Fort Mackinac Sensory Considerations

A program schedule with site map is available at the admission area. Below are some things to consider during your visit:

General

Visiting Fort Mackinac is a mostly outdoor experience. The weather can change quickly in northern Michigan, ranging from hot to cold, calm to very windy, and dry to humid and rainy.
While usually not too bad, a variety of insects may be present while visiting the fort.
Snacks and drinks can be enjoyed throughout Fort Mackinac.
Some spaces, including the boardwalks around the fort, may become crowded.

Sights

Museum staff wearing military uniforms and other historical clothing are stationed throughout the site.
There are life-sized moving figures projected onto the walls in the Guardhouse, Post Hospital, and North Blockhouse.
There are realistic mannequins in the Wood Quarters and the Post Hospital.
Some exhibit spaces are purposefully kept dark. Others are brightly lit.
Cannon and rifle firing demonstrations will produce sparks and smoke.

Sounds

Museum staff will loudly announce the beginning of all programs.
Cannon and rifle demonstrations include firings of these weapons, which will be loud. Museum staff will warn visitors about the noise prior to all firings.
Drums, bugles, and other instruments may be played by museum staff during programs.
A loud siren will sound from the downtown area every day at 12:00 noon to mark the time.
The Kids’ Quarters and North Blockhouse exhibits include loud recorded sounds and music.
Loud noises from elsewhere on Mackinac Island can be heard inside the fort. These include ferry boat horns and low flying aircraft.

Smells

The fort’s buildings are original and may smell musty.
The smoke from cannon and rifle demonstrations will smell, but will dissipate quickly following firings.
Wood smoke may occasionally be produced from the Stone Quarters if the fireplaces are in use (most often on cool days).