8-Nights Scenic Great Lakes with Mackinac Island

8 nights from: $3,995

Scenic Great Lakes With Mackinac Island
This tour takes you through charming small towns, scenic waterfronts and storied landmarks of the Midwest. Starting in Chicago, you’ll journey north to Mackinac Island, where horse-drawn carriages and historic hotels capture a bygone era. Along the way, roll up your sleeves for pretzel rolling in Frankenmuth, cruise across Lake Huron, and explore the legacy of Henry Ford in Detroit.

Dining Summary

• 2 Dinner (D)
• 8 Breakfast (B)
• 2 Lunch (L)

• Explore Learn Bavarian Pretzel Rolling in Frankenmuth
• Visit The Cloud Gate in Chicago, Fort Mackinac and Arch Rock on Mackinac Island
• Scenic Journeys Ferry across Lake Huron, tour Mackinac Island on a private carriage ride
• Discover Chicago and Detroit

• Chicago: Join your Travel Director for a guided walk through Chicago’s famous landmarks. Stop at Cloud Gate, better known as The Bean, stroll along the Magnificent Mile and take in the lively atmosphere of Navy Pier. With its blend of architecture, shopping and lakefront views, this introduction to the Windy City sets the tone for your time in Chicago. 
• Mackinac Island: Take a 16-minute ferry across Lake Huron to Mackinac Island. As you near the island, spot the Grand Hotel and historic buildings that line the waterfront, with horse-drawn carriages waiting by the dock — the first glimpse of the island’s character. 
• Mackinac Island: Explore Mackinac Island on a private horse-drawn carriage tour. Stop at Arch Rock, where you'll step off to admire this striking limestone formation. Continue to Fort Mackinac, where the Avenue of Flags rounds off a journey around of the Great Lakes’ most unique destinations.
• Frankenmuth: At the Bavarian Inn, expert bakers guide you through the art of pretzel rolling, sharing the traditional technique. Wearing a classic baker’s hat, roll and shape your own pretzel before it goes into the oven. Once baked, enjoy the results of your handiwork—a fun and hands-on way to experience Bavarian traditions. 
• Detroit: Get to know Detroit, a city shaped by innovation, music and industry. See key landmarks, from historic neighborhoods to revitalised downtown districts, and hear stories of its automotive legacy and cultural influence. A glimpse into the Motor City’s past and present, setting the stage for your time in this dynamic city. 
• Detroit: Discover the breakthroughs that shaped modern life, from early automobiles to aviation milestones. See the bus where Rosa Parks took a stand, step inside a presidential limousine, and explore exhibits that highlight the power of innovation. A journey through history that showcases the ideas and inventions that changed the world. 
• Detroit: Go behind the scenes of automotive innovation at this historic factory, where Ford’s legacy of production comes to life. Watch the modern assembly line in action, explore interactive exhibits, and see how sustainability is shaping the future of manufacturing. A fascinating look at the past, present, and future of American industry. 

• Hudsonville: Join John and Meghan at their family farm in Michigan for a cider-paired lunch among the orchards. Enjoy a tour through the grove and learn how this duo saved the farmstead from development to grow more than 24 varieties of fruit.

• Mackinac Island: Since 1887, this hotel has welcomed guests with its signature white facade, horse-drawn carriages and sweeping views over Lake Huron. Stroll the world’s longest porch and learn about the famous figures who’ve stayed here, from presidents to public personalities. This stay is a chance to step into a unique piece of American history. 

• Detroit: Led by a docent, this guided tour shares the history of the first African American aviators in the U.S. Army. Learn about their impact during World War II, see aircraft used by the airmen and hear how their legacy continues through youth training programs and scholarships. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education. 

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