Relax and enjoy the carefree lifestyle of Mackinac Island in Autumn. Ride the Algoma Central Railway into Agawa Canyon, visit the heart of the Ford Motor Company in Dearborn and spend two nights at the crown jewel of Michigan, the Grand Hotel.
Day
1 Arrive in Chicago
Chicago is America’s third largest
city and boasts a friendly, Midwest atmosphere. For those
arriving early, your hotel is close to the Lake Michigan
waterfront. Visit one of Chicago’s great museums or stroll
along the “Magnificent Mile.”
Your Tour Manager is available
in the lobby at 6:00 p.m. to assist with check-in and can offer
suggestions for dining this evening.
Day
2 Chicago to Michigan
This morning, begin the day with a panoramic tour of downtown Chicago with a local guide.
Leave the big city behind for charming Traverse City, Michigan,
known for its sparkling beaches, unique shops and cherry
orchards.
Meals: B, D
Day
3 Traverse City
Begin your day exploring Sleeping
Bear Dunes National Lakeshore that was named for an Indian
legend. These expansive golden dunes stretch for more than
35 miles along the twinkling blue waters of Lake Michigan. A
local guide tells the history and lore of the area including the
peninsula and lighthouse.
You’re treated to a one-of-a-kind
collection of rare antique musical instruments and musicmaking
machines, from 1870 through 1930 at the Music House
Museum. Nickelodeons, music boxes, pipe organs and a
Belgian dance organ come alive.
Meal: B
Day
4 Agawa Canyon Autumn Foliage Train
Today, cross the border into Canada to board the Algoma Central Railway for
a spectacular train ride through scenic Agawa Canyon during
autumn foliage time.
This all-day adventure takes you past
massive rock formations, through thick forests of maple and
birch and over pristine streams and lakes as you wind your way
to Agawa Canyon. Explore the Agawa River and its waterfalls on
the valley floor before returning to Sault Ste. Marie.
Meals: B, L
Day
5 Mackinac Island’s Grand Hotel
A trip to Mackinac Island is a like a trip back in time. From its bluff cottages to its quaint horse-drawn carriages (no cars are allowed on the island), this peaceful resort island offers a glimpse into life during a simpler and more genteel era. Upon arrival, tour the Island via horse-drawn carriage and 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, built in 1897, and your home for the next two nights.
Meals: B, D
Day
6 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 peddle along the coast of Lake Huron. “The Grand” is a venerable island institution and the perfect place to enjoy a stroll in the landscaped gardens or enjoy afternoon tea. Don’t forget to sample the world-famous Mackinac Island fudge!
Meals: B, D
Day
7 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
8 Ford River Rouge Factory Tour & The Henry Ford Museum
This morning, you 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 have the choice of visiting The Henry Ford Museum, often called “the attic” or Greenfield Village, also known as “America’s Hometown.” Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner hosted by your Tour Manager.
Meals: B, D
Day
9 Journey Home
Your journey ends with a group transfer to Detroit Metropolitan Airport for flights out after 10:00 a.m. or Chicago O’Hare Airport for flights after 5:00 p.m.
Meal: B