11-Day Midwest and Great Lakes Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Peoria, IL

Morning: Arrive in Peoria and visit the Pepper Gallery for a taste of local art.

Afternoon: Explore the scenic Peoria Riverfront and enjoy a walk along the Illinois River.

Evening: Dine at a local restaurant downtown and stroll through the historic Warehouse District.

Day 2: Peoria to Green Bay, WI

Morning: Depart early for Green Bay, making a quick stop at the Fox River Trail for a stretch and photo opportunities.

Afternoon: Arrive and visit the famous Lambeau Field, home of the Packers.

Evening: Enjoy a Packers-themed dinner near the stadium and relax at your hotel.

Day 3: Green Bay Adventures

Morning: Explore the Green Bay Botanical Garden and enjoy the beautifully maintained landscapes.

Afternoon: Visit the National Railroad Museum to discover America’s rail history.

Evening: Check out downtown Green Bay’s nightlife or attend a local event if available.

Day 4: Green Bay to Duluth, MN

Morning: Drive toward Duluth, stopping by the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Visitor Center for maps and tips.

Afternoon: Arrive in Duluth and walk along the Lakewalk with views of Lake Superior.

Evening: Experience fresh seafood dining at a harbor-front restaurant.

Day 5: Exploring Duluth, MN

Morning: Visit the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge and watch boats pass underneath.

Afternoon: Explore the giant Enger Tower and its surrounding park for panoramic city views.

Evening: Relax at a cozy café downtown or enjoy a sunset cruise on Lake Superior.

Day 6: Duluth to Mackinaw City, MI

Morning: Depart for Mackinaw City with a scenic drive along the North Shore.

Afternoon: Arrive and tour the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse while enjoying views of the Mackinac Bridge.

Evening: Walk through downtown Mackinaw City, sampling local ice cream and treats.

Day 7: Mackinaw Island Excursion

Morning: Ferry to Mackinac Island, exploring by bike or horse carriage.

Afternoon: Visit Fort Mackinac and stroll around Main Street shops.

Evening: Return to Mackinaw City for a relaxed dinner with lakeshore views.

Day 8: Mackinaw City to St. Paul, MN

Morning: Begin the drive to St. Paul and stop at Interstate State Park for a quick hike.

Afternoon: Arrive in St. Paul, check into your hotel, and visit the Minnesota State Capitol.

Evening: Dinner at a local favorite in the Lowertown Historic District.

Day 9: Exploring St. Paul

Morning: Visit the Science Museum of Minnesota, perfect for all ages.

Afternoon: Relax in Como Park and Zoo, enjoying wildlife and gardens.

Evening: Catch a live performance or explore neighborhood eateries in the Grand Avenue area.

Day 10: Leisure Day in St. Paul or Day Trip

Morning: Optional day trip to Minneapolis to visit the Walker Art Center or relax locally at a café.

Afternoon: Stroll through the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area.

Evening: Farewell dinner at a top-rated St. Paul restaurant.

Day 11: Departure

Morning: Breakfast at a local bakery and last-minute souvenir shopping.

Afternoon: Departure home or next destination.

Evening: Travel time.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Lambeau Field – 2 hours – $30 (tour fee)
• National Railroad Museum – 2 hours – $15
• Mackinac Island Ferry – 3 hours – $25 round trip
• Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse – 1.5 hours – $10
• Science Museum of Minnesota – 3 hours – $20
• Como Park & Zoo – 2 hours – Free (donations encouraged)
• Meals and miscellaneous – Average $40/day x 11 days = $440
• Hotels & accommodations – Approx. $100 per night x 10 nights = $1000
• Gas and transportation – Estimated $300 total

Total Estimated Cost: $1,850

Tips

To extend your trip, consider spending extra days around Duluth or Mackinaw Island to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and island exploration. For a shorter trip, focus on fewer cities—perhaps just Peoria, Green Bay, and St. Paul—and skip Mackinaw to reduce travel time and expenses.