WISCONSIN - MICHIGAN

From boardwalks to river bends-from sparkling shores to bustling stores, come explore where
nature greets you at every turn. Hear the thunder of majestic waterfalls and experience small
town charm and hospitality. A favorite tour you are sure to enjoy!

Day 1: On this warm August morning we can almost feel the cooling effects of the Great Lakes as we start our tour heading north and east. We will be visiting three of the five Great Lakes as we circle Lake Michigan through the states of Wisconsin and Michigan. We will enjoy getting acquainted with each other as we travel toward adventure and fun. By night we will be in Marshalltown, Iowa. 

Day 2:We’re all familiar with the song “Little Brown Church.” Our first stop this morning will be at that church in the Wildwood, nestled among trees in a rural setting. By mid afternoon, we will arrive at Wisconsin’s most unique and wellknown attraction. Mere words cannot describe this incredible place. The House on the Rock will absolutely fascinate you with its unusual location, wonderful architecture, antiques, carousel and so much more. The next two nights will be in the town of Wisconsin Dells. 

Day 3: This morning we will visit the original winter quarters of the Ringling Brothers Circus, with its museum and exhibit hall. We’ll stay for a Big Top Show at the Circus. At lunch time, we will spend some time downtown visiting the different shops and enjoying lunch on your own. This afternoon you can relax as we cruise up the most scenic 7 mile stretch of the Wisconsin River viewing the Wisconsin Dells. You can soak up the sun and the refreshing breeze, as the splendor of nature unfolds before you. There are spectacularly sculptured cliffs that rise more than 100 feet above the water. Then back to the motel and evening meal before leaving for our extra-ordinary evening entertainment, the world famous Tommy Bartlett’s Ski, Sky and Stage Show, where performing for us will be water skiers, juggling jokesters, dancers, entrancing waters and more! Back to the same motel for the night. 

Day 4: Today, we will be driving on into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula as we start our circle around the beautiful Lake Michigan. Tonight our lodging will be right on the north shore of Lake Michigan. 

Day 5: Another exciting day awaits us as we board the Toonerville Trolley. We’ll take a short ride to meet our comfortable excursion boat for a delightful and relaxing 21 mile trip downriver through Michigan’s virgin wilderness. We’ll dock at the head of a half-mile of rapids and after a short walk you may view the beautiful Tahquamenon Falls. You can purchase your lunch on the boat. Late afternoon we’ll continue on into Sault Ste Marie which will be home for the next two nights. 

Day 6: This morning we are out to see the highlights of this oldest Michigan city, Sault Saint Marie. We will visit the locking system as it opens and closes the gates to allow ships passage. For a panoramic view of the locks, the St. Marys River and rapids, and the city’s historical sites we will ascend to the 21st story in the Tower of History. This will certainly be an unforgettable day. Back to the same motel. 

Day 7:We will begin our day with a Soo Locks Boat tour. We will ride through the Soo Locks right alongside the big freighters. This is part of the largest waterway traffic system on earth. We will explore the waterway which leads ships to the Soo Locks from Lake Superior. Following lunch, we will head south and soon be crossing the world’s longest total suspension bridge, the Mackinac Bridge. We will have time for a picture stop then it’s on to Mackinaw City, MI for the next two nights.

Day 8: After the beautiful sunrise across the simmering waters of Lake Huron, we will find ourselves on the water as we ferry to Mackinac Island. Since motor vehicles are not permitted to intrude on the natural beauty of Mackinac Island, there is no better way to visit this historic isle and see the legendary points of interest than by carriage. A horse drawn carriage will meet us at the ferry dock for our expertly narrated tour that will acquaint us with the island. Our ride will take us past the fort and then to the Grand Hotel for an included elegant buffet lunch. What a bountiful grand meal!! You will be on your own the rest of the day to stroll Main Street, shop, or just sit and enjoy the atmosphere. You can ride the boat back to the main land at your convenience any time this afternoon. This evening you are on your own to explore the great downtown, or walk to the park to view the bridge in its spectacular lighted majesty. 

Day 9: After traveling south a short distance, first on the agenda is the Music House. This rustic museum preserves many of the priceless original music making creations and instruments. Cherries are our next stop on the agenda. Here in Michigan is where three quarters of the world’s red tart cherries are grown. We will have an educational and entertaining orchard tour with our friendly, knowledgeable step-on guide at the Amon Orchards, after which we will get to sample some cherry products. After a relaxing ride in our comfortable motor coach, late afternoon will find us at the Wooden Shoe Factory in Holland to see how wooden shoes are made. Our motel tonight is in Holland, Michigan 

Day 10: Along Lake Michigan, the sand dunes rise to amazing heights. So hang on tight as we view these sights on our thrilling dune buggy ride. The rest of the day will be mostly riding as we head south and west, arriving west of St Louis, MO for the night. 

Day 11: What a packed and enjoyable eleven days! As we continue west toward home we will enjoy sharing the memories of those special events and sights that we have enjoyed together.