Guns Across the Straits

What better way to wind down your day in the Straits of Mackinac than by firing off Michilimackinac’s weapons? Imagine it – you step into Colonial Michilimackinac and, as you make your way to the palisade walls, you find that it’s emptying out and you have the place to yourself. From there, you fire all four of the black powder weapons used at Michilimackinac – the Short Land Musket, Wall Gun (a BIG musket), Coehorn Mortar, and, as the finale, the cannon. 

For $200 ($150 for Mackinac Associates (excluding Heritage Level)), you get the opportunity to learn about these four weapons and take a turn at firing each one. This experience also includes two tickets to Colonial Michilimackinac. This special experience is available for one person every day at fort closing (4:30 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. depending on season), June 1-October 3, and select dates throughout October. Call for more information.

On the shore of Lake Michigan, outside the palisade walls of Colonial Michilimackinac, with the mighty Mackinac Bridge in the distance, you can take your turn with
Guns Across the Straits!

Reservations for the 2024 season available!

Reservations can be made Monday-Friday, 8:00 – 5:00. Call 231-436-4100 to reserve your spot at least 48 hours in advance.

Must be at least 13 years of age. One experience sold per day. Any guests to watch the experience are required to have valid park admission. Blackout dates apply. Staff may substitute or eliminate weapons from the program at their discretion. A waiver must be signed prior to firing weapons. One will be provided upon arrival or can be downloaded here. Click here for additional rules on the experience. 

Watch the video below for a preview of what you’ll fire during this experience!