An afternoon arrival will allow you time for a short historic tour of Frankenmuth.  This community has the feel of a Bavarian Town with its architecture.  The shops and boutiques offer items with an international flare, and the music and cuisine are definitely reminiscent of the old country.  It was settled in 1845 by conservative Lutheran immigrants, from the Bavarian region of Germany as a mission post for the spread of Christianity to the Chippewa tribe.   While the missions are long gone the Bavarian atmosphere remains.

You’ll see the Bavarian Inn’s Glockenspiel Tower that houses a magnificent 35-bell carillon, a beautiful figurine movement and an illuminated clock, all imported from Germany!  The Glockenspiel plays several selections which are immediately followed by figurine movement depicting the legend of the Pied Piper of Hamlin.

Dinner is Frankenmuth’s famous family style chicken at the Bavarian Inn Restaurant where a German OomPah band plays traditional music.  After dinner you have free time, many people will want to visit Bronner’s Christmas Store and see their gigantic collection of ornaments and holiday displays.  Others will want see the town’s laser light show at dusk.  (D)

On arrival in Mackinaw City, MI you first visit Colonial Fort Michilimackinac, a 1770s-era fort and village with 13 authentically reconstructed buildings, interactive displays, and demonstrations such as open hearth cooking, Native American crafts, plus cannon and musket firings.  The first Europeans through this area were the French, to whom it was an important fur-trading post.  They were followed by the Jesuits who built missions and by the British during the French and Indian Wars.

Your afternoon in Mackinaw City includes 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.  Followed by dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)

This morning 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 your ferry, 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 brunch 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 and dinner on your own. (B,L)

Today arrive in Holland, MI where a Costumed Guide provides an afternoon tour.  The European flavor of Holland stems from its roots as a haven for Dutch immigrants who arrived in the mid-1800’s.  Popular attractions such as DeZwaan, the only authentic Dutch windmill in the U.S., the Tulip Gardens producing for the internationally-known, annual Tulip Time Festival.  Following the tour you have free time for shopping in the downtown district, and dinner on own.  There are more than 20 restaurants in walking distance. (B)

Today begins at the Tulip Gardens, Holland’s only tulip farm is ablaze with acres of tulips from late April to mid-May.  Also here is the De Klomp Wooden Shoe and Delft Factory, a store that words cannot describe.  From the time you walk into the door, your eyes will not believe the beauty and splendor of the items on our shelves.

Then visit the Dutch Village.  Step back in time to the Netherlands of 100 years ago where you’ll enjoy Dutch architecture, canals, and beautiful gardens.  Learn a few steps from the klompen dancers, watch artisans make cheese and carve candles.  While here, enjoy a Dutch Culinary Experience.  Learn how to make a traditional Dutch “Koffee kletz” and Ban’ket along with lunch.

This afternoon you visit the Windmill Island Gardens is a beautiful oasis on the edge of downtown Holland, MI.  It features a centuries old working Dutch windmill “De Zwaan” (meaning graceful bird).  The windmill, which reaches 125 feet from the ground to the top of the blades, towers over 36 acres of manicured gardens, dikes, canals and picnic areas.

Next you will enjoy a Tour & Tasting at either Fenn Valley Winery or Coppercraft Distillery, followed by dinner at one of Holland’s best restaurants. (B,D)

This morning your adventure into the Michigan’s European Triangle ends as you depart for home. (B)