Tue, Aug 3: Depart Indianapolis by motorcoach for Door County, Wisconsin, stopping at the John Michael Kohler Arts Preserve for lunch and a docent-led tour. Located in Sheboygan, the Art Preserve is a one-of-a-kind museum showcasing remarkable works created by self-taught and visionary artists. Continue north along the shores of Lake Michigan to the Stone Harbor Resort & Conference Center, located in the heart of Sturgeon Bay. The waterfront hotel offers easy access to shops, restaurants, and walking paths along the lakeshore. This evening, relax and enjoy exploring on your own. (Meals: Lunch)
Wed, Aug 4: After an included breakfast at the hotel, dive into the world of ship building at the Maritime Museum, and tour the Tug John Purves, built in 1919 for the U.S. Shipping Board in response to the needs of WWI. Depart for picturesque Sister Bay, home to the popular Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant and Butik, where goats graze on the grass-topped roof! Enjoy an included lunch followed by free time to shop and explore the charming town. This afternoon, board a leisurely, narrated boat cruise through Green Bay. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the stunning shores and towering bluffs, while listening to captivating stories of Northern Door County’s rich commercial fishing heritage, tales of the Lake’s historical shipwrecks, and more. Next on the agenda, dinner—a traditional fish boil, where mild, delicate whitefish, fresh from the waters of Lake Michigan are prepared outdoors in a boiling kettle while you watch. A slice of fresh cherry pie tops off the meal before returning to the hotel. (B,L,D)
Thu, Aug 5: This morning travel north to Björklunden in Bailey’s Harbor, the northern estate of Lawrence University. Tour the unique Boynton Chapel, handcrafted in a 12th-century Norwegian style and ornately decorated with hand-carved woodwork and 41 hand-painted frescoes. Spend free time in Egg Harbor before transferring to Peninsula State Park. Take in the views from the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, located in the park, and hear the personal stories of the keepers who toiled through the night and manned the light from 1868 to 1926. Afterwards visit Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market for a wine tasting of the estate-grown pure fruit and traditional grape varieties. Transfer to another charming small town—Fish Creek. Enjoy free time to grab dinner and check out the shopping opportunities in Fish Creek, known for being Door County’s most walkable community. To top off a fantastic day, take in a performance by the Peninsula Players nestled under the stars. Known as the “Theatre in a Garden”, the open sided pavilion is a unique blend of live theater and beautiful views, you’ll enjoy live theater while surrounded by cedar forests, gardens, and glistening waterfront. (B)
Fri, Aug 6: Begin the trek home making stops along the way to acquire some Wisconsin delights. Stop at a popular cheese shop to pick up local cheese and other regional favorites, such as those irresistible kringle pastries! Arrive in Indianapolis this evening. (B)