Print Full Itinerary
Itinerary: Subject to change due to local conditions, unforeseen events, or more interesting as yet unplanned awesome experiences that become available
Overview:
A delightful combination of magical glass artistry and the beauty of nature are harmoniously blending together at the renowned Frederik Meijer Sculpture Gardens.
It’s the perfect time to travel to the refreshing west coast of Michigan to experience Chihuly at Meijer Gardens where garden spaces are transformed into artistic experiments with color, light, transparency, and form.
Wander the colorful pathways to discover incredible glass creations that are designed to inspire wonder and spark imagination creating surprising moments around every corner.
You certainly don’t want to miss the chance to be part of this extraordinary celebration of creativity, color, and light.
Overview:
Michigan’s northwest lower peninsula is an area rich in relaxation and stunning natural beauty that’s perfect for wandering. As we travel through these remote, nature-filled regions, we’ll discover all its sights, flavors, and adventures.
From towering sand dunes and timber towered bridges to quaint small towns filled with mushroom shaped houses and old timey general stores, there’s never a dull moment to be found.
Special treasures only from Michigan will be our guide as we search for the elusive Petroskey stones, climb a windmill, ride a donut, travel through a tree tunnel, and visit lovely lighthouses galore.
New Jersey is out and Michigan is in this for this early fall artistic nature adventure!
Day One: Frederik Meijer Sculpture Gardens
It will be a whimsical colorful day when we arrive at the Frederik Meijer Sculpture Gardens as we immerse in the unique tapestry of glass in perfect balance among the garden spaces.
Before we wander, let’s enjoy an included lunch right here in the garden café under Chihuly’s dazzling glass ceiling sculpture filled with wondrous colors.
There’s much here to explore so start wandering towards whatever draws your interest.
Wander!:
Significant works of art lie within the natural settings of the Sculpture Park connected by waterways, meandering paths, meadows, and quiet walkways and rooftops display sculpture set against stunning views.
Tranquility can be found among the spaces of the Japanese Garden and natural wetlands, an inspiring modern twist is hidden in the English Perennial Garden, and a relaxing spot awaits in the Victorian Garden Parlor.
Feel the warmth of the lush, verdant Tropical Conservatory filled with waterfalls, streams, bridges, and tropical birds and watch your fingers and toes if you walk into the Carnivorous Plant House.
BaySide Inn:
The artistic vibe won’t be left behind as we make our way to the Art Coast of Michigan where the quaint town of Saugatuck awaits.
Here, we’ll check into our new home at the BaySide Inn set against the Saugatuck Harbor.
Ride a Donut!:
Now it’s time to relax the evening away on a donut boat ride cruise around the harbor!
The rest of the night is yours to spend as you please with dinner on your own at any nearby restaurant that speaks to your appetite.
Day Two: Dune Buggy Ride
Today we ride the sand dunes of Lake Michigan on an adventurous Dune Buggy Ride.
As we zip over dunes that roll like waves on the ocean to the horizon, we’ll learn of the lost town of Singapore, discover the special ecology of the dunes, and be amazed by stunning views of the rugged and captivating landscape.
Saugatuck Dunes State Park:
Now let’s get within the sandy vistas on the trails in the Saugatauck Dunes State Park where we follow the rolling terrain straight to Lake Michigan.
Spend some time on the beach searching for treasures and feeling the sand between your toes.
Downtown Holland:
Welkom to Holland!
Wander the delightful downtown among sidewalks lined with local shops, galleries and plenty of restaurants to find a tasty lunch.
Windmill Island Gardens:
Now we’ll discover Dutch heritage and history throughout the spaces of Windmill Island Gardens.
Climb the historic windmill, ‘de Zwaan’ that still grinds and turns grain into flour, hear tunes from a working street organ, and perhaps take a ride on the carousel.
Big Red:
We can’t miss “Big Red”, an iconic lighthouse that begs to be photographed. From Holland State Park we’ll get some great views!
