Experience our most immersive exploration along The Great Lakes, the largest freshwater system in the world. Take an exhilarating boat ride in Niagara Falls and come within feet of its misty spray. Visit the Cleveland Museum of Art, one of the top art museums in the country, before traveling to the Henry Ford Museum in Detroit to learn how he changed the world of technology and manufacturing.
Delight in an aerial adventure over Parry Sound Harbor and a guided bike ride around Georgian Bay. Enjoy a narrated cruise on the beautiful St. Mary’s River in Sault St. Marie and learn the rich 300-year-old history of the area and the story behind the Soo Locks. Explore Michigan’s pristine wilderness and scenic landscapes in Marquette, lined with miles of Lake Superior shoreline.
Enjoy a day aboard Pearl Mist, cruising the scenic Keweenaw Waterway, ornamented with sandstone cliffs and sparkling spring waterfalls. Delve into its fascinating history of Duluth with an exploration of the area’s many museums, including the Lake Superior Railroad Museum.
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In the comfort of Pearl Mist, enjoy a comprehensive exploration of the Great Lakes region. Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant cultural of the harbor towns which are strung like pearls along the shore as well as the wonder of wildlife that abounds.
For those guests who wish to start their cruise in style, we are offering a brand new Signature Pre-Cruise Package at the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel Toronto. Enjoy a 1-night stay at this renowned 5-star hotel, located in the heart of Toronto’s exclusive Yorkville neighborhood.
On the morning of your cruise, enjoy breakfast at the hotel, followed by a Toronto City Excursion. Discover the picturesque landmarks that make Toronto one of the most sensational places to visit in Canada. Explore the Saint Lawrence Markets, Chinatown, the Distillery District, and the renowned Fashion District.
The excursion concludes at the ship, where all of your luggage will be waiting for you in your onboard stateroom. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon cruise out of the harbor as you begin your amazing journey with us.
Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call 800-981-9146 for pricing and availability.
Board Pearl Mist to begin your 14-Night Great Lakes Explorer cruise. As you embark upon your journey, enjoy a Welcome Aboard Reception with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment. Meet the crew, your onboard experts, and fellow guests. Learn more about the wonderful adventure ahead of you.
World-famous Niagara Falls stands 165 feet tall and is comprised of three waterfalls – Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. These famous falls are shared by both Ontario and New York which are connected by the Rainbow Bridge. Our local guide will show you the best vantage points and will explain the importance the falls once had to Native Americans and fur traders.
Enjoy an exciting adventure through the majestic falls and the fertile countryside of the Niagara region. Take an exhilarating boat ride which brings you within feet of the Horseshoe Falls and its misty spray.
Start your journey at the Table Rock Welcome Centre, a retail and observation complex located in a renovated historical building. After, begin your Journey Behind the Falls, an amazing experience which offers a unique view of the Falls from below and behind. Be treated to the awesome spectacle of one-fifth of the world's freshwater crashing down to the basin below.
Cleveland is a city made up of dozens of diverse and eclectic neighborhoods, with a lively downtown area that dazzles after dusk. Stroll through the historic West Side Market which features more than 80 family-owned businesses. View the tombstone of John D. Rockefeller, who is buried at the beautiful Lake View Cemetery. Explore the Cleveland Museum of Art, containing one of the most renowned art collections in the world.
In the Tremont neighborhood, visit the home where the famous movie A Christmas Story was filmed, and have a cold brew at a bar said to have been frequented by Eliot Ness, the famous crime fighter who brought down Al Capone. No trip to Cleveland is complete without a trip to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, where you can view Michael Jackson’s white sequined glove, Jim Morrison’s boy scout uniform, and Elvis’ motorcycle.
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. Explore 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. Along the way, your engaging guide will point out historic and iconic sites, with a possible stop at one of the Cleveland script signs for a group photo.
