Discover the beauty of Mackinac Island on this tour from June 5-12, 2026, with a stay at the iconic Grand Hotel. Explore the Frederik Meijer Gardens, tour the Ford F-150 Truck Factory, and visit the Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village. Additional highlights include the Kalamazoo Air Zoo, a delightful celebration dinner cruise, and a stop at Isabel Bloom.
Lilacs to Luxury with Grand Hotel Experience ULTRA Coach
June 5-12, 2026
HIGHLIGHTS:
TOUR DIRECTOR: TBA
FEATURED HOTELS:
Joliet, Il- Wingate by Wyndham
Mackinaw City-Baymont Inn
Mackinac Island- Grand Hotel
Frankenmuth, MI- Fairfield Inn
Allen Park, MI- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Allen Park
Kalamazoo, MI- Holiday Inn Express
Bettendorf, IA- Cambria
DEPARTURE CITIES:
Omaha, Lincoln, York, Grand Island, Norfolk, Columbus, Fremont, South Sioux City and Des Moines
RATES:
$2,939 Double, per person
$3,715 Single
$2,659 Triple, per person
Pay by Check Savings: $110
Book by May 8 and Save $50
TOUR ACTIVITY LEVEL: 3
Day 1
TRAVEL DAY
Travel day. Omaha to Joliet
Your lilac-scented adventure begins as you depart Omaha and set your sights on one of the most enchanting corners of the Midwest—Mackinac Island, where horse-drawn carriages, waterfront breezes, and vibrant lilac blooms await.
Today is all about relaxing, enjoying the scenic ride, and getting to know your fellow travelers. Watch the rolling fields of Iowa and Illinois pass by as your motorcoach winds its way toward Joliet, Illinois, your first overnight stop on this memorable journey.
Overnight Joliet, IL.
Day 2
Joliet to Mackinaw City
Today’s journey winds through the heart of the Midwest toward the sparkling shores of Lake Huron, where your lilac getaway draws ever closer. Along the way, immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and art at one of the country’s most inspiring botanical destinations—Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Stroll through lush gardens alive with color and fragrance, where spring blooms, tranquil paths, and world-renowned sculptures create a serene and unforgettable experience.
Overnight in Mackinaw City
Day 3
Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island
Today, you leave the modern world behind and step into the timeless elegance of Mackinac Island, where lilacs bloom, horses clip-clop down car-free lanes, and Victorian charm greets you around every corner. Board a Shepler’s Ferry for a scenic cruise across the Straits of Mackinac, with the towering Mackinac Bridge above and the blue waters of Lakes Michigan and Huron surrounding you. As the island comes into view, you’ll feel like you’re entering a storybook. Step into the iconic Grand Hotel for their legendary lunch buffet, served in the elegance of the main dining room. This exquisite experience includes a wide array of gourmet selections, signature desserts, and breathtaking views from the world’s longest front porch. After lunch, you’ll check into your beautifully appointed room at the Grand Hotel, where elegance and comfort await. Dress up and return to the dining room for a formal dinner—a multi-course meal served with impeccable service in timeless surroundings. As the sun sets over the Straits, enjoy fine cuisine and classic island hospitality.
Day 4
ISLAND OPTIONS / FRANKENMUTH
This morning, say farewell to the lilac-lined lanes and timeless beauty of Mackinac Island, but your journey is far from over. Today’s travels take you from island elegance to the cozy, European-inspired town of Frankenmuth—known for its warm hospitality, German heritage, and famous chicken dinners.
Board your Shepler’s Ferry for the return trip across the Straits of Mackinac, giving you one last breathtaking view of the island and its iconic skyline. Glide over the blue waters as the mainland comes into sight and prepare for a spectacular overland journey. Experience one of America’s most impressive engineering feats as you drive across the Mackinac Bridge—a five-mile span connecting Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas. From the motorcoach, enjoy panoramic views of Lakes Michigan and Huron and the open water stretching to the horizon. Cameras ready—this is a memory worth capturing! Welcome to Frankenmuth—“Michigan’s Little Bavaria.”
Overnight Frankenmuth, MI
Day 5
Frankenmuth to Dearborn, MI
Today’s journey blends festive wonder and American innovation as you travel from the Bavarian delights of Frankenmuth to the legendary Motor City roots of Dearborn, Michigan. From twinkling ornaments to roaring assembly lines, this day is full of contrast, history, and inspiration. Start the day with joy and sparkle at the world’s largest Christmas store. With over 50,000 trims and treasures, Bronner’s is a year-round winter wonderland that captures the spirit of the holidays in every corner. Step inside the future of American manufacturing with a guided experience at the Ford Rouge Factory Tour. Witness the amazing process of how the Ford F-150 is built—from sheet metal to showroom-ready truck—in one of the most advanced auto plants in the world. Interactive exhibits, historic video footage, and a walk through the plant’s observation deck make this a must-see for history buffs and gearheads alike.
