The Council on Aging provides monthly trips or outings to local points of interest as well as vacation packages to places in other countries. These extended escorted travel trips are offered throughout the year. Any revenue made by these trips, help fund other programs and services. Please call (231) 873-4461 for more information or contact us online.
Beautiful Vermont
October 13 – October 19, 2024 (7 Days)
Highlights: Motorcoach transportation, lodging, 10 meals, Vermont Maple Farm, Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Factory, Dinner Cruise on Lake Champlain, Vermont Teddy Bear Factory, Cold Hollow Cider Mill, Rock of Ages Granite Quarry, Stowe Village
October 13, 2024: Departure
Board your spacious, video and restroom equipped Motorcoach and set off for beautiful Vermont! Tonight, check into an en route hotel for a good night's rest.
October 14, 2024: Arrival in Vermont
Today after enjoying Continental Breakfast, you'll arrive in the beautiful state of Vermont! Dine at a local restaurant tonight before returning to your hotel for a four night stay.
October 15, 2024: Vermont Teddy Bear Factory & Dinner Cruise
After enjoying a Continental Breakfast, you'll depart for a tour of the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory to see where these world-famous Teddy Bears are born! The Vermont Teddy Bear Company is the largest maker of handcrafted American-made Teddy Bears. Next, you'll head to downtown Burlington's Church Street Marketplace. This award-winning open air mall is a hub of activity where you'll find architecture and over 100 places to shop and dine. This evening, enjoy a scenic Dinner Cruise on beautiful Lake Champlain, complete with entertainment and dance floor.
October 16, 2024: Rock of Ages Granite Quarry & Montpelier
Today, you'll have a Continental Breakfast followed by a Guided Tour of the spectacular Rock of Ages Granite Quarry - the world's largest granite quarry. The scenery at this attraction is stunning! At the Craftsmen Center, you will watch talented sculptors transform granite into lifelike statuary. Then visit Montpelier, the State Capitol of Vermont. Upon arrival, you'll enjoy a visit to the Vermont History Museum. This afternoon, you'll enjoy a tour of an authentic Vermont Maple Farm. With a history dating back hundreds of years, you'll learn how generations of tradition has gone into making real Vermont Maple Syrup from the tree to your table. This evening, you'll enjoy a Dinner Party with Entertainment.
October 17, 2024: Cold Hollow Cider Mill & Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory
After enjoying a Continental Breakfast, you'll take a scenic drive to the Cold Hollow Cider Mill, one of the leading New England producers of fresh apple cider. Today, the mill produces more than one million gallons of cider every year. You'll also enjoy a taste of fresh apple cider while learning how it's made. Then you will visit Stowe Village, a charming New England village. Later, you will take a tour of the world-famous Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory. Nestled in Vermont's Green Mountains, this fully guided factory tour will show you the complete ice cream making process. After your tour, you'll be able to try a sample of their freshly made ice cream. This evening, dine at a local restaurant.
October 18, 2024: 1000 Islands Skydeck & heading home
Enjoy a Continental Breakfast before leaving for the 1000 Islands Skydeck in Lansdowne, ON. This evening, relax at your en route hotel.
October 19, 2024: Back home
Today after enjoying a Continental Breakfast, you depart for home... A perfect time to chat with your friends about all the fun things you've done, the great sights you've seen and where your next group trip will take you!
New Orleans
February 22 – March 2, 2024 (9 Days)
Highlights: Guided Tour of New Orleans, Admission to the National World War II Museum, Admission to Mardi Gras World, Relaxing Riverboat Cruise on Mississippi Rive, Enjoy Historic New Orleans French Quarter, Gaming at fabulous New Orleans' Casino
February 22, 2025
Depart your group's location in a spacious, video and restroom equipped Motorcoach as you head for your
destination: Historic New Orleans! This evening, you will settle into a comfortable en route hotel for a good night's rest.
February 23, 2025
After enjoying a Continental Breakfast, you will depart for the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Later in the day, enjoy Dinner and check into your en route hotel.
