Question for DVCers Who've Stayed at the Grand Hotel (MI) on Points

[DiznEeyore]

We have a trip planned for this upcoming May to WDW, but have been tossing around the idea of skipping it (gasp!) and doing a long weekend on Mackinac Island instead. We'd stay at the Grand Hotel on points, but we have a couple questions that we're hoping someone here can answer.

I understand that breakfast and dinner are included for the first two room occupants. Ds will be the 3rd, and since he turns 12 in January, he won't qualify for the "kids eat free" deal. Does anyone know how much meals might be for him?

Also, regarding meals, we do not enjoy super-fancy foods (esp. dh and ds). Obviously, a five-course dinner isn't something we do regularly, and the sample menus on the Grand's site aren't exactly our cup of tea. Will they make something to order, or are we out of luck?

I appreciate any help -- I can't believe ds is actually willing to skip WDW! I think I'm the only one who's not sure she can do it, LOL!

 

[Cruelladeville]

Oh, My God, you will love the Grand Hotel! It's still a bit chilly in May, especially up there, but it will be so quiet you will really relax. The buffets are just huge, and very fancy. I just loved it! There are tons of places on the island that serve food, but it's pricey, equal to or higher than at Disney. You will also need to pay for the ferry ride over. There are no phones or Tv's in the room, at least there weren't five years ago, but the facilities and grounds are extensive, and the island has tons of things to see and do. don't forget to visit Fort Michilimackinac and the American Fur Company. It's where John Jacob Astor set up shop, and after 20 years he was a millionaire. The Fort was set up there to watch for attack boats coming up Lake Huron, and because the island has lots of limestone (Can you tell that I teach this stuff?)

 

[caverill]

We stayed at the Grand Hotel on points in 2001. It was a wonderful experience and I am sure we will do it again since we only live 6 hours away.

Don't be concerned about the food. Although it is a 5 course meal, I would not consider the food "fancy". It is very, very good standard fare.

You have a choice for each course which would include salad, soup, main item, and dessert. If I remember correctly, the second night we were there I had steak and lobster. I also remember prime rib being one of the choices.

The Grand Hotel dining room seats 600 at one time (if I remember correctly), so it isn't like dining at V&A.

The breakfast is included and you select items from a menu. I believe it include pancakes, waffles, etc. Again, pretty standard fare.

Not sure about how they will price the meal for your son. You might be able to call the Grand Hotel. Although they are closed for the season, I think they still have people there.

Mackinac Island is a nice place for a vacation. Highly recommended!

 

[GoofyDisney]

This is a beautiful place to stay and it will most likely be the trip of a lifetime. No cars on the island. There are tvs in the rooms now, though they only get one or two channels. Lots of history and romance. You are treated like royalty at the hotel.

I am not sure about the pricing for kids meals, but the kids will have the option of what in truth are Stouffers meals...all they had last time we were there was Mac N' cheese. It was the good Stouffers kind though..not Kraft. There is a kid's play room and they offer daily activities. A small arcade. It is a fun place for the kids.

MAKE SURE if you go in May that the hotel's summer program is in full swing. For most of May, the regular activities are not available. I would call and ask. They may be closed now...I don't remmember. Avoid the second week. M-T-W-T-and Friday morning of I believe it is the second week of May is dedicated to the Winsome Women's Conference. Make sure you check these things out! They will still let you pay to stay there that week, but you may not want to stay there that week.

One thing, which I always warn everyone about. And the topic is a little sensitive. But it is a part of the hotel atmosphere that I do not enjoy. The staff is wonderful!!! You are not allowed to tip. They are available for your every whim. Yet, it seems a little ante-bellum to me, if you get my drift. It is no big thing, but I feel it every time we are there, and our family goes above and beyond to talk to the staff and treat them with friendliness and respect. Not that other guests don't, but that you would probably be allowed not to treat them that way if you wanted to. Make any sense? It is just one part of the hotel that I don't llike. The class system seems to always be in strong effect, and I find it distasteful. Just my opinion. No flames please.