Great Lakes Explorer

Embark on an exciting adventure through the majestic falls and the fertile countryside of the Niagara region. Upon arrival, board a boat for an unforgettable voyage into the heart of the Niagara Gorge, where you’ll witness the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls before coming thrillingly close to the mighty Canadian Horseshoe Falls, feeling the roar, power, and refreshing mist of this natural wonder (poncho included).

Start your journey at the Table Rock Welcome Center, a retail and observation complex located in a renovated historical building. 

After, begin your Journey Behind the Falls experience which offers a unique view of the Falls from below and behind. To stand at the heart of Niagara, you’ll first need to descend to explore 130-year-old tunnels through the bedrock, but you will feel the thunderous vibration of the Horseshoe Falls long before you see them. The observation deck at the foot of this 13-story-tall wonder will leave you breathless, and maybe a little bit wet. Don’t forget the viewing portals cut straight through the rock, offering a once-in-a-lifetime view of much of the world’s fresh water crashing down in front of you. 

Led by a local guide, explore the downtown area of Port Colborne, the only place in the Niagara region where the remains of the First, Second, and Third Welland Canals can be seen beside the current Welland Canal. Learn the history of the area’s canals and their influence on the local community. Visit the Port Colborne Historical & Marine Museum, featuring exhibits focusing on local heritage, maritime industry, and the marine environment. Take a stroll down West Street, a site with a storied past, including involvement in the Underground Railroad and Prohibition. To cap off your experience, indulge in a delicious homemade pastry and a hot or cold beverage of your choice at The Pie Guys Bakery & Café. 

Located between the southern shores of Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment, the Niagara Peninsula is Canada's most productive wine region. This immersive experience will offer guests an unforgettable journey through one of Canada's most notable wine-producing areas, with a curated tasting of select regional wines, thoughtfully paired with gourmet bites that reflect both local and international culinary influences. With over 90 wineries, the region has gained international acclaim for producing crisp Rieslings, complex Cabernet, elegant Chardonnays, and most notably, world-renowned ice wine.

Embark on an exciting adventure, sailing close to the breathtaking Niagara Falls. Feel the cool mist on your face as you marvel at the thundering American Falls, delicate Bridal Veil Falls, and the majestic Horseshoe Falls.

Then, journey underground at the Niagara Parks Power Station + Tunnel, a fascinating 2,200-foot subterranean adventure highlighting the history of hydroelectric power with interactive exhibits and an observation deck along the river.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Queen Victoria Place Restaurant, paired with sweeping views and time for a brief stop at Table Rock Welcome Centre for souvenirs and panoramic vistas. Conclude the day at Bella Terra Vineyards, sampling exquisite wines in a serene vineyard setting, before a scenic ride back to your cruise ship, the perfect blend of adventure, history, and indulgence. 

Accessible: Yes / Activity Level: Moderate

Since the Industrial Revolution, the Amish have been known for their hard work, deep faith, and simple way of life. Spend a day in their world with an Amish guide accompanying you throughout your journey. Begin at an Amish-run cheese co-op, where a master cheesemaker will board the motorcoach to share the history of the cooperative and the process behind their cheeses. From the store, view the cheese-making area through a large plate glass window, sample fresh products, and shop for artisanal goods.

Next, visit the Heritage Marketplace and Amish History Center to learn more about daily Amish life and explore locally crafted handworks. Take time to browse the shops and, if you wish, enjoy an optional Amish buggy ride.

Lunch is served at the Miller family’s Amish home, featuring chicken, mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, salad, fresh-baked bread with homemade preserves, and pies. You’ll also have the chance to visit the family’s small candy and baked goods shop for treats to take home.

After lunch, enjoy a scenic backroad ride narrated by your Amish guide. Conclude your day at a still-operating Amish schoolhouse, where you’ll experience a “lesson” and learn what a typical school day looks like. This immersive excursion offers a unique glimpse into Amish culture, traditions, and daily life.

Discover this amazing venue which tells a story that spans generations, from rock’s earliest artists to those budding artists of today. Discover a variety of exhibits that include handwritten drafts of hit singles, performance outfits, and instruments from some of history’s greatest concerts. Ranging from rhythm & blues, jazz, and folk rock to heavy metal and hip-hop, these exhibits represent numerous musical genres and highlight some of the world’s most iconic acts both past and present.

