MACKINAC ISLAND — Mackinac Island has been named the “Best Place to Visit for Fall” in a USA TODAY 10Best Reader’s Choice poll, coinciding with the launch of its first Fall Fudge Festival Oct. 2-4.
According to a Sept. 17 news release, known as the “Fudge Capital of the World,” the island shifted its popular festival from August to October to pair its world-famous confection with peak autumn colors and crisp lake breezes.
“Fall on Mackinac Island is a remarkable experience from the tranquil atmosphere to the brilliant fall colors and we are incredibly honored to receive this recognition from the USA TODAY 10Best readers,” said Tim Hygh, executive director of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau. “By shifting the festival to October, we’re inviting visitors to come experience fudge-making during one of the most beautiful times of year.”
The festival will feature daily fudge demonstrations at Joann’s Fudge, Kilwins, May’s Candy Shop and Original Murdick’s Fudge, a Fudge Quest scavenger hunt, and tours that include cider and donuts or guided walks with Chad’s Wonderful Walking Tours.
Visitors can sign up to fire the cannon at Fort Mackinac, become an honorary fudge maker, test their knowledge at Fudge-tastic Trivia or join a “Sweet Mystery Challenge” at the Murray Hotel for a chance to win a fudge coupon.
Fudge-inspired treats will be offered across the island, including the Fudge Shop Latte at Watercolor Cafe and the Mackinac Island Fudge Hummer at Bistro on the Greens at Mission Point. Ryba’s Fudge is partnering with Pure Michigan to feature a seasonal flavor, Pumpkin Spice Delight, in stores and online.
The 2025 Fudge Naming Contest winner, “Mackinac Magic,” will be available in select shops for a limited time during the festival.
Mackinac Island has consistently ranked highly in USA TODAY’s reader-driven awards, earning the No. 1 spot for “Best Summer Travel Destination” for the past three years.