Mackinac Island in Autumn
October 5-13, 2024
Illinois to Michigan
Join us on our first ever supported senior land tour from Chicago to Michigan and picture perfect Mackinac Island! Experience the splendor of autumnal colors in the Great Lakes region before stepping back in time with a stay at the iconic Grand Hotel.
This is an Elite Cruises Supported Senior Travel Experience and is not part of our accessible and dementia-friendly group cruises and caregiver retreats. For accessibility concerns please call 888-826-6836.
Where We’re Taking You
Day 1: Arrival in Chicago
Fly to Chicago’s O’Hare Airport and check in to the Hyatt Regency along the Chicago River. Enjoy a leisurely day before the fun starts tomorrow!
Day 2: Chicago
After breakfast our day kicks off with a tour of Chicago and a look at its impressive architecture. Explore the Loop and Magnificent Mile take a walk through Millenium Park before enjoying free time to do as you please. We highly recommend taking a boat tour of the Chicago River or enjoying a beverage at one of the many spots on the river walk. In the evening we’ll regroup for a celebratory dinner to cheers to our upcoming adventures!
Day 3: Grand Rapids, MI
After breakfast we’ll travel north by coach and make our way to the Canopy by Hilton in Grand Rapids, MI. After checking in our coach will take us to the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park where we’ll explore the 158 acre property and view their special autumn exhibit Chrysanthemums & More!
Day 4: Mackinac Island, MI
We’ll enjoy breakfast before setting off on a scenic drive to Mackinaw City. We’ll have time to explore this charming coastal vacation spot before boarding the ferry that will take us to Mackinac Island and our lodgings for the next two nights, the iconic Grand Hotel. We’ll have dinner at this Victorian Era resort and the rest of the night is free to do as we please. Personally we can’t wait to enjoy a beverage while taking in the view from one of the 100+ chairs that line the immense front porch of the hotel!
Day 5: Mackinac Island, MI
Today we’re really stepping back in time with a horse drawn carriage tour of the island! After breakfast we’ll get the true Mackinac experience by traveling the island by carriage and get to stop at the Surrey Hills Carriage Museum. Afterwards there’s free time to stop at any spots that caught our eye and try some of the fudge the island is famous for. Then at night we’ll get dressed up for a formal dinner at the elegant Salle à Manger and enjoy music from the Grand Hotel Orchestra.
Day 6: Bay City, MI
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and last stroll around town before departing Mackinac Island and heading to our next destination: Bay City. We’ll check into our hotel, Courtyard Bay City, which overlooks the Saginaw River. Walk the riverwalk or explore downtown, this night is free time and a chance to relax before a busy day tomorrow.
Day 7: Southfield, MI
After breakfast we’ll head directly to Alden B. Dow’s Home & Studio for a guided tour of this national landmark and perfect example of mid-twentieth century modern architecture. Then we’ll travel to Frankenmuth, or Little Bavaria as the locals call it, to explore this charming town and visit the world’s largest Christmas shop. At night we’ll check in to our final lodging The Westin Southfield.
Day 8: Southfield, MI
Today we’re journeying back to America’s past with stops at the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village! Take a ride in a model T or on a steam powered train and learn about 300 years of American innovation at theses fantastic museums before enjoying one last dinner together as group.
Day 9: Departure from MI
Today we’ll enjoy one last hotel breakfast before our coach takes us to Chicago. Return home from Chicago’s O’Hare Airport.
About the Elite Experience
Our Elite concierge travel services guarantee a true vacation experience for all. We handle luggage, accommodation, transportation, bookings, etc. so all you have to focus on is having fun! Plus with our inclusive pricing you can expect premium dining experiences, select group excursions, and more, all while traveling with our Elite staff, including Elite Cruises & Vacations owner Kathy Shoaf, who can assist with anything you want or need. Call 888-826-6836 or email Elite Cruises and Vacations owner at Kathy@EliteCruisesAndVacationsTravel.com to begin customizing your journey.
