4-Day Family Trip from Buffalo Grove, IL to Mackinac Island and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore via Wisconsin

Day 1: Travel & Wisconsin Stop

Wisconsin Dells, WI to Mackinac Island, MI on July 1, 2024

7:00AM

Depart Buffalo Grove, IL

Start your family road trip heading north to Wisconsin Dells, known for its fun family attractions and natural beauty.
Fuel approx $30, 2h30m

9:30AM

Visit Noah's Ark Waterpark

Spend the morning enjoying America's largest waterpark with family-friendly rides and splash areas ideal for kids.
$60 per person ages 3+, 3h

12:30PM

Lunch at Moosejaw Pizza & Dells Brewing Co.

Enjoy tasty, family-friendly pizza and local brews in a lively atmosphere near the waterpark.
$45, 1h

1:30PM

Drive to Mackinac Island area

Continue your scenic drive through Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, targeting St. Ignace for overnight ferry access.
Fuel approx $50, 5h

6:30PM

Dinner in St. Ignace at Gypsy Cafe

Enjoy a casual dinner offering fresh and diverse options that appeal to both kids and adults.
$50, 1h

7:30PM

Overnight Stay in St. Ignace

Rest up in St. Ignace for an early start to Mackinac Island the next day.
$120, N/A
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Day 2: Mackinac Island Exploration

Mackinac Island, Michigan on July 2, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Wanda’s

Begin your day with classic breakfast options in a family-friendly setting in St. Ignace.
$30, 1h

9:30AM

Shepler’s Ferry to Mackinac Island

Take a relaxing ferry ride to Mackinac Island, famous for its no-car policy and stunning scenery.
$25 adult, $15 child, 20m

10:00AM

Rent Bikes and Explore Island

Rent bicycles to enjoy the island’s charming trails and carriage roads, perfect for family exploration.
$25 per bike, 2h

12:30PM

Lunch at The Pink Pony

Enjoy waterfront dining with a kid-friendly menu featuring seafood and American favorites.
$50, 1h

1:30PM

Tour Historic Fort Mackinac

Step back in time at this 18th-century fort with interactive exhibits perfect for kids and history buffs alike.
$15 per person, 2h

4:00PM

Visit Arch Rock

Bike or stroll to Arch Rock for beautiful natural views and memorable family photos.
Free, 1h

6:00PM

Dinner at The Yankee Rebel Tavern

Casual dining with hearty meals suited for all ages in the heart of Mackinac Island town.
$50, 1.5h
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Day 3: Travel & Pictured Rocks

Munising, Michigan via Wisconsin scenic route on July 3, 2024

7:00AM

Breakfast at Joany's Lean Cuisine

Enjoy a quick, wholesome breakfast before departing the island.
$30, 1h

8:30AM

Ferry back to St. Ignace

Depart Mackinac Island by ferry for the mainland to continue your route.
$25 adult, $15 child, 20m

9:00AM

Drive south through Wisconsin via scenic route to Munising

Take a picturesque route south through Wisconsin including stops in iconic small towns for photos and snacks.
Fuel approx $60, 6h

3:00PM

Lunch at Dogpatch Restaurant, Munising

Relax with a casual lunch offering burgers and sandwiches tailor-made for family appetites.
$30, 1h

4:00PM

Pictured Rocks Boat Tour

Enjoy a late afternoon 2-hour scenic boat tour exploring the colorful cliffs and stunning formations along Lake Superior.
$50 adult, $25 child, 2h

6:30PM

Check-in and Dinner at Muldoon's Pasties

Settle in for the night and try Upper Peninsula pasties for dinner at this family-friendly spot.
$40, 1h
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Day 4: Morning Munising & Return

Munising, MI to Buffalo Grove, IL via Wisconsin on July 4, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lena's Lakeside Café

Enjoy breakfast with views of Lake Superior to start your last day refreshed.
$30, 1h

9:30AM

Hiking at Chapel Rock Trail

Short and easy family-friendly hike to stunning Lake Superior bluff views featuring waterfall sights.
Free, 2h

11:30AM

Lunch picnic at Picnic Area

Pick up sandwiches or pack your own for a relaxing outdoor lunch next to picturesque Lake Superior.
$25, 1h

12:30PM

Drive back to Buffalo Grove, IL via scenic Wisconsin route

Enjoy the scenic drive home through Wisconsin with stops as needed for comfort and sightseeing.
Fuel approx $80, 8h

8:30PM

Arrive Buffalo Grove, IL

End of memorable 4-day family trip through Michigan and Wisconsin's stunning landscapes.
N/A, N/A
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