Michigan Governor's Summer Residence

Michigan Governor's Summer Residence is a three-story wooden house with 11 bedrooms and 9 bathrooms covering about 7,000 square feet on Mackinac Island. The building overlooks the Straits of Mackinac and was originally designed as a private family home.

The house was built in 1902 as a private mansion for a Chicago lawyer and became state property in 1944. Since then it has served as the official summer residence for Michigan governors.

This house has hosted numerous Michigan governors and their families over the decades as their official summer retreat. The rooms reflect how state leaders have used the space for both formal gatherings and private relaxation.

Guided tours are available during the summer months and show the interior of the house. Visitors should note that the island is only accessible by ferry and there are no cars on the island.

The building was constructed using wood from two different regions: Michigan white pine for the exterior walls and Georgia yellow pine for the interior. This choice of materials from distant regions shows the craftsmanship of the early 1900s.

Location: Mackinac Island

Inception: 1901

Architectural style: Arts and Crafts movement

GPS coordinates: 45.85167,-84.62028

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:53