Enjoy a narrated motorcoach ride around the beautiful city of Cleveland before and after visiting one of the most popular attractions this city has to offer. The Cleveland Museum of Art offers dynamic experiences that illuminate the power and enduring relevance of art in today’s global society. The museum builds, preserves, studies, and shares its outstanding collections of art from all periods and parts of the world, generating new scholarship and understanding, while serving as a social and intellectual hub for its community. Enjoy a  guided tour plus free time on your own. From famous works of art to works of antiquity, from medieval masterpieces to modern works, from Europe, to America, to Asia, the Cleveland Museum of Art has it all.

Step into the world of fine craftsmanship at the Museum of American Porcelain Art, a one-of-a-kind museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the exquisite porcelain creations of several renowned mid-20th-century studios that have since closed. Housed in the stunning William E. Telling Mansion, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and recognized as both an Ohio and South Euclid Landmark, the museum offers a captivating blend of art and history. Your local guide will provide engaging commentary before and after your visit, offering insight into the city as you explore its unique streets and landmarks. 

Explore Cleveland’s vibrant brewery scene on a relaxed crawl aboard our premium, street-legal golf carts. Designed for comfort and small-group enjoyment, this unique outing requires minimal walking while offering a fun and social way to experience the city.

Along the way, visit three carefully selected breweries, each offering samples of their finest beers. Between stops, your driver shares entertaining insights into Cleveland’s landmarks, neighborhoods, and local history as your route winds through downtown, giving you a sense of the city’s character and energy.

Experience the flavor of Cleveland’s culinary scene with a guided visit to the city’s most celebrated foodie destinations. Begin at Ohio City Farm, one of the largest urban farms in the United States, where you will learn how Cleveland’s immigrant heritage continues to shape an innovative, community-driven food culture in this thriving urban oasis.

Stroll through the historic neighborhood with your guide to the iconic West Side Market to sample artisan specialties made with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The market’s lively stalls and nostalgically comforting atmosphere offer a true taste of Cleveland’s past and present. Conclude your journey with a scoop of handcrafted, small-batch ice cream, made on-site in a beautifully repurposed 100-year-old silent movie theater.

Enjoy a narrated motorcoach exploration and learn all about the wonderful city of Cleveland.  Explore downtown, Public Square, and the Theater District. Travel through University Circle, home to a variety of the area’s finest museums such as the Cleveland Art Museum and the Museum of Natural History. Discover Euclid Avenue's "Millionaires' Row," once home to some of the nation's most powerful and influential industrialists. Travel to the Flats, known for its happening nightlife, and Ohio City, a trendy dining and entertainment hub with high-end cocktail bars and beer gardens, alongside fashionable bistros and gourmet farm-to-table restaurants.  

Don’t miss this chance to admire magnificent architecture and learn about Detroit’s rise, fall, and renewal. Led by a local guide, enjoy a short walk from Pearl Mist to the nearby downtown area. Visit the Guardian Building, a designated a National Historic Landmark. Completed in 1929, the building is one of the boldest examples of art-deco architecture. Stroll through Campus Martius Park, a gathering place for both residents and visitors and recently named Top Public Square by USA Today. Learn the history of the Penobscot Building, an art-deco masterpiece that has dominated the city’s skyline for more than 80 years. View the Renaissance Center, a multi-towered skyscraper that is the tallest building in Detroit. Enjoy the opportunity to ride on a streetcar or the elevated “Detroit People Mover.”

Learn how Henry Ford changed the world of technology and manufacturing as you step into a world where past innovations fuel the imagination of generations to come. See the museum’s vast array of famous and rare exhibits like Thomas Edison’s laboratory, Abraham Lincoln’s chair from Ford’s Theater, and the bus where Rosa Parks took a stand, by taking a seat. Play pilot as you explore flight innovations, starting with the Wright brothers' achievements. In addition to touring the Henry Ford Museum, $15 of “Fun Money” will be provided for lunch with the opportunity to spend the afternoon at Greenfield Village. With its nearly one hundred historical buildings, the Village demonstrates how Americans lived and worked since the founding of the country. Many of the buildings, from the 17th century to the present, are staffed by costumed interpreters who conduct period tasks like farming, sewing, and cooking. A collection of craft buildings such as pottery, glass-blowing, and tin shops provide demonstrations while producing materials used in the Village and for sale.

