A six‑day coach loop from Chicago up the Lake Michigan shore into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, visiting Pictured Rocks, Tahquamenon Falls, Mackinac Island and cultural highlights in Milwaukee and Holland. Expect long scenic drives, short hikes, ferry crossings and diverse shoreline views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step onto the coach in early morning Chicago; the city skyline shrinks as the road opens north toward Lake Michigan, then pivots into the vast sweep of the Upper Great Lakes. The tour threads through industrial Milwaukee, the working ports of Green Bay, the sculpted sandstone cliffs of Pictured Rocks, and the horse-drawn lanes of Mackinac Island — a moving portrait of freshwater coastline and small‑town character.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in average fitness: mostly coach travel with several short walks and optional steep viewpoints.
Wildlife
History
Route traces Indigenous and industrial histories: native Anishinaabe communities, Great Lakes shipping routes, and the 19th–20th century manufacturing boom evident in Milwaukee and Detroit-area automotive heritage.
Conservation
Many shorelines and parks on this route are protected; stay on trails, pack out waste, and respect fragile cliff and dune habitats to minimize erosion and disturbance.
Reserve your spot on the Chicago Milwaukee and Lakes 6 Day Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Pack layers and a windproof jacket
Lakeshore winds and changing conditions near waterfalls make a lightweight waterproof shell and insulating layers essential for comfort.
Comfortable, grippy footwear
Trails and lighthouse steps can be uneven and sandy—sturdy walking shoes reduce the risk of slips during short excursions.
Carry small cash and a daypack
Local markets, optional museum admissions, and ferry extras sometimes require cash or quick access to cards—keep essentials in a small daypack.
Notify mobility or dietary needs early
Wheelchair access and special meal accommodations require advance notice to ensure the operator can arrange suitable options.
Waterproof shell (windproof)
Keeps you dry and blocks shore winds around waterfalls and Lake Superior.
spring
Sturdy walking shoes
Support and traction for boardwalks, rocky beaches, and lighthouse steps.
Daypack with water bottle
Holds snacks, layers, camera, and hydration during short shore excursions.
summer
Insect repellent & sunscreen
Useful on forested trails, beaches, and island paths during warmer months.
summer