Itinerary Details
Mackinac Island
Day 1 Southfield
Hotel: Westin Hotel Southfield Detroit
Get ready for a relaxing journey through the tranquil beauty of Mackinac Island and the Great Lakes region. This stunning landscape comes alive amid old-fashioned traditions.
Day 2 Southfield - Dearborn - Southfield
Hotel: Westin Hotel Southfield Detroit
Today, we’ll start our day with a visit to Dearborn, hometown of Henry Ford and the Ford Motor Company. Visit the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village for an experience in living history. Learn how the automobile forever changed American life and society as you explore the Henry Ford Museum. At Greenfield Village,* take in the historic homes and see the workshops where famous American icons like the Wright Brothers, Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and Robert Frost were once inspired. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.(B, D)
Day 3 Southfield - Frankenmuth - Bay City
Hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bay City - Riverfront
Today, we visit the quaint town of Frankenmuth, or as the locals call it, "Little Bavaria," because of its Franconian-style architecture. Upon arrival, enjoy time downtown for lunch and shopping where you can choose to partake in the town’s famous fried chicken dinners. Then visit the largest Christmas store in the world – Bronner’s. Later in the day, explore the architectural artistry of Alden B. Dow’s home and studio during a guided tour. This legendary 20th century architect designed his home to be the peak of Mid-Twentieth Century Modern Architecture, and since its construction has been declared a National Historic Landmark. This evening, arrive in Bay City and enjoy your riverside accommodations.(B)
Day 4 Bay City - Mackinac Island
Hotel: Grand Hotel
This morning, enjoy a scenic drive before arriving in Mackinaw City at the tip of Michigan’s lower peninsula. You will have some time to explore this coastal vacation town and grab lunch before boarding the ferry that will take you back to a simpler time on Mackinac Island. Upon arrival, listen for how the neighs of horses replace the roar of engines. Your home for the next two nights is the glorious Victorian-era resort, the Grand Hotel.** After dinner at your hotel, the evening is yours to enjoy. Perhaps you’ll take a leisurely stroll through the quaint village or relax on the Grand Hotel’s famous porch.(B, D)
Day 5 Mackinac Island
Hotel: Grand Hotel
Climb aboard your horse-drawn carriage for an island tour that includes stops at the Surrey Hills Carriage Museum and Arch Rock. Following your tour, savor some time to enjoy all of Mackinac Island’s quiet pleasures. Enjoy brilliant views while sitting on the front porch of the Grand Hotel or take a walk downtown to visit the shops and buy some fudge, a favorite item on the island. Later, choose from a menu of tasty delicacies when you dine at the elegant Salle à Manger. After dinner, enjoy a cup of coffee while listening to the refined sounds of the Grand Hotel's orchestra. If you crave a secluded hideaway, retreat to the charming Cupola Bar.(B, D)
Day 6 Mackinac Island - Grand Rapids
Hotel: Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown
Enjoy some leisure time at the Grand Hotel and in town before departing this afternoon for Grand Rapids. This evening is at leisure. Perhaps you will visit the Grand Rapids Downtown Market or one of the many restaurants near your modern hotel.(B)
Day 7 Grand Rapids - Chicago, Illinois
Hotel: Hyatt Regency
Before departing Grand Rapids, take some time to explore the many gardens, greenhouses, and art exhibits of the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. This evening, arrive in the Chicago with time on your own for dinner. Maybe you will sample the famous deep-dish pizza or grab a Chicago style hotdog.(B)
Day 8 Chicago
Hotel: Hyatt Regency
Begin your day with a locally guided tour of Chicago’s remarkable and impressive architecture. This dynamic city goes by many names including "Second City" and “The Windy City," but no matter what you call it, you’re sure to fall in love. Highlights of your tour include famous Michigan Avenue, the “Magnificent Mile,” the Wrigley Building, the Loop, the Lakefront, and a walking tour through Millennium Park. The remainder of your day is at leisure. You may want to visit one of Chicago’s many museums, relax during a scenic boat ride along the Chicago River, or visit the Chicago Cultural Center. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner at the legendary Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse. The historic landmark building, which houses the restaurant, has a storied past including ties to notorious gangster, Al Capone.(B, D)
Day 9 Chicago - Tour Ends
Your tour ends today, leaving you with a bounty of happy memories from your visit to America’s heartland.(B)