Since the Industrial Revolution, the Amish have been largely known as hardworking, devoutly religious people who shun most types of technology. Spend a day in their company led by an Amish guide who will be with you throughout your journey. Begin at the Heritage Marketplace, where you can explore and purchase items at Amish-owned shops. Take a buggy ride and visit the Amish Heritage Museum which showcases important Bibles, hymnals, and clothing. Arrive at the Bricker's Amish home for lunch with a menu that features chicken, mashed potatoes, homemade noodles w/gravy, vegetable, salad, fresh baked bread with homemade preserves, and date-nut pudding. After lunch, depart for a scenic backroad ride with narration from your Amish Guide. Conclude your journey at an Amish School House that is still used today. Enjoy your 'lesson' about the Amish education system, and what a typical school day is like.
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 guided exploration of The Cleveland Museum of Art, one of the world’s premier museums. View its vast collection of famous works of art and works of antiquity, from medieval masterpieces to modern works, from Europe, America, and Asia. After, take time to explore the museum on your own. Next, take a guided walk through the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. Some 35 dedicated gardens, designed and cultivated by distinct cultural or nationality groups, adorn the drive along Martin Luther King Boulevard and East Boulevard in Rockefeller Park. Depicted in the gardens are the poets, philosophers, peacemakers, composers, scientists and others who have contributed to world culture. Also featured in the gardens are symbolic sculptures and replicas of or tributes to sacred monuments in other lands.
Detroit is commonly known as The Motor City, as Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler have been producing cars there for more than a century. Though, it’s equally famous as the birthplace of Motown Records, and for its many beloved sports teams.
Today, through its revitalization, Detroit has taken on a new appeal. From eye-popping street art and jazz clubs to vintage cars and impressive art deco architecture, the city is perfectly vibrant, progressive, and charming. Shop for art, jewelry, artisan crafts, and more at the Eastern Market, the largest historic public market district in the United States, dating back over 150 years. Visit the renowned Detroit Institute of Arts, a remarkable museum located in the heart of Midtown with more than 65,000 works. For some exercise, take a walk along The Dequindre Cut Greenway, a two-mile urban recreational path that offers a pedestrian link between the East Riverfront and historic neighborhoods.
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.
On this sightseeing tour of Detroit, get a glimpse into the rich history of the city as you listen to our local expert provide narration about the music that makes Michigan so special.
Stop at the Motown Museum in Hitsville, U.S.A., where the world’s biggest independent record company was born. It was in this very house that Berry Gordy produced an assembly line of hit songs from legendary artists such as Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, and many more. The Motown Sound was developed and perfected here. The heart and soul of Detroit’s finest singers, musicians, writers, producers and arrangers reverberates from artifacts and instruments that have remained since the studio’s relocation in the 1970’s.
Experience the “Detroit Sound” firsthand with a live musical performance. Sway to songs spanning across all genres of music with Detroit natives, who have shared the stage with big names such as Beyonce’ and Lady GaGa, and have performed on broadcasts of the GRAMMY Awards, the Oscars, SNL, and American Idol.
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.
Featured Excursion
Find out why the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) was voted the No. 1 art museum in the United States by USA Today readers last year. With a collection of more than 65,000 artworks in over 100 galleries, the museum has one of the largest and most significant art collections in the U.S. spanning from ancient Egyptian and European works to contemporary art.
A short drive will bring you to the Beaux-Art building, sometimes referred to the “Temple of Art.” A guided exploration will provide an orientation into the vast collection, with the focus on Diego Rivera's acclaimed Detroit Industry Cycle of frescoes. Take time to explore some of the many artefacts by yourself or enjoy the museum store or the beautiful Kresge Court for a refreshment before you return to the port.
Premium Excursion
Midland is the main town and economic center of the area located at the southern end of Georgian Bay’s Thirty Thousand Islands. Learn about the history of this fascinating city with a visit to Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, a living museum depicting 17th-century missionary life. Stroll along the Midland Harbor, a picturesque destination featuring a large statue of the trumpeter swan, considered the symbol of Midland. For bird lovers, the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre is a habitat for Trumpeter Swans, Black Terns, and Least Bitterns.