February 24, 2025
Today after enjoying a Continental Breakfast, you will continue towards your destination. Tonight, you'll enjoy Dinner before checking into your New Orleans area hotel for a four night stay.
February 25, 2025
After a Continental Breakfast, enjoy a GUIDED TOUR OF NEW ORLEANS and learn about the past and present of what makes this unique city a treasure. Then depart for the French Market District. Since 1791, the French Market has served and entertained millions of visitors in the French Quarter. Next, you will visit the NATIONAL WORLD WAR II MUSEUM. You will take in a cinematic experience on their 120 feet wide screen. It is a jaw-dropping experience in 4-D, a technique that engages all the audience's senses with digital effects, life sized animation, as well as film and sound. This evening, you will Dine at a local New Orleans restaurant.
February 26, 2025
Start out with a Continental Breakfast before you leave for some gaming at a NEW ORLEANS' CASINO. Then depart for the French Quarter. Catch up on some souvenir shopping, or maybe trying out the local cuisine. This evening, you will enjoy Dinner with entertainment.
February 27, 2025
Enjoy a Continental Breakfast, then depart for MARDI GRAS WORLD. Learn about the history of Mardi Gras, watch artists at work and enjoy a slice of the famous King Cake! Next, you will head to Riverwalk, which features over 75 retailers and restaurants on the majestic Mississippi River. Later, you will go on a relaxing RIVERBOAT CRUISE on the Mississippi River. Wind down as you set sail and explore the Mississippi River. This evening, you will Dine at a local restaurant.
February 28, 2025
Enjoy a Continental Breakfast before leaving for the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum in Jackson, MS. Journey back in time as you learn how agriculture and forestry molded the history and heritage of this great State. Later that day, after a relaxing Dinner, you'll check into your en route hotel.
March 01, 2025
Today you will have Continental Breakfast and then visit to the National Ornamental Metal Museum in Memphis, TN. Tonight, relax in your en route hotel.
March 02, 2025
Today after enjoying Continental Breakfast, you depart for home… a time to chat with your friends about all the fun things you've done, the great sights you have seen, and where your next group trip will take you!
Exploring South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana
March 11 — March 25, 2025 (15 Days)
Highlights: Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park, Pilanesberg National Park, 8 Wildlife Safaris, Choice on Tour: Chobe Game Viewing by 4x4 or by Cruise, Cape Winelands, Cape Town, Table Mountain
Mar 11, 2025: Overnight Flight
You’re on your way to southern Africa, where incredible landscapes lead the way to a blend of cultural diversity, an abundance of wildlife, and a remarkable history. From urban centers to wild safaris, Africa takes you by surprise, delighting you again and again until its unique spirit claims you, heart and soul.
Mar 12, 2025: Johannesburg, South Africa - Tour Begins
Your adventure starts in Johannesburg – a vibrant city that revolves around modernity and a gold-mining history. As South Africa’s largest city, Johannesburg is home to a wide collection of cultures, museums, and attractions. Enjoy time to get settled on your own before tomorrow’s exploration into the wild.
Mar 13, 2025: Johannesburg - Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Fly to Victoria Falls today – an awe-inspiring Natural Wonder of the World. When you arrive, check in to your lodge – an authentic African tent camp with all the amenities of a luxury resort. This afternoon, when rainbows are at their best, witness the awesome power of Victoria Falls.
Mar 14, 2025: Victoria Falls
Embark on an experience of a lifetime. Greet African elephants, spend some quality time interacting with them in their own habitat, and witness some of their unique behaviors. Then, experience an impact moment during our visit to the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust and learn how their programs are having a positive impact in the local communities and animals. After you’ve worked up an appetite, travel to a township where you will join a local family for a simple home-hosted lunch. Your evening continues with dinner on the shores of the Zambezi River overlooking Victoria Falls.
Mar 15, 2025: Victoria Falls - Chobe, Botswana
Start your day with a visit to a traditional rural homestead, meet the village chief, and come to understand more about traditional ways of living in this part of the world. Cross the border into Botswana and arrive in Chobe – an untamed national park whose namesake river twists its way throughout the area. During a captivating safari cruise along the Chobe River, spot elephants and hippos that linger along the shores, and crocodiles basking in the sun.
