Mackinac Island & the Great Lakes
Mackinac Island & the Great Lakes
8 Days Starting in Detroit, United States and ending in Chicago, United States
Visiting: Detroit, Frankenmuth, Mackinac Island, Mackinaw City, Charlevoix, Petoskey, Traverse City, Grand Rapids, Chicago
Tour operator:
Tour code:
NM-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of the Great Lakes with the "Mackinac Island & the Great Lakes" tour. Begin in Detroit, exploring the iconic Henry Ford Museum, before venturing to the charming Bavarian town of Frankenmuth for an authentic German dinner. Experience the magic of Mackinac Island with a ferry ride and a horse-drawn carriage tour, visiting historic sites like the Governor's Mansion and Arch Rock. Discover the scenic beauty of Lake Michigan at Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse and indulge in Polish delicacies at the historic Legs Inn. Conclude your adventure with a sightseeing tour of Chicago, staying at the historic Palmer House Hilton. This cultural tour offers a blend of history, scenic beauty, and culinary delights, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Detroit Michigan
Location: Detroit
Accommodation Name: Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center
At 6 pm, meet your fellow travel companions for a welcome drink. Your Tour Director will prepare you for your upcoming journey.
Day 2: Detroit,Frankenmuth
Location: Detroit, Frankenmuth
Accommodation Name: Bavarian Inn Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
DETROIT–FRANKENMUTH American Ingenuity Visit the Henry Ford Museum, the ultimate place to experience America’s past and present. See the world’s premier automotive exhibition, the JFK Presidential Limousine, an original camp bed used by George Washington, and the Rosa Parks Bus. Continue to Frankenmuth, founded by German immigrants in 1845. This evening, enjoy an authentic [LF] Bavarian dinner to experience German cuisine and a wine tasting. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITE LOCAL TASTES Be greeted with a hearty “Willkommen!” in Frankenmuth’s Little Bavaria. You’ll be treated to a tasting of authentic German wine, cheese, and crackers, followed by a traditional family-style dinner. Indulge in German cuisine, including rippchen, sauerbraten, bratwurst, special Frankenmuth chicken, and homemade breads and preserves. Guten Appetit!
Day 3: Frankenmuth,Mackinac Island
Location: Frankenmuth, Mackinac Island
Accommodation Name: Island House Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
FRANKENMUTH–MACKINAC ISLAND Magical Mackinac Visit Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, a one stop shop for everything Christmas. Leave the motorcoach behind and take a ferry to beautiful Mackinac Island. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURE & TRADITION Discover Mackinac Island with a horse-drawn carriage ride to your hotel. Since the Civil War, the island has been one of the nation’s most favored summer resorts. Enjoy this special place with its air of 19th-century gentility and historic charm, where bicycles and horse-drawn carriages are the only means of transportation.
Day 4: Mackinac Island
Location: Mackinac Island
Accommodation Name: Island House Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
MACKINAC ISLAND Somewhere in Time This morning is at leisure. Rent a bicycle to explore on your own, visit Fort Mackinac, or sample some of the island’s famous fudge. Travel by horse and carriage for lunch at the elegant Grand Hotel. After lunch, enjoy a horse-drawn carriage tour of this celebrated island. See the Avenue of Flags, the Governor’s Mansion, and enjoy a stop at Arch Rock, one of the most photographed spots on the island. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHT HERITAGE & TRADITION Horse-drawn carriages. Sitting in a rocking chair on the world’s longest porch with views of the Straits of Mackinac. The historic Grand Hotel served as a summer getaway for celebrities, such as Mark Twain, Jimmy Durante, Christopher Reeve, and five U.S. presidents since its opening in 1887. This stately retreat continues today in the style of a bygone era of old-world hospitality and charm.
Day 5: Mackinac Island,Mackinaw City,Charlevoix-Petoskey
Location: Mackinac Island, Mackinaw City, Charlevoix, Petoskey
Accommodation Name: Stafford's Perry Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
MACKINAC ISLAND–MACKINAW CITY–CHARLEVOIX–PETOSKEY Great Lake Michigan Depart by ferry from Mackinac Island, returning to mainland Michigan. Visit Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse State Park, a guiding beacon for ships since 1889. Stop at the historic [LF] Legs Inn for incredible views of Lake Michigan. Learn about the inn’s fascinating history and sample traditional Polish specialties. Drive the Tunnel of Trees scenic route to Charlevoix, where a sightseeing tour with a Local Guide introduces you to the city’s Victorian summer resorts and “Mushroom Houses.” Continue to your historic hotel in Petoskey, perched high on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan. (B)LOCAL FAVORITE LOCAL TASTES Visit Legs Inn - a captivating setting on Lake Michigan – tempting travel-lovers for generations. Founded by Stanley Smolak, a Polish immigrant who creatively worked on the inn using local timber and stone with local “Odawa” Ottawa Native American craftsmen. Sample authentic Polish cuisine such as kielbasa, whitefish, pierogi and berry szarlotka (crumble cake) while taking in the artisan carvings and unique décor.
Day 6: Petoskey,Traverse City,Grand Rapids
Location: Petoskey, Traverse City, Grand Rapids
Accommodation Name: Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilton
Meals Included: Breakfast
PETOSKEY–TRAVERSE CITY–GRAND RAPIDS American History & Heritage This morning, travel to Traverse City, located on the shores of Grand Traverse Bay of Lake Michigan. Enjoy free time in the historic downtown with waterfront views and award-winning dining for lunch on your own before continuing to Grand Rapids. Visit the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum and this evening, explore the nightlife and dining options in Michigan’s second largest city, Grand Rapids. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT LEGENDARY LIVES Explore the Gerald R. Ford Museum, a tribute to the 38th president of the United States, offers fascinating exhibits highlighting Ford’s journey from his boyhood in Grand Rapids to life after the White House, emphasizing the responsibilities of democratic citizenship and service to country. Discover stories about Grand Rapids’ favorite son through exhibits that include a replica of the Oval Office and a multimedia re-creation of the 1944 typhoon that almost swept a young Jerry Ford off the deck of a U.S. aircraft carrier! Browse mementos and memorabilia highlighting the life and times of President Ford and his remarkable wife, First Lady Betty Ford, through artifacts from museums all over the country.
