Tuition for Mackinac Island Retreat 2026
2026 Finding Your Voice
Mackinac Island
Writing Retreat
Workshop Faculty:
Instructor Lynne Golodner is the author of 12 books and thousands of articles, and a marketing entrepreneur and writing coach. After working as a journalist in New York and Washington, D.C., Lynne returned to Detroit. She helps authors create writing careers, book marketing strategies and finish book projects. In 2023, Lynne founded Scotia Road Books, an independent publishing imprint for women over 40. Lynne’s writing has appeared in 45th Parallel, Moment Magazine, Great Lakes Review, Saveur, the Chicago Tribune, Better Homes and Gardens, Midwest Living, the Detroit Free Press, Porridge Magazine, the Jewish Literary Journal, The Good Life Review, Hadassah Magazine, The Forward, Valiant Scribe, Story Unlikely, The Dillydoun Review, QuibbleLit, bioStories and YourTango, among many more publications. Plus, one of her essays was a finalist in the Annie Dillard Creative Nonfiction contest at Bellingham Review.
Lodging at Mission Point Resort
The retreat takes place at Mission Point Resort, and we have a block of rooms reserved for our participants to book discounted accommodations by Friday, February 27th, 2026, should you decide to stay there. Mackinac Island is home to many bed-and-breakfasts, inns and the famed Grand Hotel, so where you stay is up to you! However, we can guarantee a special discounted rate at Mission Point Resort through February 27th, 2026.
Please note: there is no motor vehicle transportation on the island; people get around via horse-and-buggy, bicycle and on foot. Most places are no more than a 20-minute walk from Mission Point Resort.
Class Size
Session I & Session II are limited to 15 writers; fiction, nonfiction, and poetry writers are welcome to apply. This is a generative writing retreat, and each writer has the option to submit one piece of writing of up to 3K words for feedback from Lynne. There is also an option to have a one-on-one meeting with Lynne during the retreat. Daily craft talks are open to all participants and led by program faculty. Early applications are encouraged.
Example Retreat Schedule Session I & II
Welcome reception 7-8:30 p.m.
Mornings: Writing instruction and workshopping in the morning, 9AM - 12PM. Breakfast is included Tuesday through Friday at 8AM. Lunch is also included Tuesday through Thursday at 12PM. Instructor one-on-ones are included throughout the week.
9AM - 12PM: Writing instruction.
1PM: Retreat concludes.
Mackinac Island Testimonials
"Lynne is one of my favorite people in the world. She is a patient, intuitive, knowledgable and talented teacher. We don't just learn craft from an expert, we learn everything else about what makes the person wonderful. Lynne is my writing coach, friend and role model. I am grateful to have her in my life." -Liwen L.
"This was an outstanding retreat. Lynne is a masterful teacher. She is prepared, yet flexible enough to pivot with class as needed. Furthermore, she has a depth of knowledge that allows for free discussions that were of high value. She also has excellent moderation skills which allow for all voices to be heard and a balanced discussion." -Kate M.
"Lynne is a very committed creator and provides incredible inspiration for those in her classes and retreats. Lynne provides an example of how to create the life you want and covers all aspects of a creative life in her teaching. From the creation of the art to the business side of being a creator." -Stephanie R.
"Lynne Golodner is brilliant. I have taken several classes from her and each time I am so appreciative of her straightforward feedback. She provides value by being encouraging yet honest and that has made me a better writer. She challenges writers and does not hesitate to share her ideas for improvement as pointing out our strengths." -Laura J.
"I treasured the hike and the kayaking we did on the island. I will always remember the scenery I captured. The designated group learning in the Friendship Altar was rich with information. Lynne’s expertise and perspective on the literary world and literature in itself was enticing. I overwhelmingly enjoyed learning about my work from Lynne’s critique. Maybe one of the best thought out critiques I have ever received in my writing journey." -Enrique E.
"Meeting Lynne has truly motivated my pursuit of writing. I am encouraged to be myself unapologetically and to trust my creativity. She not only teaches you the craft of writing but she addresses the mental or emotional blocks that keep us from pursuing our writing practice." -Michaell C.
“One of the best weeks I have ever spent.” -Barbara G.