With exhilarating speeds of up to 38mph, cruise Midland Harbor and the 30,000 Islands region aboard the Tobermory Flash, an all-aluminum, open-air speedboat. Enjoy this wind in your hair, music pumping, speedboat adventure. Along the way, the captain's live commentary will include points of interest, historic facts, and fascinating legends about the region. With spacious, comfortable forward-facing seating, this speedboat allows you to take in all the scenic highlights, including excellent views of Beausoleil Island, Bone Island, Honey Harbor, and more.
Explore this recreation of the 17th-century French Jesuit Mission headquarters, with a replica of the barracks, homes, and meeting places that housed the Jesuits. Learn about their history and relationships with the native Huron people.
Situated along beautiful Penetanguishene Bay, this picturesque historic site is a reconstruction of an original 19th century British naval and military base. Originally conceived during the War of 1812, the actual construction of a Naval Establishment would have to wait for peacetime. Becoming operational in early 1817, the base served as an important supply link to more northerly British outposts, and safeguarded presents destined for Britain’s indigenous allies. Using the detailed map provided, explore the many naval and military sites on the harbor, including a variety of historic naval vessels, sailor’s barracks, a square for military drills, and original officer’s quarters.
Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon sipping and tasting delicious, local fare while walking through beautiful downtown Midland. Savor a curated lineup of food and drink from popular local culinary spots. Learn about the area's rich heritage and culture, and discover the stories behind Midland's murals, public art, and unique shops. A local guide will meet you at the ship. On the day of your tour, dress for the weather, wear comfortable shoes, and be sure to arrive hungry.
Located on the eastern shore of Georgian Bay in Lake Huron, Parry Sound is a picturesque port town with charming cottages and spectacular views. Parry Sound is located inside the UNESCO designated Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve. One of only 16 Biosphere Reserves in Canada, it is home to a variety of rare species of plants and animals. While ashore, explore Killbear Provincial Park, enjoy a scenic boat ride around the 30,000 islands, or take an aerial sightseeing tour.
Enjoy a breathtaking aerial adventure which departs from our floatplane base in Parry Sound Harbor and follows Georgian Bay’s rugged coastline. Soar above the scenic Killbear Provincial Park, past historic Parry Island, and over the fantastic South Channel.
On this amazing journey aboard the Island Queen, we follow in the wake of early explorers as the captain brings the ship surprisingly up-close to the rugged shoreline of Parry Island and the Bay’s remote outer islands. Meander past granite shoals into narrow channels within an eco-system so unique that it has earned World Biosphere Reserve status from the United Nations. Get your camera ready as we cruise through the Rose Point Swing Bridge, Massassauga Provincial Park, through the channels of the outer islands, past Killbear Provincial Park, and through Hole in the Wall, one of the most amazing places in Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve.
Explore Parry Sound at your own pace using the local loop shuttle. Discover one of the many beautiful scenic lookouts or check the area’s variety of museum and cultural attractions.
A guided e-bike ride is the perfect way to stretch your legs and immerse yourself in the town of Parry Sound. A local guide will provide you with a narrated experience along the town's bicycle trails. Pass by the main downtown strip and follow the shoreline of Georgian Bay. Along the way, discover the town's history, landmarks, and industries. Further down the trail, you will learn about local plants, reptiles, migratory birds and other species at risk. Finish your excursion at Parry Sound Bikes, formerly the old fire hall, with the option to be escorted to the ship or explore downtown on your own.
Explore the Killbear Provincial Park where a local naturalist will educate you on the unique ecology of the Georgian Bay and guide you on a geology stroll through the windswept pines and to Parry Sound’s stunning shoreline.