At Greenfield Village, step back in time and experience transportation in early America firsthand. Take a ride in a classic Model T, hop aboard the Weiser Railroad to explore the Village from stop to stop, and enjoy the beautifully crafted carousel, complete with intricately carved characters

Join your guide on this exploration of Detroit's rich history and architectural highlights and see for yourself why it proudly calls itself the "Comeback City." Starting at the Pearl Mist, explore significant areas of the city, from downtown to historic and cultural districts. Visit to the Art Deco Fisher Building, a 30-story ornate building by famed architect Albert Kahn, who was given no budget limit and thus created Detroit's "largest art object."  Enjoy a guided tour of the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum, where Henry Ford designed the legendary Model T and where the first 12,000 Model Ts were assembled.

Discover the captivating blend of natural beauty, fascinating history, and rich culture on Belle Isle, Detroit’s stunning 982-acre island oasis in the Detroit River. This expertly guided excursion showcases riverfront vistas, landscaped gardens, and architectural gems, including the elegant Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, the majestic James Scott Memorial Fountain, and the Belle Isle Aquarium—one of the oldest aquariums in the U.S. Delve deeper into the city’s maritime legacy with a guided visit to the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, where fascinating exhibits, storied Great Lakes vessels, and interactive displays bring Detroit’s nautical heritage to life.

Experience the artistic soul of Detroit on this immersive, narrated motorcoach ride along the city’s most striking public art. Traveling from the Port of Detroit, discover colorful murals, iconic sculptures, and outdoor galleries that showcase the city’s creativity, resilience, and cultural pride. Explore the colorful Eastern Market district, home to one of the nation’s largest outdoor mural collections, and stroll the Dequindre Cut, a former rail corridor transformed into a lively public art space. View bold downtown murals along the Grand River Creative Corridor, encounter the world-famous Spirit of Detroit, and take in powerful installations at Hart Plaza. With minimal walking and excellent photo opportunities, experience a comfortable, engaging way to experience Detroit’s dynamic art scene, past and present, before returning to your ship.

Embark on a narrated motorcoach journey through Metro Detroit, passing notable communities and landmarks before arriving at the Ford House. Explore the elegant family home of Edsel Ford, the only son of Henry Ford, and his wife Eleanor. Built in 1928 and designated a National Historic Landmark, the Ford House sits on a stunning estate along the shores of Lake St. Clair in Grosse Pointe Shores. With a knowledgeable guide sharing stories of the family and their legacy, explore the home before enjoying a leisurely stroll through the estate’s 87 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds and gardens. You may also visit the center’s exhibits for a deeper look at the history and artistry of this remarkable property.

Note: Guests must bring their passports with them and clear customs on the way to the museum as this is the first U.S. entry after a Canadian port.

Step aboard a custom, music themed trolley for a lively, story filled journey through the heart of Detroit. Celebrate the city’s iconic contributions to music, sports, art, and architecture on this guided experience that blends the city’s legendary soundtrack with the people, places, and moments that shaped it. As you make your way down historic Woodward Avenue, America’s first paved road, listen to curated music, insider stories, and cultural highlights that bring Detroit’s creative spirit to life. Stop for memorable photo opportunities and a closer look at the landmarks that helped define Detroit.

Step back into Detroit’s roaring Prohibition era on an unforgettable adventure. Did you know that 75% of the alcohol entering the United States during Prohibition flowed through the Detroit-Windsor “Funnel?” Follow the trail of rumrunners and bootleggers as we visit riverfront hideouts, secret haunts, and historic sites where illicit deals were made.

Along the way, learn how a local company helped fuel Detroit’s bootlegging empire and hear firsthand accounts from a passionate Detroit historian who also happens to be the descendant of a local bootlegger. With decades of experience bringing Detroit’s colorful past to life, your guide will immerse you in the city’s rebellious past.

Discover the rich history of Detroit on a narrated drive to the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, founded by Henry Ford to preserve “the history of our people.” Today, this 12-acre museum showcases an extraordinary collection of artifacts spanning American industry, culture, and innovation—from antique machinery and iconic automobiles to locomotives, aircraft, and pop culture treasures. 

Begin with a guided overview tour, then take time to wander the museum at your own pace, discovering iconic artifacts and interactive exhibits that bring history, innovation, and culture to life. Highlights include Abraham Lincoln’s chair from Ford’s Theatre, John F. Kennedy’s presidential limousine, the Rosa Parks bus, and the Allegheny steam locomotive, among many other historic exhibits.

