Top Things to Do at Surrey Hill on Mackinac Island
Introduction
Mackinac Island is a place where time slows down. No cars, no stress—just horse-drawn carriages, fresh air, and beautiful sights. It’s one of Michigan’s most loved summer destinations.
While most people head straight to Main Street or the Grand Hotel, there’s a quieter gem waiting to be explored—Surrey Hill.
Surrey Hill is tucked away from the island’s busy core. It offers a slower pace and a more relaxed setting. Here, you can learn about the island’s horse culture, explore museums, visit butterfly gardens, and enjoy scenic views.
This guide will walk you through the top things to do at Surrey Hill, whether you’re visiting with family, your partner, or even solo. It’s a great stop for anyone wanting to see the more peaceful, local side of Mackinac Island.
What is Surrey Hill?
Surrey Hill is part of Mackinac Island State Park, located just outside the downtown area. It’s a small but special area, full of charm and history.
What makes Surrey Hill unique is its connection to the island’s horse-drawn culture. Here, you won’t just ride in a carriage—you’ll actually see where the horses are groomed, trained, and cared for. It’s among the few locations where guests may get a taste of Mackinac’s working life.
Surrey Hill is:
- Family-friendly and great for kids
- Quiet and peaceful, away from crowds
- Easy to reach by foot, bike, or carriage tour
- Filled with attractions, from museums to butterfly gardens
For tourists who want to do more than just shop or ride their bikes, this location is ideal. It’s a place to take it leisurely, learn new things, and discover new ways to appreciate the island.
Whether you’re spending a few hours or the whole afternoon here, Surrey Hill offers a refreshing break from the busy tourist path.
Top Things to Do at Surrey Hill
- Explore the Surrey Hill Carriage Museum
The Surrey Hill Carriage Museum is a must-see for history lovers. It’s home to one of the most interesting displays on Mackinac Island. The museum features beautifully restored carriages from the 1800s and early 1900s.
These carriages show how people traveled before cars were invented. You’ll see elegant private buggies, working wagons, and even fire-fighting equipment pulled by horses.
Many of these pieces are original and well-preserved. Inside, there are signs with easy-to-read details about each one. It’s entertaining, instructive, and suitable for all ages.
Why visit this museum:
- Free when you purchase a ticket for the Mackinac Island Carriage Tour
- Indoors, so it’s great on a rainy day
- Offers a deeper look at island life and transport history
- Watch Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours in Action
Surrey Hill is one of the places where carriage horses rest and rotate. That means you’ll get to see horses up close as they take breaks between tours.
You might catch a glimpse of horses being brushed or harnessed. It’s a fun way to see how much care goes into keeping these horses healthy.
There’s also a large open area where you can watch carriages come and go. For horse lovers, this is a favorite stop.
Things to enjoy here:
- Quietly watch the horses being groomed
- Take photos of the carriages and animals
- Learn how the carriage system operates behind the scenes
- Visit the Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory
Step into a peaceful glasshouse filled with colorful butterflies. An exquisite indoor garden can be found at the Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory. Hundreds of real butterflies from around the globe call it home.
As you walk through, butterflies may land on your arm or shoulder. It’s a gentle, magical experience for both kids and adults.
There are also tropical plants and small water features. Everything inside creates a calm and relaxing environment.
Highlights of the butterfly house:
- Hundreds of free-flying butterflies
- Lush tropical plants and flowers
- Perfect for families and nature lovers
This attraction does have a small entrance fee, but many visitors say it’s worth every penny.
- Grab a Snack or Ice Cream at the Surrey Hill Shops
Exploring makes you hungry, and Surrey Hill has you covered. You’ll find small snack stands and shops offering island favorites.
Homemade fudge, a Mackinac Island custom, is among the most well-liked delicacies. Additionally, you can get a quick sandwich, beverage, or soft-serve ice cream.
There are shaded areas and picnic benches nearby. It’s a great spot to take a break and enjoy the atmosphere.
What to try:
- Mackinac Island fudge
- Hand-dipped ice cream
- Cold drinks and light snacks
- Browse Local Shops & Artisan Boutiques
Surrey Hill also has a few small gift shops and artisan spots. These are quieter than the shops on Main Street but full of charm.
You’ll find handmade crafts, Mackinac souvenirs, and locally made goods. It’s a fantastic location to support local businesses and find something unusual.
Shopping is more fun here because of the laid-back atmosphere. No crowds, no rush—just quality items in a peaceful setting.
What you might find:
- Island-themed gifts
- Handmade jewelry and crafts
- T-shirts, postcards, and souvenirs
- Relax in the Nearby Green Spaces and Picnic Areas
Sitting idle during a trip can sometimes be the greatest part. Surrey Hill has grassy areas and shaded spots perfect for relaxing.
You can spread out a blanket or sit at a picnic table. It’s a nice place to enjoy your snack, read a book, or simply rest.
Families love this spot because kids can run around while parents relax. It’s also a good place to wait if others in your group are shopping.
Why visitors love this area:
- Peaceful and less crowded
- Family-friendly and open
- Great place to recharge mid-day
- Take in the Scenic Views from Surrey Hill
Surrey Hill sits slightly above downtown Mackinac Island. That gives it some lovely views of the surrounding trees and nearby rooftops.
Even though it’s not a large overlook, it provides a peaceful, high viewpoint. Bring your phone or camera so you may take some pictures. Morning and late afternoon light are especially nice here.
You can get off here, go around, and then get back on.
How to Get to Surrey Hill
Surrey Hill is easy to reach from almost anywhere on Mackinac Island. It sits just above downtown and is part of the Mackinac Island Carriage Tour route.
If you take the carriage tour, Surrey Hill is one of the main stops. You can hop off here, explore the area, and then hop back on later.
You can also reach Surrey Hill on foot. The ferry ports are around a 20–30 minute walk away. The walk is uphill, but it’s a scenic and peaceful path.
If you prefer biking, Surrey Hill is also bike-accessible. You can park your bike nearby and explore the attractions on foot.
Travel options to reach Surrey Hill:
- Carriage tour (recommended for the full experience)
- Walking from downtown (moderate effort)
- Biking, with bike racks nearby
In any case, the adventure is part of the fun.
Tips for Visiting Surrey Hill
Making a plan in advance can make your stay at Surrey Hill even more enjoyable. The following advice will help you get the most out of your visit:
- Go early or late in the day: Midday can get a bit busy. It’s colder and calmer in the mornings and late afternoons.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking or standing most of the time. Although most paths are paved, there may be some uneven areas.
- Bring a camera or phone: There are many great photo opportunities, especially near the horses and the butterfly house.
- Pack snacks or buy treats there: Light snacks are available at Surrey Hill shops, but you can also bring your own.
- Watch children near the horses: While friendly, horses are large animals. Keep a safe distance unless guided by staff.
- Check hours ahead: Some shops and exhibits may have seasonal hours.
Conclusion
Surrey Hill offers a peaceful and charming side of Mackinac Island. It’s full of history, nature, and quiet beauty. From horse-drawn carriage sights to butterfly gardens, there’s something for everyone.
This spot is perfect for travelers looking to slow down and explore. Surrey Hill will leave you with priceless memories, whether you’re going there for the first time or are coming again.
Don’t forget to book your stay at Inn on Mackinac — your perfect base for discovering all that the island has to offer.
Category: Mackinac Island
