7 DAYS • 10 MEALS Immerse yourself in springtime beauty and Midwestern charm on this captivating 7-day tour. Witness the vibrant blooms of Holland, Michigan’s renowned Tulip Festival, a dazzling display of color across acres of gardens. Explore historic Dutch architecture and traditions at Windmill Island. Relax in the luxurious surroundings of Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, a car-free paradise known for its Victorian charm and horse-drawn carriages. This unforgettable journey offers a delightful blend of natural wonders, cultural exploration, and island tranquility.
Holland Tulip Festival
Day 1: Chicago Sightseeing and Travel to Michigan
Begin with a panoramic tour of downtown Chicago with a local guide. Later, depart for Michigan and arrive in Holland at the height of their annual Tulip Festival. Visit Veldheer-DeKlomp Tulip Gardens, Holland’s only tulip farm ablaze with acres of tulips in brilliant color in a Dutch setting of windmills, drawbridges and canals. You may also wish to shop for Delftware, the famous Dutch pottery or be fitted for a pair of wooden shoes. Meal: D
Day 2: Holland Tulip Time Festival
This morning return to Holland and visit the Windmill Island Gardens to see “De Zwaan,” a working windmill over 240 years old. Also see a miniature Netherlands Village, candle-making shop and an antique carousel with hand carved and painted wooden horses. This afternoon, see the Quality Car Wash Volksparade. Enjoy the pageantry of this “People’s Parade,” as dozens of bands from West Michigan middle and high schools showcase their talents amid the community floats and entertaining specialty entries. Meal: B
Day 3: Arrive on Mackinac Island
Today, ferry to Mackinac Island, a picturesque spot in Lake Huron that still preserves the charm of a bygone era. No automobiles are permitted and nothing intrudes on the serenity and natural beauty of the Island. Upon arrival, tour via horse-drawn carriage. Take a step back in time as you enjoy the atmosphere of this unique treasure. At the end of the tour, the carriage brings you to the crown jewel of Mackinac Island, the Grand Hotel. The world’s largest summer hotel, it was built in 1897 and is your home for the next two nights. Meals: B, D
Day 4: Explore Mackinac Island
You will have the entire day at leisure on Mackinac Island. Browse the many shops, visit historic Fort Mackinac or rent bikes and pedal along the coast of Lake Huron. “The Grand” is a venerable island institution and the perfect place to enjoy a stroll in the beautifully landscaped gardens or afternoon tea. Don’t forget to sample some world-famous Mackinac Island fudge! Meals: B, D
Day 5: Traveling in The Great Lakes State
Leave Mackinac Island today and travel through the Great Lakes State. Michigan has the unique distinction of being surrounded by four of the five Great Lakes. Your destination is Dearborn, the heartland of the Ford Motor Company. Meal: B
Day 6: Ford River Rouge Factory Tour and Greenfield Village
This morning, go behind the scenes at the world’s largest automotive complex as you watch the Ford F150 pickup truck being built on a Ford Motor Company factory tour. This afternoon you will visit Greenfield Village, known as “America’s Hometown” and consisting of seven historic districts spread over 80 acres. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner hosted by your Tour Manager. Meals: B, D
Day 7: Journey Home
This morning, make your way home with fond memories of your Michigan adventure. Meal: B
Itinerary is subject to change.
Tour Highlights
- 10 Meals (6 breakfasts and 4 dinners)
- Free home or local pickup and return
- Guided sightseeing tour of Chicago, the “Windy City”
- Attend the annual Tulip Festival in Holland, Michigan, steeped in the area’s rich Dutch heritage
- Visit Veldheer-DeKlomp Tulip Gardens, ablaze with acres of brilliant color in a Dutch setting
- Attend the Quality Car Wash Volksparade (People’s Parade) featuring a street scrubbing followed by high school marching bands and floats
- Spend two nights at the Grand Hotel, the crown jewel of Mackinac Island
- Explore the charm of a bygone era on Mackinac Island
- Tour Mackinac Island via a horse-drawn carriage
- Take the River Rouge Ford Factory Tour to see the F150 pickup truck being built
- Have the choice of visiting either the Henry Ford Museum or Greenfield Village
-
Visit Greenfield Village, often called “America’s Hometown” and consisting of multiple historic districts
Hotel Accommodations
Days 1 and 2 – DoubleTree Hotel, Grand Rapids, MI
Days 3 and 4 – Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island, MI
Days 5 and 6 – DoubleTree Hotel, Dearborn, MI