Overnight Allen Park, MI
Day 6
HENRY FORD MUSEUM / GREENFIELD VILLAGE
Today is a walk through the pages of American history—an inspiring look at the visionaries, inventions, and everyday innovations that shaped a nation. From early automobiles to historic homes and Model T rides, you'll explore one of the most extraordinary museums in the country before traveling west to Kalamazoo. This morning, step into a world of ideas at The Henry Ford Museum, where history comes alive through exhibits showcasing America’s greatest achievements in transportation, industry, and design. See the bus where Rosa Parks took a stand, marvel at the Lincoln limousine from JFK’s final ride, and explore towering locomotives. Later today, board your motorcoach and head west toward Kalamazoo, known for its artsy vibe and rich manufacturing past. Watch the landscape shift as you leave Metro Detroit behind for the quiet comforts of western Michigan.
Overnight Kalamazoo, MI
Day 7
KALAMAZOO AIR ZOO / CELEBRATION BELLE RIVERBOAT DINNER CRUISE
Your incredible journey is nearing its final stretch, but not before one more day filled with wonder, learning, and celebration. From high-flying aircraft to riverboat elegance, today is a tribute to adventure and the memories you've made along the way. Begin your day with a visit to the Air Zoo, a world-class, Smithsonian-affiliated aerospace and science center that brings the thrill of flight and innovation to life. Explore interactive exhibits, admire beautifully restored aircraft from WWI through the Space Age. Tonight, toast to new friendships and unforgettable experiences aboard a celebration dinner cruise along the Mississippi River. Enjoy a delicious plated meal, onboard entertainment, and scenic views of the riverfront as the sun dips below the horizon. Share stories, laughter, and highlights from the past week as you glide beneath the stars.
Overnight Moline, IA
Day 8
ISABEL BLOOM FACTORY / TRAVEL HOME
As your unforgettable journey draws to a close, today offers a moment to reflect, celebrate, and bring home a piece of inspiration from the heart of the Midwest. Before leaving the Quad Cities, enjoy a special visit to the charming Isabel Bloom Studio, where timeless handcrafted sculptures are created using original designs and traditional techniques. Watch artisans at work as they mold, cast, and paint each unique piece—cherished for their heartfelt subjects like friendship, nature, and family.
Browse the beautiful showroom and perhaps choose a keepsake to remind you of your time on this memorable tour. These beloved Midwest creations make perfect gifts or personal mementos of your lilac-filled adventure. Sit back and relax as your motorcoach travels westward toward home, passing through the rolling landscapes of Iowa. It’s the perfect time to reminisce about island views, horse-drawn carriages, holiday cheer, grand architecture, garden strolls, and all the laughter shared along the way.
B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner
IMPORTANT TRAVEL INFORMATION
ACTIVITY LEVEL
These guidelines are provided so you can choose a tour that matches your abilities and ensures an enjoyable experience. While many tours can accommodate a variety of needs, participants should be prepared for the activity level described.
LEVEL 1: Low Activity
Relaxed pace with minimal walking. Distances are typically under ¼ mile at a time (about 5001,000 steps). Surfaces are generally smooth and flat. This level is best if you prefer to take it easy and avoid extended walking or standing.
LEVEL 2: Easy Activity
Includes some walking and light physical demands, but still at a gentle pace. Expect short walks, possibly up to ½ mile at a time (1,0003,000 steps). May include occasional stairs or gentle inclines. Participants should feel comfortable walking several blocks and standing briefly, but activities are not strenuous.
LEVEL 3: Moderate Activity
Days may be somewhat longer with walking up to 1 mile at a time on occasion (around 2,000 steps). Total daily distances may reach approximately 13 miles. Expect some extended standing, varied walking paces, and occasional uneven surfaces. Stairs and moderate inclines are possible, but the pace remains manageable for most travelers.
LEVEL 4: Active
Best suited for travelers who are comfortable with regular walking. Expect more than 4 miles per day (6,00010,000+ steps), spread throughout sightseeing stops and guided tours. Surfaces may include cobblestones, stairs, hills, or uneven paths. Travelers should also feel comfortable keeping pace in busy cities such as Washington, D.C., Boston, or New York, where there may be longer stretches of walking and a quicker group pace. While more active than other levels, the walking is balanced with breaks, sightseeing, and motorcoach travel.
LEVEL 5: High Activity
For those physically fit to handle a rigorous pace. Walking distances often exceed 5 miles a day (10,000+ steps). Terrain may be steep, hilly, or rugged. Days can be long and demanding with minimal rest breaks.
