In an age of electric vehicles, autonomous driving and drone deliveries, one American destination continues to do things the old-fashioned way. On Mackinac Island in Michigan, cars have been banned for more than 125 years, leaving horse-drawn carts, bicycles and pedestrians to share the streets instead. The unique transport system is not just a tourist attraction but an everyday reality for residents and businesses. Even Amazon packages complete the final leg of their journey aboard horse-drawn carts, making the island one of the few places in the United States where modern online shopping meets a centuries-old mode of transport.
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Why this US town banned cars over 125 years ago
The ban on automobiles dates back to 1898, when the first motor vehicles began appearing on Mackinac Island. Residents soon complained that the noisy machines frightened horses, which were the island's primary means of transport. Local authorities responded by prohibiting most motor vehicles, a rule that has remained in place ever since. Over time, the restriction became part of the island's identity, helping preserve its peaceful atmosphere and historic charm.
How do Amazon deliveries reach the island?
Although Amazon packages are shipped through the company's usual logistics network, the final stage of delivery looks very different from elsewhere in the United States. Parcels are transported to the island by ferry before being loaded onto horse-drawn carts operated by local delivery services. These carts travel through the streets to homes, hotels and businesses, ensuring deliveries continue without conventional delivery vans.
How do people travel without cars?
Residents and visitors mainly rely on bicycles, walking and horse-drawn carriages to get around. The island has miles of roads and trails that are ideal for cycling, making bicycles one of the most popular forms of transport. Horse-drawn taxis and carriage tours also operate throughout the day, while many locals simply walk to work, school or nearby shops.
While private cars are prohibited, the rule is not absolute. Emergency vehicles such as ambulances and fire trucks are permitted whenever needed. Certain authorised utility and maintenance vehicles may also operate under special circumstances. During winter, some snowmobiles may be allowed when weather conditions make horse-drawn transport difficult.
