Day 1
Board the ship this afternoon at Chicago’s beautiful Navy Pier.
Day 2
Enjoy a full day in Chicago! An optional city tour introduces you to this spectacular city’s history and architecture, including the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower), the tallest building in North America. Tonight enjoy a presentation on the region’s history and music.
Day 3
In Milwaukee, experience an optional panoramic tour, including City Hall, RiverWalk, and Cathedral Square. At the Milwaukee Art Museum, witness the magnificent Brise Soleil* (ceiling) opening over the lake. Conclude your tour with a cheese and beer tasting at one of Milwaukee’s famed breweries. This evening, folkloric dancers perform onboard.
Day 4
Greet the day in lovely Manitowoc, WI, nestled on the sparkling shores of Lake Michigan. This morning, you may choose an optional visit to the Wisconsin Maritime Museum, stroll through the charming downtown, or simply admire the beautiful view as you relax on the ship.
Day 5
Travel to quaint Mackinac Island, MI, a historic summer retreat whose beauty and charm is preserved by its ban on motorized transportation. An optional carriage tour of the island includes entrance to the Wings of Mackinac Butterfly Conservatory and Surrey Hill Square Carriage Museum. This evening learn about the history and music of this region.
Day 6
Enjoy a leisurely morning of cruising toward Sault Ste. Marie, MI. This afternoon an optional narrated trolley tour with on/off privileges allows you to explore this delightful town at your own pace.
Day 7
This morning transit the Soo Locks along the US-Canada border and enter into Lake Superior. Cruise past the expansive Grand Sable Dunes, then marvel at the breath-taking Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, where colorful sandstone cliffs and picturesque waterfalls tower 200 feet above sea level. Admire the Au Sable Point Lighthouse before arriving in Marquette, MI this evening.
Day 8
Spend a full day in the tranquil city of Marquette, named one of the top 12 “distinctive destinations” by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 2010. Learn about the region’s rich mining history during an optional morning city tour, which includes a visit to scenic Presque Isle Park. A variety of activities can be found in Marquette, from hiking and fishing excursions for the adventurous, to museums and charming downtown shops and galleries for those seeking arts and culture. An optional outing tonight takes you to the award-winning Lake Superior Theater.*
Day 9
Set sail this morning en route to Houghton, MI. This afternoon discover the region’s history and culture on an optional tour to the Quincy Copper Mine and the new Calumet Visitor Center at Keweenaw National Historic Park. Conclude your evening with a performance by local entertainers.
Day 10
Marvel at the enchanting Apostle Islands National Lakeshore as the ship carries you to Bayfield, WI. Hear tales of pioneers, shipwrecks, lighthouses, and the area’s persistent spirits when you join an optional architecture, history, or ghost walk thru Old Bayfield (tour varies by date). Tonight, enjoy a lively portrayal of the city’s historical residents.
Day 11
This morning in Duluth, MN an optional excursion takes you to the Glensheen Historic Estate, a Jacobean Revival mansion, followed by a visit to the English-style Duluth Rose Garden. A second optional tour this afternoon visits the Great Lakes Aquarium. Choose either excursion or enjoy both for a full day of exploration. Relax this evening with live musical entertainment.
Day 12
Disembark this morning in Duluth.
