Fort Mackinac can be summed up in a single word: iconic. Fort Mackinac is an authentic Revolutionary War-era fort, built by the British, and has been standing guard over Mackinac Island for nearly 240 years. The fort can be rented out for private events after it closes to the public for the evening.
Private events may be scheduled at Fort Mackinac from early May through October. Fort Mackinac is available for set-up 15 minutes after closing to the public. All reservations include a 3-hour time block with the Fort Mackinac exhibits available for viewing.
In the summer months, Fort Mackinac is available for private events 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily during the operating season. Event set-up and preparation may begin immediately following the final rifle firing. No vendor or guest will be allowed to enter before that time. Guests may begin arriving any time after 7:00 p.m. Events must be concluded by 10:00 p.m. and clean-up finished by 11:00 p.m.
In the case of inclement weather, a tent (30’ x 60’) is available for an additional fee. Rental requests and payment must be received at least 7-business days prior to the reservation date. The tent will be located near the Avenue of Flags, rear entrance outside the fort wall.
All historic buildings will be open for guests. MSHP provides two historical interpreters to present a program highlighting the fort’s history which includes firearms demonstrations.
Children’s games are available at Fort Mackinac for groups with children for an additional fee. Games are played on the parade ground before and after dinner.
A large group reservation for the Fort Mackinac Tea Room can be scheduled during regular hours of operation. This would include a reserved section of the Veranda, seating at round wrought-iron tables with umbrellas. The Grand Hotel staff will assist in the preparation by reserving tables. Do not hesitate to contact the Group Travel and Special Events coordinator for additional information.
— A Mackinac State Historic Parks representative will be available throughout the private event to answer questions about the historic site.
— Decorations must not in any way be affixed to, or otherwise endanger, museum buildings or collections. No tape and tacks of any type may be used to install decorations. Signage cannot be hung on the walls or within any windows.
— It is the responsibility of the group to designate an individual to remove any decorations or other items immediately following the reservation; otherwise, the items will be removed and discarded by Mackinac State Historic Park staff. Mackinac State Historic Parks will not take the responsibility for storage of any items before or after the scheduled date.
— Any special equipment brought onto a Mackinac State Historic Parks site must be approved prior to the day of the event. This includes lighting or amplifications systems.
— Due to Mackinac State Historic Parks’ mission of preserving the natural integrity of the state park, only acoustic music is allowed. Use of amplification and sound systems must be approved by the Group Travel and Special Events Coordinator. Volume will be monitored by the Park Manager.
— Food and beverage service inside Fort Mackinac and the Fort Mackinac Tea Room is handled by our concessionaire, Grand Hotel, 906-847-3331. Excessive alcohol consumption within MSHP buildings and grounds is strictly prohibited.
— “No Smoking” policy is enforced for all Mackinac State Historic Parks buildings and grounds.
— Electricity is available in the fort, but accessibility to the outlet is limited.
— The restrooms located inside Soldier’s Barracks will be available.
— The Avenue of Flags entrance, on the north side of the fort off Huron Road, will be your designated entrance and exit. The elevator located inside the Soldier’s Barracks will be available to guests that require wheelchair accessibility.
A non-refundable $250 deposit must be made to secure Fort Mackinac for a private event. Deposits can be made via check or credit card.
0-99 guests $1,500
100-199 guests $2,000
200-299 guests $2,500
300 or more guests $3,500
Children’s Victorian Games $175
Tent Rental $1,000
— $250 is non-refundable under any circumstances.
— Cancellations 30 days or less prior to reserved date are non-refundable.
If you wish to view Fort Mackinac, please call to schedule a visit. The fort is open to the public, and you may also view it without an appointment. Dates and times fill up fast and are reserved on a first come, first served basis.
Madisen Hansen (231) 436-4100 207 W Sinclair, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
