Day 5 - The Grand Hotel/Mackinac Island
We begin the day on the water with a cruise on Lake Superior.
Take in sights of the charming lakeside, as well as of massive
Great Lake shipping vessels carrying materials such as limestone,
iron ore, grain, coal and salt from the mines in the upper Great
Lakes. We head toward the Soo Locks - a marvel of engineering and a
living historical artifact - where we experience the 21-foot
difference between Lakes Superior and Huron. The boat tour allows
you to "lock through," just like the cargo vessels, and to
experience the amazing gravity-powered lock system, which raises
and releases 22 million gallons of water! Back on the shore, we
board our motorcoach and travel through the UP and to one of the
most beloved sites in the Great Lakes, Mackinac Bridge. This bridge
is the longest suspension bridge between anchorages in the Western
Hemisphere. As we cross this amazing span and the Straits of
Mackinac, we arrive in Mackinaw City - a destination that combines
lakeside scenery and interesting history. Enjoy some time to
explore the unique shopping village before boarding your ferry to
The Grand Hotel- America's Summer Retreat on Mackinac Island. This
iconic hotel opened in 1887 and retains much of its original charm,
through historic architecture and time-honored traditions. The
property is famed for hosting presidents and filming iconic movies,
such as "Somewhere in Time." It also boasts the world's longest
front porch and magnificent views of Lake Michigan and the Straits
of Mackinac. Spend the remainder of the day exploring the
traditions of the Grand or enjoying the amenities of the island.
Remember, there are no motorized vehicles allowed on the island, so
explore by foot, horse-drawn carriage or bicycle. This evening,
dinner is served at the Grand Hotel. Dinner is a special event in
which dress code in enforced and guests enjoy chef-prepared
offerings while gazing upon dramatic views. Overnight Mackinac
Island, MI.
Includes