Arrive today in Traverse City, MI, the Cherry Capital of the World.  Check into your local hotel for a three night stay.  Dinner is included this evening at a local restaurant. (D)

This morning, head to 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.

After a morning at the Sand Dunes, enjoy free time and lunch on own at the Village at Grand Traverse Commons.  Located just a few minutes from downtown, enjoy a unique collection of dozens of historic buildings, on beautiful wooded grounds, that are being renovated into an exciting and fun area to explore.  Stroll these historic grounds and discover restaurants, retail shops, wineries, a brick oven bakery, and much more.

The afternoon will also feature a stop at Cherry Republic.  The Cherry Capital of the World, Traverse City is the natural spot for their second Flagship store!  Located right on Front Street, the Downtown TC location opened in 2007 and features homemade ice cream, cherry pie and a Tasting Room.  The store’s beautiful natural wood accents, and generous sample stations will make you feel right at home!

Dinner is included this evening at a local restaurant.  An evening of theater at the Old Town Playhouse can be added this evening as available. (B,D)

Today features a full day in the Old Mission Peninsula.  Dotted with cherry trees, lavender farms, and vineyards, travel up the Old Mission Peninsula to experience Northern Michigan’s one-of-a-kind jewel.

Start with a visit to the Old Mission Lighthouse Park.  Visit the Hessler Log Cabin, tour the museum, climb the lighthouse tower, hike a trail, and walk along the beach where you may just find a Petoskey stone (Michigan’s State Stone).

Then visit the Village of Old Mission, the oldest permanent town in the Grand Traverse area, settled in 1839 when the Rev. Peter Dougherty established a mission.  Tour the Dougherty Mission House with a docent and visit the reconstructed log church and Old Mission General Store.

Following a break for lunch on own, enjoy an afternoon tour of Old Mission Wineries.  The Old Mission Peninsula is part of the Traverse Wine Coast with nearly 50 wineries that produce 60-percent of Michigan wine grapes.  This tour will include visits to at least three wineries.  Enjoy the views, tours and wine tasting on this unique peninsula.

Returning to Traverse City, enjoy dinner this evening at a local restaurant.

End the day with an Evening Cruise on a Tall Ship.  Sail on West Grand Traverse Bay on the tall ship Manitou, a replica of an 1800’s cargo schooner.  With over 3,000 square feet of sail, this stately vessel has plied the waters of Traverse City since 1991.  (Tall Ship subject to availability) (B,D)

After breakfast, depart Traverse City and make one last stop before traveling home.  Visit the Music House Museum.  Explore an extensive collection of the finest, restored and rare automated musical instruments.  Enjoy live performances from history’s greatest artists as their music comes alive to combine art, music and history.  Witness the majestic 1922 Mortier Dance Hall Organ that is as beautiful to see as it is to hear.

Depart for home following your visit. (B)