Combined with the adjacent Greenfield Village outdoor museum, the Henry Ford Museum forms the largest indoor–outdoor museum complex in the United States.  

Get ready for an exhilarating ride across the sparkling waters of Georgian Bay aboard an all-aluminum open-air vessel, built for excitement and comfort, with forward-facing seating designed to give everyone the best view. As you cruise through the famous 30,000 Islands, feel the wind in your hair and, if you’re lucky, enjoy a refreshing splash of Georgian Bay along the way.

Soak in the breathtaking scenery, including rugged rock formations, crystal-clear waters, abundant wildlife, and spectacular views of Midland Harbour, Beausoleil Island, Honey Harbor, and beyond. Your experienced captain will deliver live, engaging commentary filled with fascinating stories, historic highlights, and local legends, while upbeat music sets the rhythm for the journey.

Step back to 1649 at Sainte Marie Among the Hurons, Ontario’s first European community and the French Jesuit mission headquarters to the Huron-Wendat people. Originally built in 1639, the reconstructed site features a church, workshops, residences, and spaces for Indigenous visitors. Begin your visit with a new 15-minute introductory video, then explore historic buildings at your own pace. Meet costumed interpreters, watch interactive demonstrations—fire-starting, blacksmithing, and traditional Indigenous games—and immerse yourself in the daily life, culture, and history of this remarkable 17th-century community.

Step aboard history at Discovery Harbor, where the sights, sounds, and stories of a 19th-century naval base come to life on the shores of Penetanguishene Bay.

Climb aboard two impressive replica tall ships, explore authentic waterfront buildings, and discover what daily life was really like for sailors and soldiers in the early 1800s. Walk the decks, peek below into tight sleeping quarters, and try hands-on activities that bring maritime life to life.

Inside the modern H.M.S. Tecumseth Centre, stand beside the original 1815 hull of H.M.S. Tecumseth and experience interactive exhibits that connect you directly to the people who once lived and worked here.

With engaging costumed interpreters, live demonstrations, and immersive spaces to explore, Discovery Harbour offers a memorable adventure where you don't just learn history, you experience it.

A local guide will meet you at the ship for a fun-filled afternoon of sipping and tasting delicious local fare while strolling through the charming streets of downtown Midland. Enjoy a carefully curated lineup of food and drinks from some of the area’s most popular culinary spots. Along the way, uncover the region’s rich heritage and culture as your guide shares fascinating stories about Midland’s history, murals, public art, and unique shops.

Discover the untamed beauty of Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre, where 3,000 acres of forests, wetlands, and open meadows create a thriving sanctuary for wildlife and an essential resting place for migratory birds. Your experience begins at the interpretive center, where the stories of the marsh come to life, before setting out on a guided hike led by an experienced naturalist or choosing to explore the scenic trails at your own pace. Along winding boardwalks and quiet woodland paths, you may encounter basking turtles, playful otters, marsh birds in flight, and perhaps even a beaver or snake in its natural habitat. Inside, the engaging animal ambassador exhibits offer an up-close look at birds of prey and native reptiles, deepening your connection to this remarkable ecosystem. Conclude your visit by browsing the informative display hall and charming gift shop or simply unwind in the wildflower garden.

Departing from Parry Sound Harbor or Georgian Bay’s “Big Sound,” your pilot will carefully prepare for takeoff, considering wind direction, aircraft weight, balance, and surrounding water traffic. Once airborne, you will soar over some of Georgian Bay’s most stunning hidden gems, including Huckleberry Island, Hole in the Wall, Lighthouse Point at Killbear Provincial Park, and Depot Harbor on Parry Island. Experience the breathtaking beauty of these iconic spots from a perspective few get to see.

Since the late 1960s, our wooden taxi boats have carried passengers from Parry Sound Harbor along the same meandering route we follow today, offering an intimate view of beautiful Huckleberry Island. Back then, boats slowed to toss groceries into the water for waiting cottagers—today, we still pause to admire the charming summer retreats that have welcomed generations of families.

Glide through windswept inner islands, narrow channels, and shallow waterways—considered by locals among Georgian Bay’s most picturesque. Keep your camera ready for the dramatic Hole in the Wall.