\Once back in Saugatuck, the night is yours to spend as you please.
Day Three: Little Sable Point Lighthouse
It’s time to head north for more coastal adventures, so let’s get on our way!
Admist the famous sand dunes of Silver Lake State Park stands the spectacular Little Sable Point Lighthouse overlooking Lake Michigan.
Ludington North Breakwater Light:
After taking in all the scenic dune views, we’ll make our way to the Ludington North Breakwater Light.
A short, exciting walk along the north pier will take us to its unique design and vibrant green light.
Goody's Lobster Shack:
Now that we’ve worked up a good appetite, it’s a good thing that Goody’s Lobster Shack isn’t too far for an included lunch.
Sleeping Bear Dunes Park:
Sleeping Bear Dunes Park is our destination and we’ll arrive by the scenic Pierce Stocking drive with many striking stops along the way to take it all its beauty.
It’s time for a Dune Climb! Grab the greatest views from the top and have fun running all the way back down.
Sutton's Bay Beach Club:
Our last stop of the day is our new home at Sutton’s Bay Beach Club.
Lying along the shoreline of the vineyard covered hills of the Leelanau Peninsula, (directly on the 45th parallel!) this is the perfect place to unwind and relax.
Enjoy dinner right here at the hotel at your leisure and have a great night!
Day Four: Mushroom Houses
Enjoy the morning watching the sun come up over the bay before the day’s adventures.
Charming Charlevoix is where we’ll find unique, fanciful Mushroom Houses that perfectly fit within the landscape, artistically created by self-taught builder Earl Young. An easy walking tour of the town will take us past each unique home straight from a storybook.
We’ll first start at the lovely Victorian style Harsha House Museum and end at one of the prettiest public libraries you may have ever seen.
Take some time to wander the downtown to find a bite to eat and don’t forget to pop onto Michigan Beach Park in search of the elusive Charlevoix or Petoskey stones.
Before leaving town, we’ll take a driving tour of more Mushroom Houses along the Boulder Park area.
Tunnel of Trees:
Scenic drives lie ahead along the Tunnel of Trees pathway. The colors may not be out just yet but the amazing greenery surrounding us on all sides is still a sight to see.
We’ll stop in the quaint waterfront town of Harbor Springs for a short wander before resuming the winding road pathway to the Thorne Swift Nature Preserve.
Here a tranquil trail along a picturesque boardwalk leads to a pristine Lake Michigan beach.
Cross Village's Legs Inn:
We continue our journey through the verdant tree canopy past lush forests and scenic vistas to the small community of Cross Village.
A special treat awaits at the iconic Legs Inn! Step inside this unique whimsical building for some delicious Polish cuisine for our included dinner and be delighted by its décor and superb outdoor garden.
Day Five: Mission Point Lighthouse
A picturesque drive through cherry orchards and vineyards of the Old Mission Peninsula will lead us to the lovely Mission Point Lighthouse located at its northernmost point.
Take a wander and peek into life around the turn of the century when people lived and worked right here.
Climb to the top for spectacular views, pop into the historic Hessler Log Cabin, and take a stroll along one of the historic trails keeping an eye out for “Indian Trees” bent purposefully to mark trails and local wildlife.
Old Mission General Store:
Another special place in history is right nearby at the Old Mission General Store, where we can browse the eclectic array of supplies and provisions and enjoy an included lunch.
Michigan SkyBridge:
Now it’s time to take a walk on the wild side across the Michigan SkyBridge!
The historic 2 person Hemlock Scenic Chairlift will glide us to the top of Boyne Mountain where the world’s longest timber towered suspension bridge spans 1200 feet across over stunning forest views and distant rolling hills.
Petoskey Gaslight District:
Once back on firm ground, we’ll make our way to downtown Petoskey, a little treasure of a town.
Wander the Gaslight District filled with unique, local shops and historic charm, walk on water across the Petsokey Bayfront Breakwater out to the Petoskey Bayfront Light Beacon Station, or stroll along the scenic promenade of Bayfront Park.
