Mackinaw or Mackinac?

After a big power outage at Delta which caused many flight cancellations around the world, we finally made it to Pellston, the closest airport to Mackinaw. We traveled from Southern California where the traffic was intense at all hours of the day and the speed limit is never achieved due to the number of cars on the highway at anytime. Needless to say, we were looking forward to the second phase of our trip to enjoy some sightseeing of the wonders of Michigan and take advantage of the slow pace of living in the Upper Pensinsula of Michigan.

Our first stop was at Mackinaw City which is the gateway between the lower Peninsula and the upper Peninsula which is our final destination. We crossed the Mackinaw bridge which is five miles long.

                           

   

As we walked the streets of Mackinaw City, I couldn't help to wonder what was the proper spelling for the city...some signs read Mackinaw, others read Mackinac. Is this another of the wonders of Michigan? Its own residents don't know and each person has a preference. 

  

 

                         

                                 

In conclusion, Mackinaw City retains the "aw" spelling while the bridge, straits and island steadfastly cling to the "ac" spelling. No matter how it is spelled, however, it is always pronounced Mackinaw! The French Pronounced it "aw" but spelled it "ac". The British heard it pronounced "aw" so they spelled it that way. Whichever way it is spelled, it is always pronounced "aw".

                         

    

The city is surrounded by lighthouses, historical buildings, a beautiful downtown and connected to the UP by the Mackinaw bridge which is 5 miles long and considered the fifth longest suspension bridge in the world. 

                                    

  

It's the home of one of the nicest and unique Starbucks building, a three story log cabin very appropriate for the town. The second and third floor offered additional seating overlooking the bay. The seats are bar stools standing on a bike post with pedals of different heights. Sorry, I forgot to take a picture.

 

                    

                                                             

We also landed at the best restaurant in town, Darrows, where everything is homemade including the bread and it's the home of the best pies, a very Michigan tradition. 

Next, Petosky and Bay Harbor....stay tuned!