Mobility & Accessibility
Our goal is to make travel enjoyable and safe for everyone. Boarding and exiting the motorcoach involves steps, and participants should be prepared for the activity level of their tour. Tour Directors and Drivers are not permitted to provide constant, hands-on mobility assistance. If you require help with walking, standing, or other personal needs, a travel companion or personal care attendant must accompany you to provide that support. Please let us know in advance if you have specific accessibility needs so we can advise you on whether a tour is a good fit.
HOW TO MAKE A RESERVATION & DEPOSIT
Reserving your place on an Allied tour is as simple as 1-2-3
1. Choose a tour from the catalog or online at www.AlliedTT.com.
2. Call Allied Tour to check availability and give passenger details. Call 402-371-3840 or Toll Free 1-800-672-1009.
3. Send your deposit. The deposit is required within seven days of making your reservation.
DEPOSITS
Motorcoach Tours $100 per person
Domestic Air & Rail Tours $300 per person
New York Baseball & Broadway $400 per person
International Tours & Cruises
Ask your reservationist for deposit info. Deposits are subject to change.
PAYMENTS & FINAL DOCUMENTS
Final payment is due 45 to 120 days before departure, or as stated on your deposit statement. Payment may be made by check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express.
Travel documents are mailed or emailed approximately two weeks prior to departure, provided full payment has been received. These include your detailed itinerary, departure times and locations, daily itinerary with hotels, medical form, luggage tags, and other useful information.
PROTECTING YOUR TRAVEL
Your trip investment is worth protecting to safeguard against unexpected events that can prevent you from traveling and being assessed significant cancellation fees. We have two options: the Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP) or the Travelex 360 Group Insurance Plan. You can choose one or the other. They are not required for travel, but optional
-CANCELLATION PROTECTION PLAN (CPP) - MOTORCOACH TOURS ONLY
Cancellation protection is not insurance but a simple plan to protect you from losing funds if you must cancel for a covered reason. If you cancel for a covered reason, prior to departure, you will be reimbursed for the amount you paid for your trip. This covers cancellation only. No coverages apply after the tour starts.
-TRAVELEX 360 GROUP INSURANCE PLAN
The 360° Group Choice protection plan is insurance. Enjoy trip cancellation & interruption benefits, emergency medical coverage, along with 24/7 travel assistance & concierge services.
The enrollment form & payment needs to be completed BEFORE or AT THE TIME of final payment. Customers are NOT allowed to enroll after the final payment has been made. For complete plan information, please contact Allied or your local travel advisor.
TOUR INCLUSIONS
Your tour includes motorcoach, airfare, cruise, or rail transportation as outlined in the itinerary, along with hotel accommodations, admissions, and meals as stated. Taxes on included items are covered, as well as gratuities for step-on guides and wait staff during included meals. Luggage handling is included at hotels where available. All tours are accompanied by a professional tour director, although minimums may apply for cruises and international tours.
NOT INCLUDED ON TOURS
Not included are meals not listed in the itinerary, optional tours, travel insurance, hotel incidentals, alcoholic beverages, airline baggage fees, personal purchases, gratuities for the tour director, motorcoach driver, or cruise/rail staff, passport and visa costs, vaccination fees, government fees, and airport departure taxes.
BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE
Each traveler is allowed one checked piece of luggage, not exceeding 30" x 21" x 11" in size or 50 pounds in weight. This is the same standard as most airlines. If it is difficult for you to lift your own bag, it is likely too heavy. For the safety of both you and our staff, please pack only what you can manage. Wheeled luggage is strongly recommended.
Motorcoach overhead compartments are smaller than airplane bins and cannot hold standard airline carry-ons or those with wheels. Most travelers bring a soft-sided bag, backpack, or small duffle for use on board. These items are the responsibility of the traveler and must be handled by the traveler; drivers are not responsible for lifting or storing personal carry-on bags.
Guests who travel with a CPAP machine are responsible for packing and providing their own distilled water for use during the tour. Airline baggage fees are not included in the tour price and must be paid directly to the airline.
Allied will include baggage handling for your checked suitcase when the hotel provides this service. Hotels have been withdrawing this service in greater frequency these past years due to a limited workforce.
DOCUMENT REQUIREMENTS
Travelers are responsible for carrying proper identification and travel documents.
For domestic air tours, a government-issued photo ID such as a drivers license or passport is required. Allied requests a copy of your ID at booking to ensure smooth check-in.
For tours entering Canada, a valid U.S. passport book is required for air travel and cruise travel. Land entry requires either a valid passport book or a passport card (card is valid for land entry only). Passports must be valid at least six months beyond your return date. Canada reserves the right to deny entry due to past offenses, including misdemeanors or DUIs.
International tours require a valid U.S. passport book, valid for at least six months after your return. Some destinations may require longer validity, a visa, or other authorization. Beginning in 2025, many European countries will also require travelers to obtain an ETIAS waiver before entry. If this applies to your tour, Allied will provide instructions. Please note that countries may also deny entry based on past offenses.
