It's almost summer! And luckily, here in Michigan, we don't have to travel far to get to some incredible vacation spots.

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Once again, a Michigan destination is in the national spotlight. This charming, historic spot has been crowned the No. 1 summer destination in America—for the fourth year in a row!

👇BELOW: MORE OF MICHIGAN'S TOP VACATION DESTINATIONS👇

USA Today and 10Best’s travel editors teamed up with a panel of experts to nominate 20 must-see places for a summer vacation, including everything “from picturesque national parks to sleepy mountain towns to breathtakingly beautiful beaches.” Readers then voted to determine the final rankings.

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Mackinac Island Voted No. 1 Summer Destination in America

And we did it again!

Mackinac Island has once again been voted the best summer destination in the U.S. 

Known for its fudge and horse-drawn carriages, Mackinac Island on the shores of Lake Huron remains one of Michigan's most iconic summer destinations.

READ MORE: Michigan’s Most Famous Waterfall Is Now Revealing Never-Before-Seen Views From A New Accessible Boardwalk

Tim Hygh, Executive Director of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau says,

"There is no place like Mackinac Island in the summertime. To have Mackinac Island named USA TODAY 10Best's No. 1 Summer Travel Destination for the fourth consecutive year is an incredible honor. It’s a testament to the hardworking community we have on the island and the workers who pour their hearts into welcoming visitors each season."

Hygh added that the recognition reinforces “the timeless magic of Mackinac Island” and said the island is looking forward to “another spectacular summer season.”

Aubrey Antles via Unsplash
Aubrey Antles via Unsplash
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The announcement was also officially recognized during a ceremony at the Michigan Capitol in Lansing on Wednesday. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer praised the island, saying,

"Mackinac Island is the epitome of Pure Michigan...Whether it’s eating fudge, riding bikes, or checking out famous landmarks like Arch Rock, I encourage everyone to visit Mackinac Island this summer and enjoy everything the island has to offer. As we begin a Pure Michigan summer, let’s keep working together to grow Michigan’s economy and support tourism in our state."

In addition to the stunning limestone Arch Rock, guests can enjoy Mackinac Island State Park, where you can hike, bike, kayak, and take in more of the island's natural beauty. Plus, there are plenty of historic attractions like Fort Mackinac and legendary stays including the Grand Hotel.

UP NEXT: Michigan Glamping Resort Voted No. 3 in U.S. 

Beyond the scenic views, Mackinac Island offers charming shops, waterfront dining, golf, and bars, and plenty of opportunities to slow down and enjoy a Pure Michigan summer.

Top 10 Summer Destinations 2026

Here's the rest of the ten best summer destinations in the nation, according to the recent poll:

  1. Mackinac Island, Michigan
  2. Ocean City, Maryland
  3. Cape May, New Jersey
  4. Bar Harbor, Maine
  5. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
  6. Destin, Florida
  7. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
  8. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
  9. Traverse City, Michigan
  10. Virginia Beach, Virginia

Where to Vacation in Michigan: Top-Ranked Hotels & Hotspots

Discover Michigan's travel hotspots and top hotels according to national publications like USA Today and Travel + Leisure.

Gallery Credit: Janna

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