Lilac Time on Mackinac Island II
With Harbor Springs & Charlevoix
Overview
The picturesque towns of northern Michigan beckon you to a bygone era of old-world hospitality and charm. Absorb the natural beauty and peaceful surroundings on Mackinac Island, a place where time moves at the pace of a horse-drawn carriage. Head north along the sunset side of Michigan, explore charming lakeside havens and their natural scenic surroundings. Stay near Harbor Springs at an all-seasons resort and take advantage of summer amenities, and tour Charlevoix to see the unique architecture of Earl Young’s “mushroom” houses. At the pinnacle of this trip are two nights at the island’s crown jewel, the historic Grand Hotel. Unwind and take in the spectacular views from your lakeview room or from a rocking chair on the world’s longest porch at the Grand Hotel and let the enchanting aroma of lilacs envelop you. Visit during the annual Lilac Festival and have the opportunity to participate in some of the events.
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE
- Lakeview accommodations for two nights at the Grand Hotel
- Stay on Mackinac Island during the Lilac Festival
- Narrated carriage tour of Mackinac Island
- Scenic ferry ride
- See Earl Young’s “mushroom” houses in Charlevoix
- Relax at the Highlands Harbor Springs Resort
- Ample free time to explore quaint towns
PACKAGE INCLUDES
- Roundtrip motorcoach transportation from Indianapolis
- Escorted
- 4 nights accommodations
- Breakfast daily
- 3 dinners
- Sightseeing and admissions per itinerary
- Ground transportation
- Hotel baggage handling
Note:
This itinerary includes activities where moderate walking is required.
Itinerary
Sun, June 9: Depart Indianapolis via motorcoach and head north, stopping in the charming lakeside town of South Haven for lunch and free time enroute to Michigan’s Highlands Harbor Springs Resort. The Highlands offers a plethora of activities for all seasons in an idyllic setting. Check in and get settled before a Welcome Dinner with fellow travelers. (Meals: Dinner)
Mon, June 10: Following breakfast at the resort, travel to nearby Charlevoix for a tour of the town’s most historic attractions— the quirky Earl Young “mushroom” houses. Built from 1918 to the 1950s, the interesting and intricate stand-alone architecture style will amaze you with undulating stone walls capped by mushroom-shaped cedar shake roofs. Enjoy free time in town before returning to the resort to enjoy the balance of the day on your own. Take a ride on the scenic chair lift, the exhilarating zip line, play some golf, or simply relax. Those that prefer more shopping time will have the opportunity to visit nearby Petoskey, well-known for its Hemmingway connections and the prized Petoskey Stone. Dinner is on your own this evening. Choose to top off the perfect day at one of the resort bonfires to enjoy a s’more. (B)
Tue, June 11: Begin the day with breakfast, check out of the resort and board the motorcoach bound for St. Ignace. Drive across the famous five-mile “Mighty Mac” bridge before crossing the strait by ferry to Mackinac Island. Upon arrival, the ferry dock location places you in the center of town to have free time for lunch and exploring. As motorized vehicles are prohibited on the island, you’ll get the unique privilege of taking a narrated tour of the island via a horse-drawn carriage. Stop for a quick photo at stunning Arch Rock, then transfer to the fabulous Grand Hotel and check in to your lakeview accommodations for the next two nights. A National Historic Landmark, the hotel has been visited by U.S. Presidents, world-renowned entertainers, and countless dignitaries. No two guestrooms are alike, and each reflects the impressive style of old-fashioned American summer resorts as interpreted by New York designer Carleton Varney. Dress up for dinner this evening in the Main Dining Room. Afterward, enjoy live music and dancing. (B,D)
Wed, June 12: Following breakfast in the Main Dining Room, enjoy a free day on the island. Check the event roster for the Lilac Festival and see what is going on around town. Rent a bike; take a stroll along main street and see all the shops, restaurants, and pubs, visit Fort Mackinac, hike through the woodlands or do some birdwatching, explore Arch Rock up close; or surround yourself with the grace and beauty of butterflies and tropical gardens in the Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House. Or kick back at the Grand Hotel and enjoy a historical tour and high tea, swim in the 220-foot heated pool, try your hand at tennis or pickleball, or enjoy the quintessential summer lawn games of bocce and croquet. Delight in another delicious dinner at your leisure at the Grand Hotel. (B,D)
Thu, June 13: Enjoy the plentiful breakfast buffet at the Grand Hotel before packing up all of your Michigan memories and taking your last carriage ride on the island to the ferry dock. Board the ferry for Mackinaw City where our motorcoach and driver await. Return to Indianapolis with rest breaks enroute, including a fun stop at Cops & Donuts in Clare. (B)
Hotels
The Highlands at Harbor Springs, Harbor Springs, Michigan. This resort for all seasons is surrounded by natural beauty, offering heartfelt hospitality and an array of onsite activities. Highlights: in-room coffee/tea maker, refrigerator • complimentary WiFi • restaurants • bar/lounge • indoor pool • outdoor pool • hot tub • fitness center • golf courses • activities center.
Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island, Michigan. A classic American resort by anyone’s standards, the Grand Hotel has been named by the National Trust for Historic Preservation as “One of a Dozen Distinctive Destinations” and a National Historic Landmark. Watch the sunsets over the lake from the world’s longest porch (600 feet). Highlights: each room is uniquely decorated • in-room coffee maker and mini bar • 5 restaurants • 5 bars • tea room • spa • 18-hole golf course • Esther Williams Swimming Pool (heated, outdoor) • fitness center • 4 tennis courts • duck pin bowling alley • live music, including the Grand Hotel orchestra • horseback riding on bridle paths • family games, including bocce ball, croquet, putt-putt golf and a giant outdoor chess board • bicycles for rent • no tipping policy (fees apply for some activities).
DRESS CODE: Casual resort wear is appropriate during the day at the hotel, just avoid midriff tops, sweatpants, or cut-off shorts along with no sleeveless shirts for the men in all areas inside the hotel apart from the Cupola Bar. Because every night is special, after 6:30pm, a coat and tie are required for the gentlemen — no jeans or shorts, and for the ladies, dress slacks, dresses, or skirts and blouses are preferred.
Pricing
- Complete Package*
- Double (2 people sharing a room) – $2,199 per person
- Triple (3 people sharing a room) – $1,999 per person
- Single – $2,899
* Prices subject to change due to fuel surcharge.
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