Led by experienced and friendly guides, paddle along the calm and serene waters of Georgian Bay, taking in the picturesque scenery around you. From rugged rock formations to peaceful coves, explore the natural beauty of the area at a leisurely pace, perfect for beginners or those who have never kayaked before. Stop for breaks to take in the views and enjoy light refreshments at the end of your exploration.
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.
Featured Excursion
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. Note: Comfortable life jackets will be provided. Guests must bring sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), soft soled shoes, and be physically able to safely move on the boat at the dock and while underway.
Signature Excursion
As we make our way to Mackinac Island, Michigan, witness the natural wonders and majestic beauty of the Great Lakes from the comfort of your fully furnished private balcony. Along the way, delight in the locally inspired cuisine prepared by our team of master chefs.
Mackinac Island is a living Victorian town where personal motorized vehicles are prohibited – all those visiting or living on the island travel by horse or horse-drawn carriage, bicycle, or on foot. While Mackinac Island is known for its opulent Victorian homes and hotels, it has a long Native American history. Anishinabe-Ojibwe tradition holds that the island was a sacred place populated by the first people and was home to the Great Spirit Gitchie Manitou.
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. Continue on to Fort Mackinac, the oldest building in Michigan. Explore the many historical structures that boast exhibits highlighting everything from military training and battles to medical treatments and family life within the fort.
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.
Traverse City is known nationally as the "Cherry Capital of the World," as five of its counties make up the region that produces 40 percent of the annual tart cherry crop in the United States. Consistently voted one of America’s most charming small towns, it abounds in beautifully restored historic buildings, idyllic tree-lined neighborhoods, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Walk along the shoreline and admire the Grand Traverse Lighthouse one of the oldest lighthouses on the Great Lakes. Find your new favorite bottle of red, white, sparkling, or even cider on a visit to one of the local wineries. Stroll along Front Street in downtown, featuring a trove of independent bookstores, trendy boutiques, and a local distillery.
Old Mission Peninsula extends into Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay offering the ideal climate for growing varietal wine grapes which have been well recognized by wine enthusiasts the world over. On a scenic drive, enjoy the beauty of the Old Mission Peninsula and experience its award-winning wines. Along the way, visit three wineries, learn about wine production on vineyard tour, explore a wine cave, and be treated to two wine tastings and a full glass of your favorite variety.
Relish the spectacular views on a scenic drive along the shoreline. Stop at Eyaawing Museum & Cultural Center to learn the story of the Grand Traverse Band of Anishinaabek, led by a native guide. Enjoy a guided exploration of the Grand Traverse Lighthouse, a restored keeper’s dwelling, and climb the Lighthouse Tower for a spectacular view of Lake Michigan, Cathead Bay, Grand Traverse Bay and the Manitou Passage. Travel through Leelanau State Park on your way to Fishtown-Leland, featuring weathered fishing shanties, smokehouses, overhanging docks, fish tugs and charter boats. Here, you will be treated to smoked fish samples.
Nestled on the northeastern tip of the Upper Peninsula, Sault Sainte Marie is a timeless gem along the Great Lakes brimming with historical charm and natural beauty. Its name is derived from the French term meaning "Saint Mary's Rapids." Located at the junction of Lake Superior and Lake Huron, Sault Sainte Marie is renowned for its iconic Soo Locks, a marvel of engineering that allows ships to traverse the 21-foot drop between the two lakes. Visitors are drawn to its rich cultural heritage, exemplified by the Museum Ship Valley Camp and the River History Museum, which vividly depict the region's maritime past.
Enjoy a live narrated cruise on the beautiful St. Marys River and actually "Ride through the Soo Locks." Learn the rich 300-year-old history of the area and the story behind the locks as you view many interesting sites along the Michigan and Ontario shorelines. Travel under the International Highway Bridge that connects Soo, Michigan and Soo, Ontario, Canada. Get an up-close view of the over 100-year-old Hydroelectric Power Plant, still operating today to supply electricity to local residents.
