Mackinac Island is also a historical gem. It was a significant spiritual and commercial center for the indigenous Anishinaabe people, who called the island “Michilimackinac,” meaning “Great Turtle.” Today, the island pays homage to its rich past with well-preserved historical sites, including Fort Mackinac, which offers great tours.
