The tourism team that champions Mackinac Island is adding another jewel to their crown ahead of the 2026 season with a big honor to celebrate.

Michigan’s most popular island has been named the No. 1 Summer Travel Destination in the U.S. by readers and editors at U.S. News and World Report.

In claiming the top spot, Mackinac Island beat out a long list of popular national parks and well-known vacation spots. These include Glacier National Park, Mammoth Lakes, Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Canyon and the Adirondacks. You can see the full winners list on the website here.

“To be recognized by U.S. News & World Report as the No. 1 summer destination is a profound honor for our island,” said Tim Hygh, executive director of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau. “Following three consecutive wins as the best summer destination from USA TODAY 10Best, this accolade highlights the consistency of our hospitality and the enduring charm of our community. Mackinac Island is a place where history and natural beauty converge—from the rhythm of horse-drawn carriages to the quiet of the Straits. We are grateful to the visitors who return year after year to share in this magic with us.”

Here is what the team at U.S. News and World Report said about selecting Mackinac Island as its winner among the best summer vacation spots in the country:

“Located between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas in scenic Lake Huron, this car-free island is perfect for travelers in need of a laid-back summer vacation. Enjoy the mild weather (think: highs in the 70s) from the historic Grand Hotel‘s 660-foot front porch, the largest in the world. Or, soak up the sunshine while kayaking, biking … and hiking to the Instagram-worthy Arch Rock. For a classic Mackinac Island experience, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the island’s downtown, stopping to sample some of Mackinac’s famous fudge along the way.”

The publication selects its winners by using reader input and insight from travel experts.

While the island is open to visitors year-round, the 2026 tourism season is ramping up soon with its Sneak Peek Week set for April 24-30. It’s a great time to check out the downtown shops and other businesses as they open for the season, and to get some uncrowded time on the state park’s huge network of paved and forest trails.

You can find all the island’s opening dates and ideas for daytrip and multi-day itineraries on the tourism bureau’s website here.