Discover the story behind one of the most iconic hotels in the country.
If you’re curious about who owns the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’ll explore the history of the Grand Hotel and reveal who the current owners are.
A Brief History of the Grand Hotel
The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan, is a landmark destination that has been welcoming guests since 1887. It is a testament to the island’s Victorian heritage and the opulence of the Gilded Age. The hotel’s history is rich and colorful, and it is worth mentioning that it is one of the largest summer resort hotels in the world.
The Grand Hotel began as a modest summer retreat called the “Strait’s House” in 1867. The hotel’s founder, John Jacob Astor IV, purchased the property in 1887 and transformed it into the grand structure that it is today. Astor spared no expense in the hotel’s construction, importing materials from Europe and hiring the best architects and designers of the day.
Over the years, the Grand Hotel has undergone several expansions and renovations, but its original charm and elegance have been preserved. Today, the hotel boasts 397 guest rooms, each uniquely decorated with period furnishings and antiques. The hotel’s amenities include a 220-foot-long swimming pool, an 18-hole golf course, a full-service spa, and several dining options.
Notable Guests and Events at the Grand Hotel
Over the years, the Grand Hotel has welcomed many notable guests, including several U.S. presidents, celebrities, and dignitaries. Some of the hotel’s most famous guests include Mark Twain, Thomas Edison, and five sitting U.S. presidents.
The Grand Hotel has also been the site of several significant events, including the 1979 G7 Summit, where President Jimmy Carter and the leaders of six other countries met to discuss economic issues. The hotel has also been the backdrop for several films, including “Somewhere in Time” starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour.
Keep in mind that the Grand Hotel is only open from May to October each year, and the hotel’s dress code is strictly enforced. Men are required to wear jackets and ties in the hotel’s public areas after 6 p.m., and women are asked to dress in “appropriate attire.”
Unfortunately, the ownership of the Grand Hotel has been a topic of controversy in recent years. The Musser family has owned and operated the hotel since 1933, but in 2019, the family announced that they were considering selling the property. The future of the Grand Hotel is uncertain, but many hope that the new owners will preserve the hotel’s rich history and continue to make it a national treasure.
The Origins of the Grand Hotel
One of the most iconic landmarks of Mackinac Island is the Grand Hotel, a sprawling Victorian-style hotel that has been a popular tourist destination since it opened its doors in 1887. The origins of the Grand Hotel date back to the late 19th century when a group of investors came up with the idea to build a luxurious hotel on Mackinac Island.
It is worth mentioning that at the time, Mackinac Island was already a popular summer resort destination for wealthy families from the Midwest and the East Coast. However, there was no hotel on the island that could rival the grandeur and luxury of the European hotels that were frequented by the American elite.
The idea for the Grand Hotel was born out of this need for a world-class hotel on the island. The investors, who were led by a wealthy businessman named W. Stewart Woodfill, envisioned a hotel that would be the epitome of luxury and elegance, with top-notch amenities and services that would attract the wealthiest and most discerning guests.
Construction of the Grand Hotel began in 1886, and it took just over a year to complete. According to grandhotel.com, the construction of the hotel was a massive undertaking that involved hundreds of workers and craftsmen. The hotel was built using locally sourced materials, including limestone, hardwood, and brick, and the interior was decorated with exquisite furnishings, art, and antiques.
The Grand Hotel officially opened its doors on July 10, 1887, and it quickly became the talk of the town. The hotel’s grandeur and opulence were unmatched, and guests were treated to a level of luxury that they had never experienced before.
Today, the Grand Hotel remains one of the most popular tourist attractions on Mackinac Island, and it continues to attract guests from all over the world who come to experience its timeless elegance and charm.
The Grand Hotel Today
The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is known for its luxurious accommodations and stunning views of Lake Huron. It is worth mentioning that the hotel has been welcoming guests since 1887 and has maintained its charm and elegance throughout the years. The hotel has 397 uniquely decorated rooms, including 86 suites, each with its own character and style.
