MacNeil has also written several books, many about his career as a journalist, but, since his retirement from NewsHour, MacNeil has also dabbled in writing novels. His books include
MacNeil is currently the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the MacDowell Colony. In 1979 MacNeil received a L.H.D. from Bates College. In 1997, he was made an Officer of the Order of Canada, Canada's highest civilian honor, for being "one of the most respected journalists of our time".