Mar 16, 2025: Chobe National Park
On a game drive through Chobe National Park, take in diverse ecosystems and unparalleled biodiversity. After lunch, it’s your choice! Continue the wildlife search by land on an afternoon game drive -OR- venture down the river again for a different perspective on a safari cruise. Tonight, gather by the river for an unforgettable dinner. Learn the secret to cooking a traditional braai, complete with some local favorites and delicacies.
Mar 17, 2025: Chobe - Victoria Falls - Johannesburg - Pilanesberg National Park
This morning transfer to Victoria Falls Airport where you will fly to Johannesburg. On arrival at Johannesburg transfer to Pilanesberg National Park, a game reserve set within an ancient crater and where the lions reign as kings. This is the wild Africa you’ve always dreamt of – now laid out before you just waiting to be discovered. Venture out in a 4x4 in search of the “Big 5” across vast marshlands and craggy landscapes, and while you’re out there, enjoy a traditional African sundowner with a drink and watch as the sun disappears behind the mountain.
Mar 18, 2025: Pilanesberg National Park
Before sunrise, in the open expanse of Pilanesberg, drive out in your 4x4 on a search for the elusive “Big 5.” Later on, an afternoon game drive could take you past the big cats preparing for the hunt. Back at the lodge tonight, indulge in a bush dinner.
Mar 19, 2025: Pilanesberg National Park
Discover the wildlife around you with another full day in Pilanesberg. On morning and afternoon game drives, continue your search for the “Big 5” and other local animals, such as giraffes or cheetahs.
Mar 20, 2025: Pilanesberg - Cape Town, South Africa - Somerset West
The winelands of the Western Cape await. See for yourself why this area boasts a reputation as one of the world’s most beautiful wine countries. Head to Johannesburg and board your flight to Cape Town, South Africa. A short drive takes you to the town of Somerset West – located in South Africa’s most famous wine region and overlooking the majestic False Bay. Settle in for a two-night stay among rolling vineyards and historic Cape Dutch architecture.
Mar 21, 2025: Somerset West - Franschhoek - Somerset West
Sip the South African specialties with a full day exploring the country’s winelands. Start in the Stellenbosch Valley and enjoy a tasting at your first winery of the day. Perhaps you’ll try the local favorite, crossed between a Pinot Noir and a Cinsaut, the Pinotage is a specialty of South Africa. Travel to the charming village of Franschhoek for lunch. Take advantage of time at leisure before visiting a second winery in the afternoon. Cap the evening off with a dinner featuring locally-sourced ingredients.
Mar 22, 2025: Somerset West - Cape Town
Say hello to Cape Town, South Africa’s electric cultural mecca that captivates you at every turn. Explore Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, a Cape Town hotspot. From heritage sites to historic landmarks, markets, shops, and restaurants, the waterfront is one of South Africa’s most compelling destinations. On arrival, rise gently over the South African landscape in a cable car to Table Mountain,* taking in views of Cape Town, Lions Head, and historic Robben Island. Return to the city via Table Bay. Pass through the Moorish Malay Quarter and pause at Milnerton Lighthouse.
Mar 23, 2025: Cape Town
Travel to Cape Point, the southwestern tip of Africa. Marvel at the vibrant green foliage blanketing the rocky outcrops, set as a contrast to the bright blue waves below. Set out on an easy hike down the mountain, wandering by diverse patches of native flowers. Stop at Boulders Beach for the rarest of black-tie events – a rendezvous with endangered African penguins! Tonight, you’re an honored guest in a Capetonian family’s home. Over dinner, exchange stories and get to know what everyday life is like here in Cape Town.
Mar 24, 2025: Cape Town
Enjoy your final day at leisure before gathering with your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner to taste the country’s beloved flavors, starring a host of South African specialties and delicacies.
Mar 25, 2025: Cape Town - Tour Ends
Today you bid farewell to your fellow travelers when you leave beautiful Cape Town. Depending on your departure flight time, you will have access to a day room.
