SHOPPING ON MACKINAC
Mackinac has been a hub of business , commerce and trade for centuries . After the War of 1812 , fur trappers typically traveled by canoe to the Island to trade their animal pelts for money , food and provisions .
The State Park museums illustrate the importance of this early industry and its influence on the historic growth of America during this time . But as the fur trading business faded in the 1870s , tourism related revenue grew to become Mackinac ’ s primary industry . Island residents who were used to the fur business adapted to the changing environment switching from furs to tourism . Native Americans and Island entrepreneurs began selling handmade souvenirs to this new type of Island visitor . Woven sweet grass baskets , carved trinkets , pottery and birch bark novelties were typical items sold to Island travelers to remember their visit to the Island . These were the first souvenirs sold on Mackinac .
SHOPPING
Ever since , visitors to the Island have wanted souvenirs of their own to take home . Buying a keepsake item , a memento or reminder of Mackinac is a wonderful idea , but the merchandise has changed quite a bit since those early years . Mackinac ’ s shops offer high-quality clothing , gifts , games , jewelry , sunglasses , soaps , knives , hats , wine , books , artwork , shoes , custom embroidered shirts , sweats and jackets emblazoned with Mackinac Island logos on them .
Because there are no chain stores , shopping malls or formula retail on the Island , shopping here means you ’ ll find small town charm filled with unique family-owned and operated shops and boutiques offering distinct , memorable one-of-a-kind treasures .
Mackinac Shopping - Little Luxuries
Nephew ’ s of Mackinac
Quality Clothing , Accessories and Shoes for Women and Men
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Most of the retailers are in close proximity so you can visit a wide variety of galleries , stores and boutiques in a short period of time . Main Street and Market Street are located downtown within easy walking distance from all hotels and boat docks . You ’ ll find unique clothing stores , toy stores , jewelry shops , fine home gifts , goods for yard and breezes , souvenir shops and art galleries filled with beautiful works from local artists and artisans .
Mackinac Island is full of wonderful shops and charming boutiques . Whether it ’ s something you need , something you want , or a gift from Mackinac to bring home to someone you love , you ’ ll find it at one of the many retail merchants on Mackinac Island .
( 906 ) 847-3462 7408 Main Street , Mackinac Island
Inside Mackinac 49