When it comes to Mackinac Island, there's a lot to love: fudge that'll blow any diet, horses that immerse you in a different era, Somewhere in Time fans storming the hotel, and bicycles galore. Automobiles have been banned on the island since 1901 to preserve the Victorian setting. But did you know that cars aren't the only thing you can't bring to one of Michigan's premiere destinations?

RELATED: Michigan's 'Mackinac': WHY It's 'Naw' And NEVER 'Nac'

The car ban was initially implemented after early automobiles freaked out the horses. Although cars haven't been allowed on Mackinac Island since 1901, Michigan did not pass the policy into law until 1960. But that doesn't mean cars haven't been on the island. Former Vice President Mike Pence famously took an eight-car motorcade onto the jewel of Michigan in 2023. What else can't you bring to Mackinac Island?

E-Bikes? Nope, Nice Try

A white graphic painted onto asphalt shows a bike with a plug coming out of it to note E-bike charging. E-bikes aren't allowed on Michigan's Mackinac Island
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If you think you'll quietly zip around Mackinac Island on your fancy electric bike, think again. E-bikes are banned for the same reason cars are—to preserve the destination's historic charm—think Victorian houses, not fancy tech.

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Mackinac Parks claims some special exceptions exist for Class 1 e-bikes, but I wouldn't bank on them. Stick to a pedal bike or prepare to hike.

Drones? Not Over Michigan's Historic Landmark

The green shores of Michigan's Mackinac Island with a graphic of a drone with a circle and a line through it.
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While I have zero doubts that aerial pictures of Mackinac Island would be Instagram gold, drones are off-limits. Only professional, licensed drone operators with airtight requests, submitted well in advance, squeak by, but I wouldn't hold my breath.

Camping? Only on the Mainland

A graphic of an E-bike is seen with a circle and a line through it on top of an image of Michigan's Mackinac Island.
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Dreaming of a Mackinac Island campfire under the stars? Keep dreaming. Camping and campfires are banned for safety and to protect the park's balance between natural and developed spaces. Plenty of camping spots are available on the mainland, though—so pack your marshmallows and head back across the water.

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So, when planning your trip to Michigan's Mackinac Island, remember That cars, drones, e-bikes, and camping are not Allowed.

Governor's Residence, Mackinac Island

Connecting the State: Making the Mackinac Bridge

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

Mackinac Island's Ski Resort, 1971-1973

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