Explore an actual Great Lakes Freighter at The Museum Ship Valley Camp, which houses a 20,000 square foot museum with over 100 exhibits inside her massive cargo. The Valley Camp once held a crew of 29 men in her cabins. Visitors are able to view these cabins to see how Great Lakes sailors lived and worked aboard ship, from the nicely appointed Captain’s quarters to the plain accommodations lived in by the Oilers and the Coal Passers. View the Edmund Fitzgerald memorial and exhibit which features two lifeboats from the stricken vessel. Torn away during the sinking, these lifeboats are two of very few major artifacts recovered after the tragic demise. The exhibit also features a video presentation about the events that occurred on November 10, 1975 which caused the tragic loss of one of the Great Lakes’ largest freighters. In addition to the museum exhibits, the Museum Ship Valley Camp displays four 1,200 gallon aquariums stocked with various species of fish from the Great Lakes region.
Lined with miles of Lake Superior shoreline, Marquette is the perfect city to explore Michigan’s pristine wilderness and scenic landscapes. Take a walk along one of its many pedestrian trails and admire the various historical lighthouses that adorn and protect its pristine shoreline.
Though area is known for its outdoor adventures, the arts and cultural scene is also very much alive, with an array of artists who invite you into their studios and galleries. Visit one of the area history museums, including the Iron Ore Heritage Museum, where you can learn about Marquette’s iron mining industry, which has flourished for more than 125 years. Venture downtown to shop at chic boutiques, jewelry stores, and specialty shops. After, relax with a refreshment at one of the local breweries, wineries, or tap houses.
Led by a local guide, enjoy a walking exploration of Historic Downtown Marquette. Admire the unique architecture of the many historic buildings of red and white limestone. View the Marquette County Courthouse, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Stop at St. Peter’s Cathedral, known as the mother church of the Diocese of Marquette. Pass by an iron ore dock and a statue of Jacques Marquette, a French Jesuit missionary who founded Michigan's first European settlement. Admire the locally famous Harlow’s Wooden Man, built in 1875 by one of the founders of Marquette, Amos Harlow, who noticed a large cedar tree in the shape of a man and turned it into a sculpture that still stands more than 100 years later. Your fun adventure ends with a sweet treat!
Board our comfortable Motorcoach for scenic and narrated drive through Marquette. View iron ore docks and the many beautiful Victorian homes that embellish the city, including those in the East Side Home District. Admire Lake Superior Beach, Tourist Park, St. Peter’s Cathedral, and downtown Marquette. Stop at Marquette Maritime Museum & Lighthouse, a one-story, stone, hipped-roof Richardsonian Romanesque style structure built in 1891. Led by a guide, learn about the maritime history of Marquette, Lake Superior, and all the Great Lakes, as well as the sacrifices made by submarine veterans.
Delve deep into the heart of the region's rich mining history as you experience a unique blend of education and adventure. Begin at the impressive Iron Ore Dock, where the raw power and scale of the mining industry come into view. From there, our knowledgeable guide will provide full narration as you travel in comfort aboard your motor coach, uncovering the stories and significance of the area's iron ore legacy. Be treated to a guided exploration of the Iron Industry Museum, where interactive exhibits and artifacts reveal the impact of mining on the development of the Upper Peninsula. Led by your guide, visit the Cliffs Shaft Mine Museum & Mine, stepping into the shoes of miners who once toiled beneath the earth's surface.
Explore Marquette's cultural gems at your leisure with our convenient Hop On, Hop Off Shuttle. Your knowledgeable guide will provide engaging narration throughout the driving route. Stops include the:
Note: Gratuities for both the tour guide and coach driver are included, making your experience seamless. Please note that entrance admission to attractions is not included.
