Mackinac Island and the Grand Hotel

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 offer suggestions for dining this evening.

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

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 music-making machines, from 1870 through 1930 at the Music House Museum. Nickelodeons, music boxes, pipe organs and a Belgian dance organ come alive. Meal: B

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

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

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

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

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

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