Colonial Michilimackinac Accessibility

Sensory Considerations

• General
  • Visiting Colonial Michilimackinac 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. The Treasures from the Sand exhibit beneath the Northwest Rowhouse is air conditioned.
  • While usually not too bad, a variety of insects may be present while visiting the fort. In spring and early summer, non-biting/non-stinging flies will be found along the lakeshore in large numbers.
  • Snacks and drinks can be enjoyed throughout Colonial Michilimackinac.
  • Some spaces, including the catwalks around the fort, may become crowded.
• Sights
  • Museum staff wearing military uniforms and other historical clothing are stationed throughout the site.
  • There are realistic mannequins in the Treasures from the Sand exhibit beneath the Northwest Rowhouse, the Priest’s House, and the Barracks.
  • Some exhibit spaces are purposefully kept dark. Others are brightly lit.
  • Artillery and musket firing demonstrations will produce sparks and smoke.
• Sounds
  • Museum staff will loudly announce the beginning of all programs.
  • Artillery and musket demonstrations include firings of these weapons, which will be loud. Museum staff will warn visitors about the noise prior to all firings. The Treasures from the Sand exhibit beneath the Northwest Rowhouse is the best place to avoid the noise of firing demonstrations.
  • Traffic noises from the Mackinac Bridge can be heard throughout the site.
• Smells
• • The fort’s buildings may smell musty.
  • The smoke from artillery and musket demonstrations will smell, but will dissipate quickly following firings.
  • Fireplaces are used throughout the site, producing wood smoke. Cooking demonstrations using these fireplaces will also produce a variety of food aromas.