Spending five weeks together driving across America is a great test of a marriage. We have always done everything together – just not four hundred miles a day for so many days. The results were a stronger relationship, so many more memories together, shared delight in the God moments we witnessed, and a greater appreciation for the beauty of and freedoms enjoyed in America. This was our 2023 journey. We hope you will plan your own…
On our journey to Sault Ste. Marie, we stopped at the Serpent River Trading Post Gift Shop. It was the best gift shop of the area full of beautiful Canadian Indian made gifts. Prices were not exorbitant. 479 W Canada, On-17, Serpent River, ON.
Once in town we stopped for a late lunch at The TAJ, 420 Great Northern Rd., Sault Ste. Marie.
It was our Father’s Day celebration. The manager was so nice and spoke with us at length. The food was delicious.
Mackinac Island had long been on our bucket list. We drove directly to the ferry launch. Shepler’s Big Mac Ferry goes under the Mackinac City bridge for photos. We sat on top of the ferry in the open air. Though it was cold and windy, it was worth the view. Tip: Sit at the back of the ship for the best views.
Mackinac Island was like stepping back in time. No cars are allowed. Even the garbage is horse drawn.
The slower pace and horse centered society had a relaxed and elegant feel.
We walked to Grand Hotel which is appropriately named and gave us a snapshot of the 1800’s. The self-guided audio tour is $10 and worth the money.
Flowers everywhere, breathtaking views from the Cupola, beautiful wine bar, and time on the front porch in rocking chairs set the stage for a delightful day.
There was a beautiful Wine Bar with grape motifs everywhere. (Right up our alley!)
The perfume of lilacs filled the air. We got there one day after the end of the Lilac Festival and some lilacs were still in bloom. Plus, there were fewer people.
Lunch at the Mackinac Brewery was good food and beers, and the pretzel was the best so far. It was yeasty and buttery.
The return trip on the ferry was faster as it does not go under the bridge. We drove to our hotel in St. Ignace, Colonial House Inn. It was a lovely Victorian house bed and breakfast. Our room was the lakeview room on the third floor. It was great but you do have to carry your luggage up the stairs. The hosts were lovely and breakfast was very nice.