When you hear the words “Mackinac Island,” it’s very likely the next word you think of is “fudge.”
One stroll down Main Street, and you’re sure to smell the confectionary-filled breeze and see the streets filled with kids and adults alike glued to window fronts watching the traditional techniques used to give Mackinac Island fudge its signature flavor.
More than 10,000 pounds of fudge is handcrafted on the Mackinac Island daily during peak tourism season, earning this little island the title of the Fudge Capital of the World.
Want to know more about Mackinac Island? Check out our guides for how to get here, where to stay and what to eat, where to rent bikes (no cars allowed!) and historic attractions you must visit.
Why is Mackinac Island famous for its fudge?
The fudge fad first started in the 1880s when Rom Murdick opened the first real candy store on the island. In addition to candy, the store sold fudge and also gave a behind-the-scenes look to how the candy and fudge were made. Visitors loved it!
According to the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, Murdick was the first person to make fudge on marble slabs, which gives it the unique flavor Mackinac Island Fudge is known for today.
Over time, fudge and fudge making became a tasty attraction on the island, with it all going back to the technique used by Murdick to achieve the signature local flavor.
A fudge for every taste, and some to take home, too
Now, Mackinac Island has 13 fudge shops sprinkled throughout the island and even hosts the annual Mackinac Island Fudge Festival in August. In addition to the traditional flavors we all know and love, the kids will also love picking out fun flavors like s’mores, birthday cake and apple pie.
While many of these locations now offer online ordering (and even shipping for those who want to enjoy Mackinac Island in the comfort of home), many of the fudge shops on the island are set up so visitors can watch the fudge-making process. This is an essential part of what makes Mackinac Island Fudge not only something you can eat but an experience to enjoy.
Kids especially love to watch the thick liquid poured onto slabs of marble and worked until it looks like the fudgy bricks that everyone loves to eat. These are Mackinac Island memories in the making for families.
Where to find Mackinac Island Fudge
Joann’s Fudge
Joann’s is the only store that makes its fudge year-round on the island, serving up over 20 different flavors. Joann’s fudge is slowly cooked in traditional copper kettles over a gas flame, then hand crafted on marble slabs. Not staying on the island but need a fudge fix? Joann’s also has a location in Mackinaw City at 303 E. Central open from May to October.
- Address: 7309 Main St. and 7408 Main St.
- Phone: 906-847-3707
- Website: joannsfudge.com
Kilwins Chocolate and Fudge Shop
Kilwins’ fudge comes from original recipes developed by Don and Katy Kilwin in 1948 after they purchased a marble table. Chocolate remains the top seller, but consider trying out the signature turtle fudge or sea-salt caramel fudge for the best Kilwins experience.
- Address: 7416 Main St.
- Phone: 906-847-4108
- Website: kilwins.com/stores/kilwins-mackinac-island
May’s Fudge and Candy Shop
May’s fudge recipe has been passed down for four generations, but their flavors add a new, modern take. Top-sellers include their famous English toffee, peanut brittle, Peco Flake and clusters, but be sure to leave room for the love potion, birthday cake, cherry, maple nut and other flavors you’ll only find at May’s.
- Address: 7351 Main St.
- Email: maysfudge@gmail.com
- Website: mayscandyshop.com
Murray Hotel Fudge Company
Open to the public from May through October, Murray’s fudge is made fresh daily. In addition to their traditional creamy fudge flavors, they also play around with innovative flavors that keep guests coming back for more. You can’t go wrong with a slice of the s’mores, blueberry cheesecake, Heath bar, tiger, heavenly goo, coconut bonbon or caramel apple pie fudge. Located in the lobby of the Murray Hotel, right on Mackinac Island’s Main Street.
- Address: 7260 Main St.
- Phone: 855-696-8772
- Website: mymurrayhotel.com
Original Murdick’s Fudge
If you’re looking for Mackinac Island Fudge, why not visit the place where it all started? The original fudge shop opened in 1887, and Murdick’s now serves up more than 15 flavors of handcrafted fudge. It’s made with all natural, Michigan ingredients using copper kettles and marble slabs to achieve the quintessential Mackinac Island Fudge taste.
- Address: 7363 Main St.
- Phone: 906-847-3530
- Website: originalmurdicksfudge.com
Ryba’s Fudge Shops
On the island, you’re bound to see Ryba’s signature pink box being carried around somewhere. Ryba’s decadent fudge recipe and process spans over four generations, all beginning with Harry Ryba, known as the “Fudge King” of Mackinac Island. Here, tourists — lovingly referred to as “Fudgies” — are often found watching the fudge makers handcrafting the fudge from copper pots to marble countertops to that signature pink box.
- Address: 7245 Main St.
- Phone: 800-44-RYBAS
- Website: ryba.com
Sanders Fudge and Candy Shop
Since its opening by Fred Sanders in 1875, Sanders still follows the same simple standards using the finest quality ingredients for their fudge. It’s that commitment to expertise that has landed Sanders candy on the shelves of your favorite national retail stores.
- Address: 7330 Main St.
- Phone: 906-847-0250
- Website: facebook.com/sandersonmackinac and sanderscandy.com
Continue making your road trip plan for Mackinac Island with our help! Check out our guides for:
- Historical sites on Mackinac Island and in Mackinaw City you can’t miss
- How to get to Mackinac Island, where to stay and what to eat while you’re here
- Best places to rent bicycles to get around the island
Content brought to you by Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers. Visit buyfordnow.com. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Ultimate Family Road Trip Guide.