Join Parry Sound Bikes for an interpretive ride along the scenic Waterfront Trail, the perfect way to experience the Georgian Bay shoreline. Led by a local guide, this leisurely tour reveals the region’s rich ecology, unique geology, and fascinating history. Learn how the iconic rock formations were shaped, discover the plants and wildlife that thrive along the shore, and hear stories of Indigenous heritage and early settlement. Along the way, enjoy hidden gems, panoramic views, and local insights that bring the Bay to life. 

Nestled in the heart of the 30,000 Islands, Killbear Provincial Park is one of Ontario’s most beloved and scenic parks. Begin your adventure with a guided walk through the forest, led by a knowledgeable Park Naturalist, to a breathtaking scenic lookout. Stand atop the billion-year-old pink rocks of the Precambrian Shield and discover the story of how the 30,000 Islands were formed.

Next, explore the Discovery Centre, where engaging exhibits highlight both natural and cultural history. See a brand-new birch bark canoe crafted by local Anishinaabek youth and meet live wildlife including the Massasauga rattlesnake and Eastern fox snake, species at risk that are part of one of North America’s longest-running snake research programs. Before you leave, browse the Nature Shoppe for unique souvenirs, knowing that every purchase helps support ongoing park projects.  

Learn the story of Bobby Orr’s journey from local minor hockey in Parry Sound to the NHL and his legacy in the game of hockey. On display in the Hall of Fame are Bobby Orr’s Stanley Cups Rings, the stick he used to score his 1970 Stanley Cup-winning goal, and many more artifacts and photographs documenting Bobby Orr’s career and the achievements of our Inductees. New exhibits also focus on examining the science behind sport and celebrating the indigenous people, local culture, and sport participation in our area. Interactive activities and games, like “Top Shot’ electronic hockey net, make the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame a fun and interactive outing. 

Take a spectacular journey among the 30,000 islands of Parry Sound, the world’s longest freshwater archipelago and home of the UNESCO Georgian Bay Biosphere, aboard Blue Pearl, a 30-foot sailboat. While underway, your skipper and crew will provide a running commentary on the history, ecology, geology and culture of the area. Learn basic crew skills and participate in sailing the boat.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through one of North America’s greatest engineering marvels. Experience both an upbound and downbound lockage as your vessel rises and falls within the impressive Soo Locks. Get remarkably close to towering Great Lakes freighters and admire their scale against the historic shoreline of Sault Ste. Marie. Blending modern maritime commerce with fascinating local history, this signature cruise offers a front-row seat to the power, precision, and legacy of the Great Lakes.

Choose your own adventure. These sites are all within walking distance from the ship or you can take the shuttle. Please use your lanyard for admission: 

• Museum Ship Valley Camp - Step aboard the historic Great Lakes freighter and explore its 20,000-square-foot museum with over 100 exhibits, including the Edmund Fitzgerald memorial and recovered lifeboats. Watch a moving video on the 1975 tragedy, visit aquariums stocked with native fish, and tour the crew’s quarters, from the Captain’s suite to the sailors’ cabins, for an authentic glimpse of life aboard a working freighter.
  
  
• Historic Homes of Water Street is a treasure trove of history, showcasing the lives and times of the city’s early inhabitants through its beautifully preserved historic homes. Each house tells a unique story, offering a glimpse into the past and reflecting the diverse cultural, industrial, and social heritage of the area.  
  
  
• Tower of History - Rising 210 feet above Sault Ste. Marie, the Tower of History offers 360-degree views of the Sault Locks, St. Mary’s River, and Canadian wilderness. An express elevator takes visitors to the top for vistas spanning up to 1,200 square miles, with museum exhibits and a video on the lower level and interpretive displays on local and Native American history upstairs.

Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through Michigan's most historic location. Narrated by your driver, make your way down Lilac Lane and explore the island's incredible beauty and history. Enjoy views of the famous Grand Hotel and Victorian summer cottages, and learn how islanders rely upon horses, carriages, and bicycles for daily living.

Stop at the Surrey Hills Carriage Museum, which displays historic carriages, including a horse-drawn hearse still used today, and an antique fire department pumper. As we travel through the State Park, enjoy magnificent views or Arch Rock, one of the natural wonders of the Midwest, and the island’s most famous geological formation.  

