7 Best Island Vacations in the Midwest

Lynn Celek

June 2, 2025

When you think of an island vacation, you probably picture palm trees and piña coladas. But the Midwest has its own version of island life. It involves freshwater lakes, nature hikes, sandy beaches, and charm.

This guide highlights seven of the best island getaways in the Midwest. Ranging from party-friendly spots to rugged national parks, there's something here for every kind of traveler.

Mackinac Island

1. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Why go:
No cars. Just bikes, horses, and old-world charm. This is Michigan’s most iconic island destination.

Vibe:
A Victorian-era postcard come to life, with horse hooves clopping down the main street and fudge shops on every corner.

Highlights:

Rent a bike and ride the 8.2-mile loop around the entire island.
Take a horse-drawn carriage tour and learn about the island's history.
Visit Fort Mackinac, a military outpost from the Revolutionary War era.
Try the famous Mackinac Island fudge.
Stay at the historic Grand Hotel.
Hike to Arch Rock, a limestone arch rising more than 140 feet above Lake Huron.
Explore the 70+ miles of trails.
Check out Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau to plan your trip.

2. Kelleys Island, Ohio

Why go:
A relaxed spot on Lake Erie that’s perfect for biking, hiking, and soaking up the lake air.

Vibe:
Easygoing and unpretentious. You’ll be on island time the moment you arrive.

Highlights:

Visit Glacial Grooves—literal grooves in the earth created by slow moving glaciers. They're 400 feet long, 35 feet wide, and up to 15 feet deep!
Rent a golf cart or bike to explore the island's loop. (You can also bring your car onto the island.)
Spend a quiet afternoon at the beach at Kelleys Island State Park.
Sip wine at one or all three of the wineries on Kelleys Island.
Take the Kelleys Island Ferry from Marblehead—a scenic ride all on its own.
Check out the Kelleys Island Chamber of Commerce to plan your trip.

3. South Bass Island (Put-in-Bay), Ohio

Why go:
Looking for nightlife, boating, and live music on an island? This is your spot.

Vibe:
Midwest Key West. It can get rowdy in the summer, but there’s also plenty for families and history buffs.

Highlights:

Climb to the top of Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial for panoramic views.
Sip wine at Heineman Winery and Put-in-Bay Winery.
Explore the world’s largest geode at Crystal Cave (located at Heineman Winery).
Party at The Round House Bar, an iconic tavern established in 1873. They offer live music and outdoor seating.
Visit Perry's Cave Family Fun Center for mini golf, gemstone mining, and cave tours.
Hop on the Jet Express or Miller Ferry for quick rides from the mainland.
* Taxis are available on the island.
For more attractions and trip planning, check here.

4. Madeline Island (Apostle Islands), Wisconsin

Why go:
A nature-lover’s dream, especially if you’re into kayaking, hiking, or stargazing.

Vibe:
Rugged, peaceful, and perfect for outdoor adventure.

Highlights:

Kayak through the famous sea caves (guided tours available).
Visit Big Bay State Park: hike the 2.5-mile loop, see sandstone bluffs and caves, or relax along the 1.5 mile-long sand beach.
Tour the Madeline Island Museum for Ojibwe and fur trading history.
Paddle, hike, or take a boat cruise around the more remote islands.
* You'll want to bring your car or a bike onto the island; there is no public transportation. (Or rent a bike or moped in downtown La Pointe.)
To learn more about the island, check out the Madeline Island Chamber of Commerce website.

5. Washington Island, Wisconsin

Why go:
A quiet escape with unique geology, lavender fields, and a touch of Scandinavian history.

Vibe:
Slow, artsy, and very Door County.

Highlights:

Take the ferry across Death’s Door (don’t worry, it’s scenic, not scary).
Lounge at Schoolhouse Beach, where smooth limestone rocks replace sand.
Visit Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm for peak bloom in July.
See the Stavkirke, a replica of a medieval Norwegian church.
Explore trails and lakes in the wooded interior of the island.
* You can bring your own car or rent a bike, UTV, or moped on the island. The Cherry Train gives a guided tour around the island.
Check out the Destination Door County website to plan your trip.

6. Beaver Island, Michigan

Why go:
The largest island in Lake Michigan, full of quirky history and natural beauty. It's know as America's Emerald Isle because of its lush green landscapes and Irish immigrants. It's also one of the more affordable vacation spots.

Vibe:
Off-the-beaten-path and small-town friendliness.

Highlights:

Learn about the island’s unusual past, including its one-time ruler who declared himself King.
Bike or hike miles of uncrowded forest trails.
Explore beaches, lighthouses, and inland lakes.
Visit the Beaver Island Historical Society Museum.
Star gaze at one of the best dark sky locations in the United States.
Arrive by ferry or plane. Car rentals available on the island.
Learn everything you need to know about a trip to Beaver Island here.

7. Isle Royale, Michigan

Why go:
A true wilderness experience in Lake Superior, far from crowds and cell towers.

Vibe:
Remote and rugged. The island is almost entirely national park land.

Highlights:

Backpack the Greenstone Ridge Trail across the spine of the island.
Camp at sites only accessible by hiking or paddling.
Spot moose and maybe a wolf (there are only around 30 wolves).
Fish, paddle, and unplug completely.
Book early—visitor permits and ferry spots fill fast during peak season.
* No cars are allowed on the island. Bicycles are not permitted on any trails or in campgrounds. You can access the island by ferry or seaplane and travel by foot or canoe/kayak on the island.
Check out the National Park Service website to learn more about visiting Isle Royale.

Map marking all 7 island locations around the Midwest.

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