Historic Parks Ready To Open

The booming cannon, the ringing of rifle shots, and the rallying call of bugles again will be heard across Mackinac Island as Fort Mackinac opens for the season Friday, May 5.

Mackinac Island's lilac queen, Blisse Beardsley, officially opens the fort at the South Sally Port at 9 a.m. She and Phil Porter, director of Mackinac State Historic Parks, will welcome visitors, who can tour the fort and experience the new military medicine exhibit, which offers interactive displays and a special children's section.

Fort Mackinac will be open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through June 9, and longer as the summer unfolds.

Colonial Michilimackinac and Historic Mill Creek in Mackinaw City will open May 3, with hours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through June 9, and longer after that.

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse near Fort Michilimackinac will open May 15 and the Island's historic downtown buildings, Dr. Beaumont Museum, Biddle House, Blacksmith Shop, McGuipin House, and Mission Church will open June 10.

Admission to each historic site is $9.50 for adults and $6 for children ages 6 to 17 years old. A triple choice ticket also is available which offers three, one-day passes, with visitors choosing three sites to visit at a cost of $20 for adults, and children $12.50 for ages 6 to 17. A Mackinac Associates membership/ seasonal pass is available for $59 dollars and includes two adult season passes and entrance for children and grandchildren.