If you're coming from the lower peninsula of Michigan, you're probably crossing the Mackinac…read morebridge. Right as you return to terra firma and pay the toll, there's a right turn you can make into the Welcome Center. There's a spacious parking lot, with a dog run and two trails. The two trails flank the dog run, with the North Country trail running north and one from Straits State Park on the other side.
The visitor center itself has bathrooms with multiple stalls, a water fountain, and a lobby jam-packed with maps, pamphlets, displays, and more. There's a worker at the desk who also can dispense advice on what to do, where to eat, and more. It is a very welcoming welcome center, with bright natural lighting and climate control. It's worth a stop by to stretch your legs and take a look!