On arrival in Mackinaw City, MI you first visit Colonial Fort Michilimackinac, a 1770s-era fort and fur trading village with 13 authentically reconstructed buildings, interactive displays, and demonstrations such as open hearth cooking, Native American crafts, and cannon and musket firings.

You also visit the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse.  A point in the storm and a guiding beacon since 1889, it has helped ships navigate through the treacherous waters of the Straits of Mackinac.  Here you will see the original, Victorian-era quarters, watch an audiovisual program “Shipwrecks of the Straights” and see exhibits that include the original lens.

Late afternoon you check into your hotel for a two night stay.  Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant followed by a evening at Mackinaw Crossings.  A Victorian inspired shopping center where unique shopping, dining & entertainment come together.  Over 50 specialty shops, attractions and dining. (D)

Today may feel like a scene from the 1980 film “Somewhere in Time,” starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour.  To the romantic on your tour, we hope there are deja vu moments, and that they get a sense of the perspective between life today and in the Victorian Age.  When taking a photograph you will have a chance to share that moment in the future, but only when traveling does your imagination have a chance to share moments in the past.

This morning, you board Shepler’s Ferry for a journey into the Victorian Age of America, a visit to one of our very favorite places, Mackinac Island.  Accessible only by boat, this summer resort has the feel of life in the 1890’s.  There are no motorized vehicles on the island, horse drawn carriages will meet the ferry, and then with the clattering of hoofs on cobblestones, whisk you off on a narrated tour.

Included will be stops at several scenic points for photos and a visit to Old Fort Mackinac, a British Garrison (circa 1780) it sits on a southern bluff overlooking the majestic Straits of Mackinac.  Inside the fort walls are 14 original buildings filled with interactive displays and period furnishings.  Hear bugle music, rifle fire, and a cannon blast. Dance to a 19th-century tune.  Drill with soldiers.  Watch a court martial reenactment.  Play Victorian children’s games and create a history that’s all your own.

Lunch is included at the Grand Hotel, one of the finest hotels in the world, it is a truly lovely setting, and a memorable meal.  Take a moment and enjoy a rocking chair view from the world’s longest porch.  The Grand Hotel is one of the leading hotels of the world.

Following lunch you have time to visit the shops and boutiques near the Ferry Docks.  Gather souvenirs, including a box of famous Mackinac Island Fudge.  At the  end of your day on the Island we return via Ferry, to Mackinaw City for another comfortable night.  (B,L)

Depart for Home.  Groups who wish may add another day and enjoy one of our two wilderness railroad options. (B)

Optional Add ons: 

The U.P. Explorer

• Oswald Bear Ranch
• Wilderness Train Ride
• Riverboat to Tahquamenon Falls

The Agawa Canyon Tour Train

• All Day ride on the Algoma Black Bear
• Breakfast & Lunch onboard
• Canadian Border Crossing requires passport