Enjoy an afternoon aboard Pearl Mist, cruising the scenic Keweenaw Waterway. From the comfort of your private balcony, bask in the beauty of soaring sandstone cliffs, carved by glaciers, and sparkling spring waterfalls. Your onboard expert will provide commentary as we pass unique wildlife, historic lighthouses, and geological features that are over 1 billion years old.
Northwest Ontario's largest city, Thunder Bay is a vibrant community surrounded by natural wonders, including thousands of square miles of Canadian wilderness and over 150,000 lakes and rivers. Explore the historic buildings and public art displays of Thunder Waterfront and North Core. Delight in a scenic drive to Kakabeka Falls, which means ‘waterfall over a cliff’ in Ojibwe and is also nicknamed the ‘Niagara of the North’ due to its size and accessibility. Venture to Fort William Historic Historical Park for a guided exploration of this living museum, featuring reconstructed buildings and historians dressed in period clothing.
Explore the historic buildings and public art displays of Thunder Waterfront and North Core. Visit the Lyceum Theatre, initially built in 1909 to accommodate travelling shows, later converting into a moving picture house in 1914. Stop at the Courthouse Hotel, a working courthouse until 2014, it was purchased a few years later and underwent an extensive five million dollar renovation to transform it into a boutique hotel. Explore CN Station, built by the Canadian Northern Railway between 1905 and 1906. Its success helped Port Arthur become a thriving transportation hub and port city and served as a station until 1977. As you explore the city, admire over 10 public art displays, ranging from large-scale outdoor sculptures to single paintings and prints.
Delight in a scenic drive to Kakabeka Falls, which means ‘waterfall over a cliff’ in Ojibwe and is also nicknamed the ‘Niagara of the North’ due to its size and accessibility. Upon arrival, you will have the option to remain at the viewing platform or proceed on to Mountain Portage trail for a guided nature walk to get a better view of the falls, gorge, and river. Venture to Fort William Historic Historical Park for a guided exploration of this living museum, featuring reconstructed buildings and historians dressed in period clothing. Visit the onsite Fort William fur trade post and learn about the city’s economic past in the fur trade industry. Along the way enjoy Finnish-style smoked fish samples and baked goods.
Join us on this floral journey through Thunder Bay's most beautiful gardens and let the natural splendor of the city captivate your senses.
Begin your journey at Centennial Park, where a guided nature walk reveals the park's diverse flora and fauna. Marvel at the meticulously maintained landscapes and serene surroundings that make this park a local treasure. Next, step into the lush oasis of the Centennial Conservatory. Led by your guide, admire an array of exotic plants, tropical flowers, and vibrant greenery. Enjoy some free time to wander through the conservatory's various sections, each offering a unique botanical experience.
Conclude your excursion at the Soroptimist International Friendship Gardens, a testament to global unity and peace. Stroll through themed gardens representing various countries, each meticulously designed to reflect their cultural heritage. Guided nature walks here provide insight into the symbolism and significance of each garden.
Experience the rugged beauty of Thunder Bay's scenic shoreline, delve into the legacy of a Canadian hero at the Terry Fox Monument & Visitor Center, and uncover the purple gems of the Diamond Willow Amethyst Mine. Your adventure begins with a picturesque drive along Lake Superior, where the wild landscape of Northern Ontario unfolds before you. Pause at the Terry Fox Monument & Visitor Center to pay homage to the inspiring journey of a national icon and enjoy panoramic views of Thunder Bay. Venture to the Amethyst Mine on a guided exploration of the open pit mine. Learn about the history and geology of amethyst as you navigate the mine's rugged terrain. Then, experience the thrill of discovery with free time to search for your own treasures. Take home your findings as a keepsake of your adventure. Conclude your excursion with a taste of local culture by samplings of Finnish-style smoked fish, offering a savory end to your journey.
Located along the picturesque shores of Lake Superior, Duluth is the biggest inland harbor in the world, despite being 600 feet above sea level and over 2,000 miles from the Atlantic Ocean. Both rugged and refined, the town is home to a world famous ariel lift bridge and charming neighborhoods filled with local breweries and restaurants.
