Grand Time on Mackinac Island

Day 1

The adventure begins!
Meet your friendly Trailways Tour Host and Driver at the available departure location of your choice and relax as we make our way to Grand Rapids, MI. We will be making some rest and refresh stops along the way including time for lunch, on your own.
When we arrive at the Drury Inn & Suites Grand Rapids enjoy the Drury Inn’s “Kickback Reception,” available from 5:30 to 7:00 pm daily with a rotating menu of hot and cold foods along with a couple of ‘adult’ drinks included with a choice of some wines, beers and cocktails. Of course, soft drinks and water are also available. If you would rather have something more than this for dinner, there is a Longhorn Steakhouse across from the hotel. Rest up, tomorrow we head north to explore some of Upper Michigan.

Day 2

Castles, Mushrooms & Chocolates
Start your morning off with a hot breakfast at the hotel before departing for Alanson, MI. But first we’ll have some stops to explore along the way. Step into a world of timeless beauty and enchantment at Castle Farms, a historic estate nestled in the heart of Charlevoix, Michigan. Originally built in 1918 by Albert Loeb, the vice president of Sears, Roebuck & Co., to help aid in the sales of farm equipment. Castle Farms was inspired by the grand stone castles of Normandy, France. Today, you’ll be taking a guided tour of this breathtaking venue with its unique blend of history, architecture, and natural splendor.
Stroll through stunning gardens, explore charming courtyards, and marvel at the elegant stone towers that make Castle Farms a destination like no other. Whether you’re taking in the giant dragon, enjoying a leisurely tour, or exploring the fascinating museum collections that include antique toys and model trains, Castle Farms offers something for everyone. While here you’ll also enjoy a wonderful buffet lunch of sandwiches, salad, soup, and cookies. We then depart to continue on our way into Charlevoix.
Hidden in the quiet streets of Charlevoix, Michigan, the famous Mushroom Houses are unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Our Step-On Guide will introduce you to these unique houses designed by the visionary architect Earl Young. These quirky, fairy-tale-like homes appear to have sprung from the pages of a fantasy novel. Their unique, organic forms blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, creating an enchanting village that draws visitors from near and far.
Each house, often called “Hobbit houses” or “Gnome homes,” features undulating stone walls, rolling rooflines, and rounded windows that make them look as if they’ve grown from the earth itself. Using locally sourced boulders, fieldstone, and natural materials, Earl Young’s designs reflect a deep connection to the surrounding environment, giving the homes an earthy, whimsical charm. The houses are a testament to his belief that architecture should be imaginative and in harmony with nature.
We continue now to the next stop on our journey, Petoskey, where you will indulge your sweet tooth with a visit to Kilwins Chocolate Kitchen. Founded in 1947, Kilwins has become synonymous with premium chocolates, fudge, and ice cream, offering visitors an unforgettable experience where old-fashioned charm meets modern-day indulgence.
At the Kilwins Chocolate Kitchen, you’re invited to witness the magic of chocolate-making firsthand. The moment you walk through the doors, you’re greeted by the warm, mouthwatering aroma of freshly melted chocolate and sugary confections. Watch as skilled chocolatiers handcraft everything from creamy truffles and smooth caramels to their signature Mackinac Island-style fudge. Watch as they carefully pour and shape the chocolate, mix in delicious fillings, and cut the fudge into perfect, bite-sized pieces. Whether you’re a chocolate connoisseur or simply looking for a fun and tasty outing, Kilwins Chocolate Kitchen is a sweet escape that celebrates the art of confectionery and leaves you craving more.
The final stop today is our hotel for the night, Crooked River Lodge in Alanson, MI. Nestled along the banks of the serene Crooked River, this charming lodge blends rustic charm with modern amenities. You will get to enjoy a catered dinner at the lodge before settling in for the night. Tomorrow, we arrive on Mackinac Island so make sure you get plenty of rest.

Day 3

Arrive at the Grand
After breakfast this morning, we depart for Mackinaw City where you will bid farewell to the motorcoach and board Shepler’s Ferry for a 15-20 minute ride to Mackinac Island. You’ll soon spot the historic and regal Grand Hotel sitting up on the hill keeping watch over the Straits of Mackinac. It is here that you will be staying for the next two nights.
You’ll be taking a step back in time as you exit the ferry and set foot upon Mackinac Island, a place that is so tranquil that you wonder how that may be. Then, it dawns upon you that there is not a single motorized vehicle of any kind roaming the street; only pedestrians, bicyclists, and horse drawn carriages. Upon arrival, we will have some time to explore the town and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in town before you are greeted by horse drawn carriages that will take us on a tour of the island so that you may become more acquainted. You will soon see that this is a very enjoyable and authentic way to view the island. We end our ride at the Grand Hotel where you will find your unique room awaiting you.
Since 1877 the Grand Hotel has beckoned guests to a bygone era of old-world hospitality and charm. Experience for yourself the tradition of afternoon tea in the Parlor, dressing up for dinner, nightly dancing to the sounds of the Grand Hotel Orchestra, and sitting in a rocking chair on the largest and grandest porch ever with views of the Straits of Mackinac. Explore the hotel and get ready for this evening’s dinner and activities. Do know that while at the Grand Hotel, it is mandatory that you “dress” for dinner – ladies in a nice dress, skirt, or pants and blouse, men in a jacket and tie. This dress code is strictly enforced for dinner and while attending evening events at the Hotel which just adds to the grandeur. If you are wandering away from the hotel for the evening, you may dress in a more casual way.
Dinner this evening is in the Main Dining Room. It overlooks the world’s longest porch displaying the hotel’s many American Flags, as well as the glistening straits. Sit down for dinner and you may catch a glimpse of the bellmen taking down the flags for the day – an evening sunset tradition while enjoying music by the Grand Hotel Orchestra. After dinner enjoy strolling the grounds, rocking in a chair on the porch, or dancing the night away to the orchestra.

