Mackinac Island named No. 1 Best Summer Travel Destination for 4th straight year

What’s happening: Mackinac Island has once again been voted the No. 1 Best Summer Travel Destination in the 2026 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards—marking its fourth consecutive year at the top of the list. The island beat out stiff competition from destinations like Chicago, Madison, Wisconsin, Anchorage, New York City, and Catalina Island, California. It also secured a top-five finish in the Best Flower Festival category this year.

What they’re saying: “This incredible honor is a testament to the hardworking community and workers who pour their hearts into welcoming visitors each season,” said Tim Hygh, executive director of the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau. “This win reinforces that the timeless magic of Mackinac Island keeps delivering unforgettable memories.”

Other accolades: The accolade is just the latest milestone for the island, which was also named the No. 1 Best Fall Travel Destination in 2025 and the No. 2 in 2024. Mackinac Island was also named No. 3 in the 2025 Best Flower Festival in the US.

About the awards: The USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards are digital travel awards that provide readers with trusted recommendations for attractions, things to do, and top destinations from the public’s perspective. Nominees are initially selected by an editorial panel composed of contributors and editors from USA TODAY and 10Best. From there, the public is invited to vote online daily for their favorite nominee over a four-week period to determine the final rankings.