TRAVELER CONDUCT & SPECIAL NEEDS
The enjoyment of a group tour depends on cooperation and courtesy. Travelers are expected to be respectful and follow the directions of the tour director. Allied Tours reserves the right to refuse or remove any passenger whose behavior is disruptive or detrimental to the group. In such cases, expenses to return home will be the travelers responsibility, and no refunds will be issued for unused portions of the tour.
Travelers with mobility or medical needs must notify Allied at the time of reservation. While every reasonable effort will be made to assist, tour directors are responsible for the entire group and cannot provide one-on-one care. Travelers requiring help with boarding, luggage, navigating hotels, or personal care should bring a companion who can provide assistance.
INSPIRATION AND FAITH
Because of tour schedules, Allied is unable to make special provisions for worship services. Many tour directors share a "Thought for the Day," verses of inspiration, or a short prayer to begin the day.
CANCELLATION POLICIES
Cancellation fees are per person and based on the number of days prior to departure.
Motorcoach Tours (U.S./Canada):
46+ days: No fee
4531 days: 40% of total cost
3016 days: 70% of total cost
15 days or less: No refund
Other specialty tours, such as river cruises or international tours have their own cancellation schedules; details will be provided at time of booking.
Travel protection is recommended to cover cancellation, interruption, medical, or other covered unexpected expenses.
CHANGES IN TOUR PRICE
Tour prices in this publication are effective September 1, 2025, but are subject to change due to fluctuations in fuel prices, currency exchange rates, government taxes, or typographical errors. Airfares and flight schedules are especially subject to change. Submitting your deposit indicates agreement to these terms.
CHANGES IN ITINERARY
The order of events and hotels on your tour may change. Every effort will be made to preserve the original quality of attractions and accommodations if substitutions become necessary.
TRAVELER RESPONSIBILITIES, TERMS & CONDITIONS
Allied Tours, Inc. (AT) acts only as an agent for suppliers. AT is not responsible for acts or omissions of the suppliers or their failure to provide services or adhere to their schedules & assumes no liability for injury, damage, loss, accident, delay, or irregularity, & can accept no liability for losses or personal injury or property damage, or additional expenses due to delay or changes in the bus or other services, sickness, weather, strikes, war, quarantine, terrorism, or other causes. All such losses or expenses will have to be borne by the passenger. The right is reserved to accept or withdraw any tour if circumstances require it. AT reserves the right to make any changes for the benefit of the tour and/or tour members, including canceling the tour if necessary. All rates are subject to change & are based on current tariffs available & current exchange rates as of September 1, 2025. AT or property owners are not liable for any loss/damage to vehicles parked at departure locations. All baggage is at the owners risk. The purchase of baggage & travel insurance covering cancellation, interruption, medical, baggage, etc., is recommended. The issuance and acceptance of tickets/vouchers or the payment of the required deposit or any partial or full payment for reservations on these trips shall be deemed to be consent to these conditions. No refund or unused portions of the tour can be made unless agreed to prior to the departure of the tour. The usual contract in use by the airlines and other transportation companies, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the purchaser of the tour and/or the passenger. The services of any ARC and/or IATAN carrier may be used on this program. AT has no special knowledge regarding the financial condition of the suppliers or unsafe conditions or climate of locations to which you may travel. You assume full responsibility for checking & verifying any & all passport, visa, vaccination, or other entry requirements of your destination(s) & all conditions regarding health, safety, security, political stability, and labor or civil unrest at such destination(s). Passengers hereby release AT from all claims arising out of any problem covered in these paragraphs & agree that the courts In Madison Co., NE will be the exclusive jurisdiction for all claims brought by you or AT. Travelers may be photographed for promotional purposes of AT.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
Name | Address |
---|---|
Columbus Hy-Vee | Columbus Hy-Vee 3010 23rd St. Please Park in SE Corner of Lot |
En route | Pickup points en route |
Fremont Walmart | Fremont Walmart, 3010 E 23 St. Exit Hwy 30 & 275 Park in South East corner |
Grand Island Bosselman | Grand Island, Bosselman, 3335 W Wood River Rd North West Parking Lot |
Lincoln UStop Phillips 66 | Lincoln-UStop Phillips 66, 6400 N. 84th Street Parking on south side of pumps. |
Norfolk Allied Office | Norfolk, Allied Tour Office, 720 East Norfolk Ave. |
Omaha - Arrow Stage Lines | Omaha, Arrow Stage Lines (Southwest Lot) 4220 South 52nd St. |
South Sioux City TBA | TBA |
York, Petro | York, Petro Travel Center I-80 & York Exit Park on North side in space with an E-for employee |