Spanning five captivating days, this tour immerses travelers in the natural wonder and cultural richness of the Great Lakes region. From the bustling Millennium Park in Chicago to the serene Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, the journey seamlessly blends iconic landmarks with charming towns, offering an enriching exploration of lakes Superior, Huron, and Michigan. Guided experiences, delectable breakfasts, and the opportunity to visit the renowned Harley-Davidson Museum promise an unforgettable adventure. With its perfect balance of scenic beauty and culture, this tour invites you to uncover the hidden gems that make this corner of the Midwest truly remarkable.
Key Points
- The 5-day tour covers the Great Lakes region, including Lakes Superior, Huron, and Michigan, with a focus on natural attractions and cultural experiences.
- The tour departs from Millennium Park Welcome Center in Chicago and includes visits to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Chicago landmarks, and charming towns like Holland and Mackinac Island.
- Included experiences feature a scenic cruise at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, an optional visit to the 360 Chicago observation deck, and exploration of the Harley-Davidson Museum.
- The tour provides comfortable transportation, a professional driver and guide, and four breakfasts for a comprehensive travel experience.
- Booking policies include free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the tour, and additional options for children and those with disabilities.
Tour Highlights
The tour’s highlights include a captivating Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore cruise, where travelers will witness the stunning sandstone cliffs, caves, and waterfalls that line the shores of Lake Superior.
They’ll then explore the vibrant city of Chicago, from the iconic 360 Chicago observation deck to the renowned Art Institute.
Along the way, they’ll visit the Harley-Davidson Museum, the charming town of Holland, and the historic Gilmore Car Museum.
The grand finale is a ferry ride to Mackinac Island, where they’ll tour the island by horse-drawn carriage and take in the stunning natural beauty.
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Itinerary Overview
This five-day tour takes travelers on an exhilarating journey through the majestic Great Lakes region, exploring the stunning landscapes and vibrant cities surrounding Lakes Superior, Huron, and Michigan.
The tour departs at 8:00 AM from Millennium Park Welcome Center in Chicago and returns to the same meeting point.
Along the way, guests will experience the natural beauty of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, visit iconic attractions like the 360 Chicago and the Art Institute of Chicago, and discover the charming towns of Holland and Mackinac Island.
With 4 included breakfasts, this comprehensive itinerary offers an unforgettable exploration of the Midwest’s most captivating destinations.
Included Experiences
Guests on this 5-day tour will enjoy a captivating exploration of the Great Lakes region‘s natural wonders and cultural attractions.
The tour includes a professional driver and guide, transportation, and 4 breakfasts. Visitors will embark on a scenic Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore tour, offering breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs and pristine waters.
Optional experiences, such as the 360 Chicago observation deck, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Harley Davidson Museum, provide opportunities to explore the area’s art, history, and industrial heritage.
With the comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guide, guests can look forward to an enriching and well-rounded Great Lakes adventure.
Optional Attractions
Travelers on the 5-day tour have the opportunity to explore a variety of optional attractions that showcase the diverse cultural and historical offerings of the Great Lakes region.
They can visit the 360 Chicago observation deck for breathtaking city views, explore the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, or enjoy the world of motorcycles at the Harley Davidson Museum.
Other options include a walking tour and visit to the Windmill Island in Holland, Michigan, a journey through automotive history at the Gilmore Car Museum, and a scenic ferry ride and carriage tour of Mackinac Island.
These add-ons allow travelers to customize their experience and delve deeper into the region’s attractions.
Booking Policies
Accurate details are required upon booking to avoid errors. Travelers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and pregnant women may join if under 24 weeks. Normal health is required, and contact is necessary for disability policies. A booster seat is required for children under 8, available for $10.00/person/day. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Policy | Requirement |
---|---|
Age Restriction | Travelers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult |
Health Condition | Normal health required; contact for disability policies |
Booster Seat | Required for children under 8, available for $10.00/person/day |
Cancellation | Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts |
Tour Logistics
The tour departs at 8:00 am from the Millennium Park Welcome Center in Chicago. It covers the stunning lakes of Superior, Huron, and Michigan over 5 days, returning to the same location.
Travelers will be transported by a vehicle suited to the group size. The tour includes 4 breakfasts but excludes personal expenses, flights, and gratuities.
Visitors must pay mandatory fees for the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Tour and can choose to visit optional attractions like the 360 Chicago and the Harley Davidson Museum.
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and booster seats are available for a fee. Itinerary changes may occur due to weather or operational needs.
Additional Details
Hotels for this tour vary by type and occupancy rules. Check-in is available after 3:00 pm. As this is a group activity, leaving the group requires prior notice and consent from the tour guide. Smoking is prohibited on the bus and in most hotel rooms, with penalties for violations. While the itinerary is planned in advance, adjustments may occur due to weather or operational needs, though no refunds will be provided for changes due to force majeure. The tour has a maximum capacity of 55 travelers per group.
Attraction | Adult | Senior | Child |
---|---|---|---|
360 Chicago | $35.00 | $35.00 | $23.00 |
Art Institute of Chicago | $32.00 | $26.00 | $26.00 |
Harley Davidson Museum | $22.00 | $16.00 | $8.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?
The amount of walking involved varies across the tour’s activities. While some attractions like the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Mackinac Island require significant walking, others like the Chicago Architectural Cruise involve minimal walking. Travelers should be prepared for a moderate level of walking overall.
Can Travelers Bring Their Own Food and Drinks on the Bus?
Travelers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the bus, as long as they do not interfere with the group’s activities or create any mess. The tour guide may request that certain items be consumed during designated breaks.
Are There Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place?
The tour provider requires all travelers to follow current COVID-19 safety protocols, which may include mask-wearing, distancing, and vaccination/testing requirements. Specific details can be obtained upon booking as protocols may change based on local guidelines.
What Is the Typical Group Size for This Tour?
The tour group size is typically limited to a maximum of 55 travelers. This allows for a manageable group experience while ensuring sufficient space and attention from the professional driver and guide.
Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies with prior notice. Guests should inform the booking agent of any special dietary needs, which the tour operator will make their best effort to accommodate.
Recap
This five-day tour of the Great Lakes region is a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. From the stunning Pictured Rocks to the charming towns and historic Mackinac Island, travelers will be immersed in the rich tapestry of the Great Lakes. With guided explorations, delicious meals, and countless opportunities for unforgettable memories, this tour promises an enriching adventure in one of America’s most scenic and captivating destinations.
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