April 11th, 2025

7 Best Great Lakes Destinations

​A Great Lakes cruise offers the opportunity to explore some of North America's must-see destinations. From beautiful islands to explore to breathtaking natural wonders that will leave you in awe, each stop promises a new experience that you sure won’t want to miss! We offer cruises that stop at some beautiful locations and offer the opportunity to travel in a luxurious way. 

We know you will love taking the cruise much more than driving and exploring on your own. The best part? You get to relax and have a great time even between destinations making a cruise on the Great Lakes a stress free, relaxing way to see parts of the world. We would love to help you plan your cruise today so you have a break from reality and enjoy a luxurious break from your day-to-day life! 

Here are our favorite must-visit destinations for you to consider when you book your next Journey with us!

Let us help you book today!

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Mackinac Island, Michigan

​When you visit Mackinac Island, Michigan, you will feel like you took a step back in time as you will quickly notice horse-drawn carriages and Bicycles covering the island, because motor vehicles are prohibited!  You will also have the chance to enjoy some historic sights such as Fort Mackinac, which served as a stronghold for both the British and American armies throughout its time as an active fort. When you visit you can tour the fort and explore its original buildings, each restored to their original 1880s appearances.

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Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the most popular natural attractions in North America. Yearly, it draws millions of visitors to both its Canadian and American sides, because it's one destination that lands on a lot of Bucket Lists! One thing our guests love to see is the spectacular view where the Niagara River flows from Lake Erie into Lake Ontario, where it then forms three beautiful waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. If you want to see the falls make sure you book soon! We have many cruises that visit the falls including the Great Lake Cruise hosted by Tauck Cruises.​

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Parry Sound

​The town of Parry Sound, found on the eastern shore of the Georgian Bay in Lake Huron, is a charming little Canadian town. The area was designated as a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO and is home of the world's largest freshwater archipelago known as the 30,000 islands. While visiting the Parry Sound, you will get to see many beautiful sights and get the chance to visit some very Popular Events. The popular Festival of sound is hosted at the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts and Bobby Orr Hall of Fame are home. There are also a multitude of options for adventure lovers whether you want to enjoy boating, hiking, or even cycling, there is something for everyone!

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Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

​The Apostle Islands can be found lining the shore of Lake Superior, where you will notice some beautiful rock formations! They are home to 8 Historic Lighthouses, some beautiful sea caves, rock formations, wildlife & sea life, cliffs, and so much more! If you are looking for an adventure, no matter what type, you will find one to enjoy while visiting the Apostle Islands! If you are looking for a big adventure, The Apostle Islands also offer a one-in-a-kind Kayaking Adventure in 18ft Kayaks that take 2 people just to paddle! This excursion gives you the chance to get so close with the beautiful sealife and the neat rock formations that you can even touch them! If you are an adventure lover, you won’t want to miss a cruise here!

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Soo Locks, Michigan

​In Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, The Soo Locks connect Lake Superior and Lake Huron. The Soo Locks are a set of parallel locks which are maintained by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District.  They are the largest locks in the United States. When you take a great lakes cruise that visits this area, you will have the opportunity to go on an Soo Lock boat tour excursion.This will allow you the opportunity to fully experience Soo Locks and the tour boat rising or lowering with the 22 Million Gallons of water. Aside from the Soo Lock Boat Tour, they also offer dinner boat tours and lighthouse boat tours as well. One of our top cruise lines, Viking Cruises, visits this area on their Undiscovered Great Lakes Cruise.

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Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada

​While this destination may not land directly on the Great Lakes, it is a popular destination for cruises that extend into Canada. Charlottetown is considered the ‘Birthplace of Confederation’. This small history rich town is a culture filled adventure for any traveler! You can take time to enjoy the culture, take in the beautiful sights, or have an adventure for your taste buds and enjoy the unique cuisine! If you want to go out on more of a historic adventure you can head to destinations like Prince Edward Island National Park, the Confederation Bridge, and the Wood Islands. If you love historically rich places and visiting new destinations you should check out our Canadian Maritime Cruises as many visit Charlottetown.

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Thunder Bay, Ontario

​Thunder Bay, located on the northwestern shore of Lake Superior, is a must-see destination that blends urban attraction with the beauty of nature. Thunder Bay is known to locals as the Largest City on the Edge of the World. Whether you are wanting a destination that contains historical significance, natural attractions, or unique cultural aspects, Thunder Bay has something for you! 

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Plan your Great Lakes Cruise Today!

​No matter what destinations you go to on your Great Lakes Cruise, you will have an unforgettable trip that anyone in your group is sure to enjoy! We are excited to help you book your dream vacation today! Reach out to us below and we can help you find the cruise that visits the destinations that you want to visit!

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