Reflections of Italy
September 15 — September 24, 2025 (10 Days)
Highlights: Rome, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, Assisi, Perugia, Cortona, Florence, Chianti Winery & Cooking Class, Venice, Murano Island, Lake Como
Sep 15, 2025: Overnight Flight
Welcome to Italy, a land rich in history, culture, art and romance. Your journey begins with an overnight flight.
Sep 16, 2025: Rome, Italy
Begin in Rome, the “Eternal City.” This evening, get to know your fellow travelers during a welcome dinner featuring regional specialties.
Sep 17, 2025: Rome
On a guided tour of the Vatican Museums* explore the extensive Papal palace housing priceless artifacts from ancient Egypt, classical Greco-Roman statuary, and works by great Renaissance masters. In the Sistine Chapel, marvel at Michelangelo’s frescoed ceiling and brilliant Last Judgment. Next, wander through the towering columns of St. Peter’s Basilica, a daring feat of human artistry and engineering. Admire the baroque spirals of Bernini’s altar canopy and gaze up at Michelangelo’s dome – still the tallest in the world. Return to the hotel mid-afternoon. The evening is yours. Perhaps you’ll join an optional dinner in a popular restaurant, indulging in a hearty meal accompanied by wine and local entertainment.
Sep 18, 2025: Rome - Assisi - Perugia
Travel to Assisi, birthplace of St. Francis. Take in the old-world atmosphere on a guided walking tour of the Basilica of St. Francis. Then you’re off to medieval Perugia, the historic capital of Umbria. With free time to explore, consider wandering along the Corso, Perugia’s main street, where gothic facades are lined with shops and restaurants.
Sep 19, 2025: Perugia - Cortona - Florence
Head through Tuscany’s graceful low-lying hills to the Etruscan city of Cortona. Perched on the side of a hill, take in the ornate facades and gothic architecture. Peek at the adjacent Lake Trasimeno, situated off in the distance. You might recognize the city as the charming setting for the book and film Under the Tuscan Sun. End your day in Florence – the “Cradle of the Renaissance.”
Sep 20, 2025: Florence
This morning, experience Florence’s cultural treasures on a walking tour, passing by the Duomo, the Baptistery, the Palazzo Vecchio, and the Piazza della Signoria. The rest of the day is yours to explore this veritable open-air museum. Perhaps you’ll join an after-hours tour of the 14th-century Certosa monastery, followed by dinner featuring local wines, Tuscan food, and live entertainment.
Sep 21, 2025: Florence - Venice
Start your day with a visit to a historic winery in the heart of the Chianti region. In the shadow of a 12th-century castle, learn about Tuscan wines and enjoy a chef-led cooking class. Next, sit back and savor regional delicacies during a delicious lunch. This afternoon, journey through central Italy, crossing the Apennine Mountains toward the Po River Valley. Enchanting Venice awaits with 117 tiny islands and its latticework of 150 canals and 400 bridges.
Sep 22, 2025: Venice
See Venice from the water and take a boat** to Murano Island. At a glass-blowing demonstration, discover the secrets of this ancient art up-close and marvel at the one-of-a-kind designs. Make your way to the historic center of Venice and see the Castello district with a local expert. End in St. Mark’s Square, taking in the basilica and the opulent façade of the Doge’s Palace. The remainder of the day is yours. Consider an optional tour featuring Venice’s most famous pastime – a serenaded gondola ride.
Sep 23, 2025: Venice - Lake Como
This morning, you’ll be whisked across the plains of northern Italy to the shores of glamorous Lake Como. During a ferry ride*** to alluring Bellagio, admire the endless succession of historic villas, lush gardens, and colorful villages reflected in the lake’s blue waters. Enjoy some time at leisure to explore Bellagio’s charms before sailing back to Como where you check into your hotel in the late afternoon. This evening, celebrate the end of an unforgettable trip with a farewell dinner at your hotel.
Sep 24, 2025: Lake Como - Tour Ends
Your journey comes to a close in Como this morning.