First Cannon Boom at Fort Mackinac Will Be May 7

The first rife firing at Fort Mackinac will be Monday, May 7, at 10 a.m., and the first cannon will be heard by 10:30 a.m. as Mackinac State Historic Parks officially opens for the season.

Visitors can tour the Fort and see the William Whistler portrait which was acquired last year and was restored over the winter. Mr. Whistler served as an Army officer at Fort Mackinac in 1923 and returned as commandant in 1833. He retired as a colonel in 1861, after 60 years of service.

Fort Mackinac will be open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through June 8, and longer as the season unfolds.

Colonial Michilimackinac and Historic Mill Creek in Mackinaw City will open May 7 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through June 8, and longer after that. Colonial Michilimackinac will open with a cannon salute.

Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse near Fort Michilimackinac will open May 14 and the park's historic downtown buildings, Dr. Beaumont Museum, Biddle House, Blacksmith Shop, McGuipin House, and Mission Church will open June 9. The Indian Dormitory will remain closed this season.

Admission to each historic site is $10 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 $22 for adults, and children $13.25 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.