Breathe in the fresh air of Lake Michigan, experience picturesque towns, and witness stunning sunrises and sunsets as we journey to northern Michigan’s Mackinac Island. While on the island you’ll enjoy leisure time on Main Street to shop, sample freshly made fudge, or admire the glimmering lake views. Then, travel back in time with a horse-drawn carriage ride to the world-renowned Grand Hotel, the island’s foremost luxury resort, boasting the longest porch in the world with views over the Straits of Mackinac.
DAY 1—WELCOME TO MILWAUKEE!
Our journey begins with an opportunity to meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers at a welcome dinner. D
DAY 2—INDIANA SAND DUNES/GRAND HAVEN
Begin the day with a delectable visit to Lehmann’s Bakery in Sturtevant’s, renowned for over 80 years as the birthplace of the original Dani’s Kringle. Next, head south towards Indiana Dunes National Park to explore its impressive sand dunes. Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay in charming Grand Haven. B, D
DAY 3—GRAND TRAVERSE BAY
Discover the awe-inspiring Silver Lake Sand Dunes aboard Mac Woods Dune Rides. A Michigan tradition for three decades, immerse yourself in excitement as you uncover the history and ecology of these ever-shifting sand formations. Afterwards, journey to Traverse City for dinner at a beloved local favorite. Retreat to the Bayshore Resort, our lakefront hotel boasting stunning vistas of Grand Traverse Bay, where we’ll enjoy a two-night stay. B, D
DAY 4—SLEEPING BEAR DUNES/CHERRY REPUBLIC
Embark on a scenic adventure with our local guide, winding through cherry orchards on Old Mission Peninsula and journeying along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Indulge in a variety of distinctive cherry delights at the Cherry Republic before lunch on the Leelanau Peninsula. Experience a tour and tasting of regional wines at a local winery and explore the historic 1870 Mission Point Lighthouse. Conclude the day with a serene lakeside evening at the Bayshore Resort. B, L
DAY 5—MACKINAC ISLAND/GRAND HOTEL
Embark on a journey along Lake Michigan for a scenic ferry ride to enchanting Mackinac Island. Here, enjoy leisure time on Main Street, exploring charming shops, indulging in freshly made fudge, and admiring the shimmering lake vistas. Step into a bygone era as you glide through the island’s streets in a horse-drawn carriage to reach the esteemed Grand Hotel, where the world’s longest porch provides awe-inspiring views of the Straits of Mackinac. Conclude the day with a five-course dinner in the elegant dining room of the Grand Hotel. B, D
DAY 6—MACKINAC ISLAND
Following a relaxing night in one of the Grand’s beautiful accommodations, take advantage of a leisurely morning to unwind and enjoy the amenities of the hotel before boarding Shepler’s Ferry and continuing to Ludington. B, L
DAY 7—LAKE MICHIGAN CROSSING
Embark on the S.S. Badger, the sole authentic steamship navigating the Great Lakes, for our crossing back to Wisconsin. During the cruise, explore the open-air decks, participate in “Badger Bingo,” or shop in the “Boatique.” En route southward, we pause in Kohler, a community shaped by the legacy of its plumbing industry established in 1900. You’ll be amazed by the artistry displayed at the Kohler Design Center and the success story of this Austrian family. Arrive in Milwaukee this afternoon bidding farewell to Michigan’s endearing towns with cherished memories. B, L
Quality Accommodations
Night 1: Hampton Inn Milwaukee/Franklin, WI
Night 2: Best Western Beacon Inn, Grand Haven, MI (or similar)
Nights 3-4: Bayshore Resort, Traverse City, MI
Night 5: The Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island, MI
Night 6: Holiday Inn Express, Ludington, MI (or similar)
Dates:
Jun 1-7, 2025
Sep 7-13, 2025
Price Per Person:
Double $2,397
Single $3,165
Pre/Post Tour Hotel:
$158/night
Depart/Return:
Milwaukee, WI
Inclusions:
Free airport shuttle or hotel parking
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Our Welcome Dinner on Day 1 is at our hotel, Hampton Inn Milwaukee/Franklin, starting at 6:30 p.m. We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive by 4:00 p.m.
Departure Time
Schedule your flight home to depart the Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport any time after 5:30 p.m. on Day 7. If you need to book a post night, please schedule flights out after 8:00 a.m. if you wish to use the complimentary hotel shuttle in the morning.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our starting hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to/from Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport. Please send us your flight schedule so we can make sure the shuttle will be ready for you. If you are driving to the starting location, they also offer complimentary parking for the duration of the tour.
Walking Distance
Moderate walking is required to fully enjoy this tour. Some walking will also be on uneven paths and sand. While walking canes are allowed, we are unable to accommodate travelers using other mobility devices, including walkers and wheelchairs.
Average Temps
June/September – high of 75°, low of 65°
Time Zone
Wisconsin – Central
Michigan - Eastern
Hotel Amenities
Each hotel has a hair dryer, iron, ironing boards, swimming pool and Wi-Fi.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Dress on tour is casual except at the Grand Hotel. The Grand Hotel has guidelines for dress after 5:30 pm throughout the hotel and dining room. Because every evening at Grand Hotel is a special occasion, after 6:30 pm in main areas of the hotel and after 5:30 p.m. the Main Dining Room, dresses, skirts, blouses, dress sweaters, and dress slacks for ladies are preferred, while gentlemen are required to wear a suit coat, necktie, and dress pants (no denim or shorts). This applies for all areas inside the hotel including the Parlor, Lobby, Terrace, and Main Dining Room, with the exception of the Cupola Bar.
Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, visors, and comfortable walking shoes will add to your enjoyment of this tour.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
