Mackinaw City
LeeAnn peruses the firewood selection at Cecil Bay Trading Post just outside of Wilderness State Park.
We went to Mackinaw City today to have breakfast, check out the town, and get a few groceries. The town is about 20 minutes away. On the way, we stopped at Cecil Bay Trading Post, a store just outside the park that sells just about everything one might need while camping. They rent bikes, sell firewood, some grocery items, ice cream, camping supplies, and beer, wine, and liquor. Its really a one-stop shop.
Darrow's Family Restaurant
Once in town, we had breakfast at Darrow’s Family Restaurant, which has been there in operation since the 1950’s. It’s an indoor, sit-down restaurant now, but it began as a drive in, and they still have their menu board up from that time. LeeAnn had the French toast; I had corned beef hash. They were both excellent. We figured it would be good when we were walking to the door, and a woman in a group said with glee Darrow’s was out of breakfast because they ate it all. With the portions we were served, it may have seemed that way. I highly recommend eating there if you’re in the area.
Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse with the Mackinac Bridge in the background
After breakfast we visited the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse and saw the Mackinac Bridge. There’s a nice park and a beach area around the lighthouse. I don’t know if people visit the area for its beach. It’s a little tough for me to imagine, but it might me nice on a summer day.
Small waves ripple on the shore of Lake Huron as vehicles cross the Mackinac Bridge
Next, we took a stroll in the downtown/ tourist area. It was a nice walk. Some of the shops and restaurants were closed for the season. We did our typical pattern of LeeAnn going in shops while Barnie and I wait outside on the park benches. It’s a nice division of labor.
East Central Ave. in Mackinaw City
Barnie patiently waits with me outside a shop on East Central Ave.
Before heading back, we went to the small grocery store, Family Market, to pick up a few items. It’s a serviceable grocery store for a small town. On our way back, we stopped back at Cecil Bay Trading Post for some ice cream. It was a fun day.
Barnie waits with me outside the walkway to Skalawags Whitefish & Chips