As we make our way back towards Sutton Bay, we’ll stop for a surprising, fun and unusual spot for an included dinner. Have a restful night!
Day Six: Leland
Enjoy a serene, leisurely morning among the bay relaxing or strolling along the beach.
Today we stay close to home and explore the endless natural beauty of the Leelanau Peninsula.
We start in lovely Leland, a small coastal town with a vast history including Historic Fishtown, one of the last thriving fishing districts on the Great Lakes.
Take some time to wander the quaint streets dotted with local shops down to the picturesque harbor or out to Van’s Beach.
To delve into local history, pop into the Leelanau Historical Society Museum and connect to all the stories of the land and its people.
Grand Traverse Lighthouse:
On our way out, we’ll grab our included picnic lunch from the charming Village Cheese Shanty and head straight north to the top where Leelanau State Park houses the Grand Traverse Lighthouse that has been watching over its shores since 1858.
After our lunch beautiful views are in every direction when you climb the tower and history can be found among the Keeper’s House, Fog Signal Building, and Shipwreck Exhibition.
Wind Dancer Sunset Sail:
Our last night will be a most special one aboard Wind Dancer’s Sunset Sail where you can experience the magic of hearing only wind and water as the sun sets creating a most magical sky.
A generous picnic dinner will be included along with beer, wine, cocktails, and champagne. Cheers to a wonderful night and a fabulous time in Michigan!
Day Seven: Breakfast & Flight Home
Enjoy one last bayside morning before we make our way to the Grand Rapids Airport when we wave goodbye to Michigan and hello to New Jersey.
Pricing & Departures:
This will be a Special, Intimate Small Group tour with a max of 10.
Air transportation is provided by United Airlines. A surcharge will apply if United Airlines increases the price of its airfare. One piece of luggage per person (baggage fee by United is not included) and one small carry-on are permitted. A valid, government-issued picture ID is required to board the plane.
Sunday, September 13: Flight # departs Newark at PM and arrives in Grand Rapids at PM
Saturday, September 19: Flight # departs Grand Rapids at PM and arrives in Newark at PM
Price per person is $Twin & $ Single. No reservations accepted without a deposit of $500 per person. Make checks payable to “Educated Wanderer” and mail to our address above. Final payment is due May 25, 2026. There are no refunds if cancellation occurs after May 25, 2026. The Educated Wanderer is not responsible for any delays, cancellations, injuries or circumstances beyond its control and reserves the right to change the itinerary. All trip components are subject to change in accordance with Government, State and Local guidelines and/or mandates. Travel protection/cancellation coverage is available and highly recommended, but not included. This tour will run rain or shine.
*Pricing is based upon estimated airfares. Due to the erratic nature of airline pricing, the trip price may need to be increased accordingly at the time of airline booking. We will notify you of any increases before airfare is purchased. We will do our best to find the most affordable airfare while maintaining non-stop flights.
Upon submitting final payment you are agreeing to our new policy.
Wet Blanket Policy:
Wet blanket
– a person who makes it difficult for other people to enjoy themselves by complaining, acting negatively, creating drama, etc.
– one that quenches or dampens enthusiasm or pleasure
- Our philosophy of travel involves getting out of the ordinary to experience other cultures and places with an open minded attitude and flexibility. Since as in daily life, anything can and will happen, let’s embrace these situations with acceptance and understanding because they will either lead to an unexpected, amazing experience or positive learning experience.
- If anyone brings along excess baggage such as incessant complaining, under the breath rude comments, outward negativity or other such behaviors that infect the entire group or individuals, we have the exclusive right to remove them from the tour at their own cost with no refunds. (yes, this means you)
- If any major concerns arise during a tour, please just come talk to us and we’ll work it out!
The Educated Wanderer
Group Tours & Travel
PO Box 35 Henryville, PA 18332
973-513-9001