- Some of the amenities offered by the Grand Hotel include:
- – Full-service spa
- – Outdoor swimming pool
- – Tennis courts
- – Golf course
- – Carriage tours
- – Afternoon tea and evening cocktails
The hotel has undergone several renovations and updates to keep up with the changing times and to provide guests with modern amenities. For instance, in 2018, the hotel completed a $10 million renovation project, which included updating the guest rooms and suites, adding a new bar, and renovating the pool area. The Grand Hotel is committed to providing its guests with the best possible experience while maintaining its historic charm.
| Features | Updates |
|---|---|
| 397 uniquely decorated rooms | $10 million renovation in 2018 |
| Full-service spa | Updated guest rooms and suites |
| Outdoor swimming pool | New bar added |
| Tennis courts | Renovated pool area |
| Golf course | |
| Carriage tours | |
| Afternoon tea and evening cocktails |
For more information on the Grand Hotel, visit their official website at www.grandhotel.com.
Who Owns the Grand Hotel?
The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is a well-known and iconic hotel located in Michigan. It has been a popular destination for tourists since it first opened its doors in 1887. Over the years, the hotel has changed hands several times, and its ownership history is quite fascinating.
Original Owners of the Grand Hotel
The Grand Hotel was built by two men, W. Stewart Woodfill and John Oliver Plankinton. Woodfill was a successful businessman and investor, while Plankinton was a wealthy meatpacking magnate. The two men envisioned a luxurious hotel on Mackinac Island that would rival the top hotels in Europe. They spared no expense in building the hotel, using the finest materials and hiring the best architects and craftsmen.
Changes in Ownership Over the Years
After Woodfill and Plankinton passed away, the hotel changed hands several times. It was owned by a number of different individuals and companies, including the Detroit and Cleveland Navigation Company, the Michigan Central Railroad, and the Mackinac Island Hotel Company.
One of the most notable owners of the hotel was R.D. Musser Sr., who purchased the property in 1979. Musser was a successful businessman and entrepreneur who made his fortune in the hospitality industry. He saw the potential of the Grand Hotel and invested heavily in its restoration and expansion. Under his ownership, the hotel became one of the most popular and luxurious resorts in the country.
The Current Owners of the Grand Hotel
Today, the Grand Hotel is owned by the Musser family. R.D. Musser Jr. and his sister Mimi Cunningham are the current co-owners of the hotel. They have continued the family tradition of investing in the hotel and ensuring that it remains one of the top destinations for travelers.
It is worth mentioning that the Grand Hotel has been featured in many movies and TV shows over the years, including the classic film “Somewhere in Time” starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour. The hotel’s rich history and luxurious amenities continue to attract visitors from all over the world.
The Legacy of the Grand Hotel
The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is an iconic landmark that has been captivating visitors for over a century. Originally built in 1887, the hotel has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years, but it has managed to maintain its historic charm and elegance. The hotel’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the history of Mackinac Island, and it continues to be a beloved destination for travelers from all over the world.
The Grand Hotel has played a significant role in the development of Mackinac Island’s tourism industry. Its opening in 1887 marked the beginning of a new era for the island, as it became a popular destination for wealthy vacationers from across the country. The hotel was designed to be a luxurious retreat, offering guests a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It quickly became a hotspot for socialites, politicians, and other high-profile figures.
Over the years, the Grand Hotel has hosted countless events and activities, ranging from horse races and golf tournaments to musical performances and political gatherings. Its iconic front porch, which spans 660 feet, has become a symbol of the hotel’s grandeur and elegance. Today, the hotel continues to attract visitors who are drawn to its rich history and timeless beauty.
Why the Grand Hotel remains a beloved destination
Despite the many changes that have taken place on Mackinac Island over the years, the Grand Hotel remains a cherished landmark that is deeply rooted in the island’s culture and history. There are several reasons why the hotel continues to be a beloved destination for travelers:
- The hotel’s picturesque location: The Grand Hotel is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Straits of Mackinac, offering stunning views of Lake Huron and the surrounding landscape.
- The hotel’s luxurious amenities: The Grand Hotel offers a wide range of amenities, including a full-service spa, multiple restaurants and bars, and a variety of recreational activities.
- The hotel’s historic charm: Despite the many modern updates and amenities, the Grand Hotel has managed to maintain its historic charm and elegance. From the ornate chandeliers to the antique furnishings, the hotel exudes a sense of timeless beauty.
Conclusion
Now you know the fascinating history of the Grand Hotel and who currently owns this iconic property.
Whether you’re planning a visit or simply curious about this historic hotel, we hope you’ve enjoyed learning more about the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island.
