Lake Michigan's Magnificent Shores

Duration: 8 Days | Meals Included: 7 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners 

 

Trip Highlights:

 

Petosky, MI Sightseeing Tour

Discover the charm of Petoskey, MI on a guided sightseeing tour featuring the historic Bay View community, scenic Petoskey State Park, and views of Little Traverse Bay. We'll explore the picturesque waterfront and marina, and enjoy a walk across the Bear River bridge.

 

Lavender Hill Farm Guided Tour

Climb aboard a guided golf cart tour at Lavender Hill Farm for an immersive and entertaining introduction to the world of lavender. Knowledgeable guides will take you across the property, sharing insights into the cultivation and harvesting of lavender, the role of honeybees, the farm’s historic event barn, and the essential oil distillation process. Cap off your visit with a taste of their signature Lavender Shortbread Cookies and refreshing Lavender Lemonade Fizz Soda.

 

Young Americans Dinner Theatre at the Highlands

Since 1978, The Young Americans Dinner Theatre has been entertaining and enchanting audiences of all ages, making it one of northern Michigan's most popular traditions, and home to The Highlands. This year’s show, American Jukebox, is a feel-good, high-energy celebration of American music through the decades. From rock and pop to country and Broadway, you will hear all your favorite hits performed by a talented cast of young singers, dancers, and musicians.

 

Beaver Island Ferry

Relax and enjoy a 2-hour cruise across beautiful Lake Michigan to secluded Beaver Island. Light vending of soda and snacks are available onaboard, along with restrooms and Wi-Fi.

 

Beaver Island Sightseeing Tour

Leave your passport at home and explore the only former kingdom in the United States—Beaver Island, affectionately known as America’s Emerald Isle. Surrounded by sparkling waters and blanketed in lush forests, this secluded gem offers the perfect escape to reconnect with nature and embrace the simple things in life. While on the Island you will have a customized island tour by one of the knowledgeable resident guides who will share the island’s fascinating history, including the story of the Kingdom of Jesse Strang, and offer colorful tales of life on this peaceful, remote haven.

 

Earl Young Mushroom Houses Guided Tour

Step into a storybook world on a guided tour of Earl Young’s iconic Mushroom Houses. These one-of-a-kind stone and cedar cottages—nestled among trees and boulders—feature curved lines, flowing roofs, and fairy-tale charm. Learn how Young, a self-taught architect, shaped each home to blend with nature in this unforgettable architectural adventure.

 

Friske's Farm & Market

Learn about this 3rd generation family farm and enjoy a piece of fresh-baked cherry pie!

 

Music House Museum

Enjoy a lively, guided 90-minute journey through a historic barn transformed into a musical wonderland, featuring demonstrations on rare mechanical instruments like Wurlitzer theater organs, dance hall organs, and antique music boxes.

 

Tall Ship Manitou Cruise

Embark on a peaceful 2-hour evening sail abord the Schooner Manitou. Help hoist sails, steer the ship, or simply unwind on deck with snacks and drinks from the onboard locker on Grand Traverse Bay under the glowing sunset.

 

Mac Wood's Dune Ride

Experience the Silver Lake Sand Dunes on a 40-minute guided tour through towering dunes and scenic valleys. The ride includes a brief stop at Lake Michigan for photos and a breathtaking panoramic view from one of the tallest dunes on the Silver Lake side.

 

Holland Princess Dinner Cruise

Embark on a picturesque journey through the serene waters of Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan aboard the Holland Princess, a magnificent 65-foot Victorian-style paddle-wheel riverboat. Glide past the iconic BIG RED lighthouse as you soak in the breathtaking scenery. Indulge in a memorable dining experience while taking in the sights, passing by charming lakefront homes, significant historical landmarks, and natural landscapes at their finest.

 

Meal Information:

 

Dinner on day two is included at the hotel. Choices are:

TBD

 

Dinner on day three is included at the Young Americans Dinner Theatre. Choices are:

TBD

 

Dinner on day five is included at Harrington's By the Bay. Choices are:

TBD

 

Dinner on day six is included aboard the Holland Princess Dinner Cruise. Choices are:

TBD

 

Dinner on day seven is included at Grand Concourse. Choices are:

TBD

 

Need to Know:

• Every Starr trip includes deluxe round-trip motorcoach transportation from one or more of our departure locations.

• A Starr Tour Director will accompany you on this trip.

• Baggage handling at hotels is included.

 

Accessibility:

• Starr has a select quantity of wheelchair accessible motorcoaches available; therefore, we suggest you contact a Travel Advisor to discuss any needs you may have before reserving your trip.

Day 1: Drury Plaza Cleveland Downtown (Cleveland, OH)

The hotel has an indoor pool and whirlpool. Guest rooms include a hair dryer, iron/board, microwave, and mini-fridge.

 

Days 2, 3 & 4: Stafford's Historic Perry Hotel (Petoskey, MI)

Located in downtown Petoskey, the hotel offers access to shops, restaurants, and waterfront views. Guest rooms include coffee maker, hair dryer, and iron/board.

 

Day 5: Hampton Inn (Traverse City, MI)

The hotel has an indoor pool and fitness room. Guest rooms include a coffee maker, hair dryer, and iron/board.

 

Day 6: Home2 Suites (Holland, MI)

The hotel has an indoor pool and fitness room. Guest rooms include a coffee maker, mini-fridge, microwave, hair dryer, and iron/board.

 

Day 7: DoubleTree Pittsburgh - Green Tree (Pittsburgh, PA)

Located just 3 miles from downtown, this hotel has a restaurant and lounge, indoor/outdoor pool, and fitness room. Guest rooms include a coffee maker, mini-fridge, hair dryer, and iron/board.