Delve into its fascinating history with an exploration of the area’s many museums, including the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, which features immaculately restored locomotives, as well as exhibits that preserve, present, and interpret the history of railroading. Visit the famous 39-room Glensheen Mansion built with remarkable 20th-century craftsmanship, telling the story of the Duluth region. Later, discover dynamic works of art at The Duluth Art Institute.
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.
Join your guide on board your motorcoach for a short drive to this lakeside mansion, the former family home of late 19th-century lawyer, entrepreneur, and capitalist Chester Adgate Congdon. Completed in 1908, Glensheen cost the present-day equivalent of approximately $22 million. Enjoy the late Victorian opulence of this striking mansion, set amid 12 acres of English-style landscaping and formal terraced gardens. Your guide will share details of the grounds, before heading inside to marvel at the eclectic mix of styles that grace the mansion’s 39 rooms.
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.
After breakfast on board, begin your journey home, reflecting upon the incredible experiences you’ve had and the wonderful new friends made.
Cruise in unparalleled comfort aboard the Pearl Mist Cruise Ship, accommodating up to 210 guests, as you journey to the most captivating destinations.
Every corner of the Pearl Mist ship, from the staterooms and suites to the lounges and dining areas, has undergone a stunning transformation. Expect fresh color palettes, luxurious textiles, new furniture and carpets, and captivating regionally inspired artwork.
Every space aboard the ship has been completely reimagined, incorporating themes that expertly highlight the local historical, cultural, and geographical influences characteristic to the regions Pearl Mist sails.
Furnishings throughout the ship are elegant and comfortable with a variety of spacious lounges to fit every mood – from the quiet library to the social atmosphere of the Atlantic Lounge. The Pearl Mist also features open sun decks, a fitness area, and a glass-enclosed dining room offering panoramic views.
Our exclusive category R staterooms are over 450 square feet and are located in the premier sections of the ship offering an enhanced cruising experience. Each well-appointed room comes with sliding glass doors which lead out to a furnished balcony. Enjoy breakfast on your private balcony or simply relax and take in the amazing panoramic views. If there is anything you need, our stewards are on hand 24/7 to handle even the smallest of requests.
Our premium category L staterooms are over 300 square feet and are located on the 5th deck level of the ship, allowing for plenty of privacy. No attention to detail was spared in the design of these modern staterooms. Each comes with sliding glass doors leading to a private balcony where guests can enjoy pleasant breezes and scenic views. Some of these rooms have adjoining doors, an option for guests who are traveling in a group or who wish to have a living room.
Our generous category K staterooms are over 300 square feet and are conveniently located on the 4th deck level of the ship. These staterooms offer guests easy access to the Pacific Lounge and open passenger decks, with breathtaking views. Each room features a floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door leading to a private balcony, offering fresh air and natural light.
Category H staterooms are the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. Each 275 square foot room has a large opening picture window and a private balcony offering spectacular views of the passing scenery. The room also offers a full-size bathroom with all the modern amenities of a fine hotel.
Our category G rooms are a spacious retreat with all the amenities a modern traveler expects. Each room offers 275 square feet of space encompassing a full-size bathroom, a large opening picture window, and a private balcony. This room is also conveniently located near the Atlantic Lounge and Dining Room.
Our Category SGB staterooms are designed specifically with our single travelers in mind. A comfortable getaway, these rooms are spacious with all modern amenities. At over 200 square feet, these staterooms have interior entrances, large opening windows, and private balconies offering panoramic views.
* Prices displayed are per person based on double occupancy.
Experience our most immersive exploration along The Great Lakes, the largest freshwater system in the world. Aboard the Pearl Mist, enjoy a comprehensive exploration of the entire Great Lakes region.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant cultural of the harbor towns which are strung like pearls along the shore as well as the wonder of wildlife that abounds.