“Lynne is a perfect combination of professional polish combined with down-to-earth accessibility. She is clear, engaging, and offered inspirational thoughts and suggestions in the one-to-one that directly benefited my specific project. Her combination of indoor and outdoor activities made for both productive work sessions and fun adventures.” -Dana P.
Tuition
- Round-trip ferry transportation to Mackinac Island from Mackinaw City, Michigan
- Breakfast and lunch are included Tuesday - Friday.
- 5-day generative writing retreat, led by Lynne Golodner
- Critical feedback on one writing submission of up to 3K words
- Craft of writing and/or business of writing lectures
- One-on-one conference with Lynne Golodner
- Visit with local authors
- Optional afternoon activities including bicycle tour, island hike, and private kayaking excursion.
- Opening night reception
- Final night dinner and reading
- The time of your life
- Expanded FAQ at the bottom of this page.
- Can I bring my partner or a guest? If you would like to bring your partner or a guest along for the trip (and share a room), the cost is $995 and includes outdoor activities and rentals, meals + service charges, resort fees, and taxes. Please note that there is no piecemeal option for the guest fee.
Application & General FAQ
How much does it cost?
Tuition is $1,995. If your application is accepted, full tuition is due within ten days. Upon acceptance, you will have the option to pay your tuition in full or opt for a payment plan by selecting Affirm or Shop Pay at checkout.
Are Payment Plans Available?
Yes. Accepted writers will have the option to pay their tuition in full or opt for a payment plan divided into equal monthly payments by selecting Shop Pay or Affirm (for U.S. & Canadian residents) at checkout.
What does tuition include?
Round-trip ferry transportation to Mackinac Island from Mackinaw City, MichiganBreakfast and lunch are included Tuesday - Friday.
5-day generative writing retreat, led by Lynne Golodner
Critical feedback on one writing submission of up to 3K words
Craft of writing and/or business of writing lectures
One-on-one conference with Lynne Golodner
Optional afternoon activities including bicycle tour, island hike, and private kayaking excursion.
Opening night reception
Final night dinner and reading
The time of your life
Note: accepted writers will have the option to pay their tuition in full or opt for a payment plan divided into equal monthly payments by selecting Shop Pay or Affirm (for U.S. & Canadian residents) at checkout.
Can I bring my partner or a guest?
If you would like to bring your partner or a guest along for the trip (and share a room), the cost is $995 and includes outdoor activities and rentals, meals + service charges, resort fees, and taxes. Please note that there is no piecemeal option for the guest fee.What is tuition payment schedule?
If your application is accepted, full tuition is due within 14 days of acceptance confirmation. You can pay your tuition in full or opt for a payment plan by selecting Affirm or Shop Pay at checkout.
What is your refund policy?
There are no tuition refunds after April 1st, 2026. If a refund is requested prior to April 1st, 2026, all but a $850 deposit will be refunded.
Where is the hotel and workshop venue?
Immerse yourself in both comfort and inspiration for 5 days, 4 nights on Mackinac Island. The retreat takes place at Mission Point Resort, where accommodations are available at special rates through Friday, February 27th, 2026, although participants are invited to stay anywhere on the island that they choose.
Can I share a room with another writer?
If you and another writer are interested in sharing a room, please let Mission Point Resort know and they will be able to accommodate your request.
How late can I apply?
We will accept applications through January 11th, 2026.
What will you do with my email?
We respect your privacy. We will only use your email to send you information about Writing Workshops. We won't sell or rent your email to other organizations.
I have a question not answered here.
Please contact us and we’ll reply promptly. You can also Chat with us (lower left of your screen).
Terms & Conditions
WritingWorkshops.com 2026 Writing Retreat on Mackinac Island, Michigan
Session I: July 6-10, 2026
Session II: October 5-9, 2026
WritingWorkshops.com is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all participants at the 2026 Writing Retreat on Mackinac Island, Michigan. Inappropriate behavior—whether written, verbal, or physical—is strictly prohibited. Such behavior may include (but is not limited to) abuse, threats, derogatory or discriminatory language, gestures, or actions; any form of harassment, racism, sexism; or any other targeted conduct that violates local, state, or federal laws or that causes harm to another participant. This applies to interactions before, during, and after the retreat, whether in-person on Mackinac Island, at associated events, at Mission Point Resort, during ferry transportation, through the WritingWorkshops.com website or social media channels, during any online component, or by any other method of communication. WritingWorkshops.com reserves the right to take appropriate action—up to and including revoking admission without refund—against any individual(s) or group(s) that violate this Code of Conduct.