Day 4

Free Time on the Island
Rise and shine when you wish and enjoy breakfast at the hotel this morning before spending the day on your own exploring. Perhaps spend the morning relaxing on the porch as you take in the gorgeous view of the lake, reading a book, or explore the island with a bicycle rental. This is one of the most scenic ways to take in the natural beauty of the island. One of the most iconic island experiences is pedaling all the way around the outer rim of the Island with the lake breeze in your face. It’s a leisurely 8.2-mile ride that takes 60-90 minutes with fabulous views. Be sure to stop at some of the iconic places where the movie Somewhere in Time was filmed starring Christopher Reeves and Jane Seymour. Much of this movie was set in the Grand Hotel.
Perhaps you may wish to do a little shopping on Main Street to find the perfect souvenir and why not do a personal taste test to see which shop you think has the absolute best salt-water taffy and fudge! Just as Mackinac Island was at one time the center of the world’s fur trade, it now attracts people from around the globe to taste the world-famous Mackinac Island Fudge! Enjoy delicious samples from many fudge shops downtown and see the fudge making process in action. It is truly a theatrical production! It is an amazing fact that the downtown shops make 10,000 pounds of fudge each day in season! That’s a lot of sugar, butter, and cream! To understand why there’s so much fudge, here’s the backstory on why Mackinac Island fudge is such a big deal. The gist of it is that people on vacation like to enjoy a sweet or two. And that has been true since Victorian travelers popularized Mackinac Island as a vacation destination way back in the 1800’s and continues today.
If you haven’t filled up on the sweets, be sure to take time for lunch. You will find that the cuisine of Mackinac Island is as diverse and intriguing as the island itself with a menu offering something delicious for everyone. After, you may wish to learn more about some of the history of the Island and Fort Mackinac by taking a tour on your own of the Fort and museum. Some admission fees may apply.
You can also do some exploration around the Grand Hotel. For the charm of it, for the magic of it, be sure to visit the Secret Garden. It is a highlighted favorite spot for many visitors, or at least for those who can find it. Here’s some help, it is in a large area in the middle of the gardens, but still very much hidden. It features two distinct sections, one full of perennials and the other dedicated to a spring flower bulb display, which is then replanted with ever-changing annuals for bright splashes of color. If you can’t find the Secret Garden, don’t worry! There are a couple of established paths on the hotel grounds that run right through it. And if it still eludes your search, the hotel’s staff are happy to show you the way.
Tonight enjoy getting dressed up for another dinner in the Main Dining Room on the Parlor Level. Perhaps after dinner you may want to venture up to the Cupola Bar – there are some fantastic views from up there!

Day 5

Shrine of the Cross in the Woods
Enjoy another breakfast at the Grand Hotel this morning before departing on the horse drawn carriage transporting you back to the dock and Shepler’s Ferry for your ride back to the mainland where the motorcoach will be waiting. After boarding the motorcoach, settle back and take in the scenery as we make our way to the National Shrine of the Cross in the Woods located in Indian River, MI.
The centerpiece of the shrine is a massive 55-foot-tall redwood crucifix, believed to be one of the largest in the world, with a 28-foot bronze statue of Christ. Set against a backdrop of lush trees and blue skies, this awe-inspiring monument stands as a powerful symbol of faith and devotion. The shrine features several other religious statues and devotional areas, including statues of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, and St. Peregrine, the patron saint of cancer patients. The Shrine Gift Shop and Visitor Center provide information about the history of the site and offer a variety of religious items and souvenirs.
A special feature of the shrine is the indoor Nun Doll Museum, a unique collection that showcases dolls dressed in the traditional habits of various religious orders. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and diversity of Catholic religious life.
After taking some time to explore the shrine this morning, your journey continues. You’ll make some rest and refresh stops along the way to a Trailways Traveler favorite, the Essenhaus Inn! You’ll have dinner on your own tonight at the famous Das Dutchman Essenhaus Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering Amish-style cuisine, especially its fried chicken, hearty comfort foods, and decadent pies. Rest well, tomorrow we are venturing back home but not before one final stop!

Day 6

Mystery Stop
Before departing this morning, have a hot breakfast at the hotel and then sit back as well make our way to a Mystery Stop before heading home. On your way home, you can share with your fellow travelers all the fun you had exploring Mackinac Island, the extra pound you now have from the fudge you ate, the beautiful gardens you saw, and history you learned. We hope you take home some fabulous memories of your Grand Time on Mackinac Island and will travel with us again soon!