Another Northwoods Adventure
Lake Michigan is the only Great Lake located entirely inside the US. All others share a border with Canada. Join us as we ferry across the Lake on the SS Badger, follow the Michigan Coast north, turn west and cross the Upper Peninsula, before returning South along the Wisconsin shore. You discover incredible scenic beauty, the heritage of Native Americans, and so much more.
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Lunch is included today at the Lighthouse Inn on Lake Michigan.
Then stop in nearby Manitowoc to board the SS Badger Ferry. Enjoy a relaxing 4-hour trip between Manitowoc, Wisconsin and Ludington, Michigan. There is plenty to see and do aboard the huge ship – including games, free movies and satellite television, shopping in the gift shop, or just strolling or lounging on the spacious outside decks. Meals are available in the buffet restaurant and deli-style snack bar. Arriving in Ludington, MI check into your hotel for the night. (B)
Next, stop in Empire, MI for a guided tour of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Miles of sand beach, bluffs that tower 450’ above Lake Michigan, lush forests, clear inland lakes, unique flora and fauna make up the natural world of Sleeping Bear Dunes. High dunes afford spectacular views across the lake. An island lighthouse, US Life-Saving Service stations, coastal villages, and picturesque farmsteads reflect the park’s rich maritime, agricultural, and history.
Then stop in Traverse City, the Cherry Capital of the World, at Cherry Republic. Located right on Front Street, this location features a wine/soda pop tasting bar, homemade ice cream, cherry pie, and a cherry climbing tree. The store’s beautiful natural wood accents, comfy lounge area, and generous sample stations will make you feel right at home!
Travel continues to Charlevoix, MI for the night. Dinner is included this evening at a local restaurant. (B,D)
Next, you tour Castle Farms. Step back in time with a visit to Castle Farms, one of Michigan’s premier historical attractions. Castle Farms offers the chance to explore acres of gardens, discover dragons, and experience Michigan’s largest outdoor model railroad. Tour the magnificent soaring stone towers, majestic stone walls, and romantic courtyards and hear the story of Albert Loeb and his prizewinning herd of Holstein-Friesian dairy cows who called the castle home more than one hundred years ago.
The afternoon includes a stop at Lavender Hill Farm in Boyne City. With more than 26 varieties of lavender on 33 acres, the farm offers a remarkable “hands-on” experience for everyone. Stroll the structured lavender labyrinth, walk a mile long walking trail, visit the sunflower plots, hand cut your own bouquets and watch the bees at work. Be surrounded by the scents and scenery of acres of lavender.
Travel ends today at the Thunder Bay Resort where you will be spending the night. The Thunder Bay Resort is a beautiful, all season resort poised on 400 acres in the heart of Northeast Michigan.
Tonight, enjoy an Elk Viewing Carriage ride through the Thunder Bay Resort. Cross the Thunder Bay River to see newborn calves and world class bull elk in velvet. It’s magical to see such large antlers in velvet this close up!
The ride ends at the beautiful Elk Antler Log Cabin where a blazing fire in the massive fireplace awaits you. You then enjoy a Five-Course Gourmet Meal and Wine Tasting. (B,D)
Next you depart for Mackinaw City, MI. Start with a tour of Colonial Michilimackinac, originally built by the French in 1714-1715 to control the fur trade and European development of the upper Great Lakes. Michilimackinac was more of a fortified community than a military outpost. The colonial community was located both inside and outside the walls and the walls were expanded several times during the French and British occupation of the area.
Then check into your Mackinaw City hotel for a two night stay. Dinner is included this evening at a local restaurant.
Following dinner, enjoy the Jack Pine Lumberjack Show. Nine-Time World Champion Logroller, Dan McDonough continues to bring you the finest in competitive lumberjack shows featuring world-class competitive lumberjacks. See World Champion Lumberjacks in head to head competition! Chopping, Sawing, Axe Throwing, Log Rolling and Speed Climbing – it’s a great combination of action packed fun and comedy! (B,D)
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.
Continue exploring the island this afternoon and doing a little shopping. Visit some of Mackinac Island’s unique shops and be sure to taste some of the famous Mackinac Island fudge. Board the ferry for your return to the Mainland and your Mackinaw City hotel. Dinner is on your own this evening. (B,L)
Then visit Oswald’s Bear Ranch, the largest bear only bear ranch in the entire United States, before departing for home. (B)
Lake Michigan is the only Great Lake located entirely inside the US. All others share a border with Canada. Join us as we ferry across the Lake on the SS Badger, follow the Michigan Coast north, turn west and cross the Upper Peninsula, before returning South along the Wisconsin shore. You discover incredible scenic beauty, the heritage of Native Americans, and so much more.