Mighty Mac is a tourist attraction all its own, contributing $193M to Michigan’s economy

MACKINAC ISLAND, MI –Whether it’s by car, kayak, ferry or snowmobile, the Mighty Mac is a spectacle. Its towering presence is postcard worthy in all four seasons.

A new study found the Mackinac Bridge is more than its good looks, it’s an economic engine for the Great Lakes State.

The bridge’s operation, tourism and events contributed $193 million annually to the state’s economy in direct, indirect and induced spending, supporting 1,449 jobs, according to the economic outlook performed under a contract with Public Sector Consultants.

The bridge’s Instagram appeal doesn’t hurt either. Nearly half of the 15,000 people surveyed for the study said enjoying views of the bridge was one of the main purposes for crossing.

Crossing the bridge is a rite of passage for Michiganders and visitors alike. The economic study found that for every $1 in tolls paid at the bridge, $7.27 was generated in spending in Michigan.

The ripple effects of those dollars was most concentrated in the Upper Peninsula.

The Straits area counties of Mackinac, Emmet and Cheboygan were bolstered by $161.6 million of economic impact from the bridge, according to the study.

The bridge has become a welcoming committee of sorts, too.

One-third of the roughly two million non-local visitors to the bridge came from outside of Michigan, according to the study.

More than 30,000 people took part in the 66th annual Labor Day walk across the Mackinac Bridge, the Mackinac Bridge Authority estimated on Sept. 2, 2024. Except for 2020 when it was canceled during the pandemic, the bridge walk has taken place every year since 1958. (Garret Ellison | MLive)Garret Ellison

The study also examined the economic impact of the Annual Bridge Walk held every Labor Day.

In 2024 nearly 33,000 participants walked the five miles over where Lake Michigan and Lake Huron connect.

The event stimulated $3 million in spending statewide, with $2.4 million spent in those neighboring counties, according to the economic study.

The event also generated $250,000 in state and local taxes used to support public safety, local infrastructure, schools, and other public services.

“We’ve always known that the operation of the Mackinac Bridge, as well as special events including the Annual Bridge Walk, have had a significant impact on the local communities and beyond,” said William Milliken, Mackinac Bridge Authority Vice Chairman. “We’re so pleased to see this study confirms and validates the positive impact it has for businesses and local governments.”