Next, travel to The Grand Hotel, founded in1887. Discover the rich history and tastefully preserved architecture of this National Historic Landmark, while enjoying the hotel’s shops and museums. Sit in a rocking chair on the world’s longest porch overlooking the Straits of Mackinac.  

Beginning at the ship’s dock, enjoy a bike exploration led by anexperienced guides who will share their vast knowledge of the history of Mackinac Island. As you bike around its 8.2 mile perimeter and the winding roads of its scenic interior, experience all the beauty of the island, including its Victorian charm and absence of motor vehicles. On your journey, pass the iconic Grand Hotel and the historic Fort Mackinac.

Discover the rich heritage of the region at Mackinac Island State Park. Step into a pivotal era of cultural change at The Biddle House, home to the Mackinac Island Native American Museum. Watch the past come alive at the working Benjamin Blacksmith Shop and experience the island’s creative spirit at The Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum. Explore a groundbreaking chapter in medical history at the American Fur Co. Store & Dr. Beaumont Museum, and visit the McGulpin House, believed to be the island’s oldest residence. Together, these treasured landmarks offer an immersive journey through Mackinac Island’s storied past.

Start your adventure with a scenic drive from Escanaba to the historic Fayette Townsite, tucked along the scenic shores of Lake Michigan. Stop at the Visitor Center before diving into a guided tour of this well-preserved ghost town. Walk the streets of a once-thriving iron-smelting community, now beautifully preserved in time. Explore historic furnaces, limestone kilns, and restored buildings while imagining daily life in this 19th-century company town. Surrounded by towering cliffs and sweeping bay views, Fayette blends rich history with striking natural beauty. 

On the return trip, step inside Sayklly’s Candy Store and experience a beloved Escanaba tradition that has delighted generations. From handmade chocolates and classic candies to famous house-made fudge, every visit is filled with old-fashioned charm and irresistible treats.

Step inside the birthplace of American outdoor ingenuity at the Webster Marble Museum. Learn how inventor Webster Marble revolutionized navigation with the creation of the modern compass, forever changing outdoor exploration. Explore historic artifacts, hands-on exhibits, and fascinating stories that celebrate innovation, adventure, and Upper Peninsula heritage.

Next, visit the U.P. Military Museum. Explore the stories of Upper Peninsula men and women who served our nation. From World War I to present-day conflicts, the museum preserves uniforms, vehicles, artifacts, and personal histories that bring military service to life.

 At our final stop, discover the stories that shaped Delta County at the Delta County Museum. Uncover the people, industries, and traditions that built the region. Don't forget to step outside to explore the iconic Sand Point Lighthouse overlooking Lake Michigan, once a guiding light for Great Lakes sailors. On the return trip, step inside Sayklly’s Candy Store and experience a beloved Escanaba tradition that has delighted generations. From handmade chocolates and classic candies to famous house-made fudge, every visit is filled with old-fashioned charm and irresistible treats.  

Visit a charming local winery, tucked in the rolling countryside of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where rows of vines stretch toward the horizon. Here, time slows, and every moment invites you to savor the simple pleasures of life. Experience tastings of carefully crafted wines made from locally grown fruits, each sip telling a story of passion and place. Enjoy a full pour on the patio, wander the scenic vineyard paths, or simply relax in the serene surroundings. Your visit also includes a delightful charcuterie board paired with your wine, and a taste of a true Upper Peninsula specialty: the pasty. Bite into its golden, flaky crust to discover a comforting filling of tender meat, potatoes, onions, and perfectly balanced 

Enjoy a hop-on, hop-off style shuttle to the downtown Escanaba area. Visit the many local shops including an art gallery, a local treasure candy store, a pasty shop, coffee shop, and many others. Explore as long as you would like and simply hop back on the shuttle when you are ready to return to the ship.  

Settle in and discover the rich heritage and breathtaking beauty of Marquette on this expertly guided exploration of Michigan’s most storied lakefront communities. Your journey begins at the historic iron ore dock, a towering symbol of the region’s industrial past. Continue through the scenic campus of Northern Michigan University, catching a glimpse of the famed Superior Dome, the world’s largest wooden dome of its kind. Along the way, admire stately Victorian homes and visit the historic Marquette County Courthouse, the filming site of the courtroom scenes from the 1959 classic Anatomy of a Murder, starring Jimmy Stewart.

Pause for a photo at the Jacques Marquette statue before stepping inside the awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Cathedral. During your guided visit, you will hear the inspiring story of a bishop currently on the path to sainthood, adding a fascinating spiritual chapter to the city’s history.