All attendees are expected to follow relevant public health guidelines, including those related to COVID-19 or other pandemic-level communicable illnesses. This may include social distancing, frequent hand washing, and refraining from attending sessions if feeling unwell. Should you observe or experience a violation of these guidelines or any other part of this Code of Conduct, please contact WritingWorkshops.com immediately. Reporting to WritingWorkshops.com does not replace notifying local law enforcement of suspected legal violations. In case of an emergency, dial 911 immediately. For non-emergencies, local law enforcement contact information will be provided in retreat materials. Mackinac Island has its own police department, and medical services are available on the island.
By participating in the WritingWorkshops.com 2026 Writing Retreat on Mackinac Island, Michigan, you waive all rights to any claims for payment or royalties in connection with the use, exhibition, streaming, webcasting, televising, or other publication of any photos, videos, or audio recordings taken of you during the retreat. You also waive any right to inspect or approve these materials. By registering, you acknowledge that you have been fully informed of your consent, waiver of liability, and release.
By paying your tuition and attending the 2026 Writing Retreat on Mackinac Island, Michigan, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and assume all risks associated with the retreat, including, but not limited to, injuries, illnesses, damages, theft, or loss of life. WritingWorkshops.com, its organizers, affiliates, and agents ("Organizers") are not responsible for any injuries, death, or damages—physical or emotional—that may occur during or as a result of your participation. This includes risks associated with ferry transportation to and from Mackinac Island, bicycle riding, hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, walking on uneven terrain, and other optional activities. You hereby release, waive, and discharge the Organizers from any and all claims, demands, liabilities, or causes of action arising from or relating to your participation. By paying your tuition, you explicitly agree to these terms.
Attendees are responsible for arranging their own transportation to Mackinaw City, Michigan, where ferry service to Mackinac Island is available. Round-trip ferry transportation from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island is included in your tuition. Please note that no motor vehicles are permitted on Mackinac Island—transportation on the island is by foot, bicycle, or horse-drawn carriage. Most locations are within a 20-minute walk of Mission Point Resort. Attendees should plan to arrive on the island on the first day of their registered session and depart on the final day. Ferry schedules are subject to weather conditions, and participants should allow flexibility in their travel plans. WritingWorkshops.com is not responsible for delays or cancellations due to weather or ferry service interruptions. While no passport or visa is required for U.S. citizens, international participants should ensure they have appropriate documentation for entry into the United States.
If state or federal authorities forbid travel to Mackinac Island during the scheduled July or October 2026 retreat dates, or if Mission Point Resort closes for those dates and no comparable location on Mackinac Island can be secured, WritingWorkshops.com will offer a full refund of the retreat program fees. WritingWorkshops.com will not reimburse any transportation, lodging, or additional trip-related expenses incurred by participants.
If the 2026 Writing Retreat on Mackinac Island, Michigan proceeds on the scheduled dates (Session I: July 6-10, 2026 or Session II: October 5-9, 2026), program fees will be refunded according to the following schedule: There are no tuition refunds after April 1st, 2026. If a refund is requested prior to April 1st, 2026, all but a $850 deposit will be refunded. Regardless of attendance, no refunds will be provided once the retreat has commenced.
These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to its conflict of law provisions. Any and all disputes, claims, or controversies arising out of or relating to these Terms and Conditions, your registration, or your participation in the 2026 Writing Retreat on Mackinac Island, Michigan shall be resolved exclusively in the state or federal courts located in the State of Texas. By registering for this retreat, you expressly consent to the personal jurisdiction of the courts of the State of Texas and waive any objection to venue in Texas courts.
By registering for and participating in the WritingWorkshops.com 2026 Writing Retreat on Mackinac Island, Michigan, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to abide by these Terms and Conditions. Your registration and payment of tuition constitute a binding agreement to uphold this Code of Conduct and all associated policies. For questions or additional information, please contact WritingWorkshops.com. We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to creating a welcoming, inspiring, and productive retreat for everyone.