Mackinac Island's Prestigious Grand Hotel Tangled in a Romantic Tale
The Grand Hotel, nestled on the picturesque Mackinac Island in Michigan, is set to host its annual "Somewhere in Time" weekend this October. This event, centred around the 1980 film "Somewhere in Time," offers a unique blend of nostalgia, romance, and history.
The Grand Hotel, a Victorian hotel built in 1887, played a significant role in the movie, which features the hotel as its backdrop. The film, released in 1980, tells a poignant tale of love transcending death, a theme that resonates with the hotel's historic atmosphere.
During the "Somewhere in Time" weekend, guests are invited to step back in time, dressing up in turn-of-the-century clothing to immerse themselves in the movie's romantic ambiance. The event typically includes screenings, themed tours, meet-and-greets, and special gala events for fans and guests.
R.D. Musser, the owner of the Grand Hotel, graciously allowed the facility to be used by Universal Studios for free to film the movie. As a testament to the film's enduring appeal, the hotel now boasts a "Somewhere in Time" suite, decorated in 1912 style and filled with movie memorabilia.
The event is not just a celebration of the film, but also a tribute to its stars. Jane Seymour, who played Elise McKenna, has been part of past events related to the movie.
Mackinac Island, known for its car-free environment, except for a few emergency vehicles, provides the perfect setting for this nostalgic weekend. All filming for "Somewhere in Time" took place on the island, except for a few brief scenes shot in Chicago.
Visitors can explore the Grand Hotel's iconic features seen in the movie, including the large porch, classic rooms, and horse-drawn carriage rides. The weekend also offers vintage-style entertainment, aligning with the hotel's historic Victorian setting.
For those interested in attending, it's recommended to check the Grand Hotel’s official website or social media closer to the event for specifics on dates, ticketing, and activities. The annual "Somewhere in Time" weekend is scheduled for Oct. 27-29, 2023.
Despite the island's historic charm, it's not immune to modern-day controversies. In 2019, Vice President Mike Pence was met with boos from locals when he brought a motorcade to Mackinac Island.
Despite this, the "Somewhere in Time" weekend remains a popular and recurring celebration on the island, adding another layer to the island's rich history and enduring appeal.
The Grand Hotel's upcoming "Somewhere in Time" weekend not only offers a chance to immerse oneself in the romantic ambiance of the 1980 film, but also provides an opportunity for guests to experience the home-and-garden lifestyle of the early 20th century, as they are encouraged to dress in turn-of-the-century clothing. Additionally, travelers who are fans of the film can also explore different travel destinations, as Mackinac Island, where the event is held, is known for its picturesque setting and car-free environment, making it an ideal location for this unique lifestyle experience.