The tour concludes along the shores of Lake Superior at the Marquette Maritime Museum and Marquette Harbor Lighthouse. Explore compelling exhibits detailing legendary shipwrecks of Lake Superior, including the Edmund Fitzgerald and the Henry B. Smith, early life-saving efforts and the U.S. Coast Guard, and a captivating 3-D Breeches Buoy demonstration. You’ll also view one of the largest collections of Fresnel lenses on the Great Lakes, brilliant beacons that once guided ships safely through these powerful waters.

Step into the story of iron and industry on this immersive journey through the heart of the Upper Peninsula’s mining legacy, where innovation, grit, and determination shaped an entire region.

Begin at the towering Iron Ore Dock, an awe-inspiring symbol of the area’s industrial might. Here, you will witness the sheer scale and power that once fueled America’s growth, standing where massive freighters were loaded with the ore that built cities and railroads.

From there, relax aboard your comfortable motor coach as your expert guide brings the region’s past vividly to life through engaging narration. As you travel through landscapes forged by industry, you’ll uncover the triumphs, challenges, and human stories behind the iron ore boom.

At the Iron Industry Museum, interactive exhibits and authentic artifacts reveal how mining transformed the economy, communities, and culture of the Upper Peninsula. Then, descend into history at the Cliffs Shaft Mine Museum, where a guided tour places you in the boots of the miners who labored deep beneath the earth. Experience firsthand the conditions they faced and the resilience that defined generations.

Explore Marquette's cultural gems at your leisure with our convenient Hop On, Hop Off Shuttle which brings you to downtown, a vibrant area known for its charming historic architecture and stunning views of Lake Superior. Enjoy perusing local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, all set against a picturesque backdrop of natural beauty.

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore from the best seat in the house, on the water. Sail beneath towering sandstone cliffs and glide past sculpted arches, sea caves, and secluded beaches carved by time and tide. Your journey culminates at the breathtaking Spray Falls, where cascading water plunges directly into Lake Superior in a dramatic display of nature’s raw power. Feel the cool mist on your face, hear the thunder of the falls, and take views of colorful cliffs, hidden coves, and pristine shoreline.

Join us on board for a scenic and in-depth look at Duluth from a historical, scientific, and ecological lens. Cruise through the harbor, where the industrial history of the city is on display, including the Great Lakes Tugboat Fleet and the Historic Grain Elevators. Continue up the St. Louis River towards the CN/Mesabi Taconite loading docks and the largest and most complete energy terminal on the Great Lakes, Midwest Energy. View the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge from below, as well as the Blatnik High Bridge with spectacular views of the North Shore. Along the way, your expert guide will provide highlights of the Lake Superior shoreline and 200 years of Duluth industrial history.  

Board your motorcoach and journey to the historic Union Depot, now home to the Lake Superior Railroad Museum. Your guide will set the stage, by first sharing the industrial significance of the area in route to the depot. Upon arrival at the depot, don’t miss the Iron Range No. 227, a “Yellowstone”-style locomotive that was one of the biggest steam engines ever built. After exploring the depot, board your vintage train car for a trip on the North Shore Scenic Railroad, a heritage railroad that runs through Duluth and will take you along the shore of Lake Superior. As you ride, enjoy narration, including the history of Duluth, its harbor, and the importance of the railroads to the development of Northern Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Immerse yourself in the heart of Duluth's maritime history with our captivating lakefront exploration. Your adventure begins with a walk towards the awe-inspiring Aerial Lift Bridge, an engineering marvel that has stood as a proud sentinel over Duluth's harbor for over a century. Witness the blend of innovation and history as you learn about its transformation from the first transporter bridge in the U.S. in 1905 to the magnificent vertical lift bridge you see today. Stroll through vibrant Canal Park, where the spirit of Duluth comes alive. This path leads to the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center, with a wealth of information regarding life on the Great Lakes. Delve into the rich tapestry of maritime lore, where tales of ships and sailors come to life. For those who wish to journey further, an optional guided excursion awaits aboard the William A. Irvin freighter. Step back in time on this legendary vessel that once reigned as the flagship of U.S. Steel's Great Lakes fleet for over four decades. Experience the grandeur and grit of a bygone era, where every creak and groan of the ship tells a story of its storied past.