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This classic Midwestern tour features Illinois and Michigan. Savor two incredible nights amid the luxury of the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. Enjoy a horse and buggy tour of Mackinac Island. Explore the wonderful city of Chicago with a local guide. Visit the Bavarian-influenced town of Frankenmuth. In Dearborn, experience the inspirational Henry Ford Museum and view historic homes at Greenfield Village including the famous American workshops of Thomas Edison, Henry Ford and Robert Frost.
Departures & Pricing
- 18 Sep 2026 - 26 Sep 2026
from $7,149 pp twin share / $8,949 pp solo * - 02 Oct 2026 - 10 Oct 2026
from $6,449 pp twin share / $7,899 pp solo *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.
Itinerary
- 1
Chicago, Illinois
Get ready for a relaxing journey through the tranquil beauty of Mackinac Island and the Great Lakes region. This stunning landscape comes alive amid old-fashioned traditions. No activities are included today as flight arrival times will be scattered through the afternoon and evening.
- 2
Chicago
Begin your day with a locally guided tour of Chicago’s remarkable and impressive architecture. This dynamic city goes by many names including "Second City" and “The Windy City," but no matter what you call it, you’re sure to fall in love. Highlights of your tour include famous Michigan Avenue, the “Magnificent Mile,” the Wrigley Building, the Loop, the Lakefront, and a walking tour through Millennium Park. The remainder of your day is at leisure. You may want to visit one of Chicago’s many museums, relax during a scenic boat ride along the Chicago River, or visit the Chicago Cultural Center. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at the legendary Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse. The historic landmark building, which houses the restaurant, has a storied past including ties to notorious gangster, Al Capone.
- 3
Chicago - Grand Rapids, Michigan
Travel north as we make our way to the city of Grand Rapids. This afternoon, take some time to explore the many gardens, greenhouses, and art exhibits of the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park.
- 4
Grand Rapids - Mackinac Island
This morning, enjoy a scenic drive before arriving in Mackinaw City at the tip of Michigan’s lower peninsula. You will have some time to explore this coastal vacation town and grab lunch before boarding the ferry that will take you back to a simpler time on Mackinac Island. Upon arrival, listen for how the neighs of horses replace the roar of engines. Your home for the next two nights is the glorious Victorian-era resort, the Grand Hotel. Both your hotel and the island itself are National Historic Landmarks. The island is a natural gem with over eighty percent of its land preserved by Mackinac State Park, a woodland paradise accented with limestone formations and ringed by Lake Huron. After dinner at your hotel, the evening is yours to enjoy. Perhaps you’ll take a leisurely stroll through the quaint village or relax on the Grand Hotel’s famous porch.
- 5
Mackinac Island
Climb aboard your horse-drawn carriage for an island tour that includes stops at the Surrey Hills Carriage Museum and Arch Rock. Following your tour, savor some time to enjoy all of Mackinac Island’s quiet pleasures. Enjoy brilliant views while sitting on the front porch of the Grand Hotel or take a walk downtown to visit the shops and buy some fudge, a favorite item on the island. Later, choose from a menu of tasty delicacies when you dine at the elegant Salle à Manger. After dinner, enjoy a cup of coffee while listening to the refined sounds of the Grand Hotel's orchestra. If you crave a secluded hideaway, retreat to the charming Cupola Bar.
- 6
Mackinac Island - Bay City
Enjoy some leisure time at the Grand Hotel and in town before departing this afternoon for your riverfront accommodations in Bay City. This evening is at leisure. Perhaps you will take to the river walk where you can explore the downtown on your own.
- 7
Bay City - Frankenmuth - Southfield
Today, explore the architectural artistry of Alden B. Dow’s home and studio during a guided tour. This legendary 20th century architect designed his home to be the peak of Mid-Twentieth Century Modern Architecture, and since its construction has been declared a National Historic Landmark. This afternoon, we visit the quaint town of Frankenmuth, or as the locals call it, "Little Bavaria," because of its Franconian-style architecture. Upon arrival, visit the largest Christmas store in the world - Bronner’s.
- 8
Southfield - Dearborn - Southfield
Today we visit Dearborn, hometown of Henry Ford and the Ford Motor Company. Visit the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village for an experience in living history. Learn how the automobile forever changed American life and society as you explore the Henry Ford Museum. At Greenfield Village, take in the historic homes and see the workshops where famous American icons like the Wright Brothers, Thomas Edison, Henry Ford and Robert Frost were once inspired. Enjoy a farewell dinner this evening, toasting the end of your wonderful journey.
- 9
Southfield - Tour Ends
Your tour ends today, leaving you with a bounty of happy memories from your visit to America’s heartland.
Inclusions & exclusions
What’s included
- Climb aboard your horse-drawn carriage, Mackinac Island’s local transportation, for a tour of the island.
- Connect with agriculture and art while you explore the many gardens of the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park.
- Immerse yourself in generations of innovation during a visit to the Henry Ford Museum.
- Spend two nights at the glorious Victorian-era resort, the Grand Hotel.
- Enjoy a guided tour of Chicago's unique and remarkable landmarks.
- Experience the architectural artistry of Alden B.
Accommodation
- Hyatt Regency, Chicago, IL
- Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown, Grand Rapids, MI
- Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island, MI
- DoubleTree Bay City Riverfront, Bay City, MI
- Westin Hotel Southfield Detroit, Southfield, MI
Common questions about this voyage
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Book this stay
Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.
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Mackinac Island
- Horse-drawn carriage tour of Mackinac Island
- Guided visit to the Henry Ford Museum
- Two nights at the historic Grand Hotel
Mackinac Island featuring the Tulip Time Festival
- Ride in a horse-drawn carriage to discover Mackinac Island's historic landmarks
- Indulge in two nights at the iconic Grand Hotel, a National Historic Landmark
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Mackinac Island featuring the Tulip Time Festival
- Enjoy a guided tour of Chicago's remarkable architecture
- Explore the charming Mackinac Island, a National Historic Landmark
- Immerse yourself in generations of innovation at the Henry Ford Museum