Chicago

Arrive at Chicago O'Hare International airport. We can book a private transfer for you, or alternatively take a taxi to your downtown hotel. Spend the next two days exploring this big city with a small town heart. Enjoy walks on the riverside boardwalk, take in the city's famous music scene or shop till you drop on the Magnificent Mile. A trip up Willis Tower is a must, offering views of four different states from its observation deck.

Chicago to Wisconsin Dells

"125 miles"

Pick up your hire car from a downtown depot and then leave the bright lights of Chicago behind as you travel the country roads to Wisconsin Dell. A detour to "House on the Rock is recommended, to marvel at its mind blowing architecture and curiosities. The fun continues at the inland resort of Wisconsin Dells, the 'Waterpark capital of the world'. The plentiful theme and water parks on offer will be a memorable moment of any family road trip, but for lovers of the great outdoors there's no shortage of natural attractions in this part of the world. Take a boat ride along the Wisconsin river, enjoy a family friendly hike through witches Gulch or explore the surrounding forests.

Wisconsin Dells to St Paul/Minneapolis

"218 miles"

Depart the Dells and travel North West to the twin cities of St Paul/Minneapolis. Built on the Bluffs of America's greatest river - The Mississippi, St Paul is the state capital of Minnesota. Some of the cities must see attractions include the grandiose state capital, designed by esteemed architect Cass Gilbert, and the historic Como Park, which includes lovely picnic areas, a zoo and conservatory. Explore historic Victorian neighbourhoods, stately old mansions and museums such as the Minnesota museum of Modern Art.

St Paul/Minneapolis to Bayfield

"207 miles"

Continue north along the St Croix scenic river road to Bayfield, Wisconsin. This historic harbor town is the perfect base to explore the 22 coastal islands which are suspended of the coast of Lake Superior. The best way to explore these is by Kayak, allowing you to get up close to their stunning rock formations, sandstone cliffs and sea caves. Take a ferry to Madeleine Island, the largest of the Apostles and you will be able to walk miles of hiking and nature trails, or enjoy a picnic on the beaches. During the summer months you'll be able to time your visit around a performance at the Big Top Chautauqua , an intimate canvas tent venue that features touring acts and regional performers.

Bayfield to Marquette

"206 miles"

Head East, driving through the Ottawa Forest to Marquette. The Ottawa Forest spans a million acres and includes hundreds of different waterfalls, many of which can be reached by a short hike. One of the most impressive of these is Bond Falls. Continue onto Marquette, a pretty lakeside town which offers plenty of hotels and restaurants. From your base here you can explore the Copper Peninsula and its underground mines. The scenic Brockway Mountain drive offers far reaching views over the lakes and forests below. This is one of the best areas in the USA to appreciate the Autumnal colours of Fall.

Marquette to Mackinac Island

"166 miles"

Today you will depart Marquette, traversing the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Your road trip will take you across the Mackinac Bridge, the worlds largest suspension Bridge. Take the ferry to Mackinac Island, a 19th century resort that is frozen in time. No motor vehicles are allowed on the island, so you'll need to take a horse drawn carriage to tour the island and its unique shops and attractions

Mackinac Island to Traverse City

"114 miles"

Say goodbye to Mackinac and take the ferry back to the mainland, where you will continue your journey round Lake Michigan. There are a number of interesting towns and villages along the way, including Petoskey, a pretty coastal town renowned for its gaslight district - a historic area of the city, which is laden with quaint shops and restaurants. From Traverse City you can explore the numerous fishing villages and lighthouses that are dotted along the rugged coastline here or visit one of the many wineries on the Mission peninsula.

Traverse City to Muskegon

"142 miles"

Today’s scenic drive showcases some of the best of Lake Michigan's scenic shoreline, as your tailor-made itinerary takes you past Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Take a wander through these huge dunes and you'll climb 150 feet high above the sandy shores of Lake Michigan. If you are feeling less active you can opt to enjoy one of the scenic drives that overlook the bluffs and dunes on this famous stretch of shoreline. One of the larger towns in Michigan, Muskegon has plenty of attractions, including the USS Silversides, a WWII submarine. In the summer months its thrice weekly farmers market is the perfect way to sample the regions local produce.

Muskegon to La Porte

"128 miles"

As you journey down the coast, your final stop in Michigan will be the eclectic village of Holland, a small city that is rightly proud of its Dutch heritage. The best time to visit is in Spring, but this is easily one of America's prettiest towns, whatever season you decide to visit. Whether you are wandering its pretty cobbled streets, tasting Dutch delicacies or admiring the gardens at Windmill island, European visitors are sure to feel at home here! Continue over the state border into Indiana and onto the town of La Porte. Surrounded by lakes and with a walkable historic downtown, La Porte describes itself as Indiana's best kept secret.

La Porte to Chicago

"57 miles"

Today you will have a leisurely drive back to Chicago. Return your rental car to Chicago International Airport and then board your flight home.