Day 7: Grand Rapids,Chicago,Illinois
Location: Chicago
Accommodation Name: Palmer House Hilton Chicago
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
GRAND RAPIDS–CHICAGO, ILLINOIS Windy City Sights & Confections Travel through Indiana to Chicago for a sightseeing tour of the “Windy City.” Join your Tour Director and travel companions for a farewell lunch. Enjoy an overnight stay at the [LF] historic Palmer House Hilton. (B,L)LOCAL FAVORITEACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT Experience the historic and elegant Palmer House Hilton in Chicago, Illinois. With an interesting history ranging from the love story that built the hotel, a friendship with Claude Monet that influenced the decor, the invention of a sweet confection, and the long list of celebrity guests like Charles Dickens, Oscar Wilde, Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong, and more. This is a stay to remember!
Day 8: Chicago
Location: Chicago
Accommodation Name: Palmer House Hilton Chicago
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. Want to explore more of Chicago? Extra nights are available for purchase.
What's Included
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Welcome Drink
Meet your fellow travel companions for a welcome drink on the first day.
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Henry Ford Museum Visit
Visit the Henry Ford Museum to experience America’s past and present.
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Bavarian Dinner
Enjoy an authentic Bavarian dinner in Frankenmuth.
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Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland Visit
Visit Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, a one-stop shop for everything Christmas.
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Ferry to Mackinac Island
Take a ferry to beautiful Mackinac Island.
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Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour
Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage tour of Mackinac Island.
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Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse Visit
Visit Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse State Park.
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Legs Inn Visit
Stop at the historic Legs Inn for views of Lake Michigan and sample Polish and Old World specialties.
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Charlevoix Sightseeing Tour
A sightseeing tour with a Local Guide in Charlevoix.
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Gerald Ford Presidential Library and Museum Visit
Visit the Gerald Ford Presidential Library and Museum in Grand Rapids.
What's Not Included
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Flights
Flights to and from the tour starting and ending locations are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for the Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides are not included.
Meals
Breakfast daily, 2 Lunches, 1 Dinners
Small Group
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on select North America dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
Accommodation
Stay at various hotels including Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center, Bavarian Inn Lodge in Frankenmuth, Island House Hotel on Mackinac Island, Stafford's Perry Hotel in Petoskey, Amway Grand Plaza in Grand Rapids, and Palmer House Hilton in Chicago.
Mode of Transport
Leave the motorcoach behind and take a ferry to beautiful Mackinac Island. Depart by ferry from Mackinac Island, returning to mainland Michigan. Travel through Indiana to Chicago for a sightseeing tour of the 'Windy City.'
Accommodation
Detroit:The Henry, Autograph CollectionFrankenmuth:Bavarian Inn Lodge Mackinac Island:Island House HotelPetoskey:Stafford's Perry HotelGrand Rapids:Amway Grand Plaza HotelChicago:Palmer House Hilton Chicago
Notes
Guests should be prepared for easy but sustained walking throughout the tour, including ¼-½ mile over uneven ground during select days of sightseeing. Guests with mobility concerns may experience uneven or wet surfaces specifically for ferry loading and unloading, and limited access to passenger amenities on board certain vessels.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique transportation experience is included on Mackinac Island?
On Mackinac Island, you will enjoy a horse-drawn carriage tour, which is a unique way to explore the island as motor vehicles are not allowed.
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What can I expect during the visit to the Henry Ford Museum?
During the visit to the Henry Ford Museum, you can expect to see the world's premier automotive exhibition, the JFK Presidential Limousine, an original camp bed used by George Washington, and the Rosa Parks Bus.
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What kind of dining experience is offered in Frankenmuth?
In Frankenmuth, you will enjoy an authentic Bavarian dinner, which includes a tasting of German wine, cheese, and crackers, followed by a traditional family-style dinner with German cuisine such as rippchen, sauerbraten, bratwurst, and special Frankenmuth chicken.
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What activities are available on Mackinac Island during leisure time?
During leisure time on Mackinac Island, you can rent a bicycle to explore on your own, visit Fort Mackinac, or sample some of the island's famous fudge.
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What historical sites are included in the tour of Charlevoix?
In Charlevoix, the tour includes a sightseeing tour with a local guide, introducing you to the city's Victorian summer resorts and the renowned 'Mushroom Houses.'
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What is special about the accommodation at the Palmer House Hilton in Chicago?
The Palmer House Hilton in Chicago is a historic and elegant hotel with a rich history, including a love story that built the hotel, a friendship with Claude Monet that influenced the decor, and a long list of celebrity guests like Charles Dickens, Oscar Wilde, Frank Sinatra, and Louis Armstrong.
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What can I expect to see at the Gerald Ford Presidential Library and Museum?
At the Gerald Ford Presidential Library and Museum, you can explore exhibits highlighting Ford's journey from his boyhood in Grand Rapids to life after the White House, including a replica of the Oval Office and a multimedia re-creation of the 1944 typhoon that almost swept a young Jerry Ford off the deck of a U.S. aircraft carrier.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
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