2024 Mackinac Island
August 19 - 25, 2024
Tour begins in Elkhart, Indiana and ends in Traverse City, Michigan
for Single Accommodations
This Trip Includes
6 NIGHTS
Hotel accommodations, including baggage handling
8 MEALS
American breakfast (B) daily, 2 dinners (D)
SIGHTSEEING & ACTIVITIES
Guided sightseeing with your Tour Manager as outlined in the day-by-day itinerary; visits, admissions, and special features are shown in bold.
DEPARTURE TRANSFER
Return transportation to Traverse City, Cherry Capital Airport (TVC7
PROFESSIONAL TOUR MANAGER
Full time throughout the trip
Tour Highlights
- Kick-off Welcome Meeting
- Shipshewana, Indiana
- Yoder Department Store
- The Cotton Corner Quilt Shop
- Lolly’s Fabrics
- Amish Rug Weaving Demo
- Amish Quilts Trunk Show
- Quilt Gardens Heritage Trail
- Amish Quilting Bee and Wedding Feast
- Coppes Commons Hoosier Cabinets
- AQS QuiltWeek Grand Rapids Admission
- Mackinac Island Ferry
- Mackinac Island Carriage Ride
- Traverse City
- Customary Farewell Dinner
Hand Selected Hotels
Elkhart:
Hotel Elkhart
Grand Rapids:
Embassy Suites Downtown
Mackinac Island:
Mission Point Resort
Explore the quilting marvels of Shipshewana and Grand Rapids while appreciating the colorful Quilt Gardens, Amish culture, and captivating QuiltWeek Grand Rapids exhibits. Relish the enchanting atmosphere of Mackinac Island, delight in horse-drawn carriage rides, and create lasting bonds with fellow quilting aficionados.
DAY 1 ARRIVE ELKHART – TOUR BEGINS
Arrive in Elkhart, Indiana, and make yourself at home before meeting your Tour Manager and fellow quilting enthusiasts at this evening’s Welcome Meeting. Take a little time to explore the surroundings and get excited for the days ahead. B
DAY 2 SHIPSHEWANA
After breakfast, explore charming downtown Shipshewana and start shopping for quilting cottons and supplies at The Cotton Corner. Next, at Yoder’s Department Store, shop for handmade Amish goods, then browse the luscious fabrics and quilts at Lolly’s Fabrics. After an Amish rug weaving demo, join the Amish Quilts trunk show and Quilting Bee. Don’t forget to capture memorable moments and share stories with fellow quilters. Tonight, savor an Amish wedding feast with a Plain family. B, D
DAY 3 ELKHART – SHIPSHEWANA – GRAND RAPIDS
This morning, travel Indiana’s scenic backroads to witness blooming Quilt Gardens and learn gardening tips from those who bring these living works of art to life. Discover how 200+ volunteers maintain these colorful patterns for all to enjoy, despite Mother Nature’s whims. Snap photos of your favorite gardens to cherish the memories. Later, head to beautiful Grand Rapids and check into your downtown hotel. B
DAY 4 GRAND RAPIDS
Admire hundreds of beautiful quilts at the American Quilter’s Society QuiltWeek Grand Rapids. Explore traditional to unconventional quilts, competitions, galleries, and historic pieces from around the world. Shop for fabric, machines, and quilting supplies at the extensive Merchant Mall. In the evening, participate in classes or relax and unwind at your hotel lounge, sharing quilting ideas and inspirations with new friends. B
DAY 5 GRAND RAPIDS – MACKINAC ISLAND
Take in the scenic drive north before boarding the ferry to enchanting Mackinac Island. Experience the Jewel of the Great Lakes as you board a horse-drawn carriage upon arrival. Marvel at the iconic Grand Hotel and enjoy your carriage ride through town, soaking in the island’s unique atmosphere. Tonight, unwind while watching the sunset at your waterside resort, reflecting on your unforgettable journey so far. B
DAY 6 MACKINAC ISLAND
Savor sunrise views at breakfast, then explore the quaint village of this National Historic Landmark island. Sample famous fudge or enjoy an elegant lunch on the porch of the Grand Hotel. Spend the afternoon browsing local shops for unique souvenirs and keepsakes. Tonight, celebrate the trip with fellow travel companions at your evening Farewell Dinner, sharing highlights of your adventure. B, D
DAY 7 MACKINAC ISLAND – TRAVERSE CITY – TOUR ENDS
Board the ferry back to the mainland, bid farewell to Mackinac Island, and exchange addresses with new friends on your departure transfer to Cherry Capital Airport – Traverse City. As you head home, cherish the memories and friendships you’ve made